Jamaica’s hottest spot

As resorts go, Montego Bay on the north-west coast of Jamaica is a big, vibrant place packed with Caribbean charm. It’s long been a magnet for the rich and famous, and with its reggae-infused nightlife and hot, spicy jerk cooking the place still pulls in the crowds. Oh, and the white sandy beaches might have something to do with its popularity as well.

Tropical beaches

Handily, two of Montego Bay’s best beaches are right next door to each other on the resort’s ‘Hip Strip’ of All Inclusive hotels, bars and restaurants along Gloucester Avenue. Doctor’s Cave is a diddy, quiet spot with dressing rooms, while Cornwall handles the parties, windsurfing and volleyball. Along with a charge for sunloungers and umbrellas, you’ll need to pay a small entry fee – but that comes with deckchair bar service.

Reggae beat

Live music runs through this town’s veins, and the bars of Mo’bay, as the locals call it, ring out with everything from hip hop to soca. But it’s the beat of authentic reggae that gives Montego Bay’s night-time scene that extra kick. The resort’s annual reggae festival might attract the big names, but you’ll find up-and-coming acts in the live bars around Gloucester Avenue.

Touring the island

Montego Bay doesn’t stint on daytrip options. A bit of a drive away – you’re looking at around 3 hours – you’ve got the tropical rainforests of the Blue Mountains. In about the same time you can also get to Port Antonio, where you can swim in the Blue Lagoon or go rafting on the Rio Grande. For something closer to home, you can visit Bellefield, a working sugar plantation.