Welcome to Jamaica

Jamaica, the heartbeat of the Caribbean, pulses with rhythm and color. The warmth of its culture and incredible natural beauty are evident from the moment you arrive. 

Jamaica's tropical climate is always in vacation mode, with temperatures hovering around 80°F year-round, cooled by sea breezes and dappled by occasional afternoon showers. Whether exploring its white-sand beaches and lush mountains or soaking up live Reggae, Jamaica's diverse landscape is as rich as its rich heritage. 

Travel To & Arrival In Jamaica

Airport Insights – Arrival, Departure, Customs, Club Mobay lounge

Most visitors will fly into well-served Montego Bay (MBJ), Sangster International Airport, on Jamaica’s northern coast, and pre-arrange transport to their villas or resorts. 

Many airlines offer nonstop service to Montego Bay from US and Canadian cities, making Jamaica a nonstop or one-stop destination for most US travelers. 

US cities with nonstop service include Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Houston, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. From Canada you will find nonstop service from Toronto, Montréal, and Halifax. For context, flight times from the Northeast run just under 4 hours, while Charlotte is just 2.5 hours from Jamaica.

A Beautiful Landing

Landing in Montego Bay is a beautiful experience. Planes often fly up the coastline from the Tryall area to the airport. The ocean is stunning shades of blue, and you can see the coral reefs surrounding the island. The island is very mountainous and lush—you can see rolling hills for miles when you are flying in! There are hotels, houses, resorts, and towns scattered along the coastline up the mountains. 

Club Mobay - White-Glove Montego Bay Arrival & Depature Services

What’s the airport like? What’s the feeling – is it clean and organized?

The airport is a good size, with plenty of services. On our site inspection trip, our team found it clean and inviting—a very nice welcome to Jamaica! 

Our team took advantage of Club Mobay, which provides a service that meets you at the aircraft, escorts you to baggage claim, through customs, and to a lounge with food and drinks while they locate your driver. Everyone is warm, welcoming and helpful– it’s a fantastic way to get into vacation mode! This service will ensure that your arrival goes smoothly and quickly, especially not having to wait in line for customs – a definite perk.

On departure, Club Mobay has several options: one for family, adults only, and two simple passes. You are assigned based on departure time, group size and capacity in the rooms. They had a buffet of food choices to suit all tastes: Jamaican Patties, Salads, Snacks, and plenty of drink options. The lounge is very clean and quiet and has a view of the runway and ocean.

Cost of Club Mobay

As of 2024, the cost of the service is quite reasonable on a per-person basis:

• $85 for Arrival/Departure Service
• $50 for Arrival Only
• $35 for Departure Only

Airport Shopping & Duty-Free

Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport has lots of stores to shop for gifts, Duty-Free and everything else you might to take back with you to remember your time in Jamaica. There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from if you do not want to purchase lounge access. 

Taxis from Montego Bay to Resort Areas

If you choose to travel by taxi, here are some key things to keep in mind.

Taxi prices are based on time and distance covered.
Drivers accept (prefer) USD, but by law, they must also accept Jamaican Dollars. They prefer USD, so be aware that you may need to insist on Jamaican if you exchange.

Here are the costs we found when on a 2024 inspection:

• Taxi from Round Hill to Tryall Club (15 minutes) – $60 RT, one-way is $40
• Taxi from Montego Bay to Round Hill (20-30 minutes) – $80 is 100 RT, one-way is $50
• Taxi from Montego Bay to Runaway Bay/Discovery Bay (1 – 1.5 hrs.) – RT $150, one-way $100s
• Taxi from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios (1.5 – 2 hrs.) – RT is $200, one-way is $150

Jamaica Resort Areas

The Tryall Club

The Tryall Club, located just 20 to 30 minutes from Montego Bay, is an expansive and luxurious retreat set on 2,200 acres. With stunning villas, this exclusive destination offers a unique blend of world-famous Jamaican hospitality, elegance, privacy, and breathtaking ocean views from virtually every home and location.

Tryall offers exceptional world-class resort amenities that include a spa, golf, world-class beaches, and restaurants. We especially loved the beach restaurant.

