Jamaica vacations

Montego Bay is Jamaica’s paradise under the golden Caribbean sun. Powdery beaches, spicy jerk chicken and the laid-back beat of reggae await your arrival.

The birthplace of reggae, Jamaica’s capital has always marched to its own beat. Explore epic hikes, panoramic vistas and some of the best food in the Caribbean.

From a former fishing village to a buzzing beach destination, Ocho Rios dazzles with its dramatic waterfalls, palm-fringed shorelines and mouthwatering Caribbean seafood.

Jamaica is home to several magical lagoons. One of its most famous, the Luminous Lagoon, lights up at night thanks to glowing microscopic organisms. Take a jump from one of the waterfalls in the gorgeous Blue Lagoon, where the 1980 Brooke Shields movie of the same name was filmed. When you’re done swimming, kayak to Monkey Island for top-notch snorkeling.

For many, Jamaica is synonymous with its native music. Reggae artists like Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff popularized the island’s rhythmic sounds, making it an international sensation. Hear today’s stars perform at venues like the Trench Town Culture Yard and The Jungle in Negril. For a heavy dose of reggae love, visit during one of the Bob Marley birthday bash celebrations in February.

One of the best things to do in Jamaica is to explore it with your family. There are options for all ages and moods. Check out Seven Mile Beach, which has perfect blue water, live music and glass-bottom boat tours. Or visit the Aquasol theme park and the Green Grotto Caves. Kids will feel like real adventurers with the hard hats that are provided.

The beaches in Jamaica are one of the country’s top draws. Doctor’s Cave Beach is said to have healing powers, not to mention perfect snorkeling conditions. The water is calm, and the reefs are teeming with marine life. Check out Treasure Beach, located in a fishing village on the southern coast, for serene swimming and a dose of local culture.

Chase waterfalls at Dunn’s River Falls and Park near Ocho Rios, where clear mountain water cascades nearly 1,000 feet down naturally terraced steps. On the island’s eastern edge, Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park is full of hiking trails, exotic birds and giant butterflies. Brave a flying leap off a rope swing into the Cool Blue Hole.

The island’s famous jerk chicken, with its tasty combination of sweet and spicy flavors, is served at most restaurants in Jamaica. Ackee (a tomato-like fruit) and codfish with peppers and onions may look like scrambled eggs, but it can be enjoyed at any time of day. Wash down some oxtail and rice with an ice-cold Red Stripe beer.

Two must-see museums in Jamaica are the Bob Marley Museum and Noel Coward’s Firefly House. For a blissful break, visit the Ahhh…Ras Natango Gallery and Garden, where you can hand-feed hummingbirds. The National Museum of Jamaica showcases one of the most extensive collections of African art in the Americas. It also features traditional and contemporary art from the island’s talented artists.

The best time to visit Jamaica is the dry season from mid-December through April. You can enjoy Carnival’s music and colorful street parties, which start in January and run until May. Celebrate spring with April’s St. Elizabeth Horticultural Society Flower Show and the St. Ann International Kite Festival. Be aware that peak hurricane season arrives in August and September.

It’s easy to plan a cheap trip to Jamaica. You can enjoy an inexpensive meal for about 1,100 Jamaican dollars ($) and a beer or coffee for less than $600. A short taxi ride will set you back about $500.