Jamaica Beaches Guide
Daniel Mode
Daniel Mode
Laura Schulthies
Laura SchulthiesIf you’re thinking of visiting Jamaica, you’re making a great decision! Not only is the island rich in culture and history, but it’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The island has everything from secluded coves to stretches of powdery sand, but with so many stunning coastlines to choose from, deciding which one to visit can be tricky. Whether you’re looking for a secluded getaway or an action-packed beach vacation, you’ll want to visit one of these ten best beaches in Jamaica!
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The Best Jamaica Beaches
Seven Mile Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Jamaica, Seven Mile Beach is located in the town of Negril on the western tip of the island. This world-famous beach is known for its long stretch of white sand, turquoise waters and lush palm trees. Despite its name, Seven Mile Beach is actually about 4 miles of continuous sand, with Bloody Bay adding another 2-3 miles to the north. There are plenty of fine hotels and resorts in the area. Visitors here can find plenty activities to keep them busy, such as swimming, sunbathing, stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and more. There are also restaurants and bars located right on the beach, so you can enjoy a bite to eat or a refreshing cocktail while enjoying the incredible views.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Parking (can full up quickly), Public Change Rooms, Public Showers, Public Cabanas, Playground, Beach Vendors (can be aggressive), Rentable Chairs, Umbrellas, Jet Skis, Banana Boat Rides, and Tubing, Part Of Beach Restricted, Limited Parking.
Stay Nearby! Explore Negril Hotels on TripAdvisor
Bloody Bay Beach
Though the name may be off-putting, Bloody Bay Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica. This secluded beach is located in Negril on the island’s western tip. The beach gets its name from the 19th-century whalers that used to butcher captured whales on this shore. Bloody Bay Beach is also a diver’s paradise! Scuba enthusiasts on the island flock to this beach to take advantage of the world-class diving opportunities. The beach is also a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the incredible views, both under the water and on the shore.
Beach Amenities: Beach Vendors, Part Of Beach Restricted, Limited Public Parking, Public Restrooms At Resorts/Restaurants.
Stay Nearby! Explore Negril Hotels on TripAdvisor
Doctor's Cave Beach
Situated in the heart of Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica and a popular destination for tourists and families. This beach is located in Montego Bay and is actually part of the protected Montego Bay Marine Park. Beachgoers here can grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants on the shore, rent a beach chair and umbrella, or take a dip in the sparkling waters.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee ($6 USD for adults, $3 USD for kids), Public Restrooms, Public Changing Rooms, Public Showers, Paid Roadside Parking, Rentable Chairs and Umbrellas.
Stay Nearby! Explore Montego Bay Hotels on TripAdvisor
Frenchman's Cove
Frenchman’s Cove is a unique beach located in the town of Port Antonio on Jamaica’s eastern coast. This beach is known for its dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation and vibrant blue waters. This beach is often referred to as “Paradise” due to its stunning natural beauty. A freshwater river flows directly into the beach, creating a unique mix of fresh and salt water. Frenchman’s Cove is also home to the Frenchman’s Cove Resort and facilities where guests can enjoy a truly pampered beach experience.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee ($15 USD per adult, $8 USD for kids from 3-11), Public Restrooms, Public Changing Rooms, Public Showers, Lifeguard On Duty In Season, Ample Public Parking, Rentable Chairs and Lounges.
Stay Nearby! Explore Port Antonio Hotels on TripAdvisor
Ocho Rios Bay
Another popular beach located in the Saint Anns parish of Jamaica is Ocho Rios Bay Beach. This beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike – the golden sand and clear blue waters of Ocho Rios Bay make it a perfect place to relax and soak up the Jamaican sun.
This beach is located in the city center, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the area. One of the best things about Ocho Rios Bay Beach is that it is never too crowded. Even on busy days, you can find a spot to yourself if you walk down the beach far enough. This is a great beach for swimming, sunbathing and simply taking in the incredible views while relaxing in a sun lounger. Visitors to the beach will have to pay a small fee to enter ($3 USD for adults and $1 USD for children) and there is parking available nearby for those visiting this beach by car. The shallow waters on the shoreline make this beach very family-friendly and the on-site shower and toilet facilities are always appreciated by visitors.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Parking, Public Changing Rooms, Rentable Beach Chairs ($5 UDS), Rentable Umbrellas ($5 USD), Lifeguard On Duty, Dog Friendly, Rentable Lockers, Beach Vendors.
