Our photoJamaica
Mountains, waterfalls and the warmest welcome in the Caribbean.
In this guide: Overview
Why Jamaica
Jamaica is so much more than the resort strip. Head to the lush east around Port Antonio or the sleepy south coast at Treasure Beach and you'll find a slower, more personal side of the island.
Food here is a highlight on its own: jerk from roadside pans, fresh fish straight off the boat and Blue Mountain coffee where it's grown.
Highlights
Blue Mountains
Cool air, coffee farms and sunrise hikes above the clouds.
Waterfalls and rivers
Reach Falls and rafting on the Rio Grande near Port Antonio.
The south coast
Treasure Beach's fishing-village pace and the famous Pelican Bar.
Jerk, the real way
Smoky, slow-cooked and best eaten roadside.
When to go
Mid-December to April
- January: Our pick
- February: Our pick
- March: Our pick
- April: Our pick
- May: Good
- June: Quieter
- July: Quieter
- August: Quieter
- September: Quieter
- October: Quieter
- November: Good
- December: Our pick
The dry season brings the most reliable weather. June to November is hurricane season: often quieter and good value, but plan flexibly and consider travel insurance.
Before you go
- Distances look short on the map but roads are winding; allow plenty of time.
- Use licensed taxis (look for red PP plates) or arrange transfers through your stay.
- Carry some Jamaican dollars for small vendors, even though US dollars are widely accepted.
- Ask before photographing people; a friendly chat first goes a long way.
Places to explore in Jamaica
Our photoPort Antonio
Jamaica's lush, unhurried north-east: lagoons, rivers and jungle beaches.
- Couples
- Adventurers
- Nature lovers
Treasure Beach
A string of fishing villages on the dry south coast, made for slowing down.
- Couples
- Solo travellers
- Slow travellers
Through our lens
Our photoDreaming of Jamaica?
Tell us who's travelling and what you love. We'll read every answer and, if we're a good fit, build your plan by hand.