The feel is of a very upscale, gated community with a tradition of luxury. Everything is top-notch, including the landscaping and roads. Most of the homes also have gated driveways. You can use golf carts or cars to get around the community. 

Each villa is thoughtfully designed, with most rooms offering stunning views of the Caribbean. Villas are fully staffed, ensuring that all your needs are addressed, from personalized dining menus (grocery/beverage costs are additional) to laundry service.

Because of its contained and resort amenities, Tryall offers something for all travelers, from kids to grandparents. Even the beach at Tryall is well-serviced, with a beach bar and complimentary amenities and activities for adults and children, including snorkeling, kayaking, and sailing on Hobie Cats and Sunfish. Add-on excursions like glass-bottom boat tours and charter fishing are also available.

At the heart of Tryall's is the historic "Great House," built in the 1800s, and where old-world traditions are kept alive, including daily tea and sweets. The Usain Bolt Games Room will keep families entertained with all sorts of table games, including pool table, foosball, air hockey, and ping pong. For the adults, there are also a variety of planned activities on the property including a Monday Night Manager's Cocktail Party and beach parties and buffets held on Wednesday and Friday nights.

Ocho Rios

Located about two hours from Montego Bay, Ocho Rios is a stunning resort area. In Spanish, it means Eight Rivers, also called Ochi (a fun note: it only has 4 rivers – not eight 😊). Our team loved this area. If you're looking to get away from it all, Ocho Rios is a perfect option.

It's gorgeous here. The area is very lush and mountainous, with a beautiful coastline. If you are familiar with Maui, imagine a combination of Hana and Wailea. The town is well cared for and feels quite upscale, and well known for its beaches, high-end shopping, and leisure activities.

If you're staying in Ocho Rios, you will need a car or driver. There are high-end resorts in the area that offer recommended restaurants. One of the restaurants that our team enjoyed was The Terrace at the Jamaica Inn.  

There are many beautiful villas here, all of which are staffed by a dedicated, professinal team that is ready to take care of all your group's needs.

Traveler's Typ. Like many well-visited Caribbean oceanfront towns, Ocho Rios has a port. The town can become busy for a day or two when a cruise ship is in port.  

Ocho Rios Beaches

Dunn's River Beach

Tucked at the foot of the world-famous Dunn's River Falls, this beach offers an unforgettable experience. You've probably seen scenes of people walking the waterfall as it cascades into natural pools, creating a dramatic backdrop for sunbathers and swimmers alike. Adventurers can scramble up the terraced rocks of the falls, while others can bask in the soft sand, lulled by the sound of rushing water. Modern amenities such as showers, changing rooms, and food stalls featuring authentic island fare make it the perfect blend of nature and convenience for visitors of all ages.

Mahogany Beach

A hidden gem with an energetic vibe, Mahogany Beach invites thrill-seekers to dive into the world of water sports, from jet skiing to parasailing. The vibrant local beach culture comes alive with the sounds of reggae, and beachgoers are treated to freshly grilled seafood, tropical cocktails, and the warmth of Jamaican hospitality. The lively dock is a gateway for boat excursions, offering a springboard for discovering more of Ocho Rios' coastal treasures. It's the perfect spot for those looking to indulge in authentic local culture.

Turtle Beach

A favorite gathering spot for locals, Turtle Beach boasts powdery white sands that stretch out to meet clear turquoise waters. With its upbeat, social atmosphere, it transforms into a weekend hub where reggae beats fill the air, and beachgoers mingle under sun umbrellas, sipping on cold Red Stripes. Whether you're into people-watching or joining the festivities, Turtle Beach is all about lively energy, making it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an authentic Jamaican beach experience. (Note: Always be respectful of and keep a safe distance from any marine life whenever you encounter it in Jamaica or elsewhere.)

