Overview

Nightlife on Jamaica includes both on-property shows at the all-inclusive resorts and nightclubs ranging from indoor clubs to beach bashes. For starters, there's reggae, popularized by the late Bob Marley and the Wailers and performed today by son Ziggy Marley, Jimmy Tosh (the late Peter Tosh's son), Gregory Isaacs, Jimmy Cliff, and many others. If your experience of Caribbean music has been limited to steel drums and Harry Belafonte, then the political, racial, and religious messages of reggae may set you on your ear; listen closely and you just might hear the heartbeat of the people. Dancehall is another island favorite, as is soca.

For the most part, the liveliest late-night happenings throughout Jamaica are in the major resort hotels, with the widest variety of spots probably in Montego Bay. Some of the all-inclusives offer a dinner and disco pass from about $50 to $100; to buy a pass, call ahead the afternoon before to check availability and be sure to bring a photo ID with you. Pick up a copy of the Daily Gleaner, the Jamaica Observer, or the Star (available at newsstands throughout the island) for listings on who's playing when and where. In Negril, trucks with loudspeakers travel through the streets in the afternoon announcing the hot spot for the evening.

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Kingston offers a variety of nighttime entertainment. Most events are listed in the daily press, along with a host of other attractions, including colorful carnivals and festivals that are held island-wide throughout the year. In nearly all the after-dark establishments of Kingston, foreign visitors are only about 3% of those in attendance. Most Kingston places, except for the bars in first-class hotels, are patronized mainly by locals.

Caution: The city is very unsafe at night. Take taxis everywhere!

Capricorn Inn
14 Rae Street
Kingston, JM
Neighborhood: Kingston
+1 876 928 9064

WCities:

The entertainment capital of Kingston in the 1980s was Rae Town. Today, there are efforts to recapture the vibes and massive crowd support of yesteryear. Playing a role in that come back is the Capricorn, already considered one of the preferred places to be on Sunday nights for its oldies sessions. Operating with the theme of "total togetherness", it offers drinks at reasonable prices. It boasts full view of the Kingston waterfront and is in close proximity to the major roads leading in and out of downtown Kingston

Carlos' Cafe
Bar / Café
Carlos' Cafe
22 Belmont Rd
Kingston 5
New Kingston
Tel:876-920-4184

Jamaica Touristboard:

Carlos' is trendy. From after-work until closing, there is plenty to do: play pool, karaoke or just hang out with friends. Thursday is Latin Music night and there Karaoke on Fridays. This is definitely the place to cool out and enjoy good music in good company.

Grog Shoppe (The)
26 Hope Road
Kingston, JM
Neighborhood: Kingston
+1 876 929 7027

WCities:

This is a cross between a traditional English pub and a contemporary garden restaurant. The offerings include modern Jamaican and international cuisine. The food is excellent, and there are nightly activities, which include Jazz sessions, Karaoke and live music. Located in a refurbished warehouse on the grounds of Devon House, the restaurant boasts a rustic style, with exposed brick walls, large wooden antique furniture and a clay-tiled patio shaded by large evergreen trees. Juices, wines and local and imported beers are served. A second restaurant is now open in Downtown Kingston, although lacking the old world grandeur of the original; the food is just as good.

Peppers Night Club
Bar / Café
Peppers Night Club
31 Upper Waterloo Road
Kingston 10
Kingston
Tel:876-969-2421

Rough Guides:

One of Kingston's most consistently popular venues, with a heaving outdoor dance floor, big-name stage shows every month and DJs most nights; usually packed and a lot of fun.

Jamaica Touristboard:

A lively open-air night spot makes this a favoured drinking hole in the Kingston scene. The food is continental and local (with emphasis on jerk dishes).

Mingles
Courtleigh Hotel, 85 Knutsford Blvd
tel 876/929-9000.

Rough Guides:

Popular and central, this in-hotel club-cum-bar is usually a good bet, drawing a pleasant crowd for the Friday After Work Jam, with jerk chicken and DJs. Busiest is Saturday's Latin party, when Latin dance classes are held (7–9pm) and the place is packed.

Jonkanoo Lounge Hilton Kingston
77 Knutsford Blvd
tel 876/926-5430

Rough Guides:

Relatively sedate, as you'd expect from a hotel-based venue, but a good and very upmarket (if rarely crowded) disco with occasional live bands.

