Montego Bay, Jamaica Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Why Montego Bay, Jamaica?
- Montego Bay is the capital of St. James Parish.
- Montego Bay is the second largest city in Jamaica.
- It is home to the world-famous Doctor's Cave Beach Club, a popular tourist destination.
- The city is known as "The Tourism Capital of Jamaica" due to its many tourist attractions.
- Montego Bay has a lively nightlife and numerous restaurants and bars.
Montego Bay, Jamaica Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
86° F
|
° F
|
| February |
86° F
|
° F
|
| March |
87° F
|
° F
|
| April |
88° F
|
° F
|
| May |
89° F
|
° F
|
| June |
90° F
|
° F
|
| July |
91° F
|
° F
|
| August |
91° F
|
° F
|
| September |
90° F
|
° F
|
| October |
89° F
|
° F
|
| November |
88° F
|
° F
|
| December |
87° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
1.2 inches
|
| February |
0.9 inches
|
| March |
0.9 inches
|
| April |
1.5 inches
|
| May |
4.1 inches
|
| June |
3.8 inches
|
| July |
1.8 inches
|
| August |
4.2 inches
|
| September |
5.0 inches
|
| October |
7.1 inches
|
| November |
3.8 inches
|
| December |
1.6 inches
|
Sunset-gazing at Rick's Cafe
Since 1974, Rick's Café has offered visitors to Negril, Jamaica outstanding views from their cliffside location. Caribbean Travel and Life Magazine voted it one of the ten best bars in the world! Two hurricane's have destroyed Rick's but its popularity made for quick re-builds each time getting bigger and better. For more than 30 years, this spot has been the premier destination for gatherings and sunset gazing. By day, visitors can take advantage of the spacious decks, resort-style pool and diving cove. Adventure-seekers jump off platforms, the highest 35 feet above the sea, into the crystalline water below. The evening offers world-famous sunset views, Jamaican-style food and tropical drinks. When the sun slides behind the waves the party is on. With live entertainment and exotic drinks, Rick's is transformed into a moon-lit lounge.
Strolling along Negril's 7-Mile Beach
You can't come to Jamaica and pass up the world-famous 7-Mile Beach in Negril. With so much white sand, there's plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy the sun. Stroll along the beach and you'll find all-inclusive resorts, hotels, villas, beachfront restaurants, water activity vendors and a few locals peddling their own merchandise. A polite "not interested" hand signal usually puts them at bay. This beach used to be a big hippie hang-out and you might still be asked if you want some grass, but mainly the beach is littered with families, vacationers, a few locals and some boozy party-types. The highlight of the day is the beautiful evening sunset. Sitting with your toes in the sand, gazing over the crystal water is a relaxing treat!
Riding horseback along the coastline
What better way to explore Jamaica's scenic country-side and white-sand beaches then by horseback. This family-friendly excursion will takes visitors across pastures and near waterfalls. Ride along the coastline, onto the beach, then splash in the ocean. The gentle horses have taken hundreds, sometimes thousands of visitors on breathtaking tours of the island. So as they say in Jamaica, "No worries, mon".
Transportation on Montego Bay, Jamaica
Getting to Montego Bay, Jamaica and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
- Visa: Not required for UK citizens and most other nationalities for stays of up to 90 days.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of departure from Jamaica is required.
- Travel Authorization: Most visitors do not need pre-arrival authorization, but travelers may be required to complete an entry form or health declaration depending on the latest health guidelines.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of approximately US$35 is charged at the airport for international departures.
Driving
- License: Visitors can drive with a valid foreign driver’s license for up to 90 days.
- Permit: A temporary driving permit is required, obtainable at the airport or local police stations.
- Driving Side: Left-hand side of the road.
- Road Conditions: Generally good, with paved roads in urban areas. Rural roads may vary in quality.
- Speed Limits: Typically 30-50 mph (48-80 km/h) in urban areas, and 50-60 mph (80-96 km/h) on highways.
- Traffic Rules: Be mindful of all traffic signals, pedestrians, and local driving customs. Watch out for potholes, especially on rural roads, and always be cautious when driving in more remote areas.
Know Before You Go...® - Montego Bay, Jamaica Travel Tips
Before making their way to Montego Bay, Jamaica , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Montego Bay, Jamaica even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Jamaica |
| Population: |
2019Unknown |
| Size: |
2021Unknown |
| Electric Current: |
110 |
| Official Language: |
The official language spoken in Montego Bay is English, as it is the national language of Jamaica. However, the secondary language spoken by many locals is Jamaican Patois, which is a creole language with influences from English, Spanish, and West African |
| Currency: |
Montego Bay, the second-largest city in Jamaica, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. As a result, the city offers a wide range of currency and payment options to cater to the needs of its diverse visitors. Here is a summary of the currency and payment options in Montego Bay:
Currency:
The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (JMD), which is subdivided into 100 cents. The Jamaican dollar is the only accepted currency in Montego Bay, and most businesses only accept cash payments in local currency. However, US dollars are also widely accepted in tourist areas, and some businesses may also accept other major international currencies such as the British pound or the Euro.
Exchange Rates:
The exchange rate between the US dollar and the Jamaican dollar is approximately 1 USD to 150 JMD, but it can fluctuate depending on the market conditions. It is advisable to exchange your currency at a bank or an au |
| Tipping and Taxes: |
Tipping and taxes in Montego Bay, Jamaica are an important aspect of the local culture and economy. Visitors should be aware of these practices in order to have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Tipping, also known as gratuity, is not required in Montego Bay, but it is greatly appreciated for good service. The standard tip is 10-15% of the total bill, but it ultimately depends on the quality of service you receive. Some establishments may include a service charge in their bill, so be sure to check before leaving an additional tip.
In addition to tipping, there are also various taxes that visitors should be aware of. The general sales tax (GST) in Jamaica is 15%, and it is usually included in the price of goods and services. However, some hotels and restaurants may add an additional 10% tax for hospitality services. This is known as the room tax or service charge and it is usually listed separately on the bill.
For travelers staying in all-inclusive resorts, there is also a go |
| Dress Code: |
The dress code in Montego Bay is typically casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfort and island-inspired styles. |
| Topography: |
Montego Bay's topography is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, with a coastline featuring beautiful beaches and rocky cliffs. |
| Telephone: |
Jamaica, +1 876 |
Montego Bay, Jamaica Weddings and Honeymoons
In Jamaica, the process of getting married is straightforward and popular among destination wedding couples. Couples must apply for a marriage license at the Ministry of Justice office. Required documents include:
- Valid passports for both parties.
- Birth certificates for both parties.
- Proof of marital status: If divorced, a final divorce decree; if widowed, a death certificate of the spouse.
- Proof of residence in Jamaica (if applicable).
- Affidavit of no impediment to marriage (a statement affirming both parties are legally eligible to marry).
The marriage license costs approximately JMD 4,000 (about US$27). For weddings outside of the registry office, additional fees for the officiant apply, ranging from JMD 8,000 to JMD 15,000 (approximately US$55 to US$100). It is recommended to apply for the license at least 24-48 hours before the intended wedding date.
