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Top 10 Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in Jamaica You Need to Visit
Jamaica is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and incredible food, but did you know the island also boasts some amazing rooftop bars and restaurants with incredible views? Whether you're watching the sunset over the Caribbean Sea or enjoying a cocktail under the stars, these rooftops offer some of the best views and experiences you can find in the Caribbean. In this guide, we'll uncover Jamaica’s best rooftop bars and restaurants, perfect for visitors who want to experience the island from a whole new height.
1. Sky Beach Rooftop Lounge - Kingston
Why It’s Popular:
Kingston is known for its lively music scene, but the Sky Beach Rooftop Lounge brings the city's vibrant nightlife to new heights. Located on the roof of the Spanish Court Hotel, Sky Beach offers sweeping views of Kingston and Montego Bay in the distance. This trendy spot is known for its signature cocktails, live DJ sets, and stylish atmosphere, making it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for an upscale night out.
How to Get There:
Sky Beach is located in New Kingston, an easy 10-minute drive from the downtown area. The hotel offers valet parking, or you can take a short taxi ride from Emancipation Park.
Why People Miss It:
Many visitors focus on the beaches and resorts, but Sky Beach offers an experience away from the crowded coastal areas. It’s often overlooked in favor of more traditional beachfront locations, making it a hidden gem for rooftop lovers.
2. The Terrace Rooftop Bar - Montego Bay
Why It’s Popular:
Set atop the Holiday Inn Resort in Montego Bay, The Terrace Rooftop Bar offers a panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea. Known for its chilled-out vibes and live reggae music, it’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring the island. The bar serves locally inspired cocktails and fresh seafood, with stunning sunset views over the bay.
How to Get There:
The Terrace Rooftop Bar is located on the Holiday Inn Resort property on Rose Hall Road, just a short drive from Montego Bay's Hip Strip and the Sangster International Airport.
Why People Miss It:
This bar is tucked away at a resort, so many visitors who are not staying there miss out on this relaxing rooftop experience. It’s not as heavily marketed as other spots in MoBay, making it a great secret for those seeking a more peaceful, intimate rooftop.
3. The Roof Top Bar - Negril
Why It’s Popular:
Located in Negril, one of Jamaica’s most popular tourist towns, The Roof Top Bar is perched above the Firefly Beach Cottage and offers an intimate, relaxed setting. Known for its chilled vibe, it’s perfect for anyone looking to unwind with a drink while watching the sunset. With a menu that features both Caribbean cocktails and local food favorites, it’s one of Negril’s best-kept secrets.
How to Get There:
It’s located in Negril, just a short walk or taxi ride from the famous Seven Mile Beach. The bar is nestled above the Firefly Beach Cottage, offering a quieter, more local vibe compared to the more tourist-heavy beachfront bars.
Why People Miss It:
While Negril is famous for its beaches, this rooftop bar is tucked away in a less crowded area. Many tourists opt for beachfront bars and miss out on this peaceful, picturesque spot.
4. The Rooftop at Spanish Court Hotel - Kingston
Why It’s Popular:
In the heart of Kingston, the rooftop at Spanish Court Hotel is a hidden oasis with breathtaking views of the city. The bar offers a casual yet stylish atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a cocktail while gazing at Kingston’s city lights and the distant mountains. The rooftop pool adds to the appeal, making it a great spot for a daytime dip and evening drinks.
How to Get There:
Located in New Kingston, just a few blocks from Emancipation Park and Kingston’s business district, it’s easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
Why People Miss It:
Many people overlook the Spanish Court Hotel when they think of Kingston’s nightlife, but it offers one of the most tranquil and scenic rooftop experiences in the city.
5. Jojo's Jerk Pit & Seafood - Ocho Rios
Why It’s Popular:
For a unique Jamaican dining experience, head to Jojo's Jerk Pit & Seafood in Ocho Rios. This rooftop spot combines the best of Jamaican flavors with incredible views of the coastline. Guests can enjoy traditional jerk chicken or fresh seafood while sipping on rum-based cocktails. The rooftop offers a laid-back atmosphere with panoramic views of Ocho Rios Bay.
