Montego Bay Shore Excursion: Doctor's Cave Beach & Montego Bay City Highlights

Montego Bay , Jamaica

Montego Bay Shore Excursion: Doctor's Cave Beach & Montego Bay City Highlights

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(3 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This half day tour is a very unique one where you get to see and gather firsthand experience downtown Montego Bay in it's finest. It encompasses the Jamaican history, culture and a relaxing moment at Doctor's Cave Beach, one of the world's most famous beaches (Don't forget to take your towels). Visit sites such as Sam Sharp Square, St., James Parish Church (Built in 1775) and Richmond Hill Great House. Lunch stop will be at Scotchies Outdoor Garden Restaurant where you can get an amazing experience of our local Jamaican jerk chicken, pork and vegetables that are cooked in a unique way with local herbs and spices. For this tour we recommend that you disembark the ship as soon as it docks (within the first 20 to 30 minutes). There will be a professional driver/guide assigned for group of 15 persons or less. Group of 16 persons or more will have both professional driver and guide assigned.

Available options

Montego Bay Shore Excursion: Doctor's Cave Beach & Montego Bay City Highlights

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Port pickup and drop-off

Live commentary on board

Local taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

This tour takes you to downtown Montego Bay. Your first 10 minutes stop will be at Sam Sharp Square. This area got its name from a freed slave who carried the same name and who led one of the bloodiest uprising in Jamaica on Christmas day in the year 1831. In this area, there is a statue of Sam Sharp and other slaves who were severely punished in the year 1832 for the Christmas day uprising that took place. Feel free to exit the vehicle and browse around. There is also the "Cage" which was originally constructed from wood in the year 1806. However, it was later reconstructed from bricks. The cage was used as a holding area for runaway Slaves who were held there until they were sent back to their plantations. It was also used as a holding area for vagrants and rowdy seamen who would get drunk and was behaving disorderly.

The tour will continue to the St., James Parish Church for a 30 minutes visit. This Anglican Church, built in 1775 is one of the oldest churches in the Montego Bay area. It boasts an amazing architecture and some of the contents ranging back from as far as over 200 years ago. Built to last for centuries, this church is still fully functional as back in the days when it was first constructed. Be sure to read the marble plaques and headstones that displays an array of exquisite poems well wishes written in old English. Feel free to browse around and read the headstones. The church will always accept a contribution at your pleasure.

Stop 3

This drive to the beach will take you through the narrow downtown streets and out to the popular Montego Bay Hip Strip where the Doctor's Cave Beach is located. Doctor's Cave has been one of the world famous beaches for nearly a century. It is noted for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and near-white sand. Its sheltered location provides calm waters. Your tour guide will take you to the check-in area. While at the check-in area, it will be the best time for you to rent chairs and umbrellas (optional). Beautiful palm, coconut and sea grape trees provides nice shaded areas where you can lay out on your towels. Several water sporting activities that are available at a fee. After 2 hours on the beach it will be time to lunch, shopping.

Lunch and shopping will be 1hr. 45mins. You will then be taken back to your ship.

Stop 4

The Montego Bay Hip Strip is one of the most active souvenir shopping areas you will find in Jamaica. There is also Duty Free Shopping, Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, Starbucks, Usain Bolt's Tracks & Records, Harley Davidson Jamaica, just to name a few of the popular spots. On the Hip Strip you can also find elegant dining and authentic jerk chicken eateries. Most visitors to Montego Bay find the Hip Strip very convenient because of its varieties.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Wheelchair accessible

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Infant meals not included

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time.

Dress code is smart casual

Minimum numbers apply (8 persons). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• Please note: entrance tickets and transport included. This voucher will not be accepted if presented directly at the venue.
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Due to the nature of this tour and the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to passengers who are intoxicated or show signs of intoxication. If, as a result, your tour is canceled, you will not be entitled to a refund.
• Minimum numbers apply (minimum 8 persons). There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be madeMinimum drinking age is 18 years

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

Valid from the time you exchange your voucher, for the duration selected.

