Kingston is the capital city of Jamaica. It’s where I was born and raised so it holds a special place in my heart. Located in the southeast region of the island, Kingston is not frequently visited by tourists. Probably because it is not known for its white sand beaches in comparison to the island’s north coast region. However, don’t overlook this cool little city quite yet. There is more to Jamaica than just its beaches and Kingston has a variety of adventure, especially for first-time visitors. If you are thinking about visiting Kingston but wondering what to do while you are there, look no further. Here is my list of things to do in Kingston that will surely make your trip one to remember:

1. Eat Escovitch Fish at Hellshire

Hellshire fish is out of this world. Seriously, a visit to Hellshire is a must. Escovitch fish is fried fish topped with pickled vinegar pepper sauce. You can eat it with festival or bammy and wash it all down with a cold Red Stripe beer.  It is not the easiest to describe because the flavor is one of a kind, one you can only experience. Make sure you visit Hellshire beach to taste the amazing flavors of escovitch fish.

Tips: There are several fish huts in Hellshire, but I recommend Aunt May. Aunt Merle’s is another good choice. There is no parking fee at Hellshire.

2. Visit Devon House and eat some Ice Cream

This historical site is the perfect spot for the entire family. Take a walk on the lovely green lawn and enjoy the stunning display of flowers and trees. Tour the Georgia-styled Great House, which was owned by Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel.

Devon House also has an assortment of boutique shops and restaurants. I always enjoy the pastries at the Brick Oven.  However, no trip to Devon House is complete without tasting its ice cream. One of my favorite memories as a child was eating delicious ice cream at Devon House. Devon House I Scream is our local brand, and one of the best ice creams I have ever had. There is a wide assortment of flavors to choose from. Popular flavors include mango, guava, rum and raisin, coffee, and of course, Devon Stout. Let me know what flavor is your favorite!

Tip: Entrance admission to Devon House is free.

3. Visit the Bob Marley Museum

Explore the former home of legend Bob Marley. Tour guides will take you around the grounds, where you will see the main house, exhibition hall, theater, record shop and gift shop. The museum showcases Bob Marley’s personal items and a photo gallery. Not only will you learn about Bob Marley, but you will also gain a little insight into Rastafarian culture. You can also sample the “ital” food at One Love Café.

4. Visit Port Royal

Travel back in time to the city of Port Royal. Once the home of the real pirates of the Caribbean, Port Royal was known as the “wickedest city on earth.” Port Royal was the largest global commercial center in the Caribbean during the 17^th Century. It was also a paradise for pirates who spent their treasure indulging in women and liquor.

The city was destroyed by an earthquake on June 7, 1692. Half the city sunk into the sea along with all the pirates’ treasure. The sunken city is impeccably preserved as it was on the day of the earthquake. Although Port Royal is now a quiet fishing village, its past is seen throughout the town. I always enjoy visiting Port Royal because it is frozen in time, making it a true historical experience.

Port Royal is located on the palisades south of Kingston.  Set aside a whole day to get the full feel of Port Royal. Drive through the village and view old buildings and structures that date back to the 17^th century. Take a tour at Fort Charles to see the former naval station, walk through the Giddy House, and learn about its history. Stop at Morgan’s Harbor (named after the buccaneer Henry Morgan) and Y-knot for a drink or two. If you are the adventurous type, go on a diving adventure to see the sunken city itself (you will need a permit). Finally, grab lunch at Gloria’s, where you can taste some of the best seafood in Jamaica.

5. Take a Boat Ride to the Cays – Lime Cay/Maiden Cay

Lime Cay and Maiden Cay are located 15 minutes from Port Royal and are both accessible by boat. You can get a round trip boat ride from Morgan’s Harbor or Y-Knot. Both Cays have amazing beaches, but Lime Cay is probably the better choice because it has trees to provide shade.

Maiden Cay does not have any trees so there is no protection from the sun. Lime Cay is the perfect getaway and is frequently visited by Kingstonians, especially on a Sunday. Plan a beach day outing to Lime Cay and make sure you pack your food and drinks.

Tips: Keep in mind these are just small strips of sand lots in the sea (cay: pronounced key – a low island or reef of sand or coral). There are no facilities, just nature. I can’t emphasize enough – take food, drinks, water, and sunscreen, and whatever else you may need with you.

If you are in Kingston during Christmas, there is usually a secret party on Maiden Cay some time between Boxing day (December 26) and New Year’s Eve. You will probably have to ask around to get the date as it is not disclosed until the day before or even the day of. This party if free, so all you have to do is show up, with your food and drinks of course.

6. Explore the Blue Mountains – Visit Strawberry Hill and Holywell

The Blue Mountains are well-known for its coffee and breathtaking views. The drive itself from Irish Town up the Blue Mountains is quite fascinating. You can feel the change in height and altitude as you travel along the narrow, winding roads further up the mountains. In fact, you will feel a change in the air itself. The clean, crisp air, beautiful scenery, and magnificent views are part of the whole experience.

There are many quaint villages in the Blue Mountains. There are also certain must-see places such as Strawberry Hill and Holywell.