James Bond Beach

Famed for its cameo in the classic film "Dr. No," James Bond Beach radiates cinematic charm. Its vast expanse of white sand and striking blue waters make for an idyllic setting, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun. Adventurers will enjoy water sports, while culture enthusiasts can explore the nearby museum and art gallery showcasing Jamaican artistry. Beach bars serve up cocktails with a view, and a dive shop offers underwater exploration, making it a place where relaxation meets excitement with a touch of 007 glamour and pedigree.

Reggae Beach

Infused with the soul of Jamaica, Reggae Beach lives up to its name with its pulsating music scene. Live bands often set the tone for the day, as locals and tourists sway to the rhythms of reggae while enjoying a laid-back, barefoot-in-the-sand experience. Jet skiing and parasailing are popular for those looking to add adventure to their day. The smell of jerk chicken wafts through the air from the beachside vendors, and the warm Caribbean waters beckon you in for a refreshing dip. Reggae Beach is where fun and music converge in an authentic island escape.

Sugar Pot Beach

A serene hideaway for those searching for solitude, Sugar Pot Beach has a rustic, untouched appeal that feels far removed from the usual tourist hotspots. With a charming, weathered beach bar serving cold drinks and hearty local bites, the atmosphere here is laid-back and inviting.

Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by calm waters, Sugar Pot Beach is a place for unplugging and unwinding. Time seems to slow down on Sugar Pot Beach, making it ideal for those who crave a more intimate and relaxed coastal retreat.

Ocho Rios Activities

Pay Respect to Bob Marley Mausoleum in Nine Mile, St. Anne Parish, the hills between Ocho Rios and Discovery Bay is has a prestigious pedigree, having been the childhood home to two music icons.

Reggae icon Bob Marley's childhood home is located in Nine Mile, St. Anne Parish, the hills between Ocho Rios and Discovery Bay. His mausoleum is in a small church nearby. If you're a fan of Bob's, this is a wonderful place to come and reflect on his incredible impact on the world.

There is a cost to visit the mausoleum, which is maintained by the Marley family, and it's possible to arrange a tour by a fellow Rastafarian.

Interestingly, Harry Belafonte, who gained fame in the 1950s for calypso music and had a huge impact on mid-century music scene, spent several years of his childhood in St. Anne Parish in the late 30s.

Take the Prospect Plantation Tour and Visit the Blue Hole

This is a day-long activity. There are several tour providers who run this excursion, and it includes an ATV ride, a tour of the old plantation home, and a visit to the famed Blue Hole.

The ATV ride will take you on a course through the farm and woods. There are wonderful views, and the ride is fun, especially when riding through muddy spots!

Prospect Plantation was owned by a Scottish aristocrat from the 1930s until his death in the 1980s. The property has welcomed many famous guests over the years, including Winston Churchill.

You will enjoy a tractor ride through the farm, and the driver will stop at various points to talk about the plantation's history. There are pretty views of the ocean and area from the well-preserved home, which has beautiful grounds.

The Blue Hole is one of a series of natural limestone sinkholes with secluded and relatively untouched falls. Our team agrees that is a cool place that all guests would enjoy. Everyone has to wear life jackets to get in the water, and the staff are attentive and entertaining!

Round Hill

Located about 20 minutes from Montego Bay, is the pretty, lush Round Hill/Unity Hall area. While known for the luxurious Round Hill resort, the area is home to gated communities with private villas. Outside of the communities, you will find smaller areas with local businesses and a few restaurants.

Round Hill has a celebrated clientele, including Sir Paul McCartney and Ralph Lauren, who designed the rooms, lobby, and coffee area.

One of the perks of renting a villa in Round Hill is membership in the Round Hill resort. You can enjoy cocktails at the bar, towel service at the pool, afternoon tea, or simply relax and take in the spectacular sunsets from the waterfront terrace. There are tennis and basketball courts and even a resort library that offers quiet charm and computers.

Complimentary Family Fun

Round Hill also offers guests a complimentary Glass Bottom boat tour. Our team really enjoyed this and the captain, Ron, was the best! You will see coral and fish and the traps used by the nearby Lobster Trap restaurant (Lobster, please!).

Don't miss the lively beach parties, a perfect way to soak up the festive island atmosphere while mingling with fellow guests.