Asylum Night Club
69 Knutsford Boulevard
Kingston 5
New Kingston
Tel:876-906-1828
Fax:876-931-7492

Rough Guides:

Fully refitted and packed with Kingstonians checking out the latest dances under the dry ice and UV glare. A different theme every night, so call head to see what's on. Wednesday nights, when more conscious reggae is played, are typically the best introduction.

Jamaica Touristboard:

The street is crammed and in the midst of the jam, traffic wardens in their bright orange and red vests direct patrons to parking areas. This is expected along Knutsford Boulevard every night except Monday. Even in the wee hours there is a queue at the entrance of what is known as the hottest nightclub in the city. Inside, the lighting, the sound, and the whole décor are impressive. The capacity crowd roars its approval at every selection from the DJ, and there is occasionally live entertainment. Bars are located at either side of the dance floor and are well stocked with every drink imaginable. Whether it is Ladys Night, Dancehall Night, the Oldies Session or any of the other theme nights, you can get crazy at the Asylum.

Club Habibi
Habibi Latino Club & Restaurant
61 Knutsford Boulevard
Kingston 5
New Kingston
Tel:876-926-2285
Fax:876-929-3862

Jamaica Touristboard:

'SPICE UP YOUR NIGHT LIFE' Wednesdays to Saturdays, inside CLUB HABIBI. With four themed nights to keep you going.
Club Habibi - cultured and unique. From the smooth red walls with glowing curves, to the psychodelic laser lights that illuminate the dance floor, one can easily tell this is no regular Jamaican Club.

The Name Club Habibi which means CLUB LOVE... (Habibi being the Arabic translation for My Love the combination denotes the breakdown... Love).
The design and layout of the place says, that a pair can easily be made, or a couple may hide away. Tis' the place to meet that opposite you attract. Request your favorite song and get real close with your special someone, or just let it all out ... on the dance floor ...

Romantically lit swinging chair, cool outdoor balcony overlooking the busy hip strip, go incognito or show it all off ... where? on the dance floor
So whatever your vibe, taste or style, Club Habibi has got the right night for you....
Come alone or bring a friend, what ever you choose
We'll see you soon...
Club Habibi

The Ward Theatre
Ward Theatre Foundation
North Parade
Kingston
Tel:876-922-0453

Jamaica Touristboard:

A testament to Jamaican architecture and philanthropy, the Ward Theatre was a gift of Colonel C. J. Ward , C.M.G.,(right) to the citizens of Kingston in 1912. Its architect, Mr. Rudolph Henriques, was a noted artist whose firm Henriques and Sons was awarded the £9000 commission after winning a competition for the best proposed design.

Declared a national monument on January 7, 2000, the Theatre has a long history encompassing the nation's social, cultural and political lives. Its productions are markers of social history and it has functioned as the National Stage for the Festival Movement. The Ward is also where both the PNP and the JLP were launched on September 18, 1938 and July 8, 1943 respectively.

Located in the heart of Kingston, the Ward is the only theatre of its kind in the English-speaking Caribbean.

Redbones Blues Cafe
27 Braemar Avenue
Kingston 10
New Kingston
Tel:876-978-6091
Website

Jamaica Touristboard:

Redbones Blues/Jazz Café opened in 1996, and provides the best local and international blues/jazz entertainment while tempting you with an awe inspiring array of Southern cuisine.

Located at 21 Braemar Avenue in New Kingston, Jamaica, this former Spanish colonial residence once owned by the Webster family was converted by Jamaican architect, Evan Williams.
When visiting with us, inquire about our current art exhibition at the Redbones Gallery. You may also wish to purchase merchandise from the gift shop. On sale is a wide selection of CDs, gift items, and clothing.

Weekenz Bistro & Bar
Bar / Café
Weekenz Bistro & Bar
80 Constant Spring Road
Half Way Tree
Tel:876-755-4415

Jamaica Touristboard:

Work hard all week and enjoy Weekenz. Relax, jive, dance or just rock to the beat in our hip hangout. Relive the 70's, 80's and 90's - the decades of dance music's best beats.

The party begins on Tuesday and heightens all weekend. Don't just sit there...enjoy Weekenz.

Nightlife is not guaranteed at Montego Bay's top hotels.
In winter the restaurants and bars of the Ritz-Carlton or Half Moon have the most diverse amusements.
After dark it's sleepy at Round Hill and Tryall.

The following clubs attract mainly a crowd of 20- to 40-somethings.

