Best things to do in Montego Bay

Explore the mansion house of Rose Hall Great House, built in Jamiacan Georgian style and famous for its mistress who reportedly possessed powers of black magic. Originally the site of a plantation, the house is now a museum filled with artifacts showcasing its part in the history of slavery. Consider taking the night tour to experience the spookier side of its past. Murders, secret passageways, and witchcraft abound. Who knows, you may even see the ghost of Annie Palmer, who allegedly walks the silk-printed corridors.

Experience soft white sands and calm sheltered waters of Doctor's Cave Beach, named so after it was donated to the community by Dr. Alexander James McCatty. The site became even more popular after a respected early 20th-century osteopath commented on the waters supposed rejuvenating qualities. You're able to rent umbrellas and chairs here, however, the trees that line the beach provide some natural shade. Take to the clear water with your snorkeling gear or relax on the sand with cocktail in hand.

Experience the best Montego Bay has to offer on a nature and wildlife tour, an ideal way to discover tropical gardens, gushing rivers, cascading falls, phosphorescent lagoons, and mangrove swamps inhabited by anacondas, crocodiles, and other wild critters. Exploring with a professional guide, you'll safely hike, snorkel, and search for Jamaica's national bird, a tiny emerald-green, red-beaked humming bird locally known as Doctor Bird. You can complete this wildlife adventure with a glimpse of Jamaican history and culture by touring the mysterious Rose Hall Great House or dining at Appleton Estate. This activity can last from a couple of hours to a full day.

Enjoy a round of golf in picturesque settings at Cinnamon Hill Golf Course. The course is varied and challenging, whether you’re attempting to pull off the perfect putt shoreside with a cool ocean breeze, or trying to avoid the thick vegetation with your drive 106m (350ft) above sea level. The course is well maintained and the caddies are recognized as some of the best around. Be sure not to miss out on the sights in the area, such as the old 17th century aqueducts around the course, and the home of the late Johnny Cash.

Take a rafting trip on Martha Brae River, in Jamaica's Trelawny Parish. Head to the village of Martha Brae, named after the river, and you'll find numerous professional guides ready to depart at almost any time during the day. Board the bamboo raft with the licensed captain and enjoy the hour-long ride on the 4.8 km (3 mi) stretch of the river. Along the way, you can enjoy the picturesque scenery, passing through dense jungle filled with ackee and breadfruit trees.

For a different kind of water experience, visit Dunn's River Falls and Park, where you can climb naturally terraced waterfalls cascading down limestone tiers. One of Jamaica's major natural wonders, the falls drain into the Caribbean Sea and serve as the lush park's main feature. You can climb on your own or with the help of guides; though exhilarating, the ascent is suitable for a range of fitness levels. Don't forget your swimwear and a pair of rubber nonslip shoes, and take plenty of breaks during your climb to capture a few memorable images. If you prefer to stay dry, climb the stairs built right alongside the waterfall.

Experience the privacy of expanses of coral sand and turquoise water at Seven Mile Beach. Although not quite as long as its name implies, the crescent-shaped beach stretches for 10.1 km (6.3 mi)--offering plenty of space to sunbathe or go for a dip without being bothered by other beachgoers. Try your hand at parasailing, or snorkel out into the sea to catch a glimpse of some local marine life. You can walk from one end of the beach to the other if you wish; the whole coast is public land.

A turquoise swimming hole in the hills of Ocho Rios, Blue Hole remains a secluded and relatively untouristed hidden gem. Splash and swim to your heart's delight in this refreshing natural pool at the base of a pristine waterfall. The area has few amenities, so bring your own essentials and wear shoes appropriate for uneven terrain. First-time visitors should bring a guide to negotiate the slippery terrain and point out safe (and unsafe) diving spots. While Jamaica's larger tour companies rarely take visitors to this unofficial attraction, many of the smaller local operators offer guided walks that include stops at the waterfall.

Rainforest Adventures takes you on a thrilling 1 km (0.6 mi) ride in high-tech sleds through the heart of a dense rainforest. Take the chairlift and glide above the treetops to get to the mountain peak. Explore the tropical seaside, rich coastal features, and sparkling river streams. At the top, sit in the restaurant or in the hummingbird garden, where you can quietly enjoy the sight of fluttering birds. Visit the museum of bobsledding, or simply take in the views of the cove down below and watch the cruise ships moor. As an alternative to bobsledding, you can descend the mountain by zipline, gliding from one platform to another.

With something for everyone, you can drink, dine, party, and shop at Hip Strip. Relax under an umbrella at the beach, or take a dip in the turquoise sea. Browse through the shops along the strip or enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant. After dark, the area transforms into a nightlife hub. Explore the many clubs and dance until the early hours of the morning. Some visitors have reported being offered illicit drugs, though the area is generally considered safe both day and night.