Discovering Jamaica: Where Should You Visit?

Welcome to Jamaica; the destination for a unique vacation experience in the Caribbean. Jamaica is located in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, but manages to set itself apart from surrounding travel destinations. The available sights and activities in Jamaica are as eclectic as the different types of visitors the country receives each year. From rustic hiking destinations, to tropical deep sea diving, to metropolis city tours, there’s something for everyone in this fabulous area. 

In addition to rich culture, eclectic cuisine and lively activities, when you rent a villa in any of these Jamaican destinations, chances are it will come fully staffed so you can experience true island life while being pampered like royalty. From in-villa chefs whipping up 3 gourmet meals a day to your villa butler hand delivering you a cold cocktail by the pool, as soon as you enter one of our Jamaican villas your every want and need is met by a team of dedicated professionals.

All that being said, if you’re planning your next Caribbean vacation and have been eyeing Jamaica, here are 10 of the top destinations in the region that you need to visit:

1. Montego Bay

If you’ve heard anything about vacationing in Jamaica, you’ve likely caught wind of the incredible Montego Bay. It’s the second largest Jamaican city and the most popular tourist destination. Fellow travelers will tell you it’s an extremely friendly city filled with locals who warmly welcome you to the area.

Montego Bay is rich with history, which can be seen in the unique architecture while you stroll the charming streets. You’ll find an array of authentic restaurants, shops, boutiques, and night-life hangouts in these inner city areas.

Visitors craving the Caribbean beach scene won’t be disappointed when they head to the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach. Crystal clear waters will beckon you to either relax on the warm sand or hit the water for an array of exciting water sports. Golf lovers will rejoice from a wide selection of tropical golf courses like Half Moon Bay and Cinnamon Hill.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Great View:  Experience a vacation like never before in this gorgeous getaway that boasts panoramic views of the Half Moon golf course and the Caribbean Sea. This spacious villa features six bedrooms and can comfortably accommodate large groups. The property is staffed with a team of 10 attentive professionals providing an experience that is both friendly and luxurious.

2. Ocho Rios

If you’re looking to experience the untouched, natural beauty of the Caribbean, then Ocho Rios is the place for you. Travellers who appreciate the combination of luxury accommodations and outdoor adventure won’t be able to get enough of this exciting destination!

The main reason to spend time in Ocho Rios is the outdoor recreation – there’s so much to do and see you’ll have a jam packed schedule of excursions. Many of Jamaica’s most popular attractions are found here, including the Blue Mountains hiking destination, Dolphin Cove, and the incredible 600 foot waterfall at Dunn’s River Falls. Vacationers also love visiting the Mystic Mountain Rainforest which offers excellent eco-friendly tours along with zip-lining and bobsledding.

In addition to these famous attractions, there’s a plethora of jungles, parks, and tropical landscapes to enjoy everywhere you turn in Ocho Rios.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Eight Rivers:  Enjoy the privacy, space, and comfort of this four bedroom villa that has an enormous yard and adjoining large shaded outdoor veranda. Surrounded by one and a half acres of mature gardens, this magnificent villa offers the perfect sanctuary for the discerning traveller. Take advantage of the sun terrace, where you can enjoy your morning coffee, dine alfresco at sundown, or just relax.

3. Discovery Bay

Discovery Bay is one of the smaller and more unknown travel destinations in Jamaica. The most common fact associated with this area is that Christopher Columbus first came to Jamaica via Discovery Bay.

It’s located on the Northern Shore of Jamaica, and while it lacks the amenities that come along with major tourist destinations, it makes up for in pure Caribbean beauty. The scenery in Discovery Bay is breathtaking and totally uncompromised – a perfect place to rent a villa and quietly enjoy the surrounding landscape with your loved ones!

Discovery Bay visitors frequently cite swimming with the dolphins and snorkeling as the best local activity to enjoy. Puerto Seco beach is the perfect spot to lie on the sand, read a book, and relax on your Caribbean vacation.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Makana: This villa is truly spectacular, nestled on a stretch of land that perfectly encapsulates the natural beauty of Jamaica. The breathtaking views, private tennis court, and world-class hospitality will leave you speechless. You’ll also enjoy amenities like a fully equipped air-conditioned gym, sauna, steam room and massage room, not to mention an over-the-water gazebo with spectacular sunset views of the mountains, bay, and Caribbean Sea.

4. Kingston

Made up of two parts, downtown historic Kingston and New Kingston, this vibrant capital is where you’ll find the true Caribbean personality – smiling locals, infectious music and a passion for life. From the rolling hills above the city, to the glittering beaches below, you’ll find art galleries, marketplaces, restaurants, museums and cafes. 

