Montego Bay Day Trips: Your Top 5 Unforgettable Escapes

Planning a trip to Montego Bay? That’s pretty awesome! But listen, it’s almost a pity to stay put when there’s a complete slew of adventures just a short drive away. We’re talking about unreal natural wonders, places filled with cool stories, and a taste of the real Jamaica beyond the resort. Ready to check out some top picks? Well, here are 5 day trips from Montego Bay that’ll really give you something to write home about.

1. Dunn’s River Falls: Climb the Cascades

Dunn’s River Falls is, in a way, one of Jamaica’s most well-known treasures, you know? Just imagine water tumbling down rocks in what feels like a staircase designed by Mother Nature herself. That said, it’s totally an experience to climb the falls, water shoes on, with guides leading the way. Actually, you might find yourself in a human chain, helping others as you go. At the top, so very much worth it, you’ll get a cool splash and a serious sense of accomplishment.

Around the falls, well there are gardens too, spots for picnics, and craft markets. So, really, you can make a full day of it. I recall once visiting, and there, this band was playing reggae music right by the falls. Really! The vibe was infectious. What’s a trip to Jamaica without some reggae and a climb?

Getting There: It’s more or less a little over an hour’s drive from Montego Bay, so an early start is what you need to dodge some crowds. Many tour companies run excursions, too it’s almost worth checking if you would like something straightforward. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Dunn’s River Falls Excursion)

2. Rose Hall Great House: Stories of Annie Palmer

Want a little mystery mixed with your vacation? Then Rose Hall Great House could be right up your alley. This plantation house comes along with stories of Annie Palmer, that they refer to as the ‘White Witch’ of Rose Hall. Some pretty spooky tales of her supposed misdeeds might send a shiver down your spine, or maybe that’s just me.

The tour guides are great storytellers. Apparently they really bring Annie’s story to life as they show you the house. As a matter of fact, they say she roams its halls even to this day! Now, the views from Rose Hall are something else. Too it’s almost like the vista goes for miles. You will also come across the gift shop too, where you know, you can pick up something spooky, maybe a book or a trinket, to take back home.

Good to know: Rose Hall is what you need for history and intrigue, so allow a half-day. You can book a tour that covers both the house and gardens. Night tours, those you can count on, give you some extra chills, as you would think! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Rose Hall Great House Tour)

3. Martha Brae River: Bamboo Rafting

Time to chill out on a bamboo raft? Martha Brae River is one super tranquil escape. That is, gliding down a river on a long bamboo raft, steered by a local guide, that’s just the ticket to unwind. Basically, your guide knows all the stories about the area. Usually they share bits of Jamaican history and point out the greenery as you float along.

The water’s usually calm. And really? Just sitting back, watching the trees go by, feeling the sun on your skin, hearing all nature’s sounds… it’s pretty blissful. I’ll say this, one time on the Martha Brae, that, I swear, I saw the prettiest hummingbird I had seen! Anyway, Martha Brae’s all about calm, nature, a great day off from the everyday stress. It’s rather a peaceful time out.

Make a note: Rafting lasts for a bit more than an hour. That said, most folks combine this trip with a visit to a local market or another attraction. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Martha Brae River Rafting)

4. Negril & Rick’s Cafe: Sunset Views

Now, for some sunset watching and cliff diving, Negril could be on the list, as you may have suspected. Okay so it’s a farther drive, a little bit, from Montego Bay, still, well worth it for the vibe. First of all, there are beaches – Seven Mile Beach comes to mind, where you can just laze in the sun or swim in waters that you can be honest and describe as pure clear perfection.

Then there’s Rick’s Cafe. That said, it’s legendary. Built on cliffs, as a matter of fact, you get folks diving into the sea down below. Are you one of those daredevils? Anyway if you’re not so sure, it’s okay. It’s rather good to watch! The sunsets there, in general, well? They’re absolutely unforgettable, a bit of paradise right before your eyes. Anyway, a day out in Negril mixes adventure with beach bumming, which I like.

Something to know: That said, the drive to Negril is longer than other destinations, that is to say, around 1.5 to 2 hours. If that’s alright, plan for a full day and be certain to arrange transportation in advance. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Negril and Rick’s Cafe Tour)

5. Secret Beaches: Discover Hidden Gems

Alright, want to dodge the crowds a bit? Then look for the ‘secret’ beaches near Montego Bay. So, Doctor’s Cave Beach might be familiar to many, yet, there are several less-known spots that are just gorgeous, basically, without hordes of people. Actually, these small beaches could be hidden behind some trees, down a winding road, that is to say, a little harder to get to, so you will have a great deal of peace.

That’s usually, what I’m hoping to find anyway. But you may ask “Where are they then?”, well they are not ‘secret’ any more if I tell! More or less the thing to do? Ask some locals! Maybe that taxi driver or your hotel staff. Usually that would get you results! Spend your time soaking up the sun, swimming, a little bit, maybe snorkeling. Really? This can be a completely perfect low-key day if you just do not want noise, and what I find best? Well there are less tourists.

Be warned: Make a note that access can sometimes be a little bit on the challenging side, basically, without clear signage. More or less bringing your own snacks and drinks might make a lot of sense. I guess, some small gems might not have facilities like bathrooms or food stalls. So it’s prudent. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Jamaica Secret Beaches)

Read our full review: Jamaica Travel Guide Full Review and Details