Bob Marley, bobsledding and Red Stripe beer – tell us you’re going on holiday to Jamaica without telling us you’re going on holiday to Jamaica…
An everything island
When you think of Jamaica holidays, you might think of white beaches, spicy jerk and reggae tunes. You’re not far wrong tbh – we’re here for all the Caribbean holiday clichés – but it’s also so much more, so stay with us… Its camera-ready coastline’s primed for your Insta feed with beach bars and swaying palms. But inland, it’s time to flip your crocs into sports mode and go chasing waterfalls, hiking mountains and river rafting. This island does both.
Daytrip destinations
Sun bums can thrive on Jamaica’s class conditions all year round, while other kinds of travel lovers can still get their holiday fix on other parts of the island. Stay in one place or hop around on a bit of a tour – daytrips mean you and the rest of your group can pick your own pace and just catch up at dinner later for a debrief. If you’re the outdoorsy type, make sure you check out the 180-metre cascade of Dunn’s River Falls, near Ocho Rios. Then, Montego Bay – AKA Mo-Bay – is where you can go river rafting and on Jeep safaris. There’s also Negril’s Kool Runnings adventure park, where you can ride waterslides, canoes and go-karts.
Chill in Negril
If your kind of holiday is all about kicking back and relaxing, Negril is where everything is just chill. With its peachy sunsets, ‘no worries’ attitude and famous Seven Mile Beach, it’s Jamaica’s go-to for some real relaxing. It also boasts the best All Inclusive resort in the Caribbean – Couples Negril. A bit further up the coast, Lucea lives the quiet life with its half-empty beaches. And as you’d expect from its name, Runaway Bay‘s another of Jamaica’s more secluded snorkelling spots, with a great coral reef just offshore.
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Jamaica FAQs
Most travellers, including citizens from the UK, US, Canada and the EU, don’t need a visa to visit Jamaica for stays of up to 90 days. But, you will need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity left when you enter the country – you can check you’re all set with our handy passport checker.
Please make sure you check the FCDO website for the most up-to-date information.
The official currency of Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD), but US dollars are widely accepted in most tourist areas. It’s a good idea to carry some local currency for smaller purchases, especially in more rural areas, but credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants and shops – just check yours doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Jamaica holidays are all about warm weather, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimwear to enjoy the beaches, and comfortable shoes for daytrips and exploring. Don’t forget suncream, insect repellent and sunglasses, too. A small waterproof bag is also useful for beach and boat trips to keep your valuables safe and dry.
For those picture-perfect blue skies and balmy breezes, go for somewhere between December and April. Temps hover around 27°C and peak at a toasty 32°C.
Or, if you’re not fussed about a few raindrops, the rainy season from May to November is a good budget pick. In the Caribbean, rain often means quick showers followed by plenty of sun still, so you can always get in some beach time. Just watch out for Jamaica’s hurricane season from June to November – August and September are the worst months.
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Jamaica travel advice
Passports and Visas
British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Jamaica, but must have a valid passport. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica/entry-requirements.
It’s now mandatory that you complete the online passenger declaration form before checking in for your flight to Jamaica. Make sure your departure is smooth and hassle-free by completing the online Jamaica declaration form on https://enterjamaica.gov.jm before you head off for the airport.
Health and safety
You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. For the latest health and safety information, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica/health
