Jamaica has a strong tradition of music and this is central to the nightlife with some excellent bars and clubs, popular with locals and tourists alike. Some are even world famous - drinkers have been jumping off the cliffs at Rick's Café in Negril for 30 years - but there is an excellent variety on the island, from upbeat bars in tourist towns to local bars and rum shops that come alive after dark and are where some of the most fun is to be had. There is even a bar out at sea, on a sand-bar off Treasure Beach.
In Montego Bay, the 'Hip Strip' is lined with bars and clubs among the many hotels, although Negril is probably the coolest area for bars, with several dotted along the cliffs and along the beach as well. Ocho Rios is quite spread out, and whilst there are some bars on the main street, others are in the outlying districts. Over in the capital Kingston, the nightlife caters for a mixed crowd, professional, arty, younger and older, whilst further out in the countryside, many bars double as small restaurants and snack joints serving simple grilled fish and beer.
Alfred's Ocean Palace
Norman Manley Boulevard, Negril
876-957-4669
Negril's best live music venue hosts bands every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday night on a beachside outdoor stage. A favourite with the locals, it also welcomes guests from nearby hotels for beers and dancing on the sand.
Coral Cliff
165, Gloucester Avenue, Montego Bay
876-952-4130
Located above a casino are two of the best bars in Jamaica. The Chilling Bar is a cosy tavern-style space, and above that is the jumping Rum Jungle Bar, which plays host to live reggae bands several times a week. Drinks are half price if you gamble!
Amnesia
70 Main Street, Ocho Rios
876-974-2633
Mix it up with the locals at this top nightspot, where guests party to live and DJ-spun reggae, dub, soul and R&B. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Jungle
Norman Manley Boulevard
Negril
876-957-4005
The elaborate décor at this sprawling nightspot includes potted plants, painted animals on the walls, and even a few live ones (there's a resident caged snake and also a fish pond). Steady crowds of locals and visitors flow between the two floors, where there are pool tables, a sports bar with a stage for live bands, a chill-out martini lounge and a thumping disco with DJ-spun beats and a packed dance floor. This is the place for serious party-goers, and often goes on until six in the morning.
Asylum Club
Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston
For wild nights, check out the outrageous fashions at Dancehall night each Thursday.