Margaritaville Montego Bay Bar / Café

Margaritaville Caribbean Bar and Grill, Montego Bay
Gloucester Avenue
White Sands P.O.
Montego Bay
Tel:876-952-4777
Fax:876-979-7457
Website

Hailed as the place to party on Montego Bay’s “Hip Strip” Gloucester Avenue, Margaritaville is perfect for anyone looking for exciting entertainment, a lively atmosphere and delicious food. Opened in January 1996 by Jamaican owners Brian Jardim and Ian Dear with the aim of appealing to both visitors and the demanding local clientele, Margaritaville is now a ‘must see’ for both.

By day, patrons can enjoy international sporting events on the big screen TVs and jam to the laid back sounds of Jimmy Buffett. At night, the Ville swings to the sounds of the in-house DJ and partygoers strut their stuff on Karaoke, Latin and Pyjama Party theme nights.

The busy bar serves up a rainbow of tropically flavoured margaritas and their signature 22-ounce bongs of beer. Soups, salads, pizza and, of course, the world famous Cheeseburger in Paradise. Mouthwatering desserts like Cosmic Key Lime Pie and the Last Mango Cheesecake are a delicious finale. And our Kid's Menu is sure to satisfy even the pickiest half-pint!

Over the years, Margaritaville has entertained rappers Nelly, Busta Rhymes, Jermaine Dupree, Pdiddy and Run DMC. Big name celebrities like Dennis Hopper, Danny Glover, Joan Collins, Cindy Crawford, Tiger Woods, Uma Thurman and David Hyde Pierce all agree, Margaritaville is the most fun this side of Paradise!

Rum Jungle Bar / Café

Coral Cliff Hotel & Entertainment Resort
165 Gloucester Avenue
Montego Bay
Tel:876-952-4130
Fax:876-952-6532
Website

There’s a three part rule in Rum Jungle – See no evil; Hear no evil; Speak no evil. Just do what your instincts tell you. There is no better place in Montego Bay to experience the variety and caliber of entertainment exclusive to this heavily-themed fun den. Experience the transformation at night as the ceiling becomes the sky with stars and walls morph into a jungle scene with wild animals seemingly watching your every move.

Nightly live entertainment makes Rum Jungle a cut above the rest. From the award-winning band, JUMANJI, to a Broadway-style show “Viva Xaymaca,” and to marquee events scheduled throughout the year; nobody does entertainment better in Jamaica. Indulge in night-after-night of sizzling award-winning live entertainment. Enjoy 24-hour original cocktails and exotic food service. Over ‘100 Rums of the World’ – Try one! The bar in Rum Jungle is a sight to see in itself – with fiery displays and juggling bartenders – it’s the most extensive bar in Montego Bay and the most impressive looking, bar none!

From towering trees to waterfalls mixed to the pulsating beats of Latin and Jamaican music, Rum Jungle is an intoxicating (Jamaican) experience like no other. It’s the only entertainment venue open 24 hours with no cover charge. Rum Jungle is perfect for someone looking for a upscale entertainment with the occasional explosion of spontaneity, or even an evening enjoyment with friends. A way to explore life’s simple pleasures. Rum Jungle is the place great experiences are created. With more than 20 mermaids (waitresses) and show bartenders, the service is simply the best. Among our clients guests from Montego Bay’s best resorts and superstars from all over the world.

Jackpot Jungle Gaming Lounge

Coral Cliff Hotel & Entertainment Resort
165 Gloucester Ave
Montego Bay
Tel:876-952-4130
Fax:876-952-6532
Website

The first resort in Jamaica to standardize live world-class entertainment as part of a true gaming experience, Coral Cliff continues to lead the way by providing a safe, lively atmosphere for players of all kind. Coral Cliff’s Gaming Lounge is perfect for seasoned slot machine players who enjoy playing to win, just-for-fun players or those who might take a chance at winning their next vacation to Jamaica.

The resort’s amazing jungle décor is carried through in some of the games themselves, and sets the stage not just for winning on some the newest video and slot machines around, but for the pure enjoyment of just playing in an electric environment like no other.

Coral Cliff’s Gaming Lounge is the first and only Gaming Lounge in Jamaica to offer the latest in slot machine games and the largest jackpots. Nowhere else can you find over 120 modern slot machines in one area. Win up to US$70,000 in jackpots, play in exciting slot tournaments, try your luck on our progressive slot machines, and on interactive machines with US denominations from five cents to five dollars. It’s the only place in Jamaica that makes millionaires the old fashion way, by PURE LUCK, and with the newest games, the biggest jackpots, it’s no wonder the Gaming Lounge at Coral Cliff is Jamaica’s best gaming experience!

