Montego Bay is the capital of the parish of St. James in Jamaica.

The city is the fourth-largest urban area in the country by population, after Kingston, Spanish Town, and Portmore, all of which form the Greater Kingston Metropolitan Area, home to over half a million people.

As a result, Montego Bay is the second-largest anglophone city in the Caribbean, after Kingston.

While this Jamaican spring break favourite is great for party animals, it can also be surprisingly low-key. Montego Bay has excellent duty-free shopping, high-energy nightlife, and stunning beaches with clear, calm waters and bright white sand. You can browse the “Hip Strip” shops for handmade souvenirs, feed hummingbirds at Rocklands Bird Sanctuary, or chow down jerk chicken under a thatched roof. Water sports are another Montego Bay mainstay—the underwater crevices of Widowmaker’s Cave offer one of the best diving experiences on the island. If that sounds intimidating, opt instead to float serenely down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft, and let your troubles melt away under the sun.

Facts About Montego Bay:

1. Jamaica has a tropical climate, specifically a tropical wet-and-dry climate, characterized by a wet season from May to November, which coincides with the hurricane season, and a dry season from December to April. Regardless of the season, pack your summer clothes, and a couple of jerseys for safety.

2. Doctor's Cave Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Jamaica for its clean and beautiful waters. It is open to the public as well as to members of the Doctor's Cave Bathing Club. The whole family can have fun by renting a snorkel and scuba gear here.

3. Margaritaville is a top bar and restaurant, and quite an experience too. Featuring the music of Jimmy Buffett, a slide and a swimming pool are out back so get ready for the ride of your life.

4. You'll find most meals and drinks very affordable, so if you're bringing the whole family to our island, look forward to a few treats out.

5. The Montego Bay resort area is made up of the parishes of Trelawny and St. James. Head out to see the treasures in Trelawny like the historic town of Falmouth, or rafting on the Martha Brae River.