8 Must-See Attractions in Montego Bay

As one of Montego Bay’s most popular beaches, Doctor’s Cave is a landmark. Its crystal blue water and soft white sand draw thousands of tourists to its shores every month. The bay’s location provides shelter from rough seas and currents, making it perfect for children and inexperienced swimmers. The beautiful water is said to have healing powers, and we are certain that a day spent here will have you feeling refreshed and renewed. The beach is open to the public for a small fee, with chairs, umbrellas and snorkeling gear available for rent.

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The Montego Bay Marine Park is an ecological treat for divers and snorkelers, with numerous fish and coral species set along crystal clear warm water. Many hotels and resorts offer diving packages for guests, but if you are looking for another diving shop, Dressel Divers is a great company. They work in conjunction with the Iberostar Hotel but are also available to divers staying outside of the hotel. They have a schedule of weekly dives on their website but are also available for private sessions and night dives. There are wonderful shallow sites starting at 10-12 meters, as well as deep walls that start at 23 meters.

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Book an educational tour at the Rastafari Indigenous Village in Montego Bay. During the cultural program, you’ll be told the history of the religious group and hear about the Rastafari principles of equitable exchanges. You’ll have the chance to taste local delicacies including home-made cacao and coconut oil, test out all-natural soaps with ingredients from the organic herb garden, and make and play calabash maracas. The highlight of the visit is listening to a sacred ceremonial musical performance.

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Enjoy Jamaica’s world-famous sunsets while out at sea on a luxurious catamaran. Many tour operators organize two-hour sunset sail cruises from Montego Bay, including Dreamer Catamarans. Enjoy the tropical evening as you dance on the dock to the tunes of a live musician and keep an eye on the sea in case a pod of dolphins comes by. Guests have access to a fully stocked open bar and appetizers.

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History lovers won’t want to miss visiting the Jamaican Georgian-style mansion Rose Hall Great House in Montego Bay. The grand 6,600 acre (2,671-hectare) hillside estate was built in the 1770s. The former plantation is said to be haunted by the bloodthirsty spirit of Annie Palmer. You can take a ghost tour to brave your encounter with the White Witch of Rose Hall. Legend has it that the slave owner allegedly murdered three of her husbands and the slaves she’d forced to help cover up her killings.

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When the British colonized Jamaica they built many fortresses to protect the stolen land from pirates in the 1700s. Fort Montego once housed four 12-pound cannons and five lower-caliber guns. The cannons were only fired twice in history. It’s free to visit Fort Montego, which is within walking distance from downtown Montego Bay. At the fort, you can visit the three remaining cannons and what’s left of the artillery store.

Enjoy a laid-back beach day at Cornwall Beach, which tends to be less crowded than neighboring Doctor’s Cave Beach. The family-friendly beach is just a short walk from town. You’ll find tranquil waters here that are perfect for a dip. The beach is equipped with all the necessary facilities including restrooms, lockers, chairs and umbrellas. Bring your own towel and relax on the fine sandy shoreline.

Ahhh Rasnatango’s spectacular garden and art gallery is a must-visit in Montego Bay. Take an hour-long guided stroll through the lush gardens to glimpse at Jamaica’s magnificent flora and fauna, including 18 different species of birds. Some blooms you may come across include black gladioli, yellow gladioli, dahlias, begonias, coleus and many different types of ferns. Pick up some locally made keepsakes in the Ahhh Treasures gift shop.
By Lola Mendez, with additional content by Nabila Khouri