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 We love to brag that Jamaica is a “big, little island.” With over 4442 square miles, it is indeed the third largest in the Caribbean. But what really makes our island seem so big is the endless array of places to visit and things to see. Luckily, getting around Jamaica is easy, so you don’t have to miss anything. Depending on your budget, choose from a range of buses, taxis, rental vehicles and planes. Buckle up and explore what this incredible island has to offer. No matter where you go or how you get there, you’ll discover boundless opportunities for fun and enjoyment.
Domestic Flights
As the third largest island in the Caribbean, Jamaica covers a lot of ground. The average driving time between our six resort areas (Kingston, Montego Bay, Negril, Port Antonio, Ocho Rios and the South Coast) is about two and a half hours. But with landing strips in five of our major resort areas, intra-island flights are the quickest way to get from one beautiful Jamaican spot to the next. For example, the trip between Kingston and Negril only takes 35 minutes by air.
So if on you’re a special vacation, time is of the essence, flying is the way to go. It lets you maximize the hours spent lounging on the beach or relaxing at your hotel. It also gives you the option of seeing more of Jamaica. For instance, if you’re staying in Negril, you may take a day trip to Port Antonio and experience the wonders of the Blue Lagoon, Frenchman’s Cove, Reach Falls and much more. This would not be possible by car, because it would take you the whole day just to drive there and back! Port Antonio is at least a five-hour drive from Negril.
The intra-island flights are not only time efficient, they also offer views of the island that are hard to beat. From a bird’s eye perspective, you may watch Jamaica’s Blue Mountains and olive plains rove toward white-sand borders and endless blue seas. As you swoop into our resort centers, you’ll be captivated by vistas of Negril’s sandy stretch, Portie’s twin harbors, Kingston’s mountains or Mobay’s and Ochi’s coastal cityscapes.
Air Jamaica Express is the largest domestic airline in Jamaica with an impressive fleet of new propeller aircraft. Each day there are several Express flights between Kingston, Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios and Port Antonio. Air Jamaica will get you to your destination in comfort and style with champagne flights and true Jamaican hospitality!
Intl. Air Link, TimAir and other commuter or charter aircraft also offer intra-island flights between our main resort areas. These companies are popular with visiting celebrities as they promise privacy and cater to specific requests.
Getting Around Jamaica
It’s been said, you don’t really know a place until you’ve driven there. Jamaica is no exception. Hitting the road is perhaps one of the best ways to become acquainted with this island home. By car you can see it all: from country lanes and sandy shores to secret spots and quaint back-road villages. As well as discovering your Jamaican routes, you’ll learn about the idiosyncrasies of the road culture and perhaps the Jamaican culture as a whole. So pick a “rental” from one of the many agencies available islandwide and start your engine. But beware! Driving in Jamaica is not for the faint of heart. Should you choose to brave our roads, you will embark on an unforgettable Jamaican journey.
The most important thing to remember when driving in Jamaica is that here, we drive on the LEFT, although some flexibility is required to avoid collisions with pedestrians, cows, goats, chickens and other domestic animals. We have over 10560 miles (17 000 km) of road networks connecting all major towns and cities, the speed limit is 30 mph (50 km/ph) in built-up areas, and 50 mph (80 kmph) on highways. All drivers are required to carry a valid license. Jamaica recognizes valid International Driver’s Licenses, but visitors from North America may use their country’s license for up to three months per visit. The driver and front passenger are required to wear safety belts, and children under 3 years old must be restrained in infant carriers. Car rental is available in most major towns and cities, and usually, clients must be no less than 25 years old to rent
Traveling By Sea
Cruise ship passengers may not stay as long, but the most popular ports offer plenty to explore. Sailors who like to travel on their own can also enter through some of the larger ports and gain clearance to sail around the island for as long as they wish. Cruise ship ports are located at St. John's Harbour and Heritage Quay, in the heart of the country's capital, and minutes away from Antigua's great beaches and water sports.
Private boaters can enter at St. John's Harbour on the west coast, English Harbour or the St. James' Club in the south, or Crabbs Marina in the northeast.
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