Where to Stay in Jamaica: Best Areas and Hotels for Every Budget
Where to stay in Jamaica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your trip. And it can either make or break your trip!
Even though the island looks small on the map, it’s surprisingly big and spread out. You can’t just pick one spot and expect to easily see all of the attractions. Getting from one side of the island to the other can take nearly a full day, so choosing the right home base matters.
For our two-year anniversary, my husband and I spent 7 days exploring both the lush east coast and the more popular resort areas in the west. I put a ton of thought into where we should stay—and now that we’ve done the trip, I’ve got some really good pointers for you.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Jamaica, who each spot is best for, and where to book whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a luxe, all-inclusive resort.
I’ll also share where we stayed and what I’d do again in a heartbeat.
Short On Time? Where I Stayed & Highly Recommended!
Negril: Catcha Falling Star
Port Antonio: LF Jungle Retreat
Quick Guide on Where to Stay in Jamaica
For First Timers: Negril
For Families: Ocho Rios
For Budget Travelers: Treasure Beach
For Beach Lovers: Ocho Rios
For Nature Lovers & Adventurers: Port Antonio
For Guided Tours: Montego Bay
For Nightlife & Shopping: Montego Bay
For Culture: Kingston (But the least safe!)
Complete Guide To The Neighborhoods & Hotels To Stay in Jamaica
Jamaica has a little bit of everything—laidback cliffside retreats, lively resort hubs, and (my favorite) off-the-beaten-path gems surrounded by jungle and mountains.
Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay in Jamaica, who they’re ideal for, and my top hotel picks in each spot.
Montego Bay
Montego Bay is Jamaica’s tourism hotspot. It’s busy, energetic, and packed with some of the island’s best all-inclusive resorts, duty-free shopping, and nightlife.
It’s the island’s main cruise port and the departure point for most guided tours and excursions.
If you want convenience, easy access to the airport, and lots of activity, this is the place. It’s incredibly convenient for first-time visitors—but expect crowds and a bit of tourist hustle.
📍 Best Budget Stay – Hotel Grand A View
This hotel is a solid budget pick just minutes from Sangster International Airport. Clean, comfy, and close to shops and restaurants, it’s a great base if you’re mostly here for tours and beach time.
📍 Best Luxury Stay – S Hotel Montego Bay – Luxury Boutique All-Inclusive Hotel
This effortlessly cool hotel blends boutique charm with all-inclusive perks. The best part is the infinity pool, private beach access, and a rooftop bar with stunning sunset views. It’s steps from the Hip Strip but feels like a tucked-away escape.
Negril
Negril is about a 1.5-hour drive south of Montego Bay, and it’s perfect if you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back vibe.
This tiny town on Jamaica’s northwestern coast is known for its stunning sunsets, cliffside bars, and the famous Seven Mile Beach.
It’s ideal for couples and travelers who want to slow down and soak in the views without the tourist hustle of Montego Bay.
My husband and I stayed here for three nights, and it ended up being one of our favorite corners of the island—peaceful, scenic, and full of charm.
📍 Best Budget Stay – Catcha Falling Star
We stayed at Catcha Falling Star and absolutely loved it—charming cottages perched above a rocky coastline with unbeatable sunset views. It’s cozy, romantic, and feels like your own little slice of paradise. Highly recommend staying here!
📍 Best Mid Range Stay – Tensing Pen Hotel
Tensing Pen is a beautiful boutique resort with rustic-chic cabins, a laidback bamboo bar, and direct access to the sea for cliff diving or snorkeling. It’s peaceful, intimate, and totally unplugged—ideal for a romantic escape.
📍 Best Luxury Stay – Idle Awhile Villas
If you want the privacy of your own villa with all the perks of a boutique hotel, Idle Awhile Villas is the perfect pick. The villas are steps from the beach and come with butler service, private pools, and a true barefoot-luxury vibe.
Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is a great pick if you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, lush waterfalls, and staying close to the action.
