The Best Places to stay in Jamaica

If you are looking to stay outside of the all-inclusive resorts, there are all kinds of unique accommodation options in Jamaica. From rainforest bungalows to eco-resorts perched on cliffs, and locally run cottages, here are the best places to stay in Jamaica.

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Many people end up planning an all-inclusive resort holiday in Jamaica because it’s easy and seems like the safe option. There’s no doubt, some of the resorts do look beautiful. But they also look like they could be the same hotels with the same lobby as you would find in any country. We like to eco travel and stay in eco accommodation. There are some amazing ways to do this in Jamaica.

This post reviews some of our favorite rentals and the best hotels in Jamaica, which created a truly unique experience. As with most Caribbean islands, there are hurricane risks so it is important to also take into consideration the best time to visit Jamaica while you plan your vacation.

Note: This article has been updated in 2024 to reflect the best accommodation and activities in Jamaica.

The Best Areas To Stay In Jamaica

Whether you are looking to stay in a luxury eco resort perched along the cliffs or a treehouse in the jungle, we’ve found the best places to stay in Jamaica. The list is broken up into the different areas of Jamaica to stay in, with a short description of each:

• Negril
• Treasure Beach
• Montego Bay
• Kingston
• Ocho Rios
• Portland Parish
• Blue Mountains

Best Places to Stay in Negril Jamaica

Negril is home to one of the most popular beaches in Jamaica, Seven Mile Beach. Here you will find beautiful beachside resorts, bars, water activity sports, scuba diving sites, and a party scene. However, tucked around the corner is West End, Negril Cliffs, with some hideaway hotels with private caves and swimming holes. We found that this was one of the best places to stay in Jamaica.

1. The Rockhouse, Negril Cliffs

If you are looking for the BEST place to stay in Jamaica, check out The Rockhouse. It is one of those places that just feels cool. It might be the fact that The Rolling Stones and Bob Marley have both stayed there. Or it could be that you have your own amazing bungalow on the edge of a cliff with a view of crystal clear waters below.

But for what we paid it was definitely worth it. The amenities were amazing, the buildings themselves were amazing, the water below us was amazing, the food was amazing…you get the idea. This is definitely one of the best places to stay in Jamaica for couples.

We spent two nights in a state of awe. It was such a great place to wake up. Walking down your private steps and diving into the sea of a rocky cliff is something you rarely get the chance to do.

The peppercorn soup was something that we ate each night and for good reason, it’s delicious. There are small caves and swim-through arches around the base of the property’s cliffs that are well worth exploring. I have to say for those couple of days we tried not to leave, as the property was so beautiful.

The Rockhouse Negril makes contributions to the local educational system and encourages guests to do site visits to schools and programs that they are involved with. The Rock House team put together a “meet and greet” on Thursday afternoons. They provide cocktails and explain their educational programs, showcase their dance therapy classes, and just generally have a good old chat with the guests.

Patoo Castle, Negril Cliffs

Have you ever wanted to stay in a castle? Perched on Negril Cliffs is this 8 bedroom Jamaican castle. With an infinity pool overlooking the ocean below, and lots of rooftop hangout areas, Patoo Castle is one of the best places to stay in Jamaica for a group of friends or, you can even rent it out for a wedding!

Country Country, Seven Mile Beach

If you want to stay at a cute little place on Negril’s seven mile beach, which isn’t a big resort chain, Country Country is a great pick. The rooms are colorful cottages, they are family friendly, each with its own private porch. There is an outdoor pool on the property and a nice beachfront seating area.

Treasure Beach Accommodation

If you are looking for one of the more off-track places in Jamaica, then head to Treasure beach. Featuring laid back vibes, beautiful swimming coves and black sand beaches, it is a great place to relax and detach away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular beach towns. Treasure beach is also home to the famous Floyd’s Pelicans bar, a unique and rustic bar build in the middle of The Caribbean Sea. 

Jakes Hotel

This bohemian, quirky, cliff-side boutique hotel is family-run and supports local. With luxurious villas featuring bright colors, free wifi and unique architecture, this is one instagrammable hotel, and one of the best places to stay in Jamaica. But it’s not only beautiful aesthetics that attract people to stay, Jakes hotel supports sustainable farming practices, source organic, locally grown, seasonal farm-to-table foods. They also have solar-heated water, onsite sewage treatment to reduce waste, and work closely with Breds (a foundation that funds community projects in Treasure Beach).

Sea Urchin

This gorgeous villa on Treasure beach is perfect for a secluded getaway. With an open concept living plan, and elegant details, this beachside home is perfect for a family, or a couples escape. 

The rooftop level has its own private plunge pool overlooking the ocean, and offers stunning sunset views. The Sea Urchin Villa is located within walking distance to Jakes and Jack Sprat, and some small shops. 

Best Places to Stay in Montego Bay

Montego Bay is a place with vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches and duty-free shopping. Home to the famous Doctors Cove beach, Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, and the “hip strip”, you will often see lots of tourists starting or ending their Jamaican vacation here.

