Where to stay

Negril is renowned for its nightlife and you don't have to look far to find it. Both relaxed and unruly spots to drink and dance can be easily found, with hotels near the many beach bars that back Negril's Seven Mile Beach. Nights might start with a Red Stripe on the sand and end in Negril town itself-or along Norman Manley Boulevard dancing to visiting reggae bands. Book an adults-only hotel to have great entertainment on the doorstep-many have bars and clubs that attract visitors from elsewhere-and don't miss a night at Negril's must-visit sunset spot, clifftop Rick's Cafe.

Seven Mile Beach might only be four miles long, but it's not short of spectacular places to stay. The larger resorts are generally found towards the beach's northern end and range from exclusive private villa complexes, to a few that are welcoming to kids and teens. The best are set in tropical grounds with views over the ocean. Accommodations closer to Bloody Bay and Orange Bay to the north are a little further from the heart of the action. To the south, the West End was once Negril's hippie heart and it still has a boho feel, although its boutique hotels require a short journey to the sand.

Reserving a room, or indeed a cliffside cottage, in the West End is the obvious choice for a luxurious and relaxing break. Many West End accommodations offer infinity pools, uninterrupted ocean views, and excellent spas, although they do lack Seven Mile Beach's easy beach access, and the water here is deep. Perhaps the best option of all is to split a trip in two, spending a few days on the beach, and then a few more recuperating at "the cliffs", as the West End is sometimes known. Even more secluded properties can be found further south, while just inland, golfers can chill out on the links at Negril Hills Golf Club.