Add-On Services for Adults

The exceptional spa, gym, and large oceanfront lawn area are for adults only. The gym is available to guests staying in villas for $50 per person, per day; the fee is paid at the front desk.

Additional offerings include a luxurious spa and salon as well as a wide range of water sports to enjoy on the pristine coastline.

Add-On Services for Families & Kids

For an additional daily rate of $27.50 (2024), Round Hill offers the Pineapple Kids' Club for children aged 3 to 12; for little ones under three, the same fee applies, though they must be accompanied by a nanny. The Club operates from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and while lunch is not included, parents can easily pick up their children for a midday meal.

Round Hill Beaches

If you're looking to explore beaches beyond the Round Hill Resort, there are several nearby options, each offering its own unique experience.

Orchard Beach (Old Steamer Beach), Hopewell (Orchard) This local beach is more rustic and can be a hit or miss, but it's a good choice for those wanting to venture outside the resort or visit a beach that's a bit more off the beaten path. It's a quiet, unmonitored spot ideal for visitors seeking a more casual, untouched beach experience.

Doctor's Cave Beach, Montego Bay

For those who don't want to make the 40-minute drive to Negril, Doctor's Cave Beach offers an idyllic alternative just 15 minutes away from Round Hill. Known for its pristine white sand and translucent aqua waters, this beach exudes a Riviera-like charm. Doctor's Cave is well-managed and secure, with a strict no-radio, no-vendors, and no-footballs policy.

The facilities include tiled changing rooms, inside and outside showers, and a variety of reasonably priced water sports. For family-friendly fun, three 20-foot water trampolines are free to use. When hunger strikes, the Groovy Grouper Bar & Grill is just steps away, while the open-air snack bar offers Jamaican patties and burgers.

Admission is affordable at $8 (2024) for adults and $4 for children under 12, with services such as beach umbrellas, canvas sling chairs, and floats starting at $7. Towels are available for rent for $3, though it's recommended to bring your own from your villa. Equipment is available at an additional cost for those interested in snorkeling. Plus, just outside the gates, the vibrant "hip strip" offers plenty of shopping for souvenirs.

For those seeking extra adventure, additional water activities are available to enhance your day by the sea. Enjoy parasailing for $55 per half hour, and snorkeling for $5 per person.

Doctor's Cave Clubhouse

Members of the exclusive Bathing Club gain access to the elegant Clubhouse, which offers a range of luxurious amenities. Enjoy a workout in the full gym, unwind with a game of pool, or relax in the comfortable sitting room.

The shaded verandah provides a tranquil spot to take in the views, while well-appointed meeting spaces cater to those needing a place to gather. For a refreshing end to your day, the Clubhouse also features changing rooms with showers, steam rooms, and sauna facilities, ensuring you're pampered and refreshed.

Pineapple Beach

Just 5 to 10 minutes away from Round Hill is Pineapple Beach, a fun and lively spot with a range of activities and dining options. Known for hosting events and beach parties, Pineapple Beach accepts Jamaican dollars and is highly recommended for visitors looking to experience a vibrant local atmosphere. More information and reviews can be found on their website.

Lobster Pot Restaurant Experience

Our team enjoyed a meal at the family-run Lobster Pot restaurant situated between Round Hill and the Tryall Club and around $30 by taxi roundtrip, not including gratuity.

The Lobster Pot has pots right out front of the restaurant, and it's a popular spot, so you need to reserve and place orders ahead of time. Even though it's considered a relaxed restaurant, people will dress in country-club wear and, the pricing is similar to a good lobster meal in the US.

Besides the good food and friendly vibes, the restaurant is in a fantastic spot to take in the sunset.

Round Hill Nightlife

If you're looking for nightlife beyond a laid-back happy hour, you'll need to head into Montego Bay. The Hip Strip is the main hub for after-dark activities, offering a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants that keep the energy going well past 9 p.m. It's the most popular spot in the area for both locals and tourists seeking a fun night out, with plenty of places to enjoy music, dancing, and drinks. Be sure to check out the variety of venues along this bustling stretch for an authentic Montego Bay experience.

