Jamaica Holidays

The beaches in Jamaica are predictably stunning, with white sands, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back vibes in its pretty coastal towns. The famed Seven Mile Beach in Negril is the obvious choice for an active day out, and make sure to stop by Turtle Beach in Ocho Rios and settle down on its 500-metre-long sands for a lazy afternoon under the parasol—there are plenty of great restaurants nearby too for when you get peckish.

There’s usually a small per person fee at many of Jamaica’s beaches, but Winnifred Beach in Portland is free, and a wonderful ribbon of sand for a chilled-out atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.

Dunn’s River Falls is perhaps the most iconic of Jamaica’s natural sights and is in the beautiful northern coastal town of Ocho Rios. A challenging but worthwhile climb to the top affords breathtaking views of the falls and the entire rainforest. Afterwards, reward yourself by cooling off in its rock pools and absorb the sounds of the cascading waterfalls over terraced limestone rocks.

If you’re thirsty for more climbing, head for the Blue Mountains towards the east of the island, which are home to the country’s highest mountain, Blue Mountain Peak, and arguably the best hiking trail in Jamaica. On a clear day—of which there are many here—you can see both the north and south coasts from the summit, as well as the whole of Kingston.

Music is the heart and soul of Jamaican culture, and you’ll find it everywhere from the dancehall street parties in Kingston to the famous Jimmy Cliff Boulevard—otherwise known as the Hip Strip—in Montego Bay, with its shops, restaurants, and lively bars for all-night entertainment.

If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Jamaica in February, you’ll no doubt get swept up in the energy of Reggae Month, a huge, weeks-long festival of live music and events that sees people coming together across the island to celebrate all things reggae, including a tribute concert in honour of Bob Marley on his birthday, the 6th of February.

Food is another of Jamaica’s great passions, and you will be in awe of the vibrant flavours on offer here. Several festivals throughout the year are dedicated to the island’s rich culinary heritage and celebrate its jerk, rum, coffee, and seafood. For a true taste of Jamaica, try its national breakfast dish, ackee and saltfish, which is made with delicate sautéed ackee fruit and salted codfish.

Of course, no meal is complete without a refreshing drink to wash it down with! Rum is an art in Jamaica, and the Appleton Estate is the best place to try it. This must-visit spot is Jamaica’s oldest and largest rum distillery and has been mixing perfect rums since 1749. Start your tour with a complementary rum cocktail and proceed through the estate to see its sharply crafted process and sample another rum or three.