So, you’ve decided you want to visit Jamaica with its wide range of experiences for travellers, from the lively beaches of Montego Bay to the lush rainforests of Ocho Rios and the laid-back atmosphere of Negril. Each of these three major tourist cities has its own unique character, attractions, and cultural offerings that draw visitors from around the world. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril to help you choose the best city in Jamaica to vacation.
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Deciding where to go in Jamaica: Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios
Accessibility Options
If you’re travelling to Jamaica, you will land on the northern coast of the island in the city of Montego Bay. Depending on where you choose to stay, it’s important to note how far the tourist cities of Ocho Rios and Negril are from the airport.
Montego Bay
Sangster International Airport, located in Montego Bay, serves as the main gateway for travellers to Jamaica, making it the most accessible tourist destination on the island. Additionally, the city is a popular destination for cruise ship passengers who come to explore the numerous nearby attractions.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is located on the northern coast of Jamaica, approximately 100 km (65 miles) east of Montego Bay and is the furthest destination on Sangster International Airport. Driving from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Several transportation options are available, including private taxis, shared shuttles, bus services and rental cars.
The approximate cost of getting from Montego bay to Ocho Rios varies depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a taxi or private shuttle can cost anywhere from $70 to $100 USD for a one-way trip while taking a public bus or shared shuttle can cost around $10 to $20 USD per person for a one-way trip. It’s always recommended to confirm pricing with the transportation provider before booking.
Negril
Negril is approximately 80 miles from Montego Bay, and the travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions. It typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Negril from Montego Bay by car or shuttle. There are also several transportation options available for visitors, including private transfers, shared shuttles, bus services and taxis.
Depending on the mode of transportation, the cost of getting from Montego Bay to Negril can vary. A private taxi can cost between $70-$100 USD each way, while a shared shuttle bus can cost around $25-$30 USD per person each way. It’s important to note that prices can vary depending on the season and the company used.
Size & Location
Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril vary greatly in size and location. It’s important for travellers to take this into account when deciding where to go in Jamaica.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay, the capital of the parish of St. James, is the busiest tourist city in Jamaica with a population of over 425,000 people. It spans 20 miles (32 km) along the northwestern coast and is home to one of the country’s two international airports as well as a bustling cruise port. Montego Bay is known for its beautiful beaches, resorts, and vibrant nightlife, as well as for being a hub for business and commerce in western Jamaica.
Ocho Rios
With a population of roughly 17000 people, Ocho Rios is the second-largest city in our comparison of Jamaica’s three main tourist destinations. It extends a mere four miles between Dunn’s River Falls and the White River on the northern coast of Jamaica in the parish of Saint Ann and is home to the busiest cruise port on the island.
Negril
Negril is a small beachfront town on the western coast with a population of nearly 9000 people. It spans approximately 8 miles across both Westmoreland and Hanover, two of Jamaica’s parishes. The town is a popular tourist destination in Jamaica, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
Hotel Prices & Availability
The cost of vacationing in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril can vary based on several factors, and visitors should consider their budget and preferences when choosing their destination.
Montego Bay
If you’re heading to an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, Montego Bay is closest to the airport you’ll fly into. For the most part, the accommodations here are pricier than elsewhere in Jamaica. With roughly 15 all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay, rates are expensive even in the low season, with prices starting at around US$285 per night per couple.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is considered a mid-range destination in Jamaica. However, it is also known for being home to some of the island’s most affordable all-inclusive resorts. Nearly 20 hotels operate primarily on an all-inclusive basis, with prices as low as US$150 per night for two people during the low season. In contrast, visitors can expect to spend at least US$200 per night while staying in Ocho Rios during the high season.
Read about my experience staying in Ocho Rios in my review of Sandals Royal Plantation.
Negril
Negril is known for being the most affordable resort area in Jamaica. However, it is important to note that prices for all-inclusive resorts in Negril are typically slightly higher than those in Ocho Rios. Visitors can expect to find about a dozen all-inclusive hotels in Negril, with prices starting at approximately US$200 per night for a couple during the low season and around US$250 per night for two during the high season.