Half Moon Bay & Rose Hall Communities

Half Moon Bay & Rose Hall are two locations that cater to private, gated communities that run up the mountainside. Homes located in these areas sometimes have dual memberships in each locale.

Half Moon Bay & Rose Hall are located around 30 minutes from Montego Bay, which costs around $100 US for a roundtrip cab ride; they are about one hour from Runaway Bay/Discovery Bay, which runs $150-180 cab trip roundtrip.

Beaches in Half Moon Bay

There aren't any real public beaches in this area. The few beaches are private and included in the resort membership, and hotels or beach clubs have the only access.

Also, there is no resort-run or golf-cart transportation to the beach clubs as the road to the clubs is somewhat busy. As a comparison, the area is similar to Wailea on Maui but larger in scale and does not have as many hotels, as it caters mostly to private communities.

Activities at Half Moon Resort

At Half Moon Resort, complimentary membership unlocks a range of exclusive benefits, especially for golf enthusiasts. Members enjoy unlimited use of practice facilities and range balls, along with free green fees. A 25% discount is applied to optional cart rentals, purchases at the golf pro shop, and instructional services at the Half Moon Golf Academy, as well as drinks at the 19th Hole Bar.

Beyond golf, members can take advantage of several resort amenities, including access to stunning Eclipse Beach, the Jacuzzi, tennis courts, and a well-equipped fitness center. For some light-hearted fun, your group can try your hand at croquet or the miniature putting green.

A variety of paid activities like spa treatments, horseback riding, watersports, and tennis can be booked on the day, subject to availability. While tennis courts are complimentary, rackets must be rented, and balls purchased.

Outside food and beverages are not permitted on the property, and towel service is not provided for members at the pools or beach.

Rose Hall Golf

For golf lovers, Rose Hall offers an unforgettable experience with 36 holes of championship golf, set against the stunning backdrop of the Jamaican countryside and the Caribbean Sea.

Just a short 5-minute drive from Rose Hall, you'll find two renowned courses: Cinnamon Hill and White Witch.

Traveler's Tip: Guests are responsible for cart and caddie fees, and caddies are mandatory (gratuity is not included). Tee times are subject to availability, so it's a good idea to have your staff reserve a slot 1-2 days in advance during your stay.

Shopping in Half Moon Bay & Rose Hall Communities

There are a few shopping centers in the area, from high-end to local goods. Also, there are local restaurants and plenty of options at the resorts, from fine dining to casual.

The Shoppes at Rose Hall

Located near the Rose Hall Great House, this upscale shopping center offers a variety of stores featuring luxury brands, Jamaican art, jewelry, and souvenirs. It's a great spot to pick up high-end goods or unique Jamaican items, including Blue Mountain Coffee, local rum, and handcrafted products. There are also restaurants and cafes where you can get a quick bite while you shop.

Half Moon Shopping Village

Situated near the Half Moon Resort, this charming shopping village has a mix of boutiques, gift shops, and convenience stores. You'll find everything from resort wear and local art to duty-free shops offering luxury items such as jewelry, perfumes, and watches. The village also features a spa, a gallery, and a few dining options.

Whitter Village

Located in Ironshore, just a few minutes from both Half Moon and Rose Hall, Whitter Village is designed to resemble a traditional Jamaican town square. This shopping complex offers a variety of stores, including fashion boutiques, a supermarket, a pharmacy, and duty-free shops. It's also home to several restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a great place to unwind after a day of shopping.

Excursions & Attractions Near Half Moon Bay & Rose Hall

Chukka Ocean Outpost at Sandy Bay is an adventure hub offering an exhilarating blend of oceanfront activities and eco-adventures, as well as laid-back beach vibes.

The Bamboo Rafting Trip with Chukka is one of the most tranquil and picturesque experiences you can have in Jamaica and is often used in advertising promoting Jamaican tourism. This unique excursion takes you on a serene journey down one of the island's peaceful rivers aboard a traditional handcrafted bamboo raft guided by an expert raft captain. You'll glide through lush tropical landscapes, surrounded by towering greenery and vibrant flora. Your guide will often share fascinating insights about the history, ecology, and culture of Jamaica along the way, enriching the experience with local knowledge.

