If you are looking for an escape from the winter blahs to the summer blues, Jamaica for vacation is one of the most popular choices. Did you know that Jamaica has mountains, rain forests and beaches? You’ll find this tropical paradise in the Caribbean Sea south of Miami, FL by about 600 miles (965 km). Jamaica is part of the Greater Antilles, a chain of Caribbean islands that also include Cuba, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico.
What is Jamaica all about? Jamaica is commonly known as the birthplace of reggae music, popularized by Bob Marley, and some locals on the island practice Rastafarianism. If you are looking for soft white sandy beaches and days of sunshine, these helpful tips for travel to Jamaica will help you plan your dream trip.
Jamaica for Vacation
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If you are planning an international trip to an all-inclusive resort on your dream trip to Jamaica—one of the largest islands in the Caribbean—you’ll want to consider your travel goals:
- If you want beaches and water sports, Negril has some great options.
- If you are more of a foodie who thrives on a hopping nightlife, consider Montego Bay (commonly called MoBay) or even Ocho Rios.
- Kingston is the capital of Jamaica and is a hotspot for the Jamaican music scene. You’ll find the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston.
Chris and I recently enjoyed a week at two different all-inclusive adults only resorts in Jamaica: Secrets Wild Orchid in Montego Bay (join the Hyatt Rewards Program) and Royalton Negril Resort (join the Marriott Bonvoy Rewards Program).
We loved both location and time to relax at the beach in Jamaica!
The resorts are not exclusively for adults, BUT they both have sections that are ADULTS ONLY!
Check dates for the Royalton Negril Resort in Jamaica
Check dates for Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay in Jamaica
There are many reasons to love all-inclusive Caribbean adults only resorts. If this is your first visit, you may wish to explore the common mistakes people make at an all-inclusive resort as well.
33 Helpful Tips for Travel to Jamaica
1. Read Reviews
When you fly to a new destination, be prepared by doing some research in advance. Know how much it should cost to take a taxi from the airport to your hotel, determine the best place to rent a car, pin down the safest areas of town, and read the reviews on the most reputable tour companies.
Be sure to read reviews from a variety of different sources for hotels, rentals, excursions, hikes and destinations before setting off to relax at the beach in Jamaica.
TIP * Some companies do not always post negative comments on their site giving a very one-sided view.
2. People Drive on the Left Side of the Road
Similar to a few other destinations around the world, people in Jamaica drive on the left side of the road. I would highly recommend booking a taxi or shuttle and let the locals do the driving.
3. Planning an All-Inclusive Stay? Know What IS and ISN’T Included
Wouldn’t you think that an “all-inclusive resort” includes everything on your dream trip to Jamaica? All resorts are unique and your inclusions may be influenced by your membership status or the package you booked.
Common upcharges at an all-inclusive resort MAY include:
- Transfers to and from the resort
- Spa treatments
- Tour excursions
- Premium alcohol
- WiFi
- Water sports equipment rentals
- Extras from the resort gift shop (like that sunscreen you forgot to pack!)
- Resort fees
Read the fine print. Learn about the package you select before you arrive. If you are not sure whether or not something is included, ask.
Be Mindful of Safety
4. Enroll in STEP
Wherever your international travel takes you, be sure to register with STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) with the State Department to receive important information about safety conditions. In case of an emergency, the US Embassy will know how to contact you.
5. Keep Personal Items Safe
Try to blend in when traveling to Jamaica for vacation. Don’t flash expensive jewelry, purses, or clothing. Don’t make yourself a target.
Keep a secure copy of your passport on your smartphone. In addition, make sure you have secure electronic copies of all of your essential documents, ie., driver’s license, health insurance card, etc.
Tip * Travel with extra passport photos in case you ever have to replace yours while traveling abroad.
While nothing is 100% safe, I have a few Columbia travel shirts that have zippered pockets in the side seams that I often wear to keep my phone and credit cards secure. I can easily hold my hand over a pocket as needed.
One of my favorite purchases is my Travelon Crossbody bag. The Travelon Crossbody Bag is my best piece of travel gear for travel in Europe, island travel in sun-drenched Jamaica, travel close to home, and for cruise travel. I even convinced my husband that he would love one too!
6. Use Common Sense
Practice situational awareness or common sense for added peace of mind when traveling to Jamaica for vacation.
- Keep your hand on your valuables in crowded areas.
- If you are traveling in a group, learn to keep an eye on each other.
- If you are on a subway or tram, keep your bags close to you. Turn your backpack around and wear it in front.
- Don’t keep anything valuable in an outer pocket of your backpack, purse, or carry-on.
- Wear your wallet in your front pocket.
- Wear a crossbody bag or something similar to hold cash, your phone and other essentials.
- Be discreet with your money and valuables.
