Negril Jamaica

As we continue our journey across the island, we welcome you to Negril Jamaica. Set on the western side of the island, Negril is the stuff dreams are made from. Known for its natural surreal beauty, it is home to only about 4,000 people but is the most visited in Jamaica and possibly the Caribbean. The town’s insta-worthy landscape and addictive atmosphere is always buzzing with life. There’s no shortage of awesome things to do but the sunsets will stop you in your tracks. A mere hour and a half drive away from Montego Bay, picturesque Negril feels like its own world. So whether you’re a beach bum or an adventure seeker, here’s what’s up in the world of Negril.

One of the main attractions of Negril Jamaica is the beaches, specifically the seven-mile stretch of beach. It is ranked among the best and is literally seven miles of swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, scuba diving and other water sports. The majestic view of the water is best enjoyed from Negril’s massive cliffs or between swaying palm trees. There’s also miles of amazing multi-coloured coral reef life that compliments the clear turquoise water so wherever along the stretch you choose to spend the day the iconic seven-mile is a good time.

Although the beaches of Negril Jamaica is concentrated along this stretch and there are many unique nooks to visit. For a secluded sunbath session visit Bloody Bay beach (don’t panic, the name comes from being a Pirate dock back in the day). This beach is great for snorkeling or to enjoy the perfectly cooked catch of the day. Another tucked away spot is Long Bay beach or for a really exclusive experience visit a very small island just off the coast of Negril – Booby Cay. The island is surrounded by a gorgeous coral reef that will have you snorkeling and snapping all day. For the more risque traveler, Hedonism beach is a secluded and sultry clothing optional spot to live your best life. If that’s your thing of course!

You would think seven miles of spectacular views would be enough but the fun in Negril Jamaica does not stop there. The seemingly sleepy town has so many other activities and photo ops moments. When you do leave the beach behind, you can look forward to cliff diving, adventure tours and parks, or bobsledding down the largest water slide in Jamaica to name a few. One of the most memorable moments of your life could be diving from the infamous cliffs of Rick’s Cafe 40 feet down into the Caribbean sea paired with Negril’s signature sunset.

You can kick it up a notch and explore some of Negril’s natural beauty on an ATV quad bike or challenge yourself to a rock climbing adventure to satisfy your adrenaline thirst. For the less adventurous desiring just as heart-stopping an experience, enjoy a casual afternoon meandering effortlessly along Kool Runnings lazy river and partake in a number of their interactive water games. You can also learn about Negril’s rich culture and plant life on a safari tour or saddle up and enjoy horseback rides into the beautiful Caribbean sea. When you’re all adventured out, wind down with a drink or some traditional Jamaican cuisine. But no matter how you spend the day, it will be hard to beat the experience of an open cove or the orange and purple sunset hues that kiss Negril’s pristine waters.

Negril Jamaica is generally known to be laid back but can get jumping at nights. There is something for a variety of tastes so if you’re into live music, jazz sessions, or a full on party Negril’s got you covered. Wherever you go in Negril a warm sea breeze follows so jamming to a live band or dancing the night away to the sounds of local musicians and reggae music is always a casual, relaxed vibe. A game of dominoes, cards, or a popular local board game may also be in the mix. If you’re on the wilder side, get grooving on the dancefloors of Jungle Nightclub till the wee hours of the morning throughout the weekend. Another party experience to remember happens in Negril Jamaica in the July and August months so if you’re travelling during the summer, join thousands of party-goers for the Jamaican version of spring break for a weekend.

Although Negril is not all about beach vibes, it’s definately an ambiance booster when having lunch or dinner. Enjoying a delicious meal on the beach front with reggae music or a jazz band playing creates the perfect island vibe. Of course, seafood is the popular grub in Negril and there are several spots serving up delicious lobster, conch (seasonal), and shrimp on their menus. The best thing is that they are caught daily so you can taste the freshness. When you’re not devouring a scrumptious plate of curry conch, Negril also offers a wide range of traditional Jamaica cuisine and street food options. Negril’s West End is the best spot to feed your appetite with mouthwatering jerk or curry chicken and other local delights. With the view of the sea never far away, restaurants like Pushcart serves some of the best jerk chicken and pork. With regards to shopping, Negril is not as diverse as other parts of the island but you can still get craft items and beaded jewelry for family and friends in the craft market. 

Walking along the beach road or along the beach (during the day) is pretty safe in Negril. If you feel anxious when a vendor tries to sell you something, a firm but polite ‘no thank you’ will send them on their way. Of course at nights, like anywhere else, it is advised to travel in groups and have a reliable cab on call. Although cabs are reliable options, scooters are another way to get around as well. They are a popular mode of transport in Negril if you are able to operate one and several scooter rental services are available. However, always be mindful when riding and never do so after a few drinks and a night out at the Jungle. Negril Jamaica might be a great place to rediscover your groove like Stella (see what I did there lol), but it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings.