With summer around the corner, you may think it’s too early to plan your Christmas vacation. But if you want to spend your Christmas holidays in Jamaica, then now is the time to start booking your Jamaica villa for late December.
While Jamaica may not provide the kind of winter wonderland you normally associate with Christmas, it does offer a perfect tropical escape, especially if you’re from a colder climate. And there are still plenty of cool Christmas traditions and touches for you to enjoy.
In this post, we’ll go over what Christmas holidays in Jamaica look like, as well as some tips to get the most out of your experience.
Villa Mimosa – Discovery Bay
Book Early
The first thing you should know about Christmas holidays in Jamaica is that you should book early. Christmas is peak season in Jamaica, especially for luxury villas. Many families book years in advance.
If you’re sure you want to spend your Christmas holidays in Jamaica, then you’ll want to book your villa by May. You can always inquire after that, but availability starts to tighten by the summer, and you may have to adjust your dates.
Plan for a Full Week
Most Jamaica villas have a minimum stay over the holidays. It’s usually at least 7 days, and some can go up to 14 days. Plan to stay for at least a week so that you meet these minimums and make the most of your trip.
Trinity – Tryall Club
Start Planning with your Concierge
You’ll also want to start working with your Concierge as early as possible. While most of our Jamaica villas are fully staffed, you’ll want to book any additional staff you need early, including babysitters, spa staff, yoga instructors, and more.
You’ll also want to book up your excursions, boat charters, private drivers, and any other fun extras as early as possible as well. Booking early lets you lock in the best options for your group.
Sleepy Shallows – Bengal Bay
What to Expect
While you won’t find snow or pine trees, there’s still plenty of Christmas spirit in Jamaica. Decorations go up in December, and the festive mood lasts all month. You’ll hear reggae covers of holiday classics, find homes lit up with Christmas lights, and churches filled for Christmas services.
Your villa staff will also go the extra mile to bring holiday cheer to your stay. You can request traditional Christmas meals, or enjoy local favorites like sorrel punch—a spiced hibiscus drink served with or without rum.
Breakaway Villa – Runaway Bay
Personalize your Experience
One of the best parts of staying in a villa is how easy it is to personalize your experience. Want a Christmas tree, lights, or stockings hung for the kids? Just ask your Concierge.
You can also arrange extras like in-villa spa treatments, private carolers, or even a visit from Santa. When it comes to meals, the sky’s the limit—from a traditional roast dinner to a beachfront BBQ.
Whispering Waters – Discovery Bay
Events Happening Around Jamaica
There’s plenty happening across the island during the holidays. If you’re staying in a Montego Bay villa, check out the Rose Hall Christmas Fair or seasonal markets along the Hip Strip.
If you’re staying in an Ocho Rios villa, Turtle River Park hosts community carol services and light displays. You can also attend Christmas Eve Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Church—one of the island’s most beautiful services.
Ask your concierge for a current events calendar and recommendations near your villa.
Villa Lido – Old Fort Bay
Jamaican Christmas Gifts
Need to wrap up your holiday shopping while you’re there? Your Concierge can help source local gifts like:
- Hand-carved wooden ornaments
- Jamaican rum or Blue Mountain coffee gift sets
- Local artwork and jewelry
- Island spices or jerk rubs
These make great last-minute presents or souvenirs to bring home.
Flower Hill – Montego Bay
Ring in the New Year
If you’re spending your Christmas holidays in Jamaica, then it’s worth spending New Year’s at your villa as well. Jamaica does New Year’s Eve in style, with beach parties, fireworks, and that unmistakable island energy.
If you’re staying in Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, you’ll find plenty of great events for you to enjoy, including ticketed events at resorts or New Year’s Eve cruises.
If you prefer something more intimate, then you can throw your very own New Year’s Eve party at your villa. Ask your concierge about arranging:
- A private dinner party
- A DJ or live band
- Bonfires on the beach
- Fireworks over the water
- Professional bartenders and servers
Come New Year’s Day, you can kick off the year with a slow morning – think coffee by the pool, followed by a chef-prepared brunch or an in-villa massage. No rush, no crowds. Just a fresh start, island-style.
Rocksteady Villa – Ocho Rios
Book Your Christmas Holidays in Jamaica Now
Christmas holidays in Jamaica can be magical, but availability moves fast. Start planning to secure the best villa experiences. Contact Rental Escapes today, and one of our Villa Specialists will be happy to help you find the perfect place to spend the holidays.
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