Dream escape: Montego Bay
Powder-soft sand, swaying palm trees and spectacular views are what await you in this tropical paradise
Located on the northwestern coast of Jamaica, overlooking the sparkling Caribbean Sea, lies the bustling yet picturesque city of Montego Bay. Referred to as “MoBay” by locals, this tourist hot spot offers the makings of a perfect holiday getaway, including duty-free shopping, brochure-worthy beaches, thrilling excursions and breathtaking landscapes.
Start your escape by basking in the sun at the beautiful Doctor’s
Cave Beach. “Best water in Montego Bay and it’s got lots to offer,” says Marsha T on TripAdvisor.com. “They have waiters on the beach, souvenir shops, changing rooms and the beach is directly in the middle of the Hip Strip shopping area.”
To explore the natural beauty found below the water, book a snorkeling tour (starting at $36 per person) with Dressel Divers, who will transport you by boat to explore Ding Dong Reef.
“The reef was huge, with so much to see,” says a reviewer from Michigan. “I was lucky enough to spot a nurse shark, a lionfish, an eel, a puffer fish and a large stingray!”
After toweling off, head to Ahhh… Ras Natango Gallery & Garden ($35 per person), where you’ll find fantasy gardens, fluttering hummingbirds, a juice bar, a gallery and gift shop. “A unique excursion into exceptional gardens,” says Lolitad9999 on TripAdvisor.com. “The garden path traverses the mountainside and is lined with trees, flowers, plants and an occasional painted rock, decorated tree, Zen garden, fairy door in a tree and other delightful things.”
End your day on Gloucester Avenue, also called the “Hip Strip,” where you can buy handmade crafts, savor local cuisine, listen to live reggae music and marvel at the beautiful sunset.
Don’t miss: Croydon Plantation
Take a short drive or hop on a bus to the award-winning Croydon Plantation tucked away in the foothills of the Catadupa Mountains. While touring the grounds, visitors learn about the history of the coffee groves, enjoy various exotic fruits, see native flowers and sample the plantation’s highly rated coffee—all with a gorgeous view of the landscape.
Great day trip: Ocho Rios
Enjoy a 90-minute drive east to the scenic city of Ocho Rios. Once there, visit the stunning pools of water known as the Blue Hole, play with marine animals at Dolphin Cove and explore the rain forest with activities at Mystic Mountain.