Jamaica Vacation Guide | All Inclusive Outlet Blog
With stunning beaches, a vibrant culture, and endless tropical adventures, Jamaica is a popular destination for families, adventurous travelers, honeymooners, and everyone in between. The country offers an incredible mix of options for tourists. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, want to enjoy some high adventure, or are looking to experience the unique culture and delicious food, you’ll find it here.
But before you can enjoy your very own Jamaican adventure, you need to do some planning. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your own vacation in Jamaica, including the best places to visit, which activities to enjoy, which all inclusive resort may be right for you, and how to stick to your budget.
Getting to Jamaica & Essential Travel Information
The first thing you need to do to plan the perfect Jamaican vacation is get there. One of the things that makes Jamaica the perfect destination for Americans or Canadians looking for a tropical beach getaway is how easy it is to travel there from major cities across the U.S. and Canada.
Jamaica has two international airports. Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay (MBJ) is the island’s most popular airport. It’s located on the more-populated north coast of the island, close to both Negril and Ochos Rios, two cities home to a large number of luxury resorts, restaurants, and other tourist attractions. The other international airport is Kingston (KIN). While less popular than MBJ in Montego Bay, this airport is closer to the country’s southern coast. However, many tour operators and resorts do not provide transportation from this airport, so it’s often easier and more convenient to travel to Jamaica via MBJ.
Most major cities in the U.S. and Canada offer direct flights to Montego Bay’s airport, and many offer direct or near-direct flights to Kingston as well, though we recommend flying into MBJ to conveniently get to your all inclusive resort. Where you are flying from will impact how long your flight will be. From southern cities like Fort Lauderdale, the flight is under two hours, while a flight from New York City to Jamaica will take around four hours.
When you arrive in Jamaica, the best way to get around is by booking airport transport ahead of time through a trusted tour operator and then relying on registered taxis or a private driver to take you around the island. This allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation without having to worry about learning the local traffic laws or navigating renting and insuring a vehicle.
Entry Requirements and Travel Documents
If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you won’t need a visa to visit Jamaica, as long as you are staying for fewer than 90 days. You will need to have a valid passport. Make sure that your passport is valid for the full length of your trip, as well as for a minimum of 6 months after your trip is finished. You should also have a return airline ticket already booked before your arrival.
You will need to fill out the C5 Official Electronic Immigration and Customs Declaration Card before your arrival. Upon arrival in Jamaica, local customs will check your passport, and may ask to see a return ticket to prove that you do not plan to stay for longer than 90 days.
Currency, Budgeting & How Much Money to Take to Jamaica All Inclusive
The Jamaican dollar is the currency of Jamaica. While currency exchange rates vary, $1 USD is worth a little over $150 Jamaican dollars. However, depending on how you plan to spend your trip, you may not need to worry about exchanging your money. U.S. currency is widely accepted at tourist destinations on the island, including at all inclusive resorts. If you don’t plan to travel beyond your resort, you can likely stick to U.S. dollars or your credit card, provided it can be used internationally.
If you do plan to travel outside of your resort, it’s a good idea to exchange for some Jamaican currency. You can do this before you travel, or at the airport. Just as you should be in the U.S., be mindful of where you are using ATMs in Jamaica, as card skimmers could be placed to steal your information.
When it comes to budgeting, one of the best ways to stick to a budget when visiting Jamaica is to stay at an all inclusive resort. When you stay at a resort, you’ll pay one set fee for your room, food, drinks, and many activities.
When deciding which all inclusive resort is in your budget, don’t forget that there are a few additional expenses that won’t be included in your stay. This includes tipping resort staff, excursions, and any shopping that you do in or out of the resort. Don’t forget to carry cash to tip the driver of your transportation to and from the airport.
Best Time to Visit Jamaica
One decision that will impact your budget as well as how you plan to spend your trip is when you choose to visit Jamaica. The time of year that you visit will impact the price of the all inclusive resort that you choose, the activities you can enjoy, the crowds you’ll see in major cities, and, of course, the weather.
Peak tourist season in Jamaica runs from December to April. This time of year brings great weather to the country. But the popularity of this season also means higher prices at resorts and even for some excursions and activities.
The shoulder season runs from May to mid-December. This time of year brings fewer crowds, which also might mean a chance to score a better deal on your visit. However, this season also overlaps with hurricane season in Jamaica, which lasts from June to November. This season can be a great option for budget travelers looking to save on their vacation. But while hurricanes are rare on the island, rain and storms could interrupt your vacation. Before you book a visit during hurricane season, weigh your odds, and remember that travel insurance is important to help you recoup some of your money and allow you to reschedule your vacation at a later date.
