A Weekend in Kingston and Montego Bay, Jamaica

Planning a trip to Jamaica? Most people think of cruise stops or all-inclusive resorts in Montego Bay, but I wanted something different. I wanted a real feel of the island, not just beaches and cocktails. So, my husband and I booked a quick flight from Miami to Kingston for a weekend getaway. It was our first time in Jamaica, and while we didn’t have much time, we squeezed in a lot. If you’re heading to Kingston or thinking of mixing it up with Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, I’ve got real advice, what worked, and what to save time for.

Kingston isn’t always the easiest place to explore without preparation, especially if it’s your first time. But if you know where to go, the city offers culture, food, and community in a way no resort can match.

No trip to Kingston is complete without visiting the Bob Marley Museum. Even if you’re not a die-hard reggae fan, this place offers a glimpse into Jamaica’s history and culture. I was drawn to it because of the book A Brief History of Seven Killings by Marlon James, which revolves around the real-life attempt to assassinate Bob Marley in 1976.

The museum is Bob Marley’s old home and recording studio. You can only go inside with a guided tour, which runs every 30 minutes and lasts about an hour and a half. We showed up without tickets and still got in, so you don’t have to book in advance, though it’s probably safer if you’re tight on time.

Tours run every 30 minutes and last about 90 minutes. We didn’t book ahead, but you can purchase tickets online here. Inside, you’ll see everything from family photos to bullet holes in the kitchen walls from the 1976 assassination attempt.

After the tour, we visited the on-site Kaya Herb House—a legal cannabis dispensary and lounge (more info here). 

Next, we walked through Emancipation Park, best known for its large bronze statue Redemption Song honoring Jamaica’s emancipation from slavery. There’s a walking track and an open-air stage for concerts and events.

Pro tip: Go in the morning or late evening—it gets scorching during midday, especially in summer.

You can’t leave Jamaica without trying a patty. These flaky, spicy meat-filled pastries are a staple here. We tried the legendary Tastee Patties, which locals swear by. You’ll find locations throughout Kingston. Chicken or beef are your options, and both were delicious.

Fun fact: Many locals also told us that KFC in Jamaica is better than anywhere else. We tried it. It was fine—but I’m still team patty.

If you want to know more where to eat and what to do around Jamaica, read our blog here. 

Our favorite activity was hands down the Loose Cannon Catamaran Cruise. They run Friday night and Sunday day cruises, and the price includes unlimited drinks and food (don’t expect gourmet, but it’s fun). You cruise out to Maiden Cay, a tiny island off the coast where you can swim and relax.

Even though it looked sold out online, we messaged them on WhatsApp the night before and got spots—so always check!

On Saturday, we visited Coronation Market, the largest open-air market in Jamaica. It’s chaotic, crowded, and full of energy. Vendors sell everything—fresh produce, meat, clothes, electronics. Just don’t go at noon like we did. It was boiling hot and shoulder-to-shoulder packed.

This part of town (downtown near the harbor) doesn’t have many cafes or restaurants, so plan to head elsewhere afterward. Still, it’s worth a walk-through for the experience.

To make the most of your time in Kingston, Montego Bay, or anywhere in Jamaica, here are some useful travel tips:

Carry Local Currency: Not all places take cards, and ATMs aren’t always available. Always keep some Jamaican dollars on hand.

Use WhatsApp: Tour companies and even restaurants often rely on WhatsApp for bookings and communication.

Don’t Overplan, But Don’t Underplan Either: Booking big things like hikes or cruises ahead of time saves stress. But leave space for spontaneous stops, like a new patty shop or market.

Kingston Nightlife Starts Late: Most clubs don’t get going until 11 p.m. or later. Pace yourself.

Be Smart About Safety: Kingston is generally safe in tourist zones like New Kingston and Liguanea. Just avoid flashing valuables and use registered taxis or drivers.

Pack Light and Cool: Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and water shoes will go a long way, especially if you’re hiking or heading to the beach.

Respect the Culture: Be friendly, say hello, and learn a few phrases like “wah gwaan?” (what’s going on?) to connect with locals.

Don’t Skip Local Eats: From jerk chicken to steamed fish, food is one of the best parts of Jamaica. Go beyond your hotel to discover the good stuff.

Explore More Than Just the Resorts: Combine city and nature. Kingston has culture. Montego Bay has beaches. Ocho Rios has waterfalls. Try to see more than one spot.

Kingston isn’t the easiest place for tourists—there aren’t signs pointing to attractions, and it helps to have a plan. But once we found our rhythm, it was amazing. My advice? Book the Bob Marley Museum tour ahead of time, and carve out time for both local culture and fun experiences like the harbor cruise. Bring cash for markets and smaller vendors, and don’t rely on last-minute bookings for everything, especially dance clubs or outdoor tours.

If you have more time, combine your Kingston visit with Montego Bay for resort vibes or head to Ocho Rios for adventure. There’s so much more to see than just beaches in Jamaica. Plan smart, stay curious, and you’ll leave with stories you’ll want to tell forever.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo