10 Best Beaches in Jamaica for Sun and Fun

Head to Negril for one of the most well-known stretches of shoreline on the island, Seven Mile Beach. A range of all-inclusive resorts surround the beach and pirates were once known to trawl Seven Mile Beach, which is now mostly populated by sun-seekers and the occasional vendor. Blue waters, calm surf and soft sand make Seven Mile Beach a popular destination for island visitors.

This Port Antonio destination promises level waters and manicured white-sand shores. Tropical foliage runs right up to the shore, shielding the beach and making for a picture-perfect Caribbean postcard view. Blue lagoons draw boat tours and nearby Somerset Falls lures hikers into the brush. Many visitors cite Frenchman’s Cove as a preferred beach destination, though be aware that an entry fee is required for visitors.

Many say that Negril boasts some of the most attractive beaches on the planet. This resort town has no shortage of amenities and attractions, from cooling off at nearby Dunn’s River Falls to absorbing the local history at Negril Lighthouse. A trip to Jamaica isn’t complete without a beachy cocktail and a tan alongside Negril Beach.

Part of Ocho Rios, Dunn’s River Falls Beach is not far from the falls itself—a popular day trip destination. Nothing beats the connection to nature at this unmissable Jamaican landmark. You’ll notice local tour guides abound as many cruise goers hire a guide to visit the Falls during their stop. Along the beach, vendors peddle drinks and food to keep visitors satiated on their trek to and from the falls.

What was once an old fishing village on the island’s southeast coast is now a hot destination for beachside cottages and villas. This upscale destination promises all measures of hipness, including dancehall DJs and high-end NYC-based design. There are plenty of budget-friendly options nearby, too, like 77 West, which still offers easy access to rugged, bright blue ocean waters.

Set in Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach boasts the Doctor’s Cave Bathing Club to outfit beachgoers. Across the street, the Deja Resort is popular with visitors who want to make the brief trek to the water for snorkeling. A marginal admission fee is worth the lush views, and you’re bound to encounter friendly fellow tourists whiling away a sunny afternoon. The Captain Polly Glass Bottom Boat embarks from these shores and offers a worthy daytrip.

Explore Jamaica’s northern shoreline with a visit to Bamboo Beach—a popular destination for the eponymous Bamboo Beach Club, which offers VIP tours for travelers. Nearby, the St. Mary Country Club draws guests for afternoon cocktails with compelling views. You’ll spot Sapphire Island off the coast and down the road you can get your pulse racing at Yaaman Adventure Park. Whether you’re settled in the sand or just enjoying the sights, Bamboo Beach keeps travelers entertained at every turn.

Ocho Rios Bay Beach is a scenic, extensive beach for day-trippers and resort-goers alike. A nominal entry fee buys an afternoon by the water, where sailboats glide in and out of the harbor alongside a piled stone jetty. Not far off, you’ll see favorite sightseeing spots like James Bond Beach and Dunn’s River Falls Park. Book a tour with Marvyn’s Paradise Tours for a thrilling, more immersive island experience like river tubing or a Bob Marley tour.

Cornwall Beach offers soaring views of far-off mountains right from your own beach hut. While nabbing a prime spot on the sand requires a bit of early-rising, waters are aquamarine. Not far off you’ll find the Aqua Sol Theme Park for thrill-seekers. For lodging, the Royal Decameron Cornwall Beach is just a stone’s throw away. Proximity to Sangster International Airport keeps a calming stream of planes soaring overhead.

Expect shallow blue waters and world-class snorkeling when you visit Hellshire Beach in Portmore, Jamaica. Though the shoreline is limited, the marine life is plentiful—giving restaurants and vendors, serving fresh fish, some of the best local cuisine travelers will find. The atmosphere here is casual and perfect for simply lounging in the shade of palm trees while watching boats drift by.