Chillin

Coral Cliff Hotel & Entertainment Resort
165 Gloucester Ave
Montego Bay
Tel:876-952-4130
Fax:876-952-6532

Chillin Games Room:
If there was a fun spot to hang out that was just all around COOOL – it’d probably be called, yes you guessed it – CHILLIN! Imagine a winter wonderland in tropical Jamaica! CHILLIN at Coral Cliff makes it all a reality. Ride, drive or ski as hard as you want, shoot hoops or pool AND win exciting prizes in this fun-filled fantasyland, amidst falling snow and pulsating lights and music. Our authentic ski lodge bar and various party and dining options add flavour to this really cool spot. Hey, Chill Out man!…in our exclusive hand-crafted Ice Bar – where EVERYTHING inside is made of ice – including the shot-glass filled with premium brands that you may enjoy in this truly remarkable attraction! Don’t worry, coat and gloves for your visit are provided – if they weren’t, that would be SOOO COOOOLD!

So much more than a Caribbean novelty, CHILLIN at Coral Cliff is definitely the thing to do when in Montego Bay.

Most bars want you to spend the sunset with them and provide drinks promotions or happy hours as an incentive. As the cliffs give the best view, bars along the West End tend to be livelier at dusk, with the action moving to the beach after dark. The larger places are distinctly tourist-oriented; if you want some local flavour, try the rum bars and beer shacks along Sheffield Road or West End Road near the roundabout.

Jungles is the only proper club in town, but there's also week-night dancing at the beach bars, which use their portions of sand as dance floors. DJs play dancehall or Euro-disco, and the live music usually consists of a no-name reggae band singing Bob Marley covers. Ask around to see what's on each night.

Some of the best reggae bands in Jamaica, often from Kingston and often Bob Marley wannabees, show up in Negril. Alfred's and Risky Business are both major venues for reggae performances. All establishments listed below are located on Norman Manley Boulevard unless otherwise noted

Large stageshows featuring well-known reggae artists are advertised on roadside billboards and through a car-with-megaphone system. Main venues for large shows are Roots Bamboo on the beach and MXIII in the West End. The Samsara Hotel and Central Park (both on West End Road) have occasional live events. Stageshows rarely begin before 11pm and often go on until 3 or 4am.

Margaritaville Negril Bar / Café

Margaritaville Caribbean Bar and Grill, Negril
Norman Manley Blvd.
Negril
Tel:876-957-4467
Fax:876-957-4463
negril@margaritavillecaribbean.com

Margaritaville Negril offers up some of the best fun, food and entertainment in the caribbean. Whether you party along with us during our famous "Spring Break" nights, take advantage of the fun on our giant water trampoline, laze on the 7 miles of sand and at day’s end or just enjoy a spectacular sunset. You won't be able to deny yourself any of the guilty pleasures Margaritaville Negril has to offer.

Despite its dedication to the tourist dollar, Ocho Rios is surprisingly short of good clubs and bars. Chris Blackwell's new Island Village development at the west end of town near the cruise ship pier should improve the nightlife scene with a branch of Margaritaville for alcohol-fuelled disco nights. There are a couple of clubs along James Avenue which are mostly the preserve of locals; it's best to go with a Jamaican companion, as the area can be a bit risky after dark. Otherwise, Evita's restaurant holds occasional theme nights with dancing, and if you fancy taking in a standard Caribbean-themed floorshow, try the Little Pub.

Finally, the stellar Ocho Rios Jazz Festival brings Ochi to life every June, with concerts at venues around town – for more information call the tourist board or the Jazz Hotline (tel 876/927-3544) or visit www.ochoriosjazz.com

Amnesia Disco
Above the Mutual Security building,
70 Main St.

Rough Guides

The new incarnation of the former Acropolis nightclub, with an indoor, air-conditioned dance floor and an outdoor bar area. Music policy is dancehall, R&B, hip-hop and dance; and entrance is J$200. Closed Monday and Tuesday.

Bibibips
93 Main St.

Rough Guides

Laid-back but upscale clifftop bar popular with Jamaicans. One of the best places in town.

Jamaika-Me-Krazy
Jamaica Grande.

Rough Guides

Popular in-hotel disco with good sound and lights and a happy holiday crowd taking advantage of the all-inclusive bar. Cover US$30. Closed Tuesday.

Little Pub
59 Main St.

Rough Guides

Right in the centre of Ochi and one of the town's most enduring nightspots, with football games and boxing via satellite TV in the busy bar area, and different entertainment each night in the stage/dance floor area. Details are posted on a board outside; entrance fees vary.