The Best 7 Day Jamaica Itinerary (Off the Beaten Path)

Planning the perfect 7 day Jamaica itinerary can feel a little overwhelming—especially with so many stunning places to see and limited time to see them all.

That’s exactly why I’m sharing ours.

My husband and I recently spent a full week on this vibrant island for our two-year anniversary, and we were determined to experience the very best Jamaica has to offer—especially the off-the-beaten-path spots most tourists miss.

From cliffside bungalows and secret beaches to jungle waterfalls and the coolest overwater bar we’ve ever been to, this trip was everything I hoped it would be.

And trust me, for a country this big with winding roads and scattered hotspots, having the right itinerary makes all the difference.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how we spent each day—where we stayed, what we loved, and the insider tips that made it all run smoothly so yours does too.

The Perfect 7 Day Jamaican Itinerary

This itinerary blends iconic highlights with hidden gems, giving you the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic local vibes.

So, if it’s your first time on the island or you’re looking to explore beyond the resort, this 7-day plan will help you do it right.

But If you’re still deciding whether Jamaica’s the right destination for your next trip, don’t miss my honest take on the Island!

Day 1: 

Today is all about landing in tropical paradise, settling into your home base, and letting the stress of travel melt away. After a long travel day—or two!—take it easy and ease into island life.

Arrive/Transfer to Accommodation in Negril

There’s a high chance your flight will land at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, the island’s busiest and most tourist-friendly hub.

Once you’ve made it through customs—quick and painless if you fill out the online immigration form before arrival—grab your bags and head straight to your first destination: Negril.

After two exhausting days of travel, we pre-booked a private transfer online so we could sit back and relax without having to navigate unfamiliar roads. It cost us $85 total for two people and was worth every penny.

Pro Tip: If you feel comfortable driving on the left side of the road and are an experienced driver who can drive defensively, then renting your own car is the most cost-effective way to get around the island. But just know that the driving in Jamaica is pretty insane.

Check in to Hotel – Catcha Falling Star

Once we arrived in Negril, we checked into our quiet little cliffside oasis, Catcha Falling Star. This boutique hotel is tucked away from the hustle, making it the perfect romantic retreat.

We stayed in one of the sea-view bungalows with a private balcony that became our favorite morning ritual—coffee in hand, watching waves crash against the cliffs. Highly recommend this charming gem for couples or anyone craving a peaceful escape.

>> Click Here to Check Availability at Cathca Falling Star <<

Evening at Seven Mile Beach

If you get in early enough, head down to the famous Seven Mile Beach for a laid-back evening.

This iconic stretch is one of the few public beaches on the island—and yes, it’s completely free to enjoy.

The front desk at Catcha recommended we check out the Skylark Resort and Beach on Seven Mile. This resort has its own beach security so you can fully unwind. They even have a spa if you need a little post-flight pampering.

As the sun sets, the beach comes alive with live reggae music, and there are plenty of beachside bars and restaurants where you can grab a casual dinner and toast to your first night in Jamaica.

FYI: The water is milky turquoise and not the best for snorkeling right from the beach because of all the water sports along this stretch of beach. It stirs up the sand and makes it cloudy but it’s still really pretty!

Pro Tip: if you do not have a rental car, just ask the front desk at Catcha to get you a taxi, which costs about $30. You can not walk to Seven Mile Beach from Catacha.

Day 2: 

Today is all about diving into the island’s most dazzling feature—its turquoise Caribbean waters.

Breakfast at Ivan’s 

Start your first full morning in Jamaica slow and easy.

Ivan’s, the onsite restaurant at Catcha Falling Star, has a laid-back tiki bar vibe with some seriously delicious food.

We opted to sleep in and had our breakfast delivered straight to our bungalow so we could enjoy it on our private balcony with uninterrupted ocean views.

There’s no better way to ease into island life than with a coffee in hand and the sound of waves below.

Scuba Diving or Snorkeling Boat Tour

If you do one thing today, make it getting out on the water!

The marine life around Negril is vibrant, and the clear waters make it a prime spot for scuba diving or snorkeling.

We had a scuba tour booked, but unfortunately had to cancel when my husband came down with a head cold—the pressure from diving while congested just isn’t safe. Instead, we turned the day into a relaxed beach adventure, which was lovely in its own way.