Take a whole day to enjoy this Blue Mountain adventure. Stop at Blue Café for coffee and breakfast. Enjoy lunch at Strawberry Hill amidst the majestic scenery. After enjoying the rest of the day at Holywell, stop at EITS Cafe or Crystal Edge on your way back to enjoy a delicious dinner.

7. Visit Hope Gardens and Hope Zoo

Also known as the Royal Botanical Gardens, Hope Gardens is the largest botanical gardens in the Caribbean. The gardens are well known for many beautiful species of tropical flowers, plants, and trees. Make sure you stop by the lake and amphitheater, and walk through the natural maze. You can also visit the zoo, which is always a fun outing, especially if you have kids.

8. Stroll through Emancipation Park

Emancipation Park is a peaceful 7-acre oasis located in the busy district of New Kingston. It is a peaceful park and a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is lined with colorful flowers and trees which add to the beautiful scenery. Make sure you stop to view the bronze sculpture, “Redemption Song” at the entrance of the park. Created by artist Laura Facey the “Redemption Song” sculpture embodies the park’s theme – a tribute to freedom.

Emancipation Park is located near the Pegasus Hotel and the Hilton. Emancipation Park is perfect for the entire family. There are always people in the park, walking, jogging, playing ping pong, dominoes or chess, or simply enjoying the soothing ambiance.

9. Take a Drive through the City

This one speaks for itself. You can see most of Kingston by just taking a drive in the various neighborhoods, and through the streets. I recommend you use a trusted driver (see below), especially if you are not from Jamaica and not familiar with driving in Kingston. There are two reasons for this – (1) they will know how to drive and handle other drivers in Kingston (it can get a little crazy sometimes); and (2) they will know where and where not to go.

You should definitely check out the following neighborhoods: Norbrook, Cherry Gardens, Barbican, Hope Gardens, Red Hills and Jacks Hill (both Red Hills and Jacks Hill have spectacular views of the city, so try to see these areas at night). Also take a drive through New Kingston during the night, so you can stop at a few restaurants, bars, lounges, or night clubs.

Tip: If you are in Jamaica during Christmas, drive through these neighborhoods at night to see the beautiful Christmas light displays on some of the houses. Driving at night will also help you to avoid the crazy traffic during the Christmas holidays.

10. Eat Eat Eat and Party Party Party

Kingston is definitely a city of night life. If you are lucky to be in Kingston during the Christmas or early Summer holidays, then try to go to one of the all-inclusive parties, such as A-list, Utopia, or Frenchmen. Tickets for these parties go on sale early. Also, you will need a source to get tickets to Utopia or Frenchmen. If you decide you want to experience the ultra all-inclusives (Utopia or Frenchmen), or if you want more information on how or where to get tickets to other all-inclusive parties, sign up to follow my blog and post a comment to let me know.

If you are visiting during other times of the year, you can go to one of the many hot spots and night clubs. Two favorites are Mahogany Tree Bar (best on Fridays) and Fiction.

If you want something more low-key, then try any one of these lounges or bars: Usain Bolt’s Tracks and Records; Regency Bar; Cru Bar; Macau Gaming Lounge and Bar; Monte Carlo Gaming Lounge;  Friends on the Deck.

Kingston also has a variety of restaurants serving different cuisines.  One of my favorite spots is Marketplace on Constant Spring Road. Marketplace is a collection of shops and restaurants that offer outdoor dining. Some great restaurants at Marketplace include: Café da Vinci (Italian); East Japanese Restaurant (Japanese); and Saffron Indian Cuisine (Indian). Other restaurants outside of Marketplace include Tamarind (Indian) and Opa (Greek).

Of course you can’t go to Jamaica and not eat our local food! Check out Hot Pot or Patrice’s Restaurant for authentic Jamaican Cuisine. Make sure you try our national dish – ackee and saltfish. Jo Jo’s Jerk Pit and Sweetwood Jerk Joint are great spots for Jerk Chicken. You already know about Hellshire and Gloria’s for seafood. Last but not least, make sure you don’t leave without trying a Tastee beef patty!

A Few Tips

Getting There and Getting Around

Flight

You can fly into Kingston (Norman Manley airport) and arrange transportation to take you to your accommodation. If you’re flying from the U.S., your airline options include Delta, American Airlines, Jetblue, Southwest (Montego Bay only), and Spirit. You can compare airfare and book your flight here.

Transportation

If you are comfortable with driving in Jamaica, you can rent a car. Make sure you stay on the left-side of the road.

If you prefer, you can also hire a safe and reliable driver/taxi to take you around. I recommend John Powell – (876) 589-9288 or (876) 324-8088.

Accommodations

Popular hotel options in Kingston include: The Pegasus, The Hilton, Courtyard by Marriott, The Courtleigh, Terra Nova, and The Spanish Court Hotel. There is also Strawberry Hill, but that is way up on the Blue Mountains. You can compare prices and book your hotel here.

You can also rent an apartment, house, or villa depending on the size of your group and/or the length of your stay. Check out rental options and book your rental here.

Do you have a favorite spot in Kingston, Jamaica? Any suggestions I may have left out? I would love to hear about it! Follow this blog and leave a comment!

Check out my post on What to do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica!