Jamaica – Parishes, Cities, Culture, Travel & Local Guide

Overview of Jamaica

Jamaica is located south of Cuba and west of Haiti in the Caribbean Sea. The island features a tropical climate, with coastal plains, limestone plateaus, and the Blue Mountains, which include the highest peak, Blue Mountain Peak. Jamaica’s economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, mining, and services, while its culture continues to influence the world through reggae music, cuisine, and athletics.

About Jamaica

Jamaica is an island country in the Caribbean Sea, located about 145 kilometres (90 miles) south of Cuba and 191 kilometres (119 miles) west of Hispaniola.

The island was originally inhabited by the indigenous Arawak and Taíno people, who called it Xaymaca, meaning the “Land of Wood and Water.” Christopher Columbus arrived in 1494, and Jamaica later came under Spanish rule.

In 1655, England took control of the island from Spain. Under British rule, Jamaica became a major sugar-producing colony, relying heavily on enslaved Africans. Slavery was abolished in 1838, and Jamaica gained independence on August 6, 1962.

Today, Jamaica is divided into 14 parishes, grouped into Cornwall, Middlesex, and Surrey.

Parishes of Jamaica

• Kingston – The capital city of Jamaica and the country’s main business, cultural, and administrative center.
• Saint Andrew – A major urban parish surrounding Kingston, known for residential communities, businesses, and the Blue Mountains.
• Saint James – Home to Montego Bay, one of Jamaica’s top tourism destinations and a major economic hub.
• Saint Ann – Known as the “Garden Parish,” featuring Ocho Rios and Dunn’s River Falls.
• Saint Catherine – One of the most populated parishes, including Spanish Town and Portmore.
• Manchester – An inland parish known for Mandeville and its cooler climate.
• Clarendon – A central parish with strong agricultural and industrial activity.
• Westmoreland – Home to Negril, famous for beaches and tourism.
• Hanover – A western coastal parish known for quiet beaches and local communities.
• Trelawny – A historic parish and birthplace of Usain Bolt.
• Portland – A scenic parish with rivers, waterfalls, and mountains.
• Saint Mary – A coastal parish known for farming and fishing communities.
• Saint Thomas – Located in eastern Jamaica with natural attractions.
• Saint Elizabeth – Known as the “breadbasket parish” for agriculture.

Jamaica Counties and Parishes

Cornwall County

• Hanover
• Saint Elizabeth
• Saint James
• Trelawny
• Westmoreland

Middlesex County

• Clarendon
• Saint Ann
• Manchester
• Saint Catherine
• Saint Mary

Surrey County

• Kingston
• Portland
• Saint Andrew
• Saint Thomas

Major Cities and Towns in Jamaica

• Kingston – The capital and cultural hub of Jamaica
• Montego Bay – A major tourism and resort city
• Spanish Town – Historic former capital
• Mandeville – A cool-climate town
• Portmore – A fast-growing urban area
• Ocho Rios – Popular tourism destination
• Negril – Known for beaches and sunsets
• Port Antonio – Scenic town in Portland

Jamaica National Symbols

• Jamaican Flag
• Jamaica Coat of Arms
• National Bird – Doctor Bird
• National Flower – Lignum Vitae
• National Tree – Blue Mahoe
• National Fruit – Ackee

Culture and Lifestyle in Jamaica

Jamaican culture is globally recognized for its music, food, and traditions. Reggae music, made famous by Bob Marley, originated in Jamaica and continues to influence global music. The island is also known for its cuisine, including jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, and patties.

Things to Do in Jamaica

• Relax on beaches in Negril, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios
• Visit Dunn’s River Falls and Blue Hole
• Explore the Blue Mountains and coffee farms
• Experience nightlife and culture in Kingston
• Discover rivers, waterfalls, and eco-tourism locations

Why Jamaica Is Important in the Caribbean

Jamaica plays a major role in the Caribbean region through its culture, economy, and global influence. Learn more about the wider region on our Caribbean countries and islands page.

Find Businesses and Services in Jamaica

Use InJamaica to explore local businesses, services, and opportunities across the island.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jamaica