Read about my experience staying in Negril in my review of the Riu Palace Tropical Bay.
Popularity
The three major cities for tourism in Jamaica are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. Each of these cities has its own unique charm, attractions, and culture, making them all popular among travellers.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is a popular tourist destination in Jamaica, attracting millions of visitors yearly. It is considered one of the top tourist destinations in the Caribbean, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and wide range of activities and attractions. The city has many luxurious resorts, hotels, shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Montego Bay is also a popular port of call for cruise ships, bringing even more visitors to the city.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is a popular tourist destination in Jamaica, particularly for its beautiful beaches and numerous attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin Cove. It is less popular than Montego Bay or Negril, but it still receives a significant amount of visitors every year, particularly cruise ship passengers who often stop in Ocho Rios as part of their itinerary.
Negril
Negril is considered one of the top tourist destinations in Jamaica and is known for its beautiful beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant nightlife. It is particularly popular among backpackers and budget travellers but also attracts a diverse range of visitors, including families, couples, and groups of friends. In recent years, Negril has become more developed and upscale, with the addition of luxury resorts and high-end restaurants, but it still retains much of its authentic Jamaican charm.
Transportation
The cost of transportation in Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril can also vary depending on how visitors choose to get around. *TIP* Depending on where you are staying, some hotels and resorts also offer shuttle services to popular tourist destinations.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay has several transportation options for tourists and locals alike. Taxis are readily available but expensive, with fares from around $5 to $10 per ride. Taxis are typically not metered, so agreeing on a fare with the driver before starting the journey is essential. There are also public buses that run throughout the city, but they can be crowded and not always reliable. Renting a car can be a more cost-effective option for those who plan to explore the island, with rental fees starting at around $50 to $75 per day. However, it’s important to note the challenging driving conditions in Jamaica.
Ocho Rios
Getting around Ocho Rios can be relatively inexpensive, with taxis and local buses costing around $1-2 per ride. As with taxis in other Jamaican cities, it’s important to agree on a fare with the driver before starting the journey and remember that public buses are often crowded and unreliable. Renting a car can cost around $40-60 per day, depending on the type of vehicle and the rental company.
Negril
Much like Ocho Rios, Negril has several inexpensive transportation options for visitors, as local buses and taxis usually charge only $1-2 per ride. For those who prefer to drive, car rental is available at a cost of $40 to $60 per day, but it’s important to note that driving in Jamaica can be difficult because of the narrow roads and the aggressive driving behaviour of some drivers.
Food and Drink
Jamaica is not only a destination for its beautiful beaches, rich culture and vibrant music but also for its delicious food and refreshing drinks.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay offers a variety of food and drink options for visitors to enjoy. As a major tourist destination, the city has a diverse range of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional Jamaican dishes such as jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, curry goat, oxtail, and seafood such as grilled fish and lobster. There are also plenty of options for vegetarian and vegan diets. In addition to restaurants, Montego Bay has a bustling street food scene, with vendors selling dishes such as patties, jerk chicken, and fruit juices. As for drinks, visitors can try Jamaica’s famous Blue Mountain coffee and a variety of tropical fruit juices and cocktails made with local rum.
Generally, dining and drinking in Montego Bay can be more expensive than in other towns in Jamaica, with meals at restaurants costing around $10 to $30 per person and drinks at bars costing approximately $5 to $10 each.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios offers a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside restaurants to fine dining establishments. Seafood is a popular choice, as it’s caught fresh from the nearby waters. Local Jamaican cuisine is also widely available, with popular dishes such as jerk chicken, curried goat, ackee, and saltfish. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, and some restaurants cater to international tastes with offerings like Italian or Asian cuisine. In terms of drinks, rum is the national beverage of Jamaica, and visitors can sample a variety of local rums at bars and restaurants. Other popular drinks include Red Stripe beer, fresh coconut water, and fruit juices.
