Where to stay

For a quieter Jamaica stay away from the bustling nightlife and resort style of Montego Bay, look for accommodations in Lucea. Home to secluded beaches that are so pretty they've been used as movie sets, this idyllic town is an up-and-coming favorite. Seaside Rio Bueno is an alternative place to stay for a mix of beach life and cultural heritage. Tour historic churches and contemporary art galleries, then climb the bordering hillsides for breathtaking harbor views. Daytrips are easy from your hotel in Discovery Bay on the island's north coast. Popular for villa stays, this small town is an easy drive from Montego Bay, as well as Negril and Ocho Rios.

For days in the surf and nights on the dance floor, choose a hotel along the Montego Bay Hip Strip. Accommodations here are close to famous Doctor's Cave beach, all-inclusive resorts and a huge variety of cool restaurants and bars. There are also plenty of other activities to enjoy after the sun goes down. Rose Hall offers an inside look at its gorgeous plantation, including a ghost tour. Book accommodations here to be near Trelawny, which is best visited after sunset so you can boat out into the bay to observe the blue glow of the bioluminescent organisms that live in the lagoon. And, believe it or not, you can even scuba dive at night; ask your hotel activities staff about packages for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.