With a fantastic variety of attractions to enjoy, downtown Kingston is the perfect starting point. Take in all the sights and sounds of the mural lined streets as you wander around and delight in the architecture as you sample authentic Jamaican flavors. Visit the National Gallery of Jamaica to view beautiful cultural art exhibits on display. Uptown, take a tour of the Hope Botanical Gardens or head downtown to visit its historic harbor. In addition to great tours, you’ll find alfresco dining and live music venues all over. And no trip to Kingston is complete without getting a taste of the Reggae culture at the Bob Marley Museum, where you will be taken through the life of one of Jamaica’s most legendary artists.

And when the sun goes down, get ready to unwind in one of Kingston’s entertainment venues or clubs.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Wine Down: Oozing charm and class, Wine Down is the perfect retreat for those who appreciate beautiful surroundings, luxury and comfort. The villa is a large home with five bedrooms and three floors. It faces beautiful views of the capital city of Jamaica.

5. Negril

When travelers visit Jamaica, one place they can’t miss is Negril. It’s not just about breathtaking beaches and endless sunshine; it’s also a great destination for those who want to unwind and relax with family and friends. The best thing about Negril is its welcoming vibe. Despite the heavy tourism, it’s surprisingly laid-back.

One of the most famous and best beaches in the Caribbean is right here in Negril. It is called Seven Mile Beach and it has many hotels, resorts and restaurants along the coast. The powdery shores and crystal water not only give you the chance to relax and enjoy the moment but also offer tons of activities. From diving and snorkeling in the tropical waters at the Negril Cliffs to exploring the surrounding rainforest waterfalls at Mayfield Falls to ziplining through the jungle, you’re sure to find an activity that suits your fancy. You’ll find plenty of water sports to keep you distracted and, if it’s too hot, there are some shops along the shoreline to pick up some local souvenirs.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Cottonwood Villa: With its spectacular view, this villa is in a peaceful, secluded location. It’s perfectly situated on the coast of Jamaica, with stunning sunsets and easy access to all of the island’s most desirable attractions. Complete with 5 bedrooms, Cottonwood Villa grants you the ability to kick back and enjoy days filled with quality time. 

6. Port Antonio

Away from the crowds and hustle and bustle of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay, Port Antonio is a quiet town with secluded beaches and beautiful scenery. A small town north of the Blue Mountains in Jamaica, this city attracts tourists with its charming seclusion. This quiet and beautiful haven in Jamaica is known for its historically renowned art culture that now attracts the attention of those around the world.  

Port Antonio has many local attractions, but the Blue Lagoon is the most popular. The scenic lagoon boasts shades of blue that will take your breath away. This hotspot is great for day trips, or for a relaxing evening. Another popular attraction is Navy Island which is just a short boat ride from the island, but it’s well worth it when you see its pure white sand beaches and lush tropical rainforests.

Along with great shopping and delicious local restaurants, Port Antonio has something for every age group.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Golden Clouds: This is a beautiful 12 bedroom, waterfront villa located in the picturesque village of Oracabessa. With its own private beach and magnificent views overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Golden Clouds has everything you need to enjoy a truly memorable holiday. This six-acre property offers peace and tranquility in an atmosphere of natural beauty. It’s the ideal location for family vacations, friend group getaways, and even weddings.

7. Falmouth

Falmouth is a popular cruise port in Jamaica. It’s filled with vibrant eateries and local shops, and its historical sites are always busy. It’s a popular tourist attraction, ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway! 

The history of Falmouth is fascinating. If you’re visiting the area, it’s important to explore the historical areas of the town while getting a feel for what makes Falmouth unique. Take part in a walking tour around the city of Falmouth and you’ll discover beautiful old colonial buildings set alongside some stunning Caribbean architecture. 

Another place to check out and located only minutes from Falmouth’s port of entry, Chukka Adventures Park & Falls at Good Hope is an adventure lover’s paradise. Heart-pounding zip lines, cool tubing, gorgeous views, and hospitable staff make this one of the best options for a fun-filled day of activities. 

Good food, friendly locals, and an abundance of exotic animals will keep you coming back for more.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Coach House of Good Hope: This 7 bedroom home is a perfect space for a family vacation or a group of friends looking to get away. Recently renovated, this villa brings a taste of luxury to Jamaica. Featuring a charming new dining terrace and infinity pool overlooking the beach.