What Is the Best Vacation Spot in Jamaica? Top Destinations You Must Visit
Jamaica is a diverse country. It’s home to small towns, big cities, tropical rainforests, and white sand beaches. Which region of the country you choose to visit will have a big impact on your Jamaica vacation. Let’s take a look at some of the country’s top destinations to visit.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is one of the most popular destinations for Jamaica travel. Located on the country’s north coast, the city is home to some of the top all inclusive resorts, great nightlife, and tons of shopping. Doctor’s Cave Beach, Rose Hall Great House, and Hip Strip are a few must-see spots while staying in Montego Bay.
If you want to experience Jamaica’s vibrant culture and nightlife, or even do some shopping away from your all inclusive resort, Montego Bay is a great spot to choose to book your resort.
Negril
Negril is located on Jamaica’s western coast. This area is best known for its beautiful beaches, including the famous Seven Mile Beach. This makes the region a great choice for booking an all inclusive resort if you want to relax on the beach or enjoy a romantic trip. One of the region’s most unique spots is Rick’s Cafe, a bar located on a cliff above the ocean. There are even spots where you can jump from the cliff into the sea below. For those not up for cliff diving, you can enjoy tasty cocktails and Caribbean grub. This spot is particularly popular at sunset.
If you’re hoping to enjoy a catamaran cruise or go snorkeling, this is a great destination for both. It’s also a popular spot for scuba diving.
Ocho Rios
Adventurous travelers will love Ocho Rios. Located in northern Jamaica near Montego Bay, Ocho Rios is home to the famous Dunn’s River Falls, a waterfall where visitors can hike upstream in the spray. At Mystic Mountain, tourists can enjoy several exciting sports, including zip-lining and bobsledding.
It also offers incredible views. The region is also home to Blue Hole and White River, where you can go tubing in crystal clear waters as you weave your way through a tropical jungle.
Port Antonio
Port Antonio is located on Jamaica’s north coast, and is known for being a hub for water activities. It’s a popular destination for deep sea fishing and sailing. At Boston Bay Beach, you can go surfing and enjoy authentic jerk chicken. Adventure-lovers will enjoy rafting on the Rio Grande. At Frenchman’s Cove and Blue Lagoon, you can take a leisurely boat ride on a picture-perfect lagoon. This region offers a mix of beautiful and relaxing escapes and adventure.
Kingston
Culture, nightlife, and delicious coffee await in Kingston. Music enthusiasts will definitely want to visit the Bob Marley museum. At Blue Mountains coffee plantation, you can sample the country’s world famous brews. In downtown Kingston, you’ll find vibrant nightlife, shopping, and some tasty Devon House ice cream.
South Coast & Treasure Beach
If you are dreaming of visiting one of Jamaica’s famous waterfalls, YS Falls in the South Coast and Treasure Beach on the south coast of Jamaica is a great alternative. Here, you can also enjoy the Appleton Estate Rum tour. For an even more unique experience, head to the Pelican Bar, a rustic bar located in the middle of the sea! In this region, you’ll find a handful of all-inclusive resorts with great beaches and stunning nature views.
Best Things to Do in Jamaica: Top Activities & Experiences
No matter which region of Jamaica you visit, you’ll find tons of activities and experiences to choose from. These are some of the most popular options.
Exploring Jamaica’s Stunning Beaches
Jamaica is home to tons of beautiful beaches. But some of the most popular are Seven Mile Beach, Frenchman’s Cove, and Bloody Bay.
Seven Mile Beach is located in Negril. This seven-mile-long beach is home to bars and restaurants where you can dine and drink, while the beautiful, crystal-clear waters off the beach are popular for snorkeling.
As the name suggests, Frenchman’s Cove is a protected cove located near Port Antonio. This cove is private, so you’ll need to pay a small entrance fee. But that fee gets you restrooms, showers, changing rooms, beach chairs, and other amenities. The cove is beautiful and quiet, perfect for enjoying the water with young kids or spending a relaxing afternoon.
While the name and beach’s history might suggest otherwise, today, Bloody Beach is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. It’s best known for its vibrant parties, but you will find kayak rentals, parasailing, and sail boats to enjoy here as well.
Water Activities & Excursions
You’ll find water activities and excursions throughout Jamaica. The Booby Cay Island off the coast of Negril, and the Marine Park near Montego Bay are popular spots for both experienced and novice scuba divers. These are also great spots for snorkeling, though there are other great places around the island, too.
The best deep-sea fishing excursions depart from Port Antonio, while Lucea is the place to go to swim with dolphins. As for catamaran cruises, one of Jamaica’s most popular activities, you’ll find these at just about every all inclusive resort, and each offers a beautiful and fun trip.
