Fora’s Take
With its mountains, waterfalls, cliffs and gorgeous white sand beaches, Jamaica really has it all. Wake up to delicious Blue Mountain Coffee (considered some of the best coffee in the world), sway to the tune of reggae music and dine on delicious Caribbean fare. Grab a morning flight and you can be sipping cocktails poolside by the afternoon. Because Jamaica has many hotels and some of the best beaches, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to know where to stay. That’s why we're sharing three of our favorites, and they each showcase very different parts of this Caribbean island.
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Where to stay in Jamaica
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Round Hill, Montego Bay in Jamaica
ACCOMMODATIONS
The private beachfront villas on the north coast steal the show at Round Hill. Each villa is unique and has a different room configuration - there is a perfect fit for everyone. This all-inclusive resort comes with the option of a pool and all have lounge chairs, a kitchen and dining area, indoor bedrooms, and outdoor living rooms. Folks traveling with kids or larger groups will love the extra space as this becomes your home for your time in Jamaica.
A section of smaller individual hotel rooms line the beach if you prefer to be right on the Caribbean Sea. For those who desire family-friendly amenities, there is an adorable kid's club and a gorgeous gym with a killer ocean views. This hotel is only 20 minutes from the international airport, so it’s a great bet for folks traveling with kids that get carsick.
MUST DO
Take the walking path to a stunning view on the hill.
Ask the hotel to coordinate a driver to take you around - most of the drivers are Mobay locals and know best areas on the island. Ask them to tell you about the Rose HallGreat House; you won’t regret it.
If you’re into history, ask the driver to take you to Sam Sharpe Square, Montego Bay’s cultural centre and try authentic Jamaican cuisine at the many eateries.
A note from Fora
Room 12 is where The Sound of Music was written, and JFK stayed in Room 25! Don't forget to pack a couple of nicer outfits, as dinners at this hotel are on the formal side.
Goldeneye, Oracabessa in Jamaica
ACCOMMODATIONS
A worthwhile two-hour drive from the airport is Goldeneye, a magnificent property east of Ocho Rios and perfectly situated between the beach and a blue lagoon.
There are several accommodation options here, each with its own distinct character and location, so you can determine the best place for your stay. Beach villas sit on the main stretch of sand just steps from the ocean, while lagoon cottages have their own docks complete with kayaks. Beach huts rule the other end of the property with striking sea views. There are several larger villas for groups as well.
Notably, this shabby-chic resort is also the place where author Ian Fleming penned the James Bond novels. Plus, it’s only a scenic hour drive from the Green Grotto Caves featured as Dr Kanaga’s secret lair in the films. You can midway for a refreshing swim near waterfalls at the Blue Hole on the way to the caves.
MUST DO
Go to Button Beach and eat lunch at the shack – coconut shrimp, please!
Then, participate in water sports. Goldeneye instructors are trained lifeguards and will assist you in your kayaking and rafting adventures. Or rent a snorkel and fins from the resort and explore the coral reefs nearby.
A note from Fora
Don’t bother with heels or anything too fancy, all you need are sandals and a bathing suit.
Goldeneye is also a great location to take a day trip into Kingston, Jamaica’s capital city to experience local art (notably, the National Gallery of Jamaica and Bob Marley Museum), cuisine and culture.
The Caves in Jamaica
ACCOMMODATIONS
Beautifully situated atop a series of caves in the West End of Negril, The Caves Hotel is good for those looking for a laid-back, all-inclusive option. There are 12 rooms, all full of personality. Meals are served three times a day at various locations, each boasting a great view. Minibars are well stocked with snacks and plenty of Red Stripe. This property is best for adults and teen kids-it is 16+.
MUST DO
Enjoy a frozen cocktail (the Dirty Banana is fantastic!) and watch a spectacular sunset from one of the lounge chairs overlooking the beautiful beach at The Sands bar.
This beach bar opens to the public on Wednesday and Saturday evenings when you can experience Caribbean nightlife. On those nights, they also prepare jerk chicken on-site.
There is no sand beach here, but instead a series of stunning cliffs that you can jump from. Luckily, if you’re looking for a beach, though, Negril Seven Mile Beach is a short, 15-minute drive away.
A note from Fora
Butterfly is a large, airy and well-lit second floor room with a great view.
More hotels in Jamaica
More hotels in Jamaica
Looking for something different than Round Hill, Goldeneye or The Caves? We’ve rounded up a few more picks of best hotels to stay in Jamaica below.
HALF MOON BAY
With a legacy spanning a half-century, Half Moon is Montego Bay’s luxury hotel darling. Guests are spoiled for choice here, between the pristine beach, countless activities (there’s an Equestrian center and 18-hole golf course, for starters) and restaurants dotting the resort’s bougainvillea-covered grounds.
Fora perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
Daily buffet breakfast, for up to two guests per room (hotel rooms and suites). (Villa guests will receive $150 breakfast credit per villa, per day).
$100 resort credit.
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
JAMAICA INN
For a castaway-style tropical getaway, the Jamaica Inn’s intimate atmosphere and private beach make it a great bet. Just ask Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller – they celebrated their honeymoon this romantic beach resort.
Fora perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
Continental breakfast daily, for two guests per bedroom.
A boat ride to Dunn’s River Falls for up to two people (including entry free to climb the falls).
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
THE CLIFF HOTEL
Guests can truly get away from it all at this breezy boutique hotel on Jamaica's western-most point. Set on a dramatic, five-acre bluff, the Cliff is popular with honeymoons thanks to its high-design suites, tranquil spa, enormous swimming pools, relaxed ambiance and hotel offers.
Fora perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability.
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom.
$100 resort credit.
Early check-in /late check-out, subject to availability.
TRYALL CLUB
Sprawled across two thousand acres, Tryall is nothing short of a tropical playground. The private club–turned resort has something for everyone, including impressive golf and tennis programs, countless water sports, a scuba diving program and lively theme nights.
Fora perks:
Breakfast via room service for up to two people per bedroom daily.
Complimentary roundtrip private airport transfers OR one complimentary round of golf for up to two people, per room, including greens fees and cart rental.
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability.
SKYLARK
Set on Negril’s coveted Seven-Mile beach with clear waters, Skylark oozes with topical ease. There’s an open-air spa, blooming gardens and boho-chic rooms decorated with retro music posters.
GEEJAM
Nestled in the Blue Mountains overlooking the sea of Port Antonio, this laid-back boutique hotel feels like a well-kept secret. Geejam likely attracts the coolest people you know, thanks to its lush jungle setting, secluded beach area and on-site recording studio.
Fora perks: Two-for-one lunch at Bushbar.
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