Set along Montego Bay’s famous Hip Strip stretch along Gloucester Avenue, Doctor’s Cave Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Jamaica’s west coast. A jumping-off point to the pristine 15-acre (6-hectare) Montego Bay Marine Park, the beach offers easy and direct access to fun water-based activities.
You can experience Doctor’s Cave Beach as part of a private or group half-day, full-day, or multi-day tour, some of which include sightseeing, shopping, a meal along the Hip Strip, or even a scuba diving excursion. The welcoming beach accommodates all travelers, from relaxing sunbathers to active adventurers. Zoom around on a Jet Ski, take flight on a parasail, cruise in a glass-bottom boat, swim in the warm turquoise water, or simply laze about on the sandy beach with a pina colada in hand. An on-site rental center offers umbrellas, beach chairs, and snorkel gear. When you’re feeling hungry, take a few steps to the beachside Sand Restaurant and Bar.
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Doctor’s Cave Beach is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families.
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Admission includes access to some of the best reef snorkeling on the west coast. Rent gear or bring your own.
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Remember to bring sun protection.
Doctor’s Cave Beach is located on Gloucester Avenue, along the stretch known as the Hip Strip. It’s about a 5-minute drive north of the center of Montego Bay.
The beach and its facilities are open daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm. Generally the peak times—and crowds—are mornings and afternoons during the high-season winter months. Arrive early to rent a small hut, as they go fast.
Though the cave no longer exists—a hurricane washed it away in 1932—the legend of the doctor remains. In the 1920s, noted British osteopath Sir Herbert Barker was so inspired by the curative powers of the waters here that he published a paper claiming that they restored him to good health and hold the potential to cure several ailments.
Yes, there is an entry fee for Doctor’s Cave Beach: Admission for adults is around US$8, while kids under 12 are half the adult price. Entry is included in the cost of some tours, but check ahead with your operator to be sure.
Amenities at Doctor’s Cave Beach include changing rooms with individual shower stalls, restrooms, and an outdoor shower station for rinsing off. There are several cafés and restaurants selling drinks and snacks.
Yes, Doctor’s Cave Beach has an on-site rental office where beach equipment is available. Items for rent include parasols, beach chairs, and snorkeling equipment.
Yes, there are water sports available at Doctor’s Cave Beach—popular options include Jet Ski rides, parasailing experiences, and glass-bottom boat cruises. You can also rent snorkeling equipment to see an abundance of tropical marine life.
Absolutely, Doctor’s Cave Beach is a great place to bring children. Plenty of families come here to enjoy the calm waters and excellent facilities. There are lifeguards on duty at all times and it’s a welcoming place for guests of all ages.
Yes, there are lots of attractions close to Doctor’s Cave Beach. Many tours combine a visit to the beach with shopping on the Hip Strip, drinks at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, or a stop at Cornwall Bay.
