Smile ‘mon! You’re in Jamaica; the happiest island in the Caribbean.
The idyllic city of Montego Bay is any beach lover’s dream. A small city with a huge personality, Montego Bay is home to an abundance of spectacular natural beauty, including long stretches of white sandy beaches, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls.
The city of Montego Bay prides itself on being the ULTIMATE honeymoon destination, with an incredible selection of exclusive waterfront resorts perched along the pristine blue water coastline.
As well as this, the Jamaican city attracts an array of travelers from budget backpackers, cruise ship customers to five-star luxury globetrotters. So you can be sure to find a little something for everyone when it comes to choosing the best place to stay in Montego Bay.
Because Montego Bay is so diverse and accessible to all travelers, finding the right place to stay can be a little daunting. This is why I’ve have prepared this guide on where to stay in Montego Bay, so you can find the right accommodation to suit your budget and travel needs.
And if you need a little inspiration for things to do in this gorgeous beachfront city, then carry on scrolling as we give you lots more insider top tips !
So, without further ado! Let’s dive in.
Looking for a specific stay fast? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
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Mobay Kotch | Best Hostel in Montego Bay
The Mobay Kotch Hostel is one of Montego Bay’s only hostels and it definitely makes up for the city’s limited supply. The building was established in the 1760s, and still retains much of its incredible Georgian-style architecture. Along with a homely and social atmosphere, guests are just a stone’s throw away from the best nightlife in the city and the stunning white-sand beaches. You can be sure to get an authentic Jamaican experience at this hostel.
SeaGarden Beach Resort – All Inclusive | Best Hotel in Montego Bay
This beautiful resort is located just a few minutes away from the main hip strip and has an authentic Jamaican atmosphere with a modern and luxurious twist. Home to breathtaking natural scenery, including endless views of the Caribbean Sea and a striking garden full of lush tropical greenery, it is an idyllic place to stay. There is an outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant, 2 tennis courts, and a private beach with beach bar. The property also has its own scuba diving activities, if that’s your vibe. Most rooms come with a sea view.
Welcome to Blu-22 | Best Bed & Breakfast in Montego Bay
This exclusive waterfront condo is located in the sought-after Freeport neighborhood and can be best described as a once-in-a-lifetime gateway experience. The B&B is home to top-class facilities including 24-hour security, a well-equipped gym, and an infinity pool that leads to a sandy beach. Capable of entertaining up to three guests, there is one bedroom with a deluxe king-size bed and a comfortable sofa bed.
Guests also have the best of both worlds as the B&B is strategically located close enough to all the nightlife fun, but also tucked away to allow you to have a good nights’ sleep.
Freeport
Located on the tip of Montego Bay lies the sought-after destination of Freeport. Here you can find the largest number of exclusive hotels and resorts along with an abundance of chic bars which lay underneath the palm trees.
Hip Strip
Hip Strip is widely renowned as being the neighborhood that never sleeps with a lively atmosphere that lasts till the early hours of the morning. The area is jam-packed with activities and hours of fun whether it be taking a dip in its pristine waters, dancing the night away at a wild beach bar, or indulging in traditional Jamaican Cuisine at a local eatery.
Bogue Heights
Set back from the main promenade and waterfront, Bogue Heights offers a laid-back atmosphere, while also just being a few minutes away from some of the city’s best attractions – making it our top pick for families heading to the city.
Despite being one of the best-known tourist locations in Jamaica, Montego Bay is a fairly small city that doesn’t have a lot of neighborhoods, so sometimes it can be hard for visitors to know where to stay.
Of course, the most sought-after areas to stay in Montego Bay are on the waterfront, but there are also a few other hidden gems to be explored, too. With that in mind, here are the best neighborhoods to stay in this coastal city.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay near Port Aransas, you can’t go wrong with Freeport. This is the main hub on the island for waterfront B&B’s, hotels, and resorts, along with it being conveniently located within walking distance to many of the main attractions, bars, and restaurants.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for an area with bustling nightlife, you should consider a stay in Hip Strip. Undoubtedly the most well-known neighborhood in Montego Bay, Hip Strip is internationally known for its incredible beach bars and atmospheric Jamaican Clubs, along with being home to the beautiful Doctor’s Cave Beach.