It’s located on the north coast and is known for its all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels. It’s also a cruise ship port—so while the beaches are stunning, expect the town to feel a bit congested at times.
Still, it’s a fun and lively base with easy access to sights like Dunn’s River Falls, swimming with dolphins, and Mystic Mountain, making it a hit for families and beach lovers alike.
📍 Best Budget Stay- Sago Palm Hotel
This charming little hotel offers a quiet, no-frills stay just minutes from the beach—perfect if you’re looking to keep costs low but still want comfort and convenience. It’s a solid choice for travelers who plan to spend more time exploring than lounging in the room.
📍 Best Mid Range Stay – Moon Palace Jamaica – All Inclusive
If you want a family-friendly resort with all the bells and whistles, Moon Palace delivers. With multiple swimming pools, nine restaurants, and beachfront access, it’s an all-inclusive resort with everything you need for a stress-free stay.
📍 Best Luxury Stay – Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn is pure old-school Caribbean elegance—intimate, quiet, and beautifully maintained. With private beach access, classic cottages, and five-star service, it’s ideal for couples or anyone looking to unwind in a more refined setting.
Port Antonio
If you’re craving a quieter, more local side of Jamaica, Port Antonio is where to go.
Tucked into the lush East Coast jungle, this off-the-beaten-path gem is full of natural beauty—think waterfalls, jungle hikes, and a rugged, hilly coastline.
It takes some effort to get here, but it was hands down my favorite area to explore. My husband and I stayed for a few nights in this corner of the island, and it truly felt like discovering a different side of Jamaica—peaceful, authentic, and breathtaking.
📍 Best Budget Stay – LF Jungle Retreat
We stayed at LF Jungle Retreat and absolutely loved it. The rooftop bar at sunset was a highlight, and the peaceful setting made it feel like a hidden mountain hideaway. The onsite restaurant served up delicious Italian food with a Caribbean flair.
📍 Best Mid Range Stay – Jamaica Palace Hotel
This quirky, colonial-style hotel stands out with its bold design, art gallery vibe, and spacious rooms. It’s a unique stay close to the action but still tucked away enough for a relaxing experience.
Kingston
Kingston is Jamaica’s capital and cultural heartbeat—home to reggae music, street art, and historic landmarks like the Bob Marley Museum.
It’s the place to go if you’re craving a deeper, more immersive experience beyond the beach resorts.
That said, it’s not where I’d recommend first-timers stay, as this area does see more crime compared to the island’s tourist hubs. But for seasoned travelers or those wanting to tap into Jamaica’s creative and cultural side, Kingston can be a rewarding stop.
📍 Best Budget Stay – Christar Villas Hotel
Christar Villas is a solid, budget-friendly option with a local vibe, clean rooms, and a central location for exploring Kingston. It’s great for travelers who want a no-fuss stay while diving into the city’s culture and food scene.
📍 Best Mid Range Stay – Strawberry Hill
Perched in the Blue Mountains above Kingston, Strawberry Hill is a peaceful escape with panoramic views and fresh mountain air. This spot is perfect if you want a relaxing retreat close to the city but still away from the buzz.
📍 Best Luxury Stay – AC Hotel Kingston, Jamaica
This sleek, modern hotel offers a refreshing mix of comfort and class—complete with an infinity pool, stylish working and lounge spaces, and a central location. It’s a smart, upscale choice for travelers who want city access with resort-style touches.
Getting Around Jamaica
How you get around Jamaica really depends on your travel style—and your budget.
Public transportation exists, but it’s slow, a bit unpredictable, and not the most efficient way to explore the island. Most travelers (us included) opt for private transfers or rental cars to save time and avoid the hassle.
Here’s a quick breakdown of your best options:
Airport transfers
We pre-booked a private airport transfer from Montego Bay to our resort in Negril ($85 total for two people), and honestly, it was so worth it after a long day of flying. If you’re arriving late and want to skip the stress of navigating in the dark, this is definitely the way to go.