Stay Nearby! Explore Ocho Rios Hotels on TripAdvisor
Half Moon Beach
Half Moon Beach is a tropical paradise where you will find beautiful warm cream-colored sand located between Orange Bay and Green Island, about 20-30 minutes north of Negril. This crescent-shaped bay is known as a great spot for fishing. Half Moon Bay is also an excellent place to spot dolphins. Swimming in the bay’s crystal clear waters, snorkeling off a vibrant coral reef, or taking in a gorgeous Jamaican sunset are just a few of the options at this unique beach. Enjoy a cocktail in a sea lounge, or take a water taxi to Calico Jack’s Pirate Island.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee ($10 USD includes deck chairs and use of the shower and restrooms), Public Restrooms, Parts Of Beach Private, Public Parking, Rentable Snorkel Equipment.
Stay Nearby! Explore Negril Hotels on TripAdvisor
Cornwall Beach
Cornwall Beach is a private beach on Montego Bay’s west side. Entrance to the beach is paid, but the price is moderate, around $5 USD for adults and $3 for children.This beach is famous among tourists as a quiet and cozy place for family beach trips. You can find Cornwall Beach next to Doctor’s Cave, another great place to visit in Montego Bay. Keep in mind that during tourist season, typically from December to June, Cornwall Beach will be pretty noisy and crowded.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Changing Rooms, Public Showers, Lifeguard On Duty, Ample Public Parking, Rentable Lockers.
Stay Nearby! Explore Montego Bay Hotels on TripAdvisor
Dunns River Falls Beach
Situated next to the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls, this beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jamaica. The beach is located in Ocho Rios on the north coast of the island and is a great place to relax and enjoy the incredible views. Although the falls are the main attraction, the beach is also a beautiful spot for swimming, sunbathing and even snorkeling. Dunn’s River Beach is a great spot to taste some traditional Jamaican cuisine, try your hand at water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, or visit the nearby attraction of Dunn’s River Falls.
Beach Amenities: Entrance Fee ($25 USD for adults and $17 for a child), Public Restrooms, Public Parking, Waterfall Access, Locker Rentals ($10 USD).
Stay Nearby! Explore Ocho Rios Hotels on TripAdvisor
Dead End Beach
Dead End Beach is a popular spot for tourists visiting Montego Bay. This vibrant beach, also called Buccaneer Beach, is located in the heart of the city and is known for its lively atmosphere. It’s known for its long narrow strip of white sand beach that backs up to a cliff, and it’s a popular place to watch low-flying planes as they approach the nearby airport. Dead End Beach is a great place to get a feel for the authentic Jamaican experience while soaking up some sun and enjoying the turquoise waters.
Beach Amenities: No Amenities Available.
Stay Nearby! Explore Montego Bay Hotels on TripAdvisor
Sandals Montego Bay Beach
This exclusive beach is an adults-only oasis situated in the heart of Montego Bay. This beautiful beach is only accessible to guests staying at Sandals Montego Bay Resort, which is an all-inclusive resort located on the property. The beach here is known for its dramatic cliffs, tranquil turquoise waters and secluded atmosphere. Guests of Sandals Montego Bay can enjoy plenty of beach amenities such as beach chairs, umbrellas and even private cabanas. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious Jamaican beach experience, Sandals Montego Bay Beach is the perfect spot.
Beach Amenities: Private Beach, Restrooms, Beach Towels, Lounge Chairs, Umbrellas, Watersports Equipment, Volleyball Court.
Stay Nearby! Explore Montego Bay Hotels on TripAdvisor
Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is a small swath of sand in Montego Bay, often frequented by locals. The beach offers no facilities other than the gorgeous sand and water. However, there are usually local vendors selling snacks and drinks. You’ll find several hotels and resorts in the area, including the luxurious Half Moon Resort. Sunset Beach is the perfect place if you’re looking for a low-key and chill local beach with few tourists. The beach offers unobstructed views of the bay, with the hills of neighboring Hanover Parish rising as a background, making it an ideal location for catching a gorgeous technicolor Jamaican sunset.
Beach Amenities: Paid Roadside Parking, No Additional Public Facilities or Amenities.
Stay Nearby! Explore Montego Bay Hotels on TripAdvisor
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