- Don’t keep wallets, phones, or cash handy for the convenience.
- Use the in-room safe in your hotel.
- “Mind the gap” and other traffic warnings, especially in countries where they drive on the other side of the road.
- Carry only enough cash for the day.
- Disperse credit cards and money to more than one person if traveling with a group.
- Keep one credit card in a separate place (store in the hotel safe when you are out and about).
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t be an obnoxious tourist.
- If it doesn’t feel right, use common sense and don’t do it or simply leave. This is wise advice whether you are traveling solo in sun-drenched Jamaica or with a group.
7. Book Excursions Through Authorized Guides
This is a fantastic way to see the world AND meet people. Tours can range from walking tours, cooking tours, wine tours, or adventures.
8. Opt for Travel Insurance
One of the helpful tips for travel to Jamaica includes travel insurance. Travel insurance is affordable, offers peace of mind, and lends to stress-free travel. World Nomads and Safety Wing are two companies that I am familiar with (also check your credit card coverage). Their policies MAY cover the following:
- Trip cancellation
- Delayed, damaged, or stolen gear and baggage
- Needing to see a doctor when you are sick
- Emergency evacuation via helicopter out of a danger zone
- Needing to be sent home (as well as from death overseas)
- Assaults or terrorist attacks
Travel insurance is easy to obtain (and is renewable online if you extend your stay) and can save you thousands if something happens to go wrong.
Transportation
9. Set Up Airport Transfers in Advance
Chris planned ahead on our recent trip to Jamaica and booked a shuttle for us from the airport to Negril. HOWEVER, this was after our stay in Montego Bay. We had to take a taxi back to the airport (standard rate is ~$40 USD one way) and then get special permission to enter the airport to the shuttle bus area.
If you are taking a shuttle directly from the airport, you shouldn’t have any difficulty accessing the shuttle bus area. But another HOWEVER, you will have to wait until the entire bus is full. Your bus driver may make stops along the way and traffic can be slow.
TIP * Do yourself a favor and book an airport transfer via taxi or private shuttle. It will likely cost more than the shuttle bus, but your time will be better spent as you can begin to relax at the beach in Jamaica much quicker.
10. Sign Up For Club Mobay Fast-Track Entry and Lounge Access
Fast track your dream trip to Jamaica with Club Mobay. When you arrive, a Club Mobay attendant will meet you at your arrival gate holding a sign with your name on it. You’ll then receive personal expedited assistance through immigration, customs and security at Sangster International Airport and arrive at the departure lounge. Enjoy a snack and complimentary drink before you transfer to your hotel.
As you return to the airport, access the Club Mobay layover lounge with snacks, drinks and WiFi…even showers (you need to book this in advance). How about a massage, manicure, pedicure or foot bath at the Mango Spa? I wish I had known about the Mango Spa sooner!
Chris and I chose the fast track service on arrival and were in and out of the airport in no time at all. With a number of planes arriving at one time, we avoided having to wait in long lines. It was totally worth it.
11. Book a Flight from Montego Bay to Negril
Does the idea of starting your vacation sooner and ending it later appeal to you? After you have waited on a shuttle bus at the airport and finally reached your destination three or four hours later after first landing in Jamaica, you may want to consider air service on a charter plane.
As Chris and I relaxed at the beach in sun-drenched Jamaica, we watched as the Airlink Express planes came and went throughout the week. The thought of a quick transfer was appealing for sure. The other bonuses for air transfers are:
- Amazing views from the sky
- Safe travel
- Quick arrival time
- Relax at the beach in Jamaica in no time at all!
Tips for Your Sun-Drenched Jamaica Trip
12. Bring Small Bills for Tipping
If you need cash when in Jamaica for vacation, Chris and I always recommend using ATMs attached to banks and avoid exchanging money at the airport.
One of the benefits of an all-inclusive resort is that gratuities are usually included in the package. Guests are not expected to tip for regular services such as housekeeping or dining wait staff; HOWEVER, you may still choose to tip for exceptional service or for special requests:
- Service that goes above and beyond
- Butler service
- Requests to book excursions
- Spa treatments
Bring $100 to $200 in small bills for tipping. In poorer countries, many of the resort staff depend on these tips to make a living wage. You may not be required to tip them, but it is often the kind thing to do.
13. Keep the Check In/Check Out Receipts at Your Resort
As you check in and out of a resort or hotel, you are often given receipts or claim tickets. You then give them, for example, to the person transporting your luggage. It is the resort’s way of making sure you arrive and depart safely and with all of your gear.
14. Exchange Money Responsibly
US dollars are accepted in most areas of Jamaica.
If you do need cash, find an ATM at a local bank for better exchange rates and enhanced security versus a currency exchange counter or ATM at the airport.
15. Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?
