Like this post? Please share!
Montego Bay, Jamaica is one of the largest cities in the country and has long been an important port for trading and travel in and out of the island. For most of its modern history it was a key sugar port in the region. Today the area remains a major port for cruise ships coming into Jamaica and has been working to build and modernize its infrastructure.
If Montego Bay is a stop on your cruise, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Jamaica grows delicious coffee beans and a visit to Blue Mountain allows visitors a chance to see how some of the worlds’ most expensive coffees is grown, harvested and ground. Just outside of the city of Montego Bay is an indigenous Rastafarian Village. It’s open to visitors who want to learn more about the Rastafari religion and way of life. You’ll get to see what life in the village is like and see Rastafari cooking and music in action. If you want to spend more time in the mountains you can try your hand at mountain valley rafting. This isn’t a white rapid style ride. You along with one other person float onboard a 30 foot long bamboo raft down the valley while listening to the captain tell tales of the region. If you are in for more adventure you may want to try jungle river tubing instead!
After a romantic float down the river you’re bound to be hungry and Montego Bay can deliver. For delicious Caribbean food stop at Scotchies or Round Hill Dining. If you’re into BBQ there’s plenty of options such as The Pork Pit and MVP Smokehouse. Of course you’ll also find street food and food stalls along the beaches in the area. If nightlife is more your scene then you’ll be happy to discover the party starts in Jamaica when the sun sets. The area known as the Hip Strip is the place to be. There are over 35 restaurants and bars on this street with events ranging from shows to live bands and plenty of dancing. Music ranges from traditional Jamaican reggae bands to upbeat dance/techno beats spun by DJ’s. Some of the shows are family friendly but after dark this area is largely an adult zone.
Of course you may just want to kick back and relax. That’s more than possible here as well. Doctor’s Cave Beach, Dead End Beach, and Cornwall Beach are a few of the beaches you may want to add to your visit list. You can soak up the sun, swim, or snorkel in the crystal clear Caribbean waters. Lay out and order plenty of umbrella drinks to keep hydrated. Don’t forget to order up a big plate of Jamaican jerk chicken and other specialties because the food is not to be missed!
To cap your evening whether it’s a night of dancing or fine dining, nothing beats a walk on the beach. You’re in Jamaica after all!
Have you traveled to Jamaica? What was your overall experience in the beautiful country?
My husband I have been talking about going to Jamaica for a while now, but still have never been. One of these days….
I have never been to Jamaica I would most definitely love to one day though, it looks absolutely beautiful. x
I would love to visit Montego Bay – never have. Looks very relaxing.
Never been to Jamaica, but are planning a cruise there someday. We hit Honduras & Belize this year!
I love going on cruises. We have been on a LOT and I have been to Montego Bay before. It has been many years ago, before I was a blogger.
I would love to visit Jamaica one of these days. I had a pen pal from here when I was little. He told me so many wonderful things about the island.
Our 10 year anniversary is next year and we have been talking about taking a cruise!!
Have never been but want to one day.
Jamaica is definitely on my list. I’d love to get there!
Every time I hear about Montego Bay, I instantly hear the Beach Boys in my head. It would be better if I was actually sitting on a beach in Montego Bay when it happened. Oh well, it’s on the bucket list!
My son in law would love to see where the coffee is grown. He is a coffee fanatic!
There is do much to do! I would just kick off with relaxing
We went to Jamaica a few times when we were just married, and loved it! We visited different areas, including Montego Bay, and would love to go back.
I haven’t traveled to Jamaica yet, but it’s on my list! It’s gorgeous from all the photos
I’ve never been there. I remember my parents went when we were little. They said it was gorgeous.
I have never traveled to Jamaica, although I would love to some day. Preferably as a family when my kids are grown!
Looks like a wonderful time!
Montego Bay is my hometown. I lived there until I was 24 years old and then moved to Florida. There is so much to do there. I go home at least every couple of years. Y’all have to go during the Reggae Sumfest festival in June/July and really experience our music, which is at the core of our culture.
Unfortunately i have not had the pleasure of visiting such a beautiful place. It is one of the destinations on my bucket list.
Jamaica is one of the destinations on my bucket list. I would love to visit.
I’ve always wanted to go to Montego Bay! It’s on my bucket list for travelling someday.
This post just makes me more determined to save the money to take my family on a cruise. I would love to have some relaxing fun in the sun with them.
I’ve always wanted to go to Jamaica. Our cruise in October doesn’t stop there but maybe we’ll plan the next one with a stop in Montego Bay.
I’d love to visit Jamaica. Looks like fun!
I have heard the cruises have such good food. You make the Montego Bay Cruise line sound awesome!
I have never been to Montego Bay or any tropical place, really. It’s definitely on my bucket list!
I haven’t traveled to Jamaica but heard ts beautiful. The island is also know for their yummy good so if I took a cruise that stopped there, I would be sure to enjoy some eats.
Stopping there on our cruise in March. Is it safe for a woman to get off the boat alone? Hubby has no desire to have off the ship fun!