Boston Beach
About as laid back as they come, vibes on some Reggae music as the waves gently brush against the shoreline, eat jerk chicken to your heart’s content, or even try some surf lessons. Something about this beach will make you feel as though you’re in the right place, and that all the right elements have come together to create this chill Caribbean gem that a lucky few get to experience while in Jamaica. Both locals and foreigners enjoy going to Boston Bay beach, and the entertainment and food at the beach bar are especially popular.
Doctor’s Cave Beach
One of the most popular beaches in Montego Bay, and you won’t hear about this beach without learning some of its back story. It goes something like this: There was once a physician who was convinced there were healing properties to the waters of Doctor’s Cave Beach, and upon the news getting out, the beach skyrocketed in popularity. Whether this was ever true or not, it is still a very popular beach and is maintained by the Doctor’s Cave Beach Club, which charges a small entrance fee to access the beach. Doctor’s Cave Beach is right near the ‘Hip Strip’ so you’ll be right in the heart of things.
Dunn’s River Falls Beach
A must while in Jamaica, but many people don’t know until they go that in addition to the spectacular falls and all the great activities you can participate in while there, that they can also go relax on the Dunn’s River Falls Beach. While the falls cascade over 180 meters, the beach is a little less dramatic, but no less breathtaking. The fact that there’s a beach near this major attraction in Jamaica means you can make an entire day out of your Dunn’s River Falls tour, and spend some time at the beach, snorkeling, or splashing around in the warm sea.
Turtle Beach
There are a few vendors on the beach, but not so many that you’ll be overwhelmed. There’s also security present on the beach, and chair and gear rentals available. Some people like embarking on the glass bottom boat tour that’s available from this area, but there are many other activities to choose from and a bar where you can grab something ice cold to cool off.
Winnifred Beach
Winnifred Beach in Port Antonio is that it is an excellent choice, and it is ‘free, lovely, and clean’. It is more crowded on the weekends, Sunday especially, since the beach is a favorite for both locals and tourists. Some people however like the crowds for opportunities to people watch and get a real sense of the island.
Bamboo Beaches/Reggae Beach
Check out Bamboo Beaches, just east of Ochi in St Mary. You’ll pay an $11 USD entry fee which includes a beach chair. Bring along your snorkeling gear as this is a great place to dive. There are three beach bars, one of which jams Reggae tunes all day long, and you may even bump into some local musicians. If you’re into music yourself, have a jam session out on the sand and be inspired by the beauty of this strand.
Frenchman’s Cove
The beach has made several big screen appearances, including in the 1986 Robin Williams movie Club Paradise, and it was once especially popular with Hollywood A-listers. On this beach you’ll find a stream that meanders right into the ocean, and this is one of the unique elements that add to its exotic feel. There’s not as much excitement here as compared to some of the other beaches located closer to city areas, which makes it even more of a great choice.
Treasure Beach
Six miles of coral colored beaches. A trip here allows you to get away from the norm, and to explore Jamaica in its most authentic form. There are private coves along the beach, and you’ll find just a few resorts of the more laid-back variety, restaurants, and even nightclubs in the area. Try Floyd’s Pelican Bar, which is quite literally a floating bar where you can also get a taste of freshly caught grilled fish, and other treats.
Bloody Bay
It is a popular beach to spend the day on while in Negril. It is conveniently located near a resort area, so you can expect to see lots of tourists. You can rent kayaks and other gear for water excursions on this beach, or just enjoy the shallow waters which are great for kids. It’s helpful to note that lots of sunset cruises leave from Bloody Bay, as do snorkeling trips.
Seven Mile Beach
It is located near some of the most exclusive luxury resorts in Negril and as legend would have it, the beach was once roamed by pirates. Seven Mile Beach is picturesque and filled with things to do, including dining at an ocean front restaurant, or enjoying the famed Jamaican jerk chicken with a side of Red Stripe Beer right on your beach chair, underneath a shady beach umbrella.