Visitors can expect to pay around $5-10 for a meal at a local food stand or up to $30 or more for a fancier restaurant. Alcoholic drinks can range from $2-5 for a beer to $10 or more for a cocktail.
Negril
Negril is known for its diverse and delicious food scene, with plenty of local and international cuisine options. The town is particularly famous for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed at many beachfront restaurants. Jamaican specialties like jerk chicken, curry goat, and ackee and saltfish are also widely available. In addition to traditional Jamaican cuisine, visitors can find a variety of international options, including Italian, Thai, and Chinese. Negril also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs serving up tropical cocktails and local beer.
Budget-friendly food stands and cafes can cost around $5-10 for a meal, while restaurants can cost up to $30 or more per meal. Alcoholic drinks can range from $2-5 for a beer to $10 or more for a cocktail.
Activities and Attractions
Jamaica offers a variety of activities and attractions to suit different interests, from lounging on beautiful beaches to exploring lush rainforests and historic sites.
Montego Bay
Visitors to Montego Bay can enjoy a variety of activities and attractions, such as snorkelling and diving in the Caribbean Sea, exploring historical sites like the Rose Hall Great House and the Greenwood Great House, shopping in the city’s many markets and boutiques, and sampling traditional Jamaican cuisine at local restaurants and food stands. Other popular attractions in Montego Bay include the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach, the Montego Bay Marine Park, and the Hip Strip, a lively strip of bars, clubs, and restaurants.
The cost of activities and attractions in Montego Bay can vary depending on the type of experience visitors are looking for. For example, popular activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, and zip-lining can cost around $50 to $100 per person, while visiting cultural and historical sites like museums and plantations can cost around $10 to $20 per person.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. One of the most well-known attractions in Ocho Rios is Dunn’s River Falls, a 180-foot waterfall that cascades down a series of terraces and is a popular spot for climbing and swimming. Other things to do in Ocho Rios include Dolphin Cove, where visitors can swim with dolphins; Mystic Mountain, which offers zip-lining and a scenic chairlift; and the Blue Hole, a natural pool and waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The town is also home to several beaches, including Mahogany Beach, which is popular for water sports such as jet skiing and parasailing. Prices for these activities can vary depending on the operator and the season, with some costing around $50-100 per person, while others may be several hundred dollars.
Negril
Negril is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, making water sports and beach activities popular. Visitors can enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, parasailing, horseback riding, zip-lining and boat tours. Negril is also home to the famous Seven Mile Beach, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun. Other fun things to do in Negril include the Negril Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, and the Royal Palm Reserve, a protected area with walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. The town also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with live music and entertainment at local bars and clubs. These activities’ prices can differ depending on the operator and the season, with some costing around $50-100 per person, while others can cost several hundred dollars.
Beaches
Jamaica is famous for its beautiful beaches, with crystal clear waters and soft sand that stretches for miles. Some of the most popular beaches in Jamaica are located in Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica. Doctor’s Cave Beach is a popular spot for tourists and locals, known for its crystal clear waters and soft, white sand. Other popular beaches in Montego Bay include Cornwall Beach, Dead End Beach, and Walter Fletcher Beach. These beaches offer a range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing to water sports like jet skiing and parasailing. With its stunning beaches and warm tropical climate, Montego Bay is a top destination for beach lovers.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios, a popular tourist destination located on Jamaica’s north coast, is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The beaches in Ocho Rios offer white sand, crystal clear waters, and various activities for visitors. From lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun to participating in water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, and jet skiing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the most popular beaches in Ocho Rios include Turtle Beach, Mahogany Beach, and Reggae Beach.
Negril
Negril is famous for its beautiful beaches and is often considered to have some of the best in Jamaica. The Seven Mile Beach in Negril is a long stretch of soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. The beach is surrounded by palm trees and dotted with bars and restaurants, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the Jamaican sun. The beach is also known for its stunning sunsets, which are a must-see for anyone visiting Negril. In addition to Seven Mile Beach, there are several other beaches in Negril, each with its own unique character and charm.