Freeport Apartment

If you would like to stay in Montego Bay, but away from the hustle of the strip, Freeport one of the best places to stay in Jamaica. This beach front complex is located in Baypointe, which is a gated community with 24/7 security and a beautiful pool. The complex is close to the Hard Rock Cafe, located only a few minutes walk away from the apartment. 

Beachfront Villa in Lagoons

Want luxury, an exquisite beacfront villa, that can sleep up to 12 people? Elsewhere Villa is for you, located in the Lagoons community, only 20 minutes from Montego Bay’s airport. It features a pool, tennis courts, and beach access, and is ideal for special events, family vacations, or a retreat with friends. With five elegant bedrooms and a variety of amenities, Elsewhere Villa is one of the best places to stay in Jamaica and comes complete with a private chef and complimentary boat excursions.

Glory Cottage

Most places in Montego Bay are apartment style units, however if you are looking for somewhere a little roomier, the Glory cottage has room for 4 guests and has all the ammenities you need. With a private pool, great views, and an open living space, this house offers a homely escape.

Round Hill Hotel & Villas

For a splurge, book a night at Round Hill Hotel & Villas. It’s seen the likes of JFK, Ian Fleming and Alfred Hitchcock and is one of the best places to stay in Jamaica. It’s got a suave old school cocktail bar, and a spa set in an 18th-century plantation house.

What’s even more impressive, is their green and eco-friendly initiatives. Round Hill has an on-site organic garden that provides the kitchen with fresh farm-to-table produce. Their rooms make use of natural ventilation and ceiling fans rather than relying upon air conditioning, and the hotel is equipped with their own wastewater treatment plant to collect the waste on their property. They are also committed to rehabilitate and restore the corals and fish at their reef, teaming up with a local scientist at Seascape. They are involved in Coral Gardening and have trained local fisherman to help tend to the coral growth.

Kingston Accommodation

Kingston is Jamaicas capital city, rich in cultural history, live music and food.

It has a reputation for being edgy and even dangerous in some parts. Like many big cities, there are definitely areas that you should avoid as a tourist, however, there are areas that really are special.

Kingston is home to the infamous Trenchtown, where Bob Marley once lived. You can even visit the Bob Marley museum, which was his previous home and recording studio.

There is also a hidden gem in Kingston, Lime Cay, a short boat ride from Port Royal.

Crime definitely still occurs in Kingston, however, it is mostly gang versus gang. “Less than 0.1 percent of all the crimes committed in Jamaica are against visitors.”

>> Click here for more about Safety In Jamaica

Kingston Garden Cabin

This beautiful wooden cabin in Kingston is the perfect place to stay to get away from the hustle of Kingston, but still remain in the city. With a garden hammock, an outdoor shower, and a bohemian vibe, you will be transported into a little oasis perfect for relaxation. 

Ocho Rios Accommodation

Ocho Rios is the gateway for many tourists that arrive in Jamaica via cruise ship. It is situated in Saint Ann Parish, roughly midway along Jaaimcas northern coastline which makes it an easy location to get to a variety of natural attractions like the Blue Hole Jamaica.

The town varies greatly in mood between sleepy and crazy busy (depending on cruise ship arrivals) and has some great, local food options tucked into small alleyways.

Waterfront Apartment

This oceanfront home is in the heart of Ocho Rios. With a bright vibe and a private balcony overlooking the sea, this is the perfect place to escape and relax. The Waterfront Apartment comes with 24 hour security, maid service, and is walking distance to the centre of town.

Real Jamaica Cabins

Located away from Ocho Rios, in the beautiful Oracabessa town, are the Real Jamaica cabins. With your own private cliffs to swim in, and a beautiful yoga deck by the sea, this property has a real Jamaican charm to it. 

Portland Parish Accommodation

Portland is probably the most natural and beautiful of the Jamaica Parishes. It is home to places like The Blue Lagoon and Frenchmen’s Cove which offer some of the Caribbeans most incredible and iconic natural features.

Note that the roads in Portland are pretty rough, so if you are driving around be sure to stay alert for pot holes (they’re everywhere).

Great Huts in Boston Bay

If you are looking for a unique experience, Great Huts is one of the best places to stay in Jamaica. Perched along the edge of Boston Bay’s cliffs, this eco-accommodation offers “rooms” of varying shapes, materials, and sizes. We opted for one of the cheaper options which was essentially a mud hut with brick floors. It sounds rough, but there were two queen-sized beds and a fridge inside (as well as the occasional crab). Mosquito nets over the bed provided enough protection from bites and a metal safe stored our passports and cameras when not in use.

Influenced by sustainable building techniques and African culture, each room is unique. There was one room which was a little tower (2 stories high and only wide enough of a bed and a lamp). Other rooms were bamboo treehouses with bathtubs that overlooked the beautiful Caribbean water below.

The place is worth walking around, even if you don’t have the time to stay. They do a walking tour a couple of times a day.

The Grounds

There is a series of winding pathways that cut through the jungled hill and lead to various seating areas or viewing platforms. Along the way, there are interesting sculptures and pieces of art. There are two pools on the property, both overlooking the sea and perfect for an afternoon swim.