If diving isn’t your thing, I highly recommend a snorkeling boat tour. Locals say the snorkeling near Booby Cay is some of the best on the island!

Cliff Jumping & Sunset at Rick’s Cafe

Wrap up your water-filled day with a visit to Rick’s Cafe, a popular tourist attraction.

Perched on the cliffs of Negril, it’s not just a legendary sunset spot—it’s also famous for its cliff jumping.

Many snorkeling boat tours include a stop here in the evening, so if you can, choose one that lets you end your day with a splash (literally).

Even if you’re not jumping, it’s a blast to watch others launch themselves into the sea below while the sun dips behind the horizon. Add in live music, good vibes, and a cold Red Stripe, and you’ve got yourself a Jamaican evening you’ll never forget.

Day 3:

Get ready for a full day of adventure as you head out to explore some of the best hidden gems on the west side of Jamaica. Pack your day bag—you’ll need swimsuits, towels, cash, and a sense of adventure!

Swimming in the Blue Hole Mineral Spring

Start your morning with a visit to the Blue Hole Mineral Spring, which is about an hour from Negril.

It’s a really cool hidden deep limestone sinkhole in the jungle filled with turquoise blue mineral rich water that you can jump into from the rocky ledge above or climb into via a ladder.

The road to get there is rough and windy, so we had our hotel arrange a private driver for the day. He took us wherever we wanted to go and simply waited in the car while we explored. It’s super convenient and safer to get a driver. (cost us $300 USD for the entire day).

Entry to the spring is $10 USD per person, and there’s a laid-back bar and restaurant on site if you want to hang out a little longer.

Pro Tip: They don’t take cards here—not for entry or at the bar—so be sure to bring cash. American dollars are fine, but bring smaller bills because they often don’t have change for $20s.

Head to Treasure Beach & Grab Lunch at Jack Sprat

From the Blue Hole, have your driver take you on a scenic two-hour journey to Treasure Beach, a remote and artsy coastal village that’s completely different from the resort towns.

This is a side of Jamaica many travelers miss, and it’s so worth the drive.

Once you arrive, grab lunch at Jack Sprat, the beachfront restaurant attached to Jacks Hotel. Order the curry snapper or jerk crab—both are delicious, and hands-down some of the best food we had all trip.

Charter a Boat out to Floyd’s Pelican Bar

After lunch, walk down to the beach and find a local boat to charter out to Floyd’s Pelican Bar—a ramshackle tiki hut perched on a sandbar half a mile out at sea.

The 25-minute boat ride from Treasure Beach should cost around $25 USD per person.

If you don’t see a boat ready to go, just look for the WhatsApp numbers posted along the shore—local captains are happy to arrange a pick-up and drop-off. Just let your captain know what time you want to be picked up, or send them a message when you’re ready to return.

The vibe at Floyd’s is unbeatable—laid-back, breezy, and one-of-a-kind. It’s easily the coolest bar we’ve ever visited.

Dinner back at your Resort

After a long and adventure-filled day, make the journey back to Negril for a well-earned dinner.

If you want to eat at Ivan’s again, make a reservation before you leave in the morning—they fill up quickly for dinner service. We splurged on the sunset lobster dinner, and it was absolutely phenomenal.

Day 4:

Today you’ll be trading Negril’s cliffs for the lush jungles of Port Antonio on Jamaica’s east coast. It’s a travel day, but the journey is part of the adventure—with plenty to see along the way.

Drive to Port Antonio 

Grab one last breakfast and coffee at Ivan’s, and aim to be on the road by 9 AM—it’s a full 7-hour trip across the island.

If you arrived in Negril via private transfer like we did, you’ll first need a ride back to Montego Bay to pick up your rental car.

While you can arrange a private driver all the way to Port Antonio, I highly recommend renting a car instead. You’ll absolutely want your own wheels to explore this side of the island, and the cost savings were major.

Our rental for four days was just $246 USD, compared to hundreds more for daily transfers.

Bonus: the roads from Montego Bay to Port Antonio are in much better shape than the route to Negril, so the drive is smoother too.

Pro Tip: You can reserve your rental online, but Jamaica doesn’t allow payment through third-party sites. You’ll need to pay in full at the counter—and they will require you to buy their car insurance before handing over the keys. Trust me, in Jamaica’s crazy traffic, you’ll be glad you did!

