Doctor's Cave Beach - The Best Beach in Montego Bay
When you think of Montego Bay, Doctor’s Cave Beach is usually one of the first things that come to mind. Located in the middle of Jimmy Cliff Boulevard, Montego Bay’s “HipSrip”, it has become one of the town’s treasured landmarks.
Why is it called Doctor's Cave Beach?
Doctor’s Cave beach was originally owned by Dr Alexander James McCatty who used it with his friends and medical associates until he donated it in 1906, to found a private bathing club in Montego Bay. In the early days, the beach was accessed through a cave, and benefited from an undercurrent of natural spring water which had a high mineral content.
In the 1920s, an English Osteopath, Herbert Baker, visited the beach and wrote an article highlighting the beaches healing powers, which heightened its popularity, making it a spot that was frequented by the rich and famous.
The cave was destroyed by a hurricane in 1932, but its pristine warm water and white sand beach has continued to earn the love of residents and visitors alike. Learn more about Doctor’s Cave Beach history here.
How much does it cost to go to Doctor’s Cave Beach?
The general entry fee to Doctor’s Cave Beach is US$8 (JA$1100) for adults and US$4 (JA$550) for children, or the Jamaican equivalent. (*Prices are subject to change.)
General opening hours are 8:30 am to 5:30 pm
Alternatively, you can become a member of the bathing club and access certain member benefits, which include:
- Use of the clubhouse, which includes a members’ lounge with pool table, meeting room and function space.
- Members’ private changing rooms, bathrooms and spa facilities
- Fitness centre
- Early and late beach access from 6 am to 6 pm each day and club house access from 6 am to 8 pm (General opening hours are 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.)
- 10 Complimentary guest passes for the year
- 10% off meals from the restaurants and gift shop
Membership fees are US$201 (JA$28,140) per person for the year, or US$290 (JA$46,760) for families for the year. (Subject to change) Annual subscriptions are due on the 1st of January.
Membership Applications are required and can be downloaded from their website here. The board reviews applications at their monthly board meeting, which is held on the 3rd week of the month.
Beach umbrellas are available for rent at a cost of JA$1000 (approximately US$7)
Beach chairs can also be rented at JA$1000 per chair (approximately US$7)
Where do you park for Doctor’s Cave Beach?
The entrance to the beach only allows for pedestrian traffic, but you can park anywhere along the street provided you get a parking permit to place on your vehicle dashboard. The Municipal Corporation offers parking permits which are sold at the Payless Souvenir Store across the road (by the Deja Hotel) for JA$150 per hour. (Subject to change).
Parking is free on Sundays and on public holidays.
Parking spots go fairly quickly so it’s best to try and get to the beach early!
Doctor's Cave Beach Facilities and Activities
Once you’re at the beach, you can use the well-maintained changing rooms and bathrooms, rent beach umbrellas and chairs for the day, and enjoy drinks and food from the beach bar or restaurants. Restaurants at Doctor’s Cave Beach include:
- Pier One which offers an extensive menu of Jamaican cuisine,
- DLE Café which offers many vegetarian and vegan options,
- Starbucks for your caffeine fix!
Check out the Doctor’s Cave Beach menu here.
Apart from swimming and sunbathing along the 5 mile beach, you can enjoy a range of water sports from snorkelling to sailing.
Other Local Landmarks and Attractions
Find out about more about Montego Bay and other local landmarks and attractions here.
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