Right outside of the Great Huts property is the bustling local food stalls selling all kinds of barbecued treats. It is the home of Jerk Chicken, and you can get the best chicken on the island there. Around the corner is Boston Bay, which is one of the best beaches in Jamaica, and one to visit.

As well as being one of the best places to stay in Jamaica, Great Huts also provides community support with donations and education to local charities and organizations. We highly recommend this place for anyone looking for something different at one of Jamaica’s most beautiful, local-favorite beaches. Be sure to check out Blue Lagoon Jamaica (only a 15 minute drive).

Hotel Mockingbird Hill

Located on a hill with panoramic views, and minutes away from the beautiful Frenchman’s Cove beach, Hotel Mockingbird hill has been named the best Eco Boutique hotel in Port Antonio. Surrounded by a lush tropical garden, there are 10 laid-back, luxurious rooms.

They offer delicious slow food with a Jamaican twist, and if you are vegetarian or vegan they can cook Ital Rundown, breadfruit flour pancakes and more!

Currently, they have 16 solar panels on the property covering 25% of their energy needs and are planning to install another 16 panels to make the hotel 100% off-grid. They also conserve and use rainwater, and have some great upcycling projects around the property. In addition to this. Hotel Mockingbird Hotel has some great community initiatives, being involved with local schools and providing volunteer opportunities and providing the schools with books and learning materials.

Zion Country

If you are thinking of visiting Reach Falls (which you should absolutely do), Zion Country is one of the best places to stay in Jamaica. It’s a great little eco-hut with water views and the most amazing caretaker.

Located steps from the beach where Manatees often visit, it’s the perfect place to kick back and relax. The chef Owen cooks up delicious local food, and the rooms have the basic necessities for your stay.

Jamaica Hinterland Stays

Jamaica is well known for its beaches. But is also home to amazing has waterfalls, luscious rainforests and cloudy mountain retreats.

The vibe in Jamaican country towns is much different to those in busy, beachside cities. People are very much relaxed and accomodating. If you’re looking for a friendly, slow paced, natural experience, head up into the Jamaican Hinterland.

Mother Nature bungalow

This beautiful round house is tucked away in the hills of Portland Parish. Offering 360 degree views of the mountains and the sea, it is a great place to recharge in nature. There is an outdoor kitchen, a rooftop hammock, and plenty of verandas to relax on. 

Cloud 9

If you want to get in touch with nature, Cloud 9 in the Blue Mountains is the perfect tranquil bungalow. Hidden in the hills, you can go hiking around the cool and luscious Blue Mountains, or gaze at the city far below. With sounds of hummingbirds, and a nearby river, it is a perfect place to get grounded and relax. 

Camp Cabarita

If you want to experience Jamaica away from the crowds, Camp Cabarita is the perfect off-the-beaten-path accommodation for you. Located in the mountains of Westmoreland and Hanover parishes, this eco-lodge is surrounded by luscious and edible gardens. There is a beautiful river and spring water swimming hole on the property. The local guides are very knowledgeable and can take you on hikes to the ginger works cave, nearby waterfalls, and to neighbouring farms.

All staff are local at Camp Cabarita and they support the community surrounding them, sourcing food for their restaurant from local farmers and featuring authentic Jamaican cuisine for each meal. They use rainwater on the premises and they compost their organic waste.

Best Things To Do In Jamaica

We spent a month driving around the island and found some of the best places to stay in Jamaica that were cheap, safe, and uniquely local. It takes a long time to get to different sides of the island. So to avoid spending all day traveling in a car back and forth to different attractions, just stay in places nearby. We found Jamaica safe to travel to and would encourage anyone looking for an adventure to explore and stay in different locations around the island.

Each corner of Jamaica has its own style, food, beautiful beaches, and attractions. These are our top picks for things to do while you are there:

• Spend an afternoon at Frenchman’s Cove
• Explore Blue Lagoon on a local boat
• Cool off at Blue Hole and Reach Falls
• Stay at The Rockhouse Negril for a night (or three!)
• Visit Lime Cay near Kingston
• Explore the Green Grotto Caves

Our Tips for The Best Places To Stay In Jamaica

1. Great Huts, Boston Bay Beach. A must-see for eco-travellers. A dynamic blend of African hut/Jamaican Treehouse perched on a jungle-covered hill overlooking the beautiful bay (and close to Jamaica’s best Jerk Chicken)
2. Rockhouse Hotel, Negril. Absolutely beautiful eco resort if the prices are within your budget.
3. Jakes, Treasure Beach. Bohemian laid back vibes on the beachside, with delicious farm-to-table food.
4. Zion Country, Reach Falls. Great little cabins on the waterfront close to Reach Falls. A real little Jamaican town. Make sure you visit the little shack across the road for a drink with the local rasta “Stictchy”.
5. Country Country, 7 Mile Beach, Negril. It’s in the heart of 7 Mile Beach with a beautiful little bungalow style and not a big resort.

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