2-Day Local's Guide to Negril: Nightlife & Outdoors for Couples
Negril, Jamaica
2 days
About Negril, Jamaica
Experience the tropical paradise of Negril, Jamaica, a haven for beach lovers and adventure seekers. Known for its stunning 7-mile stretch of white sand beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Negril offers a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkeling or scuba diving, or thrill-seekers can cliff jump at the famous Rick's Cafe. Enjoy the breathtaking sunset while dining on fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant. Negril is also rich in culture, with reggae music filling the air and local artisans selling their crafts. Stay at luxury resorts or charming beachfront cottages for a truly Jamaican experience. Negril, where the sunsets are unforgettable and the memories last a lifetime.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Nature Reserve and Rum Tour
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Palm Reserve. This nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife and offers several hiking trails.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café. Try some traditional Jamaican patties or a bowl of hearty pepperpot soup.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon on a guided tour of the Appleton Estate, where you can learn about the process of rum-making and sample some of their finest rums.
Dinner
Dine at a local restaurant and try some Jamaican fusion cuisine. Enjoy the unique blend of flavors and spices.
Evening
End your day with a relaxing beach bonfire. Listen to live music, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the starry Caribbean night.
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Seven Mile Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and stunning sunsets.
2Negril Cliffs
Dramatic cliffs offering stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. It's a popular spot for cliff diving.
3Royal Palm Reserve
A nature reserve home to a variety of wildlife and plants. There are walking trails and guided tours available.
4Appleton Estate
Appleton Estate offers a journey through the history, culture and taste of premium rum, with guided tours, rum tastings and a chance to see the distillery process.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Jerk Chicken
A popular Jamaican dish, Jerk Chicken is marinated in a spicy mixture, then slow-smoked over pimento wood. It's a must-try for any visitor to Negril.
Ackee and Saltfish
Ackee and Saltfish is Jamaica's national dish. It's a savory dish made from the local ackee fruit and dried and salted cod.
Rice and Peas
Rice and Peas is a staple in Jamaican cuisine. It's made with rice and pigeon peas (or kidney beans), and it's often served with a main dish.
Patties
Patties are a popular snack in Jamaica. They're a type of pastry filled with various fillings like beef, chicken, or vegetables.
Curry Goat
Curry Goat is a flavorful Jamaican dish. It's made with goat meat that's slow-cooked in a curry sauce until it's tender.
Escovitch Fish
Escovitch Fish is a traditional Jamaican dish. It's a fried fish topped with a spicy vinegar-based dressing made from onions, peppers, and carrots.
Callaloo
Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable that's often cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, thyme, and scotch bonnet pepper. It's a healthy and delicious side dish in Negril.
Jamaican Rum Punch
Jamaican Rum Punch is a popular drink in Negril. It's a fruity cocktail made with Jamaican rum, fruit juice, and a dash of nutmeg.
Red Stripe Beer
Red Stripe is a Jamaican lager beer. It's light and refreshing, making it a popular choice for beachgoers in Negril.
Blue Mountain Coffee
Blue Mountain Coffee is a famous Jamaican coffee. It's grown in the Blue Mountains of Jamaica, and it's known for its mild flavor and lack of bitterness.
Coconut Drops
Coconut Drops are a traditional Jamaican dessert. They're made from diced coconut, ginger, and sugar, and they're a sweet treat to try in Negril.
Bammy
Bammy is a traditional Jamaican flatbread made from cassava. It's often served with fish or other seafood dishes in Negril.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Negril, Jamaica as a tourist is from mid-December to mid-April. This is the peak tourist season when the weather is most pleasant and dry. However, if you prefer less crowd, consider visiting between May and November, but be aware that this is the rainy season and also the hurricane season from June to November.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 14 | Wed | Ash Wednesday |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 23 | Thu | Labor Day / May Day |
August 1 | Thu | Emancipation Day |
August 6 | Tue | Independence Day |
October 21 | Mon | National Heroes' Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
How to get around
Taxi
Taxis are a common way to get around in Negril. They are easily available and can be hailed from the streets or booked in advance. They are a convenient way to travel, especially if you're carrying luggage or travelling in a group.
Rental Car
Renting a car is a good option if you plan on exploring Negril and its surroundings at your own pace. There are several car rental companies in Negril offering a variety of vehicles to choose from. Remember to drive on the left side of the road in Jamaica.
Public Bus
Public buses are a cheap and authentic way to travel around Negril. They run regularly and cover most parts of the town. However, they can be crowded and may not have air conditioning.
Private Transfer
Private transfers can be arranged from the airport or your hotel. This is a comfortable and stress-free way to travel, especially for those not familiar with the area or those travelling with children.
Motorcycle Rental
Motorcycle rentals are available for those who prefer a more adventurous mode of transportation. This allows for flexibility and the ability to explore less accessible areas of Negril.
Bicycle Rental
Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Negril. There are several places where you can rent a bike for the day or for your entire stay. It's a great way to get around and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are not currently available in Negril. However, there are local apps that offer similar services. Always ensure to verify the identity of the driver and the car before getting in.
Pedestrian
Negril is a relatively small town and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the town, enjoy the scenery and interact with the locals.
Boat
Boats are used to travel along the coast and to reach some of the offshore attractions. There are several companies offering boat tours or private boat hire.