If you are staying at a resort or hotel, the tap water in sun-drenched Jamaica is generally safe to drink. If you are not sure, ASK. If you are staying outside of a resort, bottled water may be your best option.
16. Try the Jerk Chicken and Local Cuisine
If you haven’t tried jerk chicken before—a Jamaican specialty—you are in for a treat! You may wish to ask about the spiciness level.
The national dish of Jamaica is ackee and saltfish—sautéed with peppers, onions, and spices. Ackee is a fruit that must be cooked and often tastes like scrambled eggs.
17. Be a Respectful Tourist
Another one of the helpful tips for travel to Jamaica includes taking time to research a few of the local customs. Consider the etiquette on tipping, hand gestures to avoid, and clothing to help you fit in and wear as a sign of respect. Many churches will refuse you entrance if you are wearing shorts and tank tops. Have a cover up or skirt to pull on.
It is okay to look like a tourist; don’t be an obnoxious tourist.
18. Haggling is Often Expected
When you are searching for a unique treasure in many of the markets, know that haggling is expected.
19. Take Lots of Pictures
If you are a photographer and fan of instagram worthy photos, be sure to take lots of pictures on your dream trip to Jamaica. Photos keep the memories of your vacation alive.
Just remember, you don’t have to travel with ALL of your photography equipment. Pack lightly. Take only the essentials. That may mean your camera body and one possibly two versatile lenses and a few accessories. Here are a few ideas for you to consider.
What do I recommend for taking pictures in Jamaica?
20. Get to Know the Hotel Staff
On our first visit to Royalton Negril in Jamaica, Chris and I watched as the resort staff warmly greeted guests who had been visiting the resort for many years. After a day or so, the staff became familiar with our drink choices and anticipated our requests.
Creating this connection and showing kindness ensures that your stay is amazing—a stay where you may say, “I want to come back!”
Jamaicans are vibrant, vivacious and ready to welcome you with a smile. The charm of a dream trip to Jamaica is found in its people and their warm hospitality.
Be sure to acknowledge the staff with a smile or greeting. Getting to know the staff is one of the reasons that many people return to a resort again and again.
Gear & Packing for Sun-Drenched Jamaica
21. Bring Beach Towel Clips
Chris and I first got beach clips for a cruise. They are so handy in securing your towel to your lounger. I highly recommend getting them.
22. Pack Your Sunscreen
I am a big fan of Sun Bum sunscreen and other Sun Bum products. Be sure to put them on your beach packing list for your vacation to sun-drenched Jamaica. They are:
- Vegan friendly
- Reef safe
- Provide broad spectrum moisturizing UVA/UVB sunscreen with vitamin E.
Applying sunscreen on the first day of your vacation and often throughout ALL the days of your vacation ensures that you avoid sunburns and can enjoy every day of your dream trip to Jamaica.
I use a separate sunscreen for my face—PCA Skin Active Broad Spectrum SPF 45—with a formulation that is water-resistant, has a lightweight finish, and offers broad spectrum protection. Because I wear it everyday, I know that I won’t have any kind of skin reaction to it.
You may also be interested in Sun Bum Lip Balm and Sun Bum Leave-in Conditioner for your next beachside getaway (if you are curly haired, you’ll likely appreciate the anti-frizz qualities of the leave-in conditioner).
23. Don’t Forget the After Sun Gel
Bringing sunburn cooling gel is one of the helpful tips for travel to Jamaica (and other sunny destinations). In the event you do get more sun exposure than expected, the Sun Bum Cool Down Gel provides a cooling and soothing effect while helping to nourish your skin and prevent peeling.
24. Consider Bringing Bug Spray
One thing you don’t always think about is the need for bug spray in paradise. It is a must for your tropical vacation packing list.
I am a magnet for bites at home while my husband rarely gets bitten. After reading the recommendations from other travelers to bring bug spray, I did a little research and found the BUGGINS Original Gnat & Mosquito Insect Repellent with a light vanilla, mint and rose scent. I didn’t mind the smell at all.
Some tropical locations have mosquitoes and no-see-ums. Having been bitten by both, I prefer not to give those nasty bugs a chance.
25. Use a Refillable, Insulated Water Bottle
This water bottle has a secret section where you can store small items while enjoying the beach.
26. Bring a Waterproof Phone Case
You’d be surprised how many times you’ll wish you had a waterproof phone case to keep your phone dry as you go on excursions and use it for underwater photos.
27. Use a Packing List
Inevitably I forget something when I am packing. Using a packing list is the surest way to make sure you travel with everything you need.
28. Bring Your Own Snorkel Equipment
These full face snorkel masks are new to Chris and I in the past couple of years, but we absolutely LOVE them. Full-face snorkel masks make breathing underwater so easy, and if you get the seal tight enough, there is no worry of leakage. They were perfect for sun-drenched Jamaica.
