Choosing a Jamaican Resort Area

OK, here's the toughest part of your Jamaica honeymoon: making your mind up about which area of Jamaica to choose.

Where should you go? The decision will depend on several factors:

how much time do you want at the beach? If fun in the sun is your number one priority, stick to MoBay, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, or Negril. Save the Blue Mountains near Kingston for another time.

how long can you stay? If this is a quick getaway of just three or four nights, select a destination close to the airport. Most travelers fly into Montego Bay.

how much seclusion do the two of you want? If it's peace and quiet you're after, move past the main tourist spots such as MoBay, Ocho Rios, and even Negril in favor of quieter getaways such as Port Antonio, the Blue Mountains, and the South Coast.

what type of accommodations do you want? Are you looking for an all-inclusive, a small inn, or something in-between? Most all-inclusives are found in MoBay, Ocho Rios, and Negril. Small inns are found in all communities.

Here's a quick rundown of the major Jamaica destinations (you'll find more in-depth information, from hotels to attractions, on each destination by following the links):

Montego Bay

This north coast city is the capital of the tourism industry. Montego Bay or just MoBay is home to the largest selection of resort properties as well as many excellent golf courses, historic attractions, and top notch restaurants. If you've got a short honeymoon, this is your best pick because you'll keep drive time to a minimum (the international airport is located here.)

Ocho Rios

East of Montego Bay lies this resort community that's a getaway not only for foreign visitors but also for Jamaicans. Considered the garden center of Jamaica, this verdant community includes shady gardens, incredible waterfalls, and plenty of fun.

Runaway Bay

This small resort area, located between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, is a favorite with sports enthusiasts who find good golf and scuba diving.

Port Antonio

The most beautiful, untouched area of Jamaica, Port Antonio has been a hideaway for the rich and famous since Errol Flynn first lived here.

Negril

Once a hippie hangout, Negril has long been an uninhibited resort community. Today it has gained respectability and offers all kinds of accommodations, from hedonistic, toss your cares (and your clothes) kinds of resorts to elegant all-inclusives. This westernmost area is the sunset capital of Jamaica.

South Coast

Perfect for couples looking to get away from the crowds, this region is just now seeing some tourist activity. Stretching from Negril to Kingston, here travelers find quiet, unique inns and some excellent eco-tourism attractions.

Kingston

Rarely visited by honeymooners, the capital city is a mega-metropolis: a place that's definitely on the edge. Avoided by many travelers because of its high crime rate, Kingston is the heart of the island's cultural community, however, and a favorite for those interested in art, theater, and dance. It's also the gateway to the Blue Mountains, a peaceful retreat where the two of you will find cool mornings and snuggly evenings.