Rental Car
We rented a car in Montego Bay for a mini road trip to Port Antonio—and while it gave us total freedom, it wasn’t exactly a chill drive. Jamaican roads can be chaotic, and you’ll need to adjust quickly to driving on the left. If you’re confident behind the wheel and don’t mind driving on the left, a rental can be a great choice.
Pro Tip: Jamaica doesn’t let you pay for rentals through third-party websites. You can reserve online, but you’ll need to pay at the counter—and always check your card statement afterward. We got double-charged and had to dispute it with our bank. Keep your receipts!
Hiring Taxi’s/Drivers
Hiring a private driver or taxi through your hotel is a super easy and safe way to get around—especially if you’d rather relax than focus on directions. We used this option a few times early in the trip, and while it was convenient, the cost added up quickly. Great for a few days, but not the most budget-friendly for longer stays.
5 Essentials You Can’t Forget To Pack For Jamaica
Before you zip up your suitcase, make sure you’ve got these island must-haves. Between the humidity, beach days, and unexpected adventures, a few smart items can make your trip way more comfortable.
These are the five things I think you need for Jamaica—and trust me, you’ll be glad you have them.
Grayl Filter Water Bottle
Technically, tap water in Jamaica’s main tourist areas is said to be safe to drink—but I like to play it safe when I travel. I packed my Grayl filter water bottle, and we ended up using it every single day—super convenient, especially for excursions and road trips.
Dry Bag Backpack
Between the humidity, boat rides, beach days, and all that sand, having a dry bag in Jamaica is a must. It kept our phones, snacks, and cameras safe and dry while we were out swimming or just lounging by the shore.
Go Pro Camera
A waterproof camera is a must in Jamaica, especially with all the swimming, snorkeling, and waterfall hikes. My GoPro is my go-to—it’s durable and has captured some of our favorite moments from the trip.
Sand-Free Travel Towel
I can’t tell you how many trips this towel has come on—and I truly can’t recommend it enough. It dries fast, packs small, and seriously cuts down on the amount of sand you drag back to your hotel room or stuff in your luggage.
Travel Sun Hat
This is one item I never travel to the tropics without. It rolls up easily in my bag, keeps the sun off my face, and still manages to look cute in every photo.
Want the full rundown? Head over and check out my post on what to pack for Jamaica for the complete list of must-bring items.
FAQ’s: Visiting Jamaica
Still got questions? Here are some of the things I get asked the most about traveling to Jamaica—answered from my personal experience.
Which area of Jamaica is the best to stay in?
For me, it’s Port Antonio—no contest. It’s quieter, absolutely stunning, and has some of the best beaches on the island. Plus, there are great hidden gem adventures nearby.
Where should I stay in Jamaica for the first time?
It really depends on what kind of vibe you’re looking for. If you want something relaxing but still close to the action, I’d say Negril is a great first pick. If you’re into nature, local charm, and don’t mind a bit of a journey, Port Antonio is absolutely stunning.
Is it better to stay in Negril or Montego Bay?
Personally, I’d choose Negril. Montego Bay felt a little too busy and touristy for my taste. Negril has a more laid-back feel, and I loved the slower pace and beautiful scenery.
Which Airport Should I fly into Jamaica?
There are two main airports—Montego Bay and Kingston—and they’re on opposite ends of the island. It really depends on your itinerary and where you plan to stay. Montego Bay is usually the better choice for most travelers, especially since it often has cheaper flights and easier access to the major beach areas.
What is the safest part of Jamaica for tourists?
The main tourist areas—like Negril, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay—are generally safe. Just use common sense, stay in well-populated areas, and avoid wandering off the beaten path at night.
That’s a Wrap
I hope this guide helped you figure out exactly where to stay in Jamaica—whether you’re dreaming of a luxury beach resort or a quiet jungle retreat.
Wherever you land, you’re in for an unforgettable trip.
Before you go, don’t forget to grab my free beach vacation packing checklist to make sure you’ve got everything you need for your island adventure!
Catch ya on the next adventure!