Ready to plan your 7 nights in Jamaica? There is so much to choose from, it can be hard to pick what to do and what to skip!
As you start planning, take a look at this suggested itinerary for 7 nights in Jamaica. This breakdown will ensure you spend plenty of time relaxing without missing some of the most popular highlights across the island.
Best Time to Visit Jamaica
Jamaica is a fun destination any time, with warm temperatures all year. However, there are some times that are better than others to visit. The best time to visit Jamaica is the island’s dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. With little rainfall you’ll enjoy tons of sun, but since this is peak season, prices and crowds can be higher.
Jamaica’s rainy season is between May and November. If you don’t mind some frequent rain showers, then this isn’t a bad time to visit either. In fact, the island is at its greenest during these months, and prices are lower.
Note that hurricane season also occurs during the rainy season, from June to November. While hurricanes in Jamaica are rare, they do still occur. August, September, and October are when the threat is highest so if you visit during those months, stay aware of the weather and get travel insurance.
Expected Cost for 7 Nights in Jamaica
While it is difficult to give a specific cost for your trip, on average 7 nights in Jamaica for two people will cost around $4200.
The exact cost of the trip depends on when you visit, the level of accommodations you choose, type and frequency of excursions, where you eat, and much more. This is good news though. With so much variation, you can plan 7 nights in Jamaica within your budget.
To save money, look for deals online. It can also be helpful to talk with an expert travel agent, who may have access to special discounts.
Planning 7 Nights in Jamaica: Where to Stay
The first step for a successful visit is finding the right place to stay. Jamaica is known to be one of the best places in the Caribbean for resorts. You can find just about everything from inexpensive rentals to boutique hotels to all-inclusive resorts. What you choose will depend on both your budget and the vibe and amenities you want.
While the final choice in hotels will come down to which area you want to stay in on the island, here are some of our top recommendations. Something to note is that all the Sandals resorts in Jamaica have a promotion where you get the 4th night free if you stay 3 nights.
Sandals Dunn’s River, Ocho Rios
Sandals Dunn’s River is the newest of the 7 adults-only all-inclusive Sandals resorts in Jamaica, and our favorite. The food, bars, rooms, surroundings, and level of service have all been taken up a level here. And as at all Sandals resorts, you get a ton of complimentary watersports including scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as land activities like tennis, and nightly entertainment.
Sandals Dunn’s River features a lot of “firsts” for the Sandals brand including all-new restaurants and bars. There are 12 restaurants and 7 bars, including a rooftop bar, a swim-up bar, and an upscale lounge. We loved the rum bar and the new coffee shop concept. There are also amazing luxurious accommodations like SkyPool Suites, which feature an elevated private plunge pool with an infinity edge that overlooks the Caribbean.
Sandals Montego Bay
Sandals Montego Bay offers wonderful ocean views, luxurious and spacious rooms, and a huge array of activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, golf, tennis, and a fitness center. In the surrounding area, you can explore nature and enjoy activities like eco tours, hiking, biking, and even diving with dolphins.
This Sandals resort is known for its vibrant atmosphere and convenient location close to the airport. Choose from a selection of dining options serving a variety of cuisines, enjoy tropical drinks at multiple bars, and lounge on the huge and beautiful private white-sand beach. The lively offerings of Montego Bay are nearby, including shopping and nightlife.
Sandals Royal Plantation, Ocho Rios
In our opinion, Sandals Royal Plantation is an excellent choice if you are looking for a quiet and sophisticated resort but still want plenty to do. There are only 74 ocean-view suites nestled along the beachside at Sandals Royal Plantation. They all include butler service, and since the resort is small, your butler and other staff will always be nearby to serve you a drink, bring you some food, help you schedule an excursion, or anything else you may need.
You can laze by the pool before heading off for a round of golf (with free green fees and transportation), or enjoy a wide variety of complimentary watersports including snorkeling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding. There are multiple restaurants and bars onsite, including the only champagne and caviar bar in Jamaica, and you also have access to all the amenities, restaurants, and bars at Sandals Ochi.
Jamaica Inn, Ocho Rios
Ranked as one of the best boutique hotels in Jamaica, Jamaica Inn offers old-world charm, unspoiled scenery, and a pristine beach for a stress-free getaway. There are no TVs or radios in the 48 tastefully designed suites to encourage conversations and relaxation. Suites also feature outdoor showers, private plunge pools, and soaking tubs.