Stop at The Original Blue Hole on the way

A great stop along the drive is the Original Blue Hole near Ocho Rios.

This one is different from the mineral spring hole you visited earlier.

Here, you’ll walk jungle paths, swing on rope swings, and climb cascading waterfalls pouring into deep aqua pools. It’s incredibly fun and scenic but also a popular stop for cruise ship tourists, so expect some crowds.

Pro Tip: If you time your visit for the later afternoon, you’ll likely catch it just as the cruise-goers are heading back to their ships and enjoy it less crowded.

When you’re passing through Ocho Rios, you can also stop at Dunn’s River Falls, one of Jamaica’s most famous natural landmarks and a favorite among cruise passengers.

Check into Hotel – LF Jungle Retreat

By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Port Antonio and check into the LF Jungle Retreat.

We absolutely adored this boutique hideaway tucked into the jungle just outside town. We booked one of the sea-view jungle rooms, complete with a private balcony overlooking the canopy.

After the long drive, cool off with a swim in their gorgeous pool, then kick back with a drink at their open-air rooftop restaurant.

This place is not only serene but also perfectly located just minutes from some of the island’s most beautiful beaches and jungle hikes.

Dinner at LF Jungle Retreat Restaurant

For dinner, stay right where you are—the hotel’s Italian-Caribbean fusion restaurant is fantastic. They rotate specials every night, but whatever you do, don’t skip the lobster mac and cheese. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with local flavor.

Day 5:

Today’s all about discovering two of my absolute favorite spots on Jamaica’s east coast.

Breakfast at Your Jungle Retreat

Start your day slow—after all, you’re on vacation!

Wake up without an alarm, sip your coffee on the balcony, and then head to the on-site restaurant for a traditional Jamaican breakfast.

Explore Reach Falls 

After breakfast, hop in your rental car and head to Reach Falls, located about an hour’s drive from the retreat.

The drive is part of the adventure today. This is hands-down the most scenic drive we took on the island, weaving along the rugged coastline before climbing into dense jungle and lush greenery.

FYI: When you turn off the main road to head up to the falls, you may encounter locals waving you down, saying it’s unsafe to drive further without their help. Don’t stop—it’s a common scam.

The road is totally manageable by yourself, and you’ll find a secure parking lot once you reach the falls.

Entry is $10 USD per person (cash only), and the park has clean bathrooms, lockers, and even a security guard on site.

From the parking lot, you’ll descend a stone staircase into the bluest, most crystal-clear natural pools and a decent-sized waterfall.

Be sure to ask a lifeguard to guide you to the rabbit hole—a hidden cave/swimming hole you’ll never find on your own. Tip expected, but 100% worth it! This was our favorite adventure we did on the island!

Visit Lynches Bay/ Boston Beach

On your way back from Reach Falls, stop at Lynches Bay to visit Boston Beach—definitely the prettiest and favorite beach we found in all of Jamaica.

Tucked between dramatic cliffs, this little cove is a dream with shallow, crystal-clear blue water and the softest sand you’ve ever felt.

When we visited, we shared the beach with only three other couples—it felt like our own private slice of paradise.

It’s also one of Jamaica’s top surf spots, and you can rent a board or even take a lesson with one of the friendly lifeguards. Entry is $7 USD per person, and you’ll want to stay as long as you can.

Grab Dinner at The Boston Jerk Centre 

When you’re done swimming, don’t move the car—just walk one block up the road to the Boston Jerk Centre.

It’s a collection of small, open-air eateries, all grilling up authentic Jamaican jerk over pimento wood. As soon as they see you coming, the vendors start calling and whistling to get your attention.

We went with the big red building and had the best jerk chicken and pork of our entire trip—smoky, spicy, and fall-off-the-bone tender. If your stomach allows, try a dish or two from different spots.

FYI: My husband is a hot sauce fanatic and said their homemade jerk hot sauce was the best he’s ever tasted—so much so, he bought a bottle to bring home. Fair warning: it’s very hot, but if you’re into heat, it’s a must-try!

Day 6:

Your last full day in Jamaica is here, and it’s all about soaking up two of the island’s most iconic and breathtaking spots. After days of hidden gems and adventure, today is a little slower, a little sweeter—and absolutely stunning.

Lazy Morning & Breakfast at Your Retreat

Let yourself ease into the day without an alarm again—you’ve earned it.