About Montego Bay

Montego Bay, known as MoBay, is a vibrant coastal city in Jamaica, famous for its stunning beaches, lush resorts, and rich cultural heritage. It's a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from luxurious spas to thrilling water sports.

Top Attractions

Doctor's Cave Beach

One of the most famous beaches in Montego Bay, known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. The beach is part of the Doctor's Cave Beach Club, which offers amenities like food, drinks, and water sports.

Beach Half day Free (entry fee for the beach club)

Rose Hall Great House

A historic plantation house with a rich and somewhat haunted history. The house offers guided tours that delve into its past, including the legend of the White Witch of Rose Hall.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate (entry fee for tours)

Martha Brae River

A scenic river that offers bamboo rafting tours. The gentle current and lush surroundings make for a relaxing and picturesque experience.

Nature Half day Moderate (tour fee)

Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue)

A vibrant strip filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. It's a great place to experience the local nightlife and culture.

Entertainment Evening Varies (shopping, dining, and entertainment expenses)

Montego Bay Marine Park

A protected marine area that offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The park is home to a variety of marine life and coral reefs.

Nature Half day Moderate (snorkeling and diving tour fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Jerk Chicken

Chicken marinated in a spicy jerk sauce and grilled over an open fire. The sauce typically includes Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other spices.

Dinner Contains meat, can be spicy

Ackee and Saltfish

A traditional Jamaican breakfast dish made with ackee (a fruit) and salted codfish, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.

Breakfast Contains fish, can be spicy

Curried Goat

Goat meat slow-cooked in a rich and flavorful curry sauce. It's often served with rice and peas.

Dinner Contains meat, can be spicy

Rice and Peas

A staple side dish made with rice, kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices. It's often served with meat dishes.

Side Dish Vegetarian, can be vegan if made without meat

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Zip-lining Hiking Caving Beach relaxation Spa treatments Yoga

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with the best weather conditions. The days are sunny and warm, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. However, it's also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.

24-30°C 75-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Jamaican Patois (Creole)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Jamaican Dollar (JMD)

Time Zone

EST (UTC-5)

Electricity

110VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Montego Bay is generally safe for tourists, especially in the tourist areas and resorts. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas. Be cautious of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Avoid walking alone at night

Getting there

By air

Sangster International Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center

By bus

Montego Bay Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Public transportation in Montego Bay consists of route taxis (minivans) and buses. They are affordable but can be crowded. Route taxis are shared and follow specific routes, while buses are less frequent and follow a set schedule.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None widely used

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue) Dead End Beach Fairview

Day trips

Ocho Rios

75 km (47 miles) • Full day

Ocho Rios is a vibrant town known for its waterfalls, beaches, and lush landscapes. It offers a variety of attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, Mystic Mountain, and Dolphin Cove.

Negril

80 km (50 miles) • Full day

Negril is a laid-back beach town known for its stunning beaches, especially Seven Mile Beach, and its vibrant nightlife. It offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with activities like snorkeling, diving, and cliff jumping at Rick's Café.

Runaway Bay

40 km (25 miles) • Half day to Full day

Runaway Bay is a scenic area known for its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and adventure activities. It's home to the Green Grotto Caves and the Runaway Bay Golf Club.

Festivals

Reggae Sumfest • Early to mid-July Montego Bay Cultural Festival • Mid-July Jamaica Jazz and Blues Festival • January

Pro tips

Try local jerk cuisine, especially jerk chicken and pork, which is a must-try in Montego Bay
Visit Doctor's Cave Beach early in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the beautiful turquoise waters
Explore the Hip Strip (Gloucester Avenue) for shopping, dining, and nightlife, but be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and the best prices
Use reputable tour operators and taxis, and negotiate fares in advance to avoid overcharging