You can enjoy water sports including kayaking and paddleboarding as well as spa services onsite. Jamaica Inn is near attractions such as Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin’s Cove if you want to explore the area.
Beaches Negril
Set on famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril, which features soft white sand and calm turquoise water, Beaches Negril is a fun all-inclusive resort for families, friends, and couples alike. Enjoy luxurious, spacious rooms and suites; 10 restaurants and multiple bars; a fitness center; and a spa. You can also book area excursions for an extra fee.
There are a ton of complimentary activities and amenities, such as watersports including scuba diving and snorkeling; land sports; daily and nightly entertainment; a Kid’s Club; a huge Pirates Island Waterpark; Trench Town arcade; Xbox Play Lounge; Caribbean Adventures with Sesame Street™ characters; and the Club Liquid teen nightclub (which becomes an adult nightclub later on).
Getting Around Jamaica
Spending 7 nights in Jamaica gives you the opportunity to do a little bit of traveling around the island. When it comes to transportation, most people will take the provided shuttle services for group excursions. You can also call a taxi to get around pretty much anywhere.
7 Nights in Jamaica Itinerary
With all the other details sorted, it’s time to plan out your 7 nights in Jamaica. With a full week to explore, you’ll be able to see a lot of different areas on the island. Some of the most popular are Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril.
It’s best to try to explore one area per day, otherwise you might feel rushed. (For extra ideas, check out our article on How to Spend 4 Nights in Jamaica.)
Day 1 – Arrival
The first day of your trip is going to require some travel. Most flights arrive between 11 am and 4 pm. This will allow you to get to your resort in time to relax, eat dinner, and enjoy the night’s entertainment.
Day 2 – Montego Bay
Montego Bay is one of the most popular spots in all of Jamaica, so it’s a great place to start your Jamaican adventure. Plus, this area of the island has everything all in one spot: culture, history, the beach, and the ocean.
Take some time to explore the historic aspects of Montego Bay. You can find plenty of knowledgeable tour guides to give you the best experience. Then it’s time to hit the beach. You can relax on the sand or try out any number of water sports.
Day 3 – Negril
You can spend day 3 in another Jamaica hotspot: Negril. This area is known for its beautiful beaches and is home to the iconic Seven Mile Beach. This long stretch of pristine white-sand beach is perfect for a little relaxing or snorkeling.
Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants and bars along the beach. And this area is often considered to be the best place for a Caribbean sunset. Plan to end your night in a restaurant overlooking the ocean as the sun sets.
Day 4 – Relax
Day 4 is a great time to take a little break and relax around your resort. Many resorts have tons of fun activities for you to enjoy. You can start the day off with a dip in the pool, and then spend some time enjoying any available water and land activities.
Depending on where you stay, you could also hang out at the beach, do a little shopping, play golf, or indulge in spa services. Just spend this day having some fun and relaxation before heading back out to explore the rest of Jamaica.
Day 5 – Ocho Rios & Dunn’s River Falls
Now it’s time for adventure. Day 5 is devoted to exploring one of the most exciting places in Jamaica–Ocho Rios, home to some of the most incredible natural landscapes on the island.
Spend some time exploring Dunn’s River Falls. This gorgeous set of waterfalls is more than worth the visit. Climb to the top of the falls, then explore some of the caves and grottos around it.
Day 6 – Resort Day
This is your last full day in Jamaica, so it’s time to recharge a bit before leaving. Spend some time at the pool, on the beach, or in the spa so you’re all rested and rejuvenated when you return home.
Day 7 – Say Goodbye
The last and final day of your 7 nights in Jamaica will take you back to the airport. Hopefully, you have time for a relaxing breakfast and a dip in the water before you go.
Depending on where your resort is you might still be able to squeeze in an excursion to a nearby attraction but be sure to leave enough time to make your flight!
With 7 nights in Jamaica, you’ll find plenty of time to explore different neighborhoods and cities around the island. You may need to invest in some transportation and possibly some guided tours, but you won’t regret it! If you’re ready to book your Jamaican getaway and would like some detailed help, feel free to contact one of our expert travel advisors!