Pour a cup of Blue Mountain Coffee and enjoy the morning light from your private balcony, watching the mist roll off the Blue Mountains in the distance.

Then wander up to the open-air restaurant at your retreat for a leisurely breakfast before heading out. Soak it all in… this is what vacation is all about.

Relax at Frenchman’s Cove

After breakfast, it’s a short 7-minute drive to Frenchman’s Cove, one of the most peaceful and picturesque beaches on the island.

This little cove is framed by jagged cliffs, with a crystal-clear freshwater river flowing right into the sea.

It’s intimate, serene, and absolutely postcard-worthy. You’ll find a rope swing, shaded lounge chairs (2 for $5 USD), and a small beachside restaurant with local eats.

When we visited around 11 AM, we were the only non-locals there, and even at its busiest, the beach never felt crowded.

Entrance is $25 USD per person, cash only.

Fun Fact: This was Queen Elizabeth’s favorite beach—and she even stayed at the private resort perched above it.

Visit The Blue Lagoon 

Next, head to the legendary Blue Lagoon, made famous by the 1980 film The Blue Lagoon starring Brooke Shields.

After being closed for years, it finally reopened to the public in late 2024. Though privately owned, the space is open for visitors with a donation of your choice.

This serene spot features some of the most vibrant blue water you’ll ever see on the island—so clear and colorful it almost looks unreal.

There are public restrooms and a small beach bar that sometimes opens (it was closed when we went, but it looks like a fun hangout when it opens). And don’t worry if you’re not a good swimmer, they rent life jackets, and there is a shallow end where you can touch.

You can also rent kayaks for $40 for the day and paddle along the dramatic turquoise coastline.

Please be aware that parking is limited. We parked along the road at the top of the hill and walked down.

Dinner Back at Your Retreat. 

As evening settles in, head back to your retreat for one final dinner. There aren’t many dining options nearby, but that’s not a problem when your hotel’s restaurant is this good.

We recommend reserving The Crow’s Nest—a private dining spot with a sunset view that feels incredibly special.

Try the oxtail stew, a local favorite, rich and comforting with bold island flavor. It was one of the best meals we had, and the perfect way to close out our final night in Jamaica.

Day 7:

Today you say goodbye to this unforgettable island escape.

If possible, book a late afternoon flight—around 3 PM or later—so you’ll have enough time to make the 7-hour drive back across the island to Montego Bay, return your rental car, and check in with no added stress.

It’s a long travel day, but the scenic route offers one last chance to soak in Jamaica’s vibrant landscapes and coastline views. With your bags packed and your heart full, you’ll leave knowing you made the absolute most of your 7 days in Jamaica.

Where To Fly Into Jamaica

Jamaica has two main international airports: Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston and Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay. As the largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica is well-connected with major cities across the U.S., Canada, and Europe—making it relatively easy to get here no matter where you’re coming from.

For most travelers, Montego Bay (MBJ) is the cheapest and most convenient airport to fly into. It’s the busiest and most tourist-friendly hub on the island, with plenty of ground transportation options and rental car agencies on-site.

We also chose to land here to kick off our one-week itinerary and found it to be the smoothest option for reaching Negril on the west coast.

Where To Stay in Jamaica For This Itinerary

For this 7 day Jamaica itinerary, we stayed in two very different but equally magical places—one on the cliffs of Negril, and the other deep in the lush jungles of Port Antonio.

Both stays felt intimate, peaceful, and totally unique from the typical resort experience. If you’re someone who doesn’t want an all-inclusive resort but values atmosphere, views, and great value, these spots are for you.

Negril: Cathcha Falling Star

Our stay at Catcha Falling Star in Negril was the perfect way to start the trip.

This quiet, cliffside boutique hotel felt like a hidden sanctuary. We booked one of the sea view bungalows, and every morning we sipped coffee on our private balcony overlooking the ocean—it was so peaceful, we barely wanted to leave the room.

The property has this charming, romantic vibe that made it ideal for our anniversary trip. It’s also just a short walk to Rick’s Café and a quick drive from Seven Mile Beach, so you get the best of both worlds: calm and secluded, but close to the action when you want it.

Port Antonio: LF Jungle Retreat

This place totally blew us away.

LF Jungle Retreat sits just outside of Port Antonio and feels like a jungle dream. You’re completely immersed in nature, but still just minutes from beaches, waterfalls, and town.

