There is a certain expectation that comes with visiting Jamaica. Tropical beaches and rum punch should help to set the scene, but it all really comes down to the country’s good vibes.
While the rest of the island lounges about on hammocks, listening to reggae with a cocktail in hand, Kingston is a sharp contrast. Not that it doesn’t have its own mellow ambiance, but it’s a bigger city and it is recognized as the cultural heart of the country.
Kingston is where the heritage, culture, and history of Jamaica all fit together. If you’re a foodie, or more importantly, a reggae-lover, this is a city you won’t want to miss.
With all that said, I found it incredibly confusing trying to figure out where to stay in Kingston. Fringed by the Caribbean, a bustling city center, and some residential outlying neighborhoods, it took me a minute to figure it all out.
But… I did it! And I’ve spilled everything I found about the best areas of Kingston in this article. So, what are you waiting or? It’s time to get scrollin’.
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Where is the Best Place to Stay in Kingston?
Not sure where to start? This is a good place: The three top recommendations of accommodations and neighborhoods to stay in Jamaica’s capital city, after all, it is one of the best places to visit in the country. You’re welcome!
Ragamuffin Hostel, New Kingston
As any true hostel should, Ragamuffin brings travelers together in a laid-back, artsy, and social atmosphere. Think colorful murals, cozy communal spaces, and an energy that makes you feel right at home.
It’s one of the only hostels in the city and has a super-friendly social atmosphere paired with the ultimate location for exploring Kingston’s nightlife and culture. It’s the best hostel in Kingston.
Modern Rustic Cabin in City Center, Barbican
I bet you didn’t think you would find a rustic cabin escape in the middle of Jamaica’s capital city. Well, this gorgeous modern cabin blends the woodsy charms of the outdoors with modern comforts. It’s a new build that offers a peaceful retreat while keeping guests close to Barbican’s best spots.
Warm wooden interiors, stylish minimalism, and a homey ambiance are just a taste of what you can expect at this greenery-surrounded home. This is one of my favorite Airbnbs in Jamaica.
4-Bed Family Home with Pool and Office, Nordbrook / Stony Hill
Tucked away in a safe residential neighborhood in Kingston, this tropical colonial-style mansion is everything you could wish for from a Caribbean home. It’s got a big pool and garden, and an interior that is easily one of the most beautiful on the island.
Each space has been carefully curated, with bespoke furnishings, local art, and tasteful decorations that bring life into every corner. Seriously, if I had to describe everything I loved in this home, we’d be here for days.
Kingston Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Kingston
New Kingston
New Kingston is the city’s bustling commercial and entertainment hub. It’s the perfect place to stay in Kingston if you haven’t visited before since it is close to most of the city’s top attractions, including the Bob Marley Museum, Emancipation Park, and the National Gallery.
Barbican
Barbican is a relaxed, upscale neighbourhood just minutes from the city centre. It’s residential, home to many of Kingston’s middle-to-upper-class locals and foreign expats.
Nordbrook / Stony Hill
Nordbrook and Stony Hill is another residential area tucked away at the base of the misty Blue Mountains. It’s a serene escape from the intensity of the city.
However you choose to spend your days, Jamaica is one of those countries that really knows how to leave an impression. There are so many incredible places to visit while traveling in this magical country.
Kingston is located in the Southeast of Jamaica and has a long history as the country’s main trading port. It is surrounded by the Caribbean and the Blue Mountains and is bursting at the seams with cultural and historical attractions.
But it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, and not every neighborhood is perfect for every traveler. Let’s unpack that:
New Kingston is perfect for first-time visitors who like a metropolitan experience with a side of modern comforts. It’s the center of the city, with high-rise hotels, sleek cafes, and the city’s only hostel. It’s well connected, home to the Emancipation Park, Bob Marley Museum, and some of the city’s best nightlife.
Photo: David Armano (Flickr)
For a more residential, laid-back vibe, Barbican is tucked away just outside the city center. It’s a neighborhood known for its upscale homes, quiet streets, and solid food scene. If you’re traveling with your family and looking for a self-catering rental or guesthouse experience that feels local but still central, you’ll find it here.
And then there’s Nordbrook / Stony Hill, the lush northern neighborhood where Kingston starts blending into the hillside. This area is green and breezy, perfect for nature lovers (and even families) who want a bit more space and fresh air. It’s a little further from the action, but if you’re into nature, hiking, or just waking up to a view, it’s unbeatable.
Kingston’s Three Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
After a lot of research, a few wrong turns, and a lot of back and forth, here are my picks when it comes to finding the best neighborhoods and accommodations in this city:
1. New Kingston – Where to Stay in Kingston for Your First Time
New Kingston is the city’s bustling commercial and entertainment hub. It’s the perfect place to stay in Kingston if you haven’t visited before since it is close to most of the city’s top attractions, including the Bob Marley Museum, Emancipation Park, and the National Gallery. Not to mention, its central location makes it easy to get into the surrounding neighborhoods, too.
New Kingston is home to many young professionals and creatives who like to be at the heart of modern city life. At night, the city lights up with vibrant bars, reggae clubs, and rooftop lounges.
S Hotel Kingston | Great Hotel in New Kingston
This hotel is one of the most popular for business travelers, but don’t let that fool you. It has plenty of character. It almost reminds me of a hotel in upscale Los Angeles, with a stunning pool terrace and a high-end restaurant.
The rooms are pricey. However, designed with comfort and sophistication at the forefront, they’re well worth the price.
Ragamuffin Hostel | Best Hostel in New Kingston
Surprisingly, Ragamuffin Hostel is one of the few hostels in the city. It’s more than just a budget-friendly place to store your bags and crash at night; it’s a lively hub of like-minded travelers in the heart of the city.
Its vibrant communal spaces and welcoming vibe make it a clear favorite for solo travelers.
1-Bed Apartment with Security and Parking | Another Top Apartment in New Kingston
This one-bedroom apartment is more than just an elegant place to stay in Kingston. It’s a cozy sanctuary in the heart of the busy center. With secure surroundings and convenient parking, it’s perfect for those who value safety and accessibility.
One look at the pictures, and you’ll see how homey and relaxed the interiors are. Whether traveling solo or as a digital nomad, this spot has all the amenities of a self-service apartment and more.
Things to See and Do in New Kingston
- Visit the Bob Marley Museum and tour the legendary musician’s home
- Spend a morning under the trees at Emancipation Park or at the National Heroes Park
- Join a Stories of Jamaican Music Tour.
- Explore the Devon House and try its famous ice cream
- Join a walking tour to learn about the city’s colonial past
- Admire the contemporary art and artifacts at the National Gallery of Jamaica’s uptown exhibits
- Take photographs of the city’s unique street art and graffiti murals
- Experience the vibrant nightlife at a reggae club
- Take a day trip to the Port Royal ruins, a nearby town that was once a haven for pirates
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Barbican – Best Neighborhood in Kingston for Families to Stay In
Barbican is a relaxed, upscale neighborhood just minutes from the city center. It’s residential, home to many of Kingston’s middle-to-upper-class locals and foreign expats. Accommodations here range from stylish condos to rustic cabins and hotels.
I’ll always recommend Barbican as the best place for families to stay in Kingston, mainly because it feels so safe and secure. It’s less busy but has as much of a local feel as the city center. Barbican is known for its farmer’s markets and easy