Montego Bay Local History

Jamaica' name is derived from Xamayca, meaning land of wood and water, where the Arawaks from South America had settled around 1,000AD. Spain began occupation in 1509, naming the island Santiago after which, British forces seized the island in 1655. The British gained formal possession through the Treaty of Madrid in 1670.

Sugar and slavery were two of the most valuable commodities that Jamaica had for more than 150 years. The maroons, (escaped slaves) established independent communities in the mountainous interior where British were unable to defeat them.

The island of Jamaica was once an important base for pirates, specifically at Port Royal before it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1692. A new capital Spanish Town was chosen in the south, and later moved to nearby Kingston.

Montego Bay Attractions

Top Attractions

Montego Bay Beaches

Doctor's Cave - one of the most popular beaches, although Dr. Mc Catty's cave was destroyed by the hurricane of 1951. As a result of a major beach-saving project the beach is now more than twenty times its original size and still growing. Add to this the excellent facilities, a snack and beach bar and friendly staff, and you're in for a most enjoyable experience.

Cornwall Beach - which is adjacent to Doctor's Cave also boasts lovely white sand and inviting waters. Here one will find many popular open-air restaurants and entertainment, the JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD'S OFFICES and the headquarters of The MONTEGO MARINE PARK, a 6,000 acre (25 sq km) ocean reserve for windsurfers, sailors, divers and snorkellers.

Walter Fletcher Beach - Has changing-rooms, snack bars and tennis court.

Between the famous resort towns of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios are Jamaica's most secluded white sand beaches. Along the coastal road, one will find Silver Sands, Fisherman's Beach, Time N' Place, and Trelawny Beach. Each beach has a unique character and atmosphere.

Montego Bay Restaurants and Bars

Montego Bay Restaurants

Day & Night, MoBay's happening hip strip offers fine food.

Greenhouse Restaurant - located next to Doctor's Cave Beach Hotel on the hotel strip, serving daily Jamaican Jerk dishes.

The Pelican - located on Glouster Avenue, west of the Coral Cliff Casino is a favourite of both visitors and locals. They serve old American favourites, Jamaican dishes, vegetarian dishes at an average price of US$11-20.

Town House - located in town and serving continental cuisine in this well preserved Georgian mansion and tavern dating back to 1765.

Wexford Court Grill - located along the hotel strip, this is a most popular restaurant, famous for Saturday and Sunday brunches.

Tigers or Smokey Joe's on St. James St. or Harbour Lights Grill and Restaurant on the corner of Harbour and Union Streets. - these places are recommended for reasonable prices and generous servings.

Montego Bay Bars & Clubs

The Brewery - a combination of Restaurant, Bar, Night Club and Take Away. Located in Gloucester Avenue, MoBay at the beginning of the Hip Strip, on the town side. Large TV screen where sport activities can be viewed, in addition to themed nights, such as Disco, 70's/80's, Reggae, Dancehall, Karaoke and performing artists, i.e the Jamaican Reggae Stars. The dance floor and restaurant is an open terrace and it is very popular with the local people.

Margueritaville Sports Bar & Grill This popular fun night club is on the main street going through Mo Bay on the water. (Gloucester Avenue (Hip Strip). Lots of good meals, drinking, dancing and water activities.

Pier One located opposite the Junction of Cooke Boulevard and Barnett Street in River Bay. There are a lot of Concerts here featuring well-known Jamaican Reggae stars.

Piano/Pool Bar This proves to be a spot in demand as one can walk out of the sun into one of the 6 bars for a refreshing cocktail.