There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Montego Bay into a quick city adventure. From MBJ, the Taxi can get you into town in around 50 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at MBJ:
First, verify that you can enter Jamaica — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 50 minutes into Montego Bay, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — JMD is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From MBJ, the Taxi gets you to Montego Bay in around 50 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 70 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Montego Bay, we’d suggest Doctor’s Cave Beach and Gloucester Avenue (Hip Strip). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside MBJ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Club Mobay Departure Lounge
- MBJ Duty-Free Shops
Best Bites Near MBJ
- In the city: The Houseboat Grill and Piers One are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Montego Bay.
- At the airport: Island Grill and Bambu Restaurant & Bar will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Montego Bay:
Transport to the city and back runs about $7 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $13 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $30 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Montego Bay, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near MBJ
Luggage storage is available at Not available. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Montego Bay.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MBJ should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Jamaica and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MBJ
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at MBJ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Montego Bay doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from MBJ, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.