Jamaica Beaches Guide

Regions, What to Expect, and Easy Day Plans

Pick beaches near where you stay and plan simple days with calm water, shade, and food nearby. Start early for smoother seas. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and small cash for entry, chairs, and umbrellas.

Negril (Westmoreland)

Seven Mile Beach: Miles of soft golden sand and cliff views near the lighthouse. Famous sunsets and a lively scene.

Bloody Bay: Quieter arc with a relaxed feel along several all-inclusive fronts.

Half Moon Beach: Small private cove with calm water and fewer crowds.

Negril quick list

  • Best sunsets on island
  • Gentle entry for kids
  • Plenty of beach bars
  • Early starts beat wind
  • Carry small cash

Montego Bay (St. James)

Doctor’s Cave Beach: Public beach with a small fee, food stands, showers, and spring-fed water that stays cool and clear.

Cornwall Beach: On the Hip Strip with water sports and music. Sometimes quieter than nearby options when open.

Harmony Park Seafront: Family-friendly green space by the water to stroll and relax.

Aqua Sol Beach and Theme Park: Family friendly with concession stands, changing rooms, tennis, indoor games, live music, and plenty of beach activities.

Montego Bay tips

  • Bring water shoes
  • Ask about chair bundles
  • Card and cash accepted
  • Combine with lunch
  • Parking fills fast

Ocho Rios Area (St. Ann & St. Mary)

Mahogany Beach: Small local spot with calm water and simple services.

Reggae Beach: Music-forward vibe with lounges and food nearby.

James Bond Beach (Oracabessa): Scenic setting tied to Ian Fleming’s story, glass-bottom boats, and kayaking.

Dunn’s River Beach: At the base of Dunn’s River Falls where warm spring water meets the sea, with soft red-tinted sand and a refreshing mix of currents.

Turtle Beach: Close to town with water biking, jet skiing, and scuba. Framed by hotels and cooled by sea breeze.

Cardiff Hall Beach: Laid-back stretch with calm water. Good for a quiet read and shade naps.

Negril Beach

Negril Beach Pictures

Hellshire Beach

Hellshire Beach Pictures

Fort Clarence Beach

Fort Clarence Pictures

Aqua Sol Beach

Aqua Sol Beach

Portland

Frenchman’s Cove: River meets sea in a postcard cove with facilities.

Winnifred Beach: Free public beach with community stalls and good snorkeling.

Boston Bay Beach: Quiet cove with almond trees and classic jerk stands close by; small surf break at times.

Blue Lagoon: Striking turquoise water wrapped in greenery. Calm, clear, and great for an easy swim.

Fairy Hill Beach: Shady and uncrowded. Nearby stalls deliver food to the beach for a relaxed day.

Navy Island Beach: Offshore spot suited to snorkeling and paddling in calm water.

Portland notes

  • Greener coastline
  • Shade under trees
  • Support local stalls
  • Cash preferred
  • Pair with rivers

Kingston and St. Catherine

Hellshire: Fried fish, music, and a lively local scene. Busy on weekends.

Fort Clarence: Quieter managed beach with lifeguards and wide sand.

Lime Cay: Small offshore cay by boat from Port Royal. Good for picnics and swims.

Kingston notes

South Coast (St. Elizabeth and Manchester)

Treasure Beach: Linked coves like Frenchman’s and Calabash with low-key stays.

Alligator Pond: Darker sand and stronger waves with a more local, everyday feel.

South Coast ideas

Dunn's River Falls

Dunn's River Falls

Rio Nuevo Beach

Rio Nuevo Beach

How to Pick and Plan

Match your base to the right coast. Negril for long, shallow swimming and sunsets. Montego Bay for clear water, full facilities, and easy airport access. Ocho Rios for coves near major attractions and falls. Portland for green shores, shade, and community stalls. Kingston and St. Catherine for fresh fish and lively scenes. South Coast for quiet coves and day trips to Pelican Bar or YS Falls. Go in the morning for calmer seas, then pair the beach with a food stop, river float, falls visit, or garden walk.

Whether you want a quiet cove or a lively strip, Jamaica’s coast has options for every plan. Pick your base first, then match two or three nearby beaches for easy days.