They also offer ATV safaris, zip-lining, and scenic horseback rides along the beach and into the sea.

The Rose Hall Great House – A Haunted History

The Rose Hall Great House, a Georgian mansion that dates back to the 1770s, is definitely an attraction that you will want to visit during your stay. It's one of Jamaica's most famous historic landmarks, with a reputation steeped in mystery, ruthlessness, and intrigue.

The house is best known for its association with the spooky legend of the "White Witch," Annie Palmer, who is said to have been a cruel and ruthless mistress who used dark magic to control her slaves and allegedly murdered her three husbands.

The stories surrounding her life and her supposed hauntings of the mansion have turned the Great House into a center of local folklore. According to legend, she was eventually murdered in her sleep by one of her lovers or a slave seeking revenge. Since her death, it is said that her ghost haunts the house, and many visitors report sightings of strange occurrences and paranormal activity.

Rose Hall Great House offers guided tours during the day and haunted night tours for those brave enough to explore its eerie history after dark. The mansion has been beautifully restored and decorated with period furnishings, making it an excellent example of Georgian architecture.

The grounds also include lush gardens and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea, providing a picturesque backdrop to this historic and haunted site.

Runaway Bay & Discovery Bay

Runaway Bay and Discovery Bay are located around 1.5 hours from Montego Bay and 30 minutes from Ocho Rios.

All the homes are gated and located oceanfront or beachfront. While no resort privileges are included with any of the villas, some of the nearby resorts offer day passes; these resorts tend to be very large and not as high-end as the homes.

Beaches in Runaway Bay & Discovery Bay

Puerto Seco Beach is a popular beach club that has great reviews. Offers food, cabanas, butler service with booking of a cabana, activities, bathrooms, showers etc.

Dining in Runaway Bay & Discovery Bay

The resorts offer fine dining options that take reservations. There are some restaurants scattered here and there that offer various options if guests want a night out. If they want high-end finer dining, Ocho Rios would be the place to go.

Activities Close to Runaway Bay & Discovery Bay

The Green Grotto Caves, located between Runaway Bay and Discovery Bay, are one of the island's most fascinating natural attractions. These limestone caves are rich in history and natural beauty, offering a unique underground adventure for visitors.

Named after the green algae that line their walls, the caves are a maze of stalactites, stalagmites, and hidden chambers that have played significant roles throughout Jamaica's history.

Traveler's Tip: You are close to Ocho Rios, which has more dining and shopping options. 

Gratuity/Tipping in Jamaica

Most of our incredible Jamaica villas offer the luxury and convenience of a professionally trained staff, including a Butler, Chef (food not included), Gardener, Housekeeper, and Private Laundry Service. For this reason, Jamaica is ideal for groups who wish to have both the privacy afforded by a private villa along with the luxury and service offered by a five-star luxury hotel.

Expected Gratuity

Guests are expected to pay a gratuity to service staff ranging from 10% during the high season (Dec-Apr) to 15% during the low season. Your trained chef will cater the menu to your unique needs.

Because tastes vary, the price associated with personalized meal plans will vary depending on dietary restrictions, protein choices, buffet or sit-down-style meals, and courses. etc.

To give you a general idea, the prices below are average rates for meals:

• $150-$200 per-person for breakfast or lunch (inclusive of food cost)
• $173 -$375  per-person for dinner (inclusive of food cost)

Putting It In Context 

When considering the cost associated with a fully serviced villa, it's important to put it in context.

In most other destinations, these services are additional and charged individually, generally amounting to a much higher cost.

In Hawaii, for example, post-stay cleaning fees alone are additional and can easily run $750 or more, while private chefs charge $250 per person for dinner. Moreover, these services have to be arranged separately, while in Jamaica, you get them all with the rental of your villa!

Book your gorgeous, fully serviced Jamaica villa with Exotic Estates and enjoy a vacation of a lifetime!