Jamaica Excursions and Things to Do
While you have the option to enjoy the luxury of staying in bed all day, or relaxing in a cabana by the pool, the benefit of an all-inclusive resort is that you have options. Pick a few days to relax and unwind, but then choose to parasail or take a boat tour to snorkel, explore caves and visit Rick’s Cafe in Jamaica.
Many resorts are in areas where you can explore nature, get out of your comfort zone, visit famous attractions and enjoy excursions
This is the perfect opportunity to go beyond your comfort zone and try something new. Parasailing or paragliding anyone? Learn to snorkel, try a local delicacy, brave the crowds or even cliff dive at Rick’s Cafe! Your kids might just say, “Mom and Dad are living their best life!”
29. Plan to Relax at The Beach in Jamaica
One of the common mistakes people make at an all-inclusive resort or any type of resort is that you don’t disconnect from work, social media, or electronics. Embrace the time you have to spend with your special someone (or kids if you happen to be at a family resort).
Use your phone to take a few pictures or videos but otherwise try to unplug from your everyday life. (Internet service may be unreliable at some international resorts, so it might just limit your phone use naturally.)
30. Enjoy an Excursion to Rick’s Cafe
You’ll want to book the excursion to Rick’s Cafe in advance as the boat often fills up. We were able to find an excursion that left from the beach close to the resort, but you can also book before even leaving for Jamaica for vacation.
Rick’s Cafe is a vibrant, hopping hotspot and world-renowned cafe on the west coast of Negril. Stop for a drink or meal and watch as cliff divers act as daredevils, enjoy the daily Reggae performances, marvel at the sunset, or get your groove on.
31. Plan a Martha Brae Rafting Excursion
This is an iconic excursion in Jamaica that helps you slow down and enjoy the scenery along the Martha Brae River. Snuggle up to your special someone and let your guides glide you down the river on a bamboo raft.
32. Go Diving at the Blue Hole
Diving at the Blue Hole is one of those once-in-a-lifetime moments. You’ll jump (or dive) from one waterhole to the next. Your guide will be with you along the way to ensure safety.
33. Snorkel
Whether you sign up for a snorkel tour or your like to snorkel from a beach, there’s no doubt that some places in the world offer stunning underwater sea life. From vivid blue and yellow fish to pink coral to black tip sharks.
You may enjoy some of the places that Chris and I have explored. Next to the overwater bungalows at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon and Spa in Tahiti was a crystal clear lagoon that was perfect for snorkeling right from your own dock. I highly recommend it!
- Moorea, Tahiti
- Bahia Honda, Florida
- Jamaica, Caribbean
- St. John, Caribbean
- Water Island, Caribbean
- Costa Rica
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jamaica best known for?
Jamaica is best known for white sandy beaches, crystal blue water, waterfalls, rainforests, and mountains. Jamaicans also love Reggae music, parties, festivals, and tasty cuisine.
What if there is a travel advisory to Jamaica?
When Chris and I traveled to Jamaica for vacation, there was indeed a travel advisory in place. Jamaica is generally safe for tourists in popular tourist areas, however, it is essential for you to be on your guard and use common sense at all times. Trust your instincts.
When is the best time to visit Jamaica?
Due to the temperate nature of the climate, planning a dream trip to Jamaica can happen any time of the year. The weather in January through May is usually dryer and cooler.
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Final Thoughts on 33 Helpful Tips for Travel to Jamaica
Chris and I loved our recent trip to Jamaica. These helpful tips for travel to Jamaica will help to ensure that your vacation goes smoothly.
Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, be sure to use your common sense. Plan to relax at the beach in Jamaica and enjoy the time soaking up the sun. And don’t forget to pack the sunscreen AND the aftersun gel. Download my FREE Beach Packing List so you don’t forget a thing.
You may also love….
- 35 Awesome Perks of an Adults Only Resort in Jamaica (All-Inclusive Too!)
- Jamaica Travel: What is Club Mobay and Is It Worth The Additional Expense?
- 25 Common Mistakes People Make at an All-Inclusive Resort
- 25 Pros and Cons of a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Tropical Snorkel Spots
- 10 Awesome Things to Do In Papeete, Tahiti: It’s More Than a Layover
- 20 Brilliant Things to Pack for a Beach Vacation
- 28 Ultimate Romantic Getaways for Couples
- Need Vitamin Sea? Top 10 Reasons for a Couple’s Beachside Getaway
- Andaz Costa Rica: An Amazing 5 Star Costa Rica Resort
These are great tips for traveling to Jamaica. I would love to visit here. Great post!
Informative post! I think you covered everything about traveling Jamaica!
Great tips. Thanks for sharing. I do hope I get there one day.