Finally, we have Bogue Heights, which is a great choice for families looking to stay in Montego Bay. It’s slightly further away from the main beaches, bars, and clubs meaning travelers are provided with a more relaxed atmosphere. However, it is only a short drive from the action, so if you’re feeling up for it you can get to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Travelers should be advised that some areas in Jamaica, including Montego Bay, have notorious neighborhoods and should be avoided. We highly advise you to read our guide on safety in Jamaica to know what and where to avoid.
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Montego Bay’s Top 3 Neighborhoods to Stay in
Now that we have briefly introduced you to the top three neighborhoods in Montego Bay, we’ll now show you are top recommendations for places to stay in Montego Bay.
1. Freeport – Where to Stay in Montego Bay for First Time Visitors
Located on the tip of Montego Bay lies the sought-after destination of Freeport. Here you can find the largest number of exclusive hotels and resorts along with an abundance of chic bars, which lay underneath the idyllic swaying palm trees.
Freeport is the ultimate destination to stay in Montego Bay for your first time, due to its central location and connections to the city’s incredible beaches and top attractions, along with having a great selection of accommodation options.
Below we have listed our three top picks for places to stay in Freeport, all of which cater to different traveler’s needs and budgets!
Great Studio in Freeport | Best Budget Accommodation in Freeport
This cozy and deluxe studio apartment is situated in a prime location right next to the waterfront. It’s just steps away from top sights including the Yacht Club and Hard Rock Beach Cafe. Ideal for a couple, guests have a room with a queen-sized bed and small living space and bathroom. It. is nestled in a gated community which adds a little more security. There is no kitchen at this property, but it is just a short walk to many delicious restaurants.
Breathless Montego Bay | Best Hotel in Freeport
This beautifully decorated 150-suite tropical oasis is the ultimate romantic getaway! The hotel is home to a stunning rooftop pool and bar, which provides unobstructed views of the nearby mountains and bay. Breathless Montego Bay provides the perfect opportunity to relax, here you can fill your days with pool parties, watersports, live music, and beach lounging. Each of the rooms comes with air-conditioning, a desk, a safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom.
Welcome to Blu-22 | Best Bed & Breakfast in Freeport
This exclusive waterfront condo can be best described as a once in a
This exclusive waterfront condo is located in the sought-after Freeport neighborhood and can be best described as a once-in-a-lifetime gateway experience. The B&B is home to top-class facilities including 24-hour security, a well-equipped gym, and an infinity pool that leads to a sandy beach. Capable of entertaining up to three guests, there is one bedroom with a deluxe king-size bed and a comfortable sofa bed.
Guests also have the best of both worlds as the B&B is strategically located close enough to all the nightlife fun, but also tucked away to allow you to have a good nights’ sleep.
Things to See and Do in Freeport:
- Go on a boat trip from Montego Cruise Port
- Go snorkelling off the coastline
- Have a cocktail at 5050 Lounge Montego Bay
- Enjoy sea activities with Jamaica Watersports
- Explore history at Gallery of West Indian Art & AMuse
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Hip Strip – Where to Stay in Montego Bay for Nightlife
Hip Strip is widely renowned as being the neighborhood that never sleeps with a lively atmosphere that lasts till the early hours of the morning. The area is jam-packed with activities and hours of fun, whether it be taking a dip in its pristine waters, dancing the night away at a wild beach bar, or indulging in traditional Jamaican Cuisine at a local eatery.
The neighborhood has the greatest selections of clubs and bars making it our top pick for travelers who want to explore the area’s best nightlife and let their hair down, partying ’til the sun rises.
Orchids Oceanview Penthouse | Best Bed & Breakfast in Hip Strip
This beautiful waterfront condo overlooks the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach, which you can see spectacularly well from the condo’s incredible balcony. Located in a gated community, the studio can house three guests in its two-bed space, as well as have easy access to a rooftop pool and nearby convenience store. The studio is also conveniently located near some of the best selection of nightlife, including beach bars and bustling clubs along with traditional cocktail bars.