Outdoor Adventures & Nature Escapes
If you’re looking for high adventure, Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Lagoon, and rafting on the Rio Grande are all popular. In the interior of the island, there are several zip-lining courses to enjoy. The Blue Mountains are a great destination if you want to go hiking. Another popular resort activity in Jamaica is horseback riding on the beach, which you’ll find at many coastal resorts.
Jamaican Food You Must Try
Jamaica is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture—and delicious food! Some of the island’s must-try local dishes include jerk chicken, ackee & saltfish, patties, bammy, and curry goat.
If you want to try local food in Montego Bay, Pier One, Irie House restaurant and bar, and Sunset Bar & Restaurant are all popular destinations. In Negril, try Rockhouse Restaurant, Erica’s Hideaway Restaurant and Bar, or Rick’s Cafe. In Kingston, we suggest Broken Plate Restaurant, Susie’s, or South Avenue Grill.
Nightlife & Entertainment: Where to Party in Jamaica
Those looking for a taste of Jamaica’s vibrant nightlife will find it in most of the country’s major cities, including Montego Bay, Negril, and Kingston. For the authentic reggae experience, head to Rick’s Cafe in Negril. For a beach bar, head to Pleasure Cove Beach Bar in Ocho Rios, Canoe Beach Bar in Negrol, or the Bamboo Beach Club in Falmouth.
Jamaica also has some incredible festivals, like Reggae Sumfest, which takes place in Kingston each February, and the Dream Weekend in Negril in August, are great choices.
If you decide to go off resort to party or enjoy a festival, it’s best to stay in groups, never wear expensive jewelry, and avoid bringing large sums of money. Also, stick to registered red plate taxis or resort transportation to get to and from your resort and your destination.
Jamaica Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Is Jamaica Safe for Tourists? Travel Safety Tips
In general, Jamaica is safe for tourists. However, as with any tourist destination, there are some precautions you should take during your visit. Avoid walking the streets at night by arranging for transportation to and from nightlife or other evening activities.
Red plate taxis are route taxis, which means that they have a set fare for the route that they serve. Choosing these taxis can not only help protect your budget, but also help you get safely to your destination.
When visiting public beaches, never leave your belongings unattended. When walking in large cities or crowded areas, avoid carrying a purse, and keep your wallet in your front pocket.
There are plenty of places that are safe and fun for families, but if you want to enjoy those places with less stress, booking an excursion through your resort can help you do so. You’ll get a guide and driver familiar with the area who can offer tips and advice, and help you stick to the safer places to visit.
How to Get Around Jamaica
While registered taxis can be a good option for getting back to your resort safely, arranging for private transportation or utilizing your trusted tour operators for excursions is a great option.
Renting a car isn’t recommended. Local traffic laws are likely not the same as your laws at home, road signs can be difficult to follow, and traffic in Jamaica may be difficult for visitors to navigate. They also drive on the left-hand side of the road, which can be tricky for U.S. and Canadian tourists.
If you want the flexibility to go where you would like, hiring a private driver service can be a great alternative to renting your own vehicle.
Understanding Jamaican Culture & Etiquette
Understanding a little about Jamaican culture and etiquette can help you have a more enjoyable visit to this unique country.
Tipping is customary in Jamaica. You should tip in restaurants, bars, hotels, and for services such as taxi drivers. Between 10 and 15% shows that you had good service. Many workers rely heavily on tips, especially from the tourists.
Many shops and markets in Jamaica use haggling, especially for souvenirs. Always be polite and friendly, and offer the price that you are willing to pay for the item. If the vendor refuses and you don’t want to pay a higher price, simply walk away politely.
English is spoken across Jamaica, but with a local dialect that can be tough for visitors to understand. A few Jamaican Patois phrases you should know include:
- Wah Gwaan: What’s up or what’s going on?
- Mi Deh Yah: I am here or I’m doing okay
- Irie: Good or everything is fine
- Weh yuh deh: Where are you?
- Bless up: Wishing someone well or saying goodbye
Escape to Paradise – Book Your All Inclusive Jamaica Vacation Today!
Jamaica is one of the best Caribbean destinations, from beautiful beaches to unique culture to exciting outdoor adventures. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find something they enjoy on the island. Jamaica’s all inclusive resorts make it easy to enjoy a relaxing, fun vacation. Not only will you never have to worry about where to eat, but you can also book excursions to experience more of the island without having to get around on your own.
If you’ve been dreaming of beaches and tropical rainforests, it’s time to start planning your own dream Jamaica vacation. Booking your all inclusive vacation to Jamaica online with All Inclusive Outlet makes it easy to compare resorts and find the perfect one for you.