We stayed in one of their jungle rooms with a sea view and a private balcony that overlooked the treetops with the Blue Mountains in the distance.

The rooftop bar is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a cocktail, and we loved their pool for a late-night swim under the stars after long adventure days. It felt like our own little slice of paradise, and we can’t recommend it enough.

Getting Around Jamaica

Getting around Jamaica really depends on your travel style and budget.

While buses are definitely cheaper, they take significantly more time and are known to be unreliable—and on an island this big, that can eat up your trip fast. I wouldn’t recommend it.

For convenience and flexibility, we found that a mix of private transfers and renting a car worked best.

Airport transfers

When we landed in Montego Bay, we had already pre-booked a private airport transfer to take us straight to our hotel in Negril. After two full days of travel, it was such a relief to not have to think about driving or directions.

The driver met us right outside the airport, and the whole experience was seamless and stress-free. It cost $85 total for the two of us, and we both agreed it was worth every penny to start the trip off relaxed.

Do You Need A Rental Car?

Yes—especially if you plan to road trip across the island like we did.

We rented a car when we left Negril and drove all the way to Port Antonio and back.

If you’re comfortable driving in another country, a rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Just be aware: you’ll be driving on the left side of the road, and Jamaican traffic can be a bit chaotic at times. That said, we adjusted pretty quickly, and the flexibility was totally worth it.

Hiring Taxi’s/Drivers

Another great option is hiring a local taxi or private driver, especially for day trips.

Most resorts can arrange this for you, or you can book directly with a local company.

Having a driver means you don’t need to worry about navigating or parking—just sit back and enjoy the ride. It’s a super convenient and safe way to get around, especially if you’re not keen on driving, but keep in mind that the cost can add up quickly if you’re using drivers daily.

Travel Tips For Visiting Jamaica

Before you go, here are a few helpful things to keep in mind to make your trip smooth, safe, and unforgettable. These tips are based on our own experience and will help you feel more confident navigating the island.

Safety:

The number one question I get asked about Jamaica is, “Is Jamaica safe?

And to them, I say Jamaica is a beautiful place to explore, but like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.

Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and be especially cautious if you’re using public transportation or hailing a taxi off the street.

One key thing to remember is to only take taxis with red license plates—this means they’re officially registered and licensed. If the plate is white, skip it entirely, even if the driver seems friendly.

The good news is that Jamaica has taken major steps to improve visitor safety, especially in popular tourist zones. Increased police presence, resort security, and tighter transportation regulations all help keep travelers safe.

Best Time To Visit Jamaica:

I asked all the locals this question, and this is the common answer I got: mid-December to mid-April, is the best time to visit. This is when the weather is the best, but unfortunately, this is also when it’s the most crowded and expensive.

That said, Jamaica has a tropical climate year-round, so you can plan a trip almost any time of the year. You might just score awesome deals outside of peak season if you can tolerate a little rain.

Pro Tip: Keep in mind that October is the wettest month, with sometimes weeks of non-stop rain, and March is their fire season, and all the vegetation is dry and brown.

Weather:

Unlike some Caribbean islands, Jamaica has two rainy seasons: May to June and September to November.

The dry season overlaps with the peak travel season, from December through April. Tropical rain showers are common, but they’re usually short-lived.

So if the weather app shows rain, don’t panic—it’ll likely blow through in 20 minutes, and the sun will be shining again in no time. When we visited in April, we had short rain showers almost every evening, but they didn’t last long.

How Many Days Do You Need For Jamaica?

At a minimum, I recommend 7 full days to truly experience what Jamaica has to offer.

A one-week itinerary gives you the flexibility to visit both sides of the island, discover hidden gems, and enjoy a mix of beaches, nature, and culture. It’s the perfect amount of time to feel like you’ve really seen the island—without rushing.

That’s A Wrap

I hope this 7 Day Jamaica Itinerary helps you plan the unforgettable island adventure you’ve been dreaming of.

From cliff diving and jungle waterfalls to secluded beaches and spicy jerk dinners, this trip was everything we hoped for—and more.

Before you go, don’t forget to grab my free Beach Vacation Packing List and check out my full post on what to pack for Jamaica so you’re fully prepped with everything you need

so you don’t leave anything important behind.

Catch ya on the next adventure!