Important information
Currency JMD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 110; Fire: 110; Police: 119
Drinking waterYes, but some opt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage110 V
Things to know about Negril, Jamaica as a first time visitor
1
Jamaica's official language is English, but the local dialect, Patois, is widely spoken.
2
The local currency is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD), but US dollars are also widely accepted.
3
Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash.
4
Tipping is customary in Jamaica. A 10-15% tip is generally expected in restaurants and for services.
5
Jamaica operates on Eastern Standard Time and does not observe daylight saving time.
6
The island has a tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C).
7
The hurricane season in Jamaica runs from June to November, with the peak period from August to October.
8
Jamaica uses the Type A and Type B plug. The standard voltage is 110 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
9
Jamaica's drinking water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is widely available.
10
Public transportation in Negril is limited. Taxis and rental cars are the most common ways to get around.
11
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road in Jamaica.
12
Jamaica has a high crime rate, but tourist areas like Negril are generally safe. However, it's always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
13
Casual beachwear is acceptable during the day, but some restaurants and clubs in Negril require more formal attire in the evenings.
14
Jamaica has strict drug laws. Despite the association with marijuana, possession is illegal and can result in heavy fines or imprisonment.
15
The sun in Jamaica is very strong. Always wear sunblock, even on cloudy days.
16
Jamaican cuisine is spicy. If you're not used to spicy food, ask for less spice or 'no pepper' when ordering.
17
Always ask permission before taking photos of locals. Some may request a small fee.
18
It's customary to haggle in markets and with street vendors in Jamaica.
19
Jamaica has a rich musical culture. Reggae is the most popular genre, but you'll also hear dancehall, ska, and dub.
20
Jamaica is known for its rum. Appleton Estate and Wray & Nephew are two popular local brands.
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Flip flops
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Printed copies of hotel and flight confirmations
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash, including small bills for tipping
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal power adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for travel
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel-size laundry detergent
Zip-top plastic bags for wet swimwear or toiletries
Weather Conditions
When visiting Negril, Jamaica, it's important to be aware of the tropical climate that characterizes this beautiful Caribbean destination. The weather here is typically warm year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). The region experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular time to visit due to the lower chances of rainfall. However, even during the dry season, brief showers can occur, so it's always a good idea to pack a light rain jacket or umbrella. The rainy season, from May to November, sees more frequent and heavier rainfall. This is also the period when hurricanes are most likely to occur, particularly between June and November. If you're planning a trip during this time, make sure to stay updated on the weather forecasts and consider travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations. Despite the rain, the off-peak season also offers benefits like fewer crowds and lower prices. Plus, the rain usually comes in short, intense bursts followed by sunshine, so it's still possible to enjoy outdoor activities. Regardless of when you visit, remember to pack plenty of sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing. The sun can be intense in Negril, and it's easy to get burned without proper protection. Finally, keep in mind that the weather can vary slightly depending on whether you're in the mountains or on the coast. Coastal areas like Negril tend to be warmer and less rainy than the mountainous regions. In conclusion, while Negril's weather is generally warm and sunny, it's important to plan for the possibility of rain and to protect yourself from the sun. With these precautions, you're sure to enjoy your visit to this tropical paradise.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 30° / 22° | January is one of the cooler months in Negril, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather. |
February | 30° / 22° | February is similar to January, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 30 degrees Celsius. It's also the driest month, making it perfect for outdoor activities. |
March | 31° / 23° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 23 to 31 degrees Celsius. The weather is still quite dry, making it a good time for beach activities. |
April | 32° / 24° | April is a bit warmer, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. It's the start of the rainy season, but showers are usually short and followed by sunshine. |
May | 33° / 25° | May is the start of summer in Negril, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius. Expect some rain, but don't worry, it's usually followed by sunshine. |
June | 34° / 26° | June is a hot month, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's also the start of the hurricane season, so keep an eye on the weather forecast. |
July | 34° / 26° | July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's one of the busiest months for tourism, so expect crowded beaches. |
August | 34° / 26° | August is another hot month, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's also the peak of the hurricane season, so be prepared for possible storms. |
September | 34° / 26° | September is still hot, with temperatures ranging from 26 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's the wettest month, so pack a raincoat just in case. |
October | 33° / 25° | October sees a slight decrease in temperature, ranging from 25 to 33 degrees Celsius. It's still part of the hurricane season, so keep an eye on the weather forecast. |
November | 32° / 24° | November is a bit cooler, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius. The weather starts to dry up, making it a good time for outdoor activities. |
December | 31° / 23° | December is one of the cooler months in Negril, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 31 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather. |
Did you know?
Places near by Negril, Jamaica
Montego Bay
Known for its duty-free shopping, white-sand beaches, and turquoise waters.
Black River
Famous for its wildlife, including crocodiles and over 100 species of birds.
Treasure Beach
A series of small fishing villages with a relaxed vibe and beautiful beaches.
Blue Mountains
Known for its coffee and hiking trails, offering stunning views.
Kingston
The capital of Jamaica, offering a mix of music, culture, and history.
Falmouth
Known for its Georgian architecture and bioluminescent lagoon.
Ocho Rios
Famous for its waterfalls, gardens, and dolphin cove.
