Jamaica Travel Tips

Swaying palm trees. Jerk chicken sizzling on the grill. Bob Marley on the breeze. Jamaica isn’t just a holiday, it’s a vibe. But before you book that ticket and dig out your sunhat, it’s worth arming yourself with a few essential Jamaica travel tips.

This sunny Caribbean gem offers more than just beaches, although the beaches are top-tier. From cascading waterfalls to reggae-filled museums, and rum bars to rainforest zip-lining, Jamaica is as rich in culture as it is in sunshine. And whether you're travelling solo, honeymooning, or herding a gaggle of kids, getting the low-down on how to travel to Jamaica like a seasoned suntanner can make all the difference.

So sit back, grab a cuppa, and read on. We’ve got insider advice, quirky facts, and practical tips to help you make the most of your Jamaican adventure.

Things to Do in Jamaica

There's something magnetic about Jamaica. Maybe it’s the rhythm of the island, the warmth of the people, or just the sheer number of things to see and do. Whatever your style, there’s no shortage of memories waiting to be made.

Soak up the Sun on Jamaica’s Beautiful Beaches

It would be practically criminal to talk about Jamaica travel advice without mentioning the beaches. And not just any beaches, some of the best in the Caribbean.

Seven Mile Beach, Negril – Picture a postcard-perfect beach and you’re probably thinking of Negril’s iconic stretch. Powder-white sands, crystal-clear water, and beach bars galore. It’s buzzy but laid-back. Grab a rum punch and soak it all in.

Doctor’s Cave Beach, Montego Bay – This historic beach club is famous for its calm, turquoise waters and was once believed to have therapeutic properties. Today it’s a brilliant spot for families or those after a more genteel seaside experience.

Fort Clarence Beach, Portmore – Less touristy, more local. Bring your own picnic or sample freshly fried fish and festivals, a type of sweet fried dough from beachside vendors. Ideal for a day trip off the beaten track.

Prefer quieter coves to busy resorts? No problem. Try Treasure Beach on the south coast for a more laid-back, arty vibe.

Discover the Beauty of Jamaica’s Outdoors

If you can bear to leave your beach towel, Jamaica's interior offers thrills, chills and plenty of natural wonder.

Dunn’s River Falls – Possibly the most famous waterfall in the Caribbean. Join hands (literally) with fellow climbers and hike up this terraced cascade. Bring water shoes and a sense of humour, it gets splashy.

YS Falls – More chilled than Dunn’s River, this multi-level waterfall is tucked into the countryside. Zip-lining and rope swinging are optional but highly recommended.

Green Grotto Caves – Fancy going underground? These ancient limestone caves are filled with stalactites, stalagmites and a deep pool of mystery. Once used by smugglers, they’re now open to curious visitors and guided tours.

Blue Mountains – Jamaica’s highest range and home to the world-famous coffee of the same name. Hike at sunrise for views, and a brew, you won’t forget.

Immerse Yourself in Jamaica’s History

Yes, the beaches are great, but Jamaica's cultural history is just as enriching.

The Bob Marley Museum, Kingston – Housed in the reggae legend’s former home, this is a pilgrimage site for fans and a fascinating insight into Jamaican music, politics and spirit.

Trench Town Culture Yard – Known as the birthplace of reggae. This museum offers an authentic look at where Marley lived, played and formed The Wailers.

National Gallery of Jamaica – Jamaica’s largest public art gallery showcases works from pre-Columbian artefacts to contemporary Caribbean art. Located in downtown Kingston, it's a must for culture lovers.

Money and Spending in Jamaica

Here comes the practical bit; don't worry, we’ll keep it snappy.

The currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican dollar (J$). You’ll often see prices marked as simply “$”, but don’t confuse it with the US dollar. That said, US dollars are also widely accepted, especially in touristy areas. You can read our full Jamaican currency guide here.

Should I Use Cash or a Card in Jamaica?

A top Jamaica travel tip? Don’t rely solely on plastic.

Cards are accepted at hotels, resorts, and major businesses.

Cash is a must in rural areas, at local markets, and for taxis or tips.

Jamaican dollars are generally the better value. Some vendors will take US dollars but may not give change or may use their own exchange rates.

For convenience, get your Jamaican dollars before you go. Travelex offers online ordering, home delivery, or airport collection, and you’ll avoid pesky fees abroad.

Do You Tip in Jamaica?

Yes, tipping is appreciated, especially in service settings:

Restaurants: 10–15% is standard unless a service charge is included.

Hotels: Tip porters around $1 per bag and leave something for housekeeping.

Taxis and tours: Not mandatory but always welcome if the service is good.

Travelling Around Jamaica

Getting around Jamaica can be a breeze or a bit of a puzzle, depending on how you roll.

By Train

Sadly, Jamaica’s passenger train service has been discontinued. While there are tracks, they’re mostly used for transporting bauxite (Jamaica's prized mineral). Still, watch this space as there’s talk of revivals in the future.

By Bus

Local buses and minibuses are cheap and frequent, but often very full and mildly chaotic. If you’re confident, it’s a brilliant way to see real Jamaican life.

For comfort, opt for Knutsford Express, a reliable coach service that links major towns and cities with air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Much more comfortable.

By Car

Hiring a car gives you the most freedom, but rural roads can be challenging. Jamaican drivers have a reputation for being bold, so defensive driving is your friend.

If you’re not keen to self-navigate, local taxis or private drivers are popular (and surprisingly affordable). Always agree on the fare before you set off.

Things to Know Before Travelling to Jamaica

Before you pack your bags, here are a few need-to-knows to ensure your holiday is smooth sailing.

Weather

Jamaica is warm all year round (hello, paradise), but it does have wet and dry seasons.

Dry season: December to April – peak time for tourists, ideal for beach days.

Wet season: May to November – expect showers, but it’s greener and quieter.

The best time to travel to Jamaica depends on your preference: crowds and sunshine or solitude and savings?

Language

English is the official language, but Jamaican Patois (a creole language) is widely spoken. It’s colourful, expressive, and utterly charming once you get the hang of it.

A few phrases to try:

Wah gwaan? – What’s going on?

Mi deh yah. – I’m good.

Respect. – A general term of gratitude or acknowledgement.

Accommodation

Jamaica has it all—from luxury resorts to quirky Airbnbs and rustic eco-lodges. The big-name resorts are often all-inclusive, which works well for stress-free sunseekers.

Prefer something local? Try a boutique guesthouse in Treasure Beach or Port Antonio for something more intimate and authentically Jamaican.

Final Thoughts

With its easy charm, vibrant culture and knockout scenery, travel to Jamaica is a dream worth making real. But like any destination, the key to enjoying it is planning smart. Whether you’re waterfall-hopping, beach-lounging or following in Bob Marley’s footsteps, these Jamaica travel tips will help you dive in confidently.

Order your Jamaican dollars with Travelex

You’ve read the guides, had the daydreams, planned the holiday and now you’re ready to buy some Jamaican dollars.

Buy Jamaican dollars online and get free home delivery on orders over £500 or choose to click & collect from any of the convenient locations around the UK, including most major airports. Get great rates and pay no commission when you buy online now.