So you’re planning a trip to Jamaica and have narrowed it down to a resort in Montego Bay and one in Ocho Rios. Which do you choose? The answer is, what is the main goal of your trip? Let’s start by laying out the pros and cons of each location.
Montego Bay:
Pros:
Close to the Montego Bay airport (MBJ) which is the most popular
Great for families
Great if you plan to stay on the resort your whole stay. Meaning, you don’t plan to explore the island itself much.
Safe because it’s filled with tourist
There are many neighboring resorts to visit while in Montego Bay
Many water sports are available such as kayaks, paddle boats, snorkeling, and jet skies.
Cons:
It’s very touristy. So you won’t get a very “authentic Jamaican experience”
The beaches aren’t as pretty due to the heavy tourism. Expect the beaches to be crowded.
Do to the crowds, don’t expect to see many exotic sea creatures if you plan to snorkel.
It’s more expensive because places will expect tourists to visit and therefore inflate prices for souvenirs and food.
There tend to be less Black people and Jamaicans at these resorts. Montego Bay is a popular tourist location for Europeans who are first time visitors to the Caribbean.
Ocho Rios:
Pros:
Great for young adults looking to party ( girls trip, bachelorette, dirty 30’s, couples trip).
More Jamaican’s and Black people tend to be on this side of the island
The popular Dunn’s River falls is located in Ocho Rios
Not as touristy as Montego Bay but still safe
Better chance of finding the “local food” and “local party spots
Less Tourist Traps
Better Beaches
More adult activities
Cons:
Further from the MBJ airport (new airport for Ocho Rios, Ian Fleming International Airport)
Not as family friendly due to more age restricted resorts being in the area.
More cruise ship traffic due to a popular docking site being in the area.
Conclusion:
Both areas of the island are beautiful and are well suited for a relaxing vacation. Montego Bay is better for families with children and for those who don’t plan to explore the island much. Ocho Rios is better for young adults, adventure seekers, and people who don’t have children. Now for couples, I would recommend Negril! But that’s a different article. If you would like to purchase travel insurance for your trip, click here for our recommendation.
