Top 12 Stunning Beaches in Jamaica: Explore Montego Bay to Port Antonio

Fact checked by Sarah Cahalan

In Jamaica, you can soak up much more than just the sun. The destination is renowned for its rich musical history, from reggae icons like Bob Marley to pop star OMI, and driven professionals like Chris Blackwell, who runs the chic Island Outpost collection of properties.

Food is a star attraction here as well, with Jamaica’s fertile land and a melting pot of cultures — African, Indian, Chinese, Spanish, and British — informing exquisite culinary traditions. Local specialties like goat curry, ackee and saltfish, fried plantains, and the famous jerk chicken, paired with a sip or two of local rum, should not be missed.

However, it is undeniably the island’s beaches that are the biggest crowd-pleasers, coaxing visitors back time and time again. Touching down in Montego Bay leads you to one of Jamaica’s most sophisticated beach resorts — Round Hill, a celebrity hotspot.

If you head west to Negril, you’ll uncover the world-renowned Seven Mile Beach. This golden expanse of soft, powdery sand attracts both locals and tourists alike.

On the northern coast lies Ocho Rios, home to amazing beaches and elegant resorts like the historic Jamaica Inn.

Driving further east will bring you to the stylish, laid-back community of Port Antonio. Once a hotspot for celebrities during the 1950s, such as Errol Flynn and Elizabeth Taylor, today it still boasts charming hotels, including Kanopi House and Geejam.

Regardless of the type of beach experience you seek — whether that be adventurous excursions or pure relaxation — Jamaica has the perfect answer. Here are some of our favorite sandy spots in this iconic Caribbean destination.

Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay

This beach in Montego Bay may be on the smaller side, yet it boasts a lively atmosphere, attracting both locals and tourists to its white sandy shores. Its calm and warm turquoise waters make it a wonderful spot for families. Rentals for snorkel gear, beach chairs, and umbrellas are available, though there is a nominal fee for beach access.

Seven Mile Beach, Negril

Negril’s Seven Mile Beach is arguably the town’s primary attraction, lined with bars, restaurants, and resorts. Although the beach’s length is slightly less than seven miles, it remains Jamaica’s longest beach. Visitors may freely access the beach and can rent kayaks or sailboats to explore the water. Local vendors serve up delicious delicacies, and picnic tables are conveniently placed for enjoying a casual meal. You can also stop by a beach bar, such as Mama Flo’s, for a refreshing rum punch.

Frenchman’s Cove, Port Antonio

This stunning white sand beach, with a picturesque stream flowing into the sea, was previously a hotspot for celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Errol Flynn. The beach has appeared in various films, including the comedy classic “Club Paradise” starring Robin Williams. Currently, both the beach and resort attract travelers seeking a serene side of Jamaica.

Jamaica Inn Beach, Ocho Rios

At the Jamaica Inn, guests can enjoy exclusive access to one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking beaches. Surrounded by swaying palms and featuring a historic main house, this long, golden stretch of sand offers a limited number of chaise loungers reserved for guests. The relaxed yet elegant vibe makes it a perfect spot for honeymooners, complemented by massages at their open-air Ocean Spa overlooking the sea.

Low Cay Beach, Oracabessa Bay

GoldenEye, once the retreat of James Bond creator Ian Fleming, now features luxurious accommodations managed by Jamaican music mogul Chris Blackwell. The resort includes spacious villas and stylish beach huts, with several lodgings offering stunning sea views that face Low Cay Beach. This secluded property features a sheltered 500-foot cove for swimming and stand-up paddleboarding within a 4-acre lagoon.

Boston Bay Beach, Port Antonio

While you might want to head to Boston Bay for the waves, you will definitely stay for the food, as this beach is regarded as the birthplace of jerk cooking. Jump into the surf or try your hand at surfing (boards are available for rent) to build up an appetite. Afterward, enjoy the rich flavors of seasoned pork, chicken, lobster, or sausages at one of the numerous jerk stalls, complemented by rice and peas.

Winnifred Beach, Port Antonio

Winnifred Beach, characterized by its lovely white sand, is popular with both locals and tourists. If snorkeling is your passion, don’t forget to bring your fins and a mask, as an excellent reef is located just offshore, providing ample opportunity for underwater exploration.

Treasure Beach, South Coast

If you’re looking to escape the busier resort towns, Treasure Beach includes a series of stunning sandy stretches and secluded coves. Located on the South Coast, the atmosphere is calm and inviting, featuring rustic-chic accommodations at places like Jakes. Don’t miss out on Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a quirky establishment built on a sandbar in the sea, where you can savor a Red Stripe and catch fish that are prepared and cooked on-site.

Burwood Beach, Trelawny

Burwood Beach, located near Falmouth, features calm aqua waters and a relaxed vibe. Recently revitalized, it includes a new bandstand, gazebos, and a children’s recreation area. Conveniently, it’s a short drive from Montego Bay, making it accessible for cruise ship passengers.

Puerto Seco Beach, Discovery Bay

Families will find Puerto Seco Beach perfect for a day out, as it features a waterpark designed just for children. Additionally, there are shower and changing facilities available, along with numerous vendors offering affordable lunch options. It’s best to visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.

James Bond Beach, Oracabessa Bay

Sitting just east of Ocho Rios, James Bond Beach was featured in the iconic film “Dr. No.” This picturesque beach showcases incredible green-blue waters, offering activities like glass-bottom boat tours, jet skiing, windsurfing, or simply basking under the warm Caribbean sun.

Round Hill Beach, Montego Bay

Round Hill is one of Jamaica’s most luxurious resorts, spanning 110 acres of beautifully manicured landscape. Its whitewashed guest rooms with four-poster beds, designed by fashion icon Ralph Lauren, provide an immersive experience. Just a few yards offshore, a natural tropical reef waits for guests eager to snorkel or kayak. For the adventurous, there’s an excellent opportunity to scuba dive, water ski, or go tubing.