Mobay Kotch | Best Hostel in Hip Strip
Mobay Kotch offers guests an authentic and unique experience as they mingle with the friendly owners who live on the property and want travelers to experience and see Jamaica that they know and love. The hostel is a converted 1760’s townhouse and showcases the very rich culture and history of Montego Bay through its Georgian-style architecture. As one of the few hostels in the area, this is the perfect place for solo travelers to meet new friends and enjoy a comfortable stay at a low price.
SeaGarden Beach Resort – All Inclusive | Best Hotel in Hip Strip
This beautiful resort is located just a few minutes away from the main hip strip and has an authentic Jamaican atmosphere with a modern and luxurious twist. Home to breathtaking natural scenery, including endless views of the Caribbean Sea and a striking garden full of lush tropical greenery, it is an idyllic place to stay. There is an outdoor swimming pool, on-site restaurant, 2 tennis courts, and a private beach with beach bar. The property also has its own scuba diving activities, if that’s your vibe. Most rooms come with a sea view.
Things to See and Do in Hip Strip:
- Whizz down the slides at Aqua Sol Theme Park
- Experience the natural beauty at One Man Beach/Old Hospital Park Beach
- Relax at the famous Doctor’s Cave Beach
- Visit Harbour Street Craft and Cultural Village
- Take a trip to learn history at Saint James Parish Church
- Get tickets for one of the best festivals in Jamaica, Reggae Sumfest!
3. Bogue Heights – Where to Stay in Montego Bay for Families
Planning a holiday for yourself is stressful enough, let alone when you’ve got to plan for the whole family! Picking where to stay can always be a struggle with so many factors to take into account from safety, activities to do, and finding accommodation options within your budget.
We have taken a look at the best neighborhood for families in Montego Bay and found three awesome accommodations in the beautiful neighborhood of Bogue Heights.
Set back from the main promenade and waterfront, Bogue Heights offers a laid-back atmosphere, while also just being a few minutes away from some of the city’s best attractions – making it our top pick for families heading to the city.
The Bogue Delight | Best Bed & Breakfast in Bogue Heights
This luxurious two-bedroom and one-bathroom home has enough sleeping arrangements for four guests, making it perfect for families or small groups of friends looking for the ultimate Jamaican experience. The home is also only located a five-minute drive from the world-famous Hip-Strip along with the incredible Doctors Cave Beach. The spacious home provides guests with all your entertainment needs, including a Smart TV hooked up to Netflix for the little ones, and an outdoor BBQ area overlooking the beach and night sky for mum and dad.
Easy Vibes Bogue | Best Budget Accommodation in Bogue Heights
This brightly decorated Airbnb in Jamaica gives guests a true feeling of being in Jamaica with traditional island decor, which resembles local “Irie culture”. This two-bedroom home can sleep up to four guests and has all the amenities you would need for a comfortable stay. It’s also in a great location at a steal of a price, being just a few kilometers away from the city center and its nearby beaches.
Hils Court Villa | Best Luxury Accommodation in Bogue Heights
This gorgeous villa is located in the heart of Bogue Heights and features an outdoor pool and spectacular sea views. The property offers enough space for up to eight guests, with its four bedrooms and a large living space, which includes a spacious outdoor patio. There is also overnight security and a tennis court at the property. The villa is located in a popular golfing area and there are 3 golf courses nearby – if that’s your jam.
Things to See and Do in Bogue Heights:
- Indulge on tasty food at Mosino
- Visit Rocklands Bird Sanctuary
- Explore Ahhh…Ras Natango Gallery and Garden
- Learn history at John’s Hall Close
- Hear some tunes at African Symbol Studio & Record Shop
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It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For Montego Bay
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Montego Bay
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
So that’s Montego Bay! A city set amongst Jamaica’s spectacular natural beauty with an electric yet chilled-out atmosphere. As one of the best destinations in the whole of the Caribbean, no matter where you stay in Montego Bay, you’ll be sure to have an epic vacation!
If you’re still not sure where to stay in Montego Bay, here is a quick recap. For beautiful resorts and a prime waterfront location, you should head to Freeport. If nightlife is what you’re after then look no further than Hip Strip. Finally, if you’re looking for a place to take the kids, then the relaxed neighborhood of Bogue Heights is your ideal option.
Did you find what you are looking for? Let us know in the comments below!
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Jamaica instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Jamaica to plan your trip.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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