Culture
Jamaica’s culture has been shaped by a diverse mix of influences, including African, European, and indigenous Jamaican traditions. From the music of Bob Marley and reggae to the mouth-watering flavours of Jamaican cuisine, the island nation’s culture is world-renowned. Jamaica’s culture is also reflected in the major tourist destinations of Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in Jamaica’s history. The city is known for its vibrant music scene, with reggae and dancehall being popular genres. Visitors can immerse themselves in Jamaican culture by visiting historic sites like Sam Sharpe Square, which commemorates the life of a famous Jamaican freedom fighter, or the Montego Bay Cultural Center, which houses a museum, art gallery, and performance space. The local cuisine also reflects the city’s cultural diversity, with a mix of African, European, and Asian influences. The people of Montego Bay are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making it a welcoming destination for visitors.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is a vibrant and diverse town that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Jamaica. The town is home to a mix of African, European, and indigenous influences that have shaped its history and traditions. One of the most notable cultural attractions in Ocho Rios is Dunn’s River Falls, a natural wonder that has been a symbol of Jamaica’s beauty for centuries. Ocho Rios also has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans producing handmade goods such as pottery, woodcarvings, and woven textiles. Visitors can explore this cultural heritage by visiting local markets, museums, and festivals celebrating Jamaica’s music, dance, and cuisine.
Negril
Negril has a laid-back and friendly culture that reflects the Jamaican way of life. The locals, also known as “Negrilians,” are known for their hospitality and love for music and dance. The town is also famous for its reggae music scene and attracts many visitors during annual music festivals. Negril has a rich history, with influences from African, European, and indigenous Taino cultures, which are celebrated through art, music, and dance. Visitors can also learn about the Rastafarian culture, which is an important part of Jamaica’s identity and heritage. Negril offers a unique cultural experience where visitors can enjoy the local cuisine, music, and art while immersing themselves in the friendly and relaxed vibe of the town.
Safety
While Jamaica is generally a safe place to visit, there are certain precautions that travellers should take to ensure their safety and security.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is generally a safe place for tourists to visit, but like any major tourist destination, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate precautions. Street crime, including theft and robbery, can occur in some areas of the city, particularly at night. It’s best to avoid walking alone in secluded areas or on unlit streets and to keep valuables out of sight. Visitors should also be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large sums of cash. Using registered taxis or arranging transportation through a reputable company is recommended to avoid any issues with unlicensed taxi drivers. Additionally, visitors should always follow the guidance of local authorities and stay up-to-date on any travel advisories issued by their government.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, risks are involved. Visitors should exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Some areas of the city, particularly outside the main tourist areas, may be more prone to crime, and it is advisable to avoid walking alone at night in these areas. It is also important to be aware of pickpockets and to monitor your belongings, especially in crowded areas. In addition, visitors should avoid using unlicensed taxis and only use transportation services recommended by their hotels or tour operators.
Negril
Like most tourist destinations in Jamaica, Negril has its share of safety concerns that visitors should be aware of. While most visitors to Negril have a safe and enjoyable experience, crime does occur in the area, particularly in certain neighbourhoods and after dark. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when walking alone at night and to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing flashy jewelry that could make them a target for thieves. It’s also a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and to only use licensed taxis or transportation arranged by your hotel or tour operator. Visitors should also be mindful of the potential for rip currents and other hazards at the beach and follow local lifeguards’ advice and signage.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Jamaica is a beautiful country with a lot to offer to tourists. Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril are the three most popular destinations in the country, each with its unique charm and attractions. Montego Bay is the busiest, with an international airport and a bustling city center. Ocho Rios is ideal for nature lovers, with its lush vegetation and stunning waterfalls. Negril is famous for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking sunsets. Whichever destination you choose, Jamaica is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories of its vibrant culture, delicious food, and warm hospitality.
What is your favourite city in Jamaica – Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios? Let us know in the comments section below.
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