Runaway Bay is a small resort town on Jamaica’s northern coast, nestled between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. It’s less commercial than its neighbors, but that’s exactly its charm.
If you’re looking for a place where you can snorkel over coral reefs in the morning and sip rum on the beach by sunset — all without rush or crowd, this is your place.
Soft, powdery white sand and clear waters — one of Jamaica’s most relaxing beaches
Calm surf makes it perfect for swimming and floating
Often uncrowded, even during peak season
Just offshore lies a stunning coral reef, perfect for snorkeling or diving
Colorful fish, sea fans, and calm waters make it beginner-friendly
Local dive shops offer equipment and guided reef tours
A 1,500-meter network of limestone caves with underground lakes and eerie beauty
Historically used by Arawaks, Spanish soldiers, and even rum smugglers
Great for a cool escape and local legend
Just an hour away, visit the village where Bob Marley was born and buried
See his childhood home, resting place, and hear stories from Rastas who knew him
A must for music and culture lovers
Local tours offer rides through tropical trails and into the sea
A romantic or adventurous way to connect with Jamaica’s nature
The food is fresh, flavorful, and deeply Jamaican:
Sharkies Seafood Restaurant: Right on the beach — grilled lobster, conch soup, and ocean breeze
Flavours Beach Bar & Restaurant: Local dishes like jerk pork, curry goat, and escovitch fish
Ultimate Jerk Centre: Quick, tasty, and spicy — a roadside legend
Runaway Bay has something for everyone:
Luxury: Bahia Principe Grand, Jewel Paradise Cove (adult-only)
Mid-range: Cardiff Hotel & Spa
Budget: Guesthouses and charming villas near Salem or Discovery Bay
December to April: Dry, sunny, and perfect for the beach
May to November: Quieter, more affordable, and still beautiful — with occasional tropical showers
1 hr from Montego Bay Airport (MBJ)
1.5 hrs from Kingston Airport (KIN)
Private transfers or taxis make it a smooth journey
Couples – Quiet beaches, romantic walks, and cozy resorts
Families – Safe swimming, shallow water, and kid-friendly activities
Divers & snorkelers – Excellent reefs just offshore
Travelers avoiding crowds – A peaceful alternative to Ocho Rios or Montego Bay
Music lovers – Easy day trip to Bob Marley’s legacy
Runaway Bay is Jamaica’s best-kept low-key beach secret.
With its natural beauty, relaxed pace, and nearby cultural gems, it offers the perfect blend of rest and discovery. Come here to slow down, dive in, and soak up authentic island calm.