A popular stop for visitors, Montego Bay’s craft market stretches for several blocks along Harbour Street and lets shoppers interact with the local artisans who run the narrow network of stalls. Come to pick up handmade Jamaican crafts, including custom woodworking, colorful paintings, and beads.
There are many spots to buy crafts in Montego Bay, but the Craft Market on Harbour Street is one of the best. Here shoppers find handcrafted souvenirs including hats, musical instruments, dolls, and novelties made of leather, wood, beads, and straw. Visit independently or as part of a Montego Bay tour that often includes sightseeing and shopping highlights, in addition to sunbathing, a visit to a local reggae bar, and a stop at Richmond Hill.
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Harbour Street Craft Market is suitable for solo travelers, couples, and shoppers of all ages.
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Admission is free, but bring cash and small bills if you plan to buy something.
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There are no restaurants or bars on the street, but there are plenty of options on the nearby Hip Strip of Gloucester Avenue.
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Don’t be intimidated by aggressive vendor sales techniques. Haggling is normal, and you are not obligated to buy. Avoid hassle by not touching merchandise until you are ready to buy.
Harbour Street Craft Marketis located at the corner of Howard Cooke Highway and Harbour Street in Montego Bay, just off the Hip Strip stretch of Gloucester Avenue. If you are visiting as part of a tour, round-trip hotel transfers are usually included.
The market is open daily, 7am to 7pm. For fewer crowds, come on days when cruise ships are not docked. Early mornings tend to be less crowded.
From the craft market, it’s an easy walk to Montego Bay’s main touristic center, the Hip Strip stretch of Gloucester Avenue. From here, visitors head to sandy beaches such as Doctors Cave or Aqua Bay Beach, shop local wares, or have a cocktail and a dance at the famous, rolicking Margaritaville Bar and Restaurant.