How to Get There:
Located near Ocho Rios, Jojo's is just a short drive from Dunn’s River Falls and the Ocho Rios Cruise Port. It’s easy to access via taxis or rental cars.
Why People Miss It:
Though Ocho Rios is a well-known resort town, Jojo's is not as commercialized as some of the other tourist spots, making it a hidden gem for those who enjoy authentic local cuisine and stunning views.
6. Rooftop Bar at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel - Kingston
Why It’s Popular:
The rooftop at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston is known for its relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, offering a perfect mix of modern luxury and local charm. The bar offers excellent cocktails and a full menu of local dishes, all served with a view of Kingston’s cityscape and the nearby Blue Mountains. It’s a favorite spot for business travelers and locals alike.
How to Get There:
Located on Knutsford Boulevard in New Kingston, it’s easily accessible by taxi from anywhere in the city.
Why People Miss It:
While Kingston has many rooftop venues, the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel often flies under the radar for tourists who are focused on more heavily marketed bars. But it’s perfect for those looking for an upscale experience without the crowds.
7. Roots Bamboo - Negril
Why It’s Popular:
For a casual, rustic rooftop experience with a local Jamaican feel, Roots Bamboo in Negril is a must-visit. This bar offers views of Negril Beach and the Caribbean Sea, while live reggae music fills the air. The relaxed setting and great cocktails make it a favorite among both tourists and locals looking for a laid-back vibe.
How to Get There:
Located directly on Seven Mile Beach, Roots Bamboo is easily accessible by foot from anywhere along the strip, or a short taxi ride from other parts of Negril.
Why People Miss It:
While Negril is known for its beach bars, Roots Bamboo offers a more chilled-out atmosphere compared to the party-heavy spots, so it’s often missed by people looking for a more active nightlife scene.
8. The Deck at The Jamaica Inn - Ocho Rios
Why It’s Popular:
For those looking for a luxurious and private rooftop experience, The Deck at The Jamaica Inn offers just that. With views of the blue waters of Ocho Rios, this intimate and upscale setting provides a relaxing escape. Perfect for couples or anyone seeking a more refined, quiet place to enjoy delicious cocktails and tapas.
How to Get There:
The Jamaica Inn is located just outside of Ocho Rios, near Tower Isle. The hotel provides a shuttle service from the town center or can be reached via taxi.
Why People Miss It:
Many tourists focus on the more crowded beaches and resorts, missing the serenity and luxury of The Deck, which is tucked away in a quieter part of Ocho Rios.
9. The Rooftop Bar at The Grand Palladium - Lucea
Why It’s Popular:
Situated in Lucea, this all-inclusive resort has a stunning rooftop bar with a relaxed atmosphere and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. The rooftop serves local cocktails and tapas-style dishes, making it an ideal spot for a sunset cocktail while enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the resort.
How to Get There:
The Grand Palladium is located just a short drive from Montego Bay or Negril, and it’s easily accessible by taxi or rental car.
Why People Miss It:
While many tourists head straight for the beaches or famous resort towns like Montego Bay, the Grand Palladium offers an elevated and less crowded alternative, often overlooked by those visiting other parts of Jamaica.
10. Pier 1 - Montego Bay
Why It’s Popular:
Pier 1 is located on a pier in Montego Bay, with one of the most iconic views in the area. Although it's not a traditional rooftop, it gives the feeling of being on top of the water. The venue offers a wide range of Caribbean dishes and cocktails, and is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and views of the Caribbean Sea.
How to Get There:
Pier 1 is located just a few minutes from Montego Bay’s Hip Strip. It's easily accessible by taxi or walking from Doctor's Cave Beach.
Why People Miss It:
Though popular with locals, Pier 1 is often missed by tourists who focus on larger resorts or beachfront bars. The unique pier setting makes it a memorable spot for anyone looking to enjoy the sea breeze and vibrant nightlife.
Conclusion:
Jamaica is home to some of the most beautiful rooftop bars and restaurants in the Caribbean, offering everything from upscale experiences with panoramic views to more laid-back spots with authentic local flavors. Whether you're in Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, or Negril, these rooftops provide perfect places to enjoy a sunset, sip on a cocktail, and experience the island's unique atmosphere.