8. Blue Mountains

On the eastern portion of the island, the Blue Mountains stretch out across the horizon, rising up from the trees and hills, creating a stunning terrain filled with rugged “bluish” cliffs, waterfalls and natural beauty. A true paradise for hikers and campers, the Blue Mountains are the longest mountain range in Jamaica and a must-see. The island’s highest point, reachable on foot, is Blue Mountain Peak, which stands tall at 2256 m (7402 ft). From the summit, both the north and south coasts of the island can be seen, and on a clear day, so can the outline of the island of Cuba. A few days spent exploring this gorgeous land will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

The Blue Mountains area is a breathtaking site and a must-visit if you plan on taking a vacation there. The flora and fauna are so different and you might spot some wildlife that can only be found in the region, so be sure to have your camera handy! The area is also filled with excellent swimming spots. Many natural springs and waterfalls provide the perfect setting for a dip in the ocean. For adventure seekers, Jamaica’s Blue Mountains offer many hiking and biking trails, for travelers of every skill level. To complete your experience, consider a Blue Mountain day tour from Kingston.

After a day of exploring and enjoying the incredible views of the Blue Mountains, you might want to visit the nearby Rastafarian village where you can learn more about their culture and even visit the Blue Mountain coffee plantation. Or if you prefer, wind down your day and enjoy a meal with the locals at one of several nearby restaurants where you can sample some authentic and traditional Jamaican dishes. 

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Somewhere: This spacious 4 bedroom villa is equipped with all the comforts of home to ensure a relaxing vacation. The service at this is perfect for those looking for privacy and the on-site staff take care of every detail, ensuring that guests enjoy the vacation of their dreams.

9. Treasure Beach

Aptly named, Treasure Beach located on the south coast is about a 2 hour drive from Montego Bay. This beach stretches for miles and is made up of four Jamaican coves. For travelers who enjoy the vibrancy of the local Jamaican culture and want to be greeted by warm locals, visiting one of Treasure Beach’s main bays is always an excellent choice. Thanks to this great stretch of white sand, Treasure Beach has grown in popularity among locals and tourists alike.

Surrounded by crystal clear waters and island music, Treasure Beach is an idyllic retreat from the bustling cities on the island. You can swim in the turquoise waters, play in the shallow tide pools, sunbathe on the glimmering sands, look out for the magnificent corals and enjoy a variety of leisurely water activities including fishing, snorkeling and boating.

Treasure Beach is a destination tailor-made for outdoor adventurers, so if you’re the active type looking for an awesome challenge, don’t miss out on the annual Treasure Beach Triathlon, where you can swim, bike and hike around the community, soaking in all the breathtaking scenery. 

Secluded and serene, this region is a perfect spot for travelers of all ages, including children and the elderly. 

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Out of the Blue: This villa welcomes you and your family and friends with 4 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 8 people. Staying here will make you feel like you really are at home. Sweet staff, pool with ocean view, lush gardens, tranquil surroundings. What more could you ask for? 

10. White House

White House in Jamaica is a charming and low-key coastal community with beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. Home to roughly 4,000 residents, this region is known for its fishing industry. With a long, proud history, you’ll find this community is rich with culture and rooted in tradition. This quiet town has transformed into a popular island destination due to the 2005 opening of the Sandals Whitehouse European Village and Spa.

The beach is the main attraction here (known as Whitehouse Beach) and is often secluded due to the fact that many of the tourists stick to lounging by the pools within the resort. Protected by a coral reef, this is a great spot for sunbathing and wading in the warm waters of the bay. 

Visitors to the White House can also enjoy a tour of the community exploring the village and the local supermarkets as well as the smaller communities nearby. For the foodies, no visit to Whitehouse is complete without a stop at the famous “Border” where they serve up hot and fresh fried fish and bammy. There are many other tours and excursions in the area that visitors can delight in, like an Appleton Rum Tour and Catamaran Cruises.

Recommended Accommodation Nearby:

Lime Acre: An ideal house for a villa vacation, this 5 bedroom home is fully equipped with all the modern amenities you desire and a wonderful dedicated staff. Boasting a large pool and beautiful gardens, the villa’s colourful vibes offer an exotic, culture-packed stay in Jamaica.

Need Help Deciding?

Everyone has different needs when it comes to luxury Jamaica villas and we offer luxury villas in all sizes and price ranges so that everyone has the option of enjoying the wonder of this truly awe-inspiring destination. Choosing a Jamaica vacation rental is easy once you know where you would like to stay and our knowledgeable team of experts can help you narrow down the best spot to ensure all your vacation needs and desires are met. Whether you’re looking for a fully staffed villa, a beachside escape or a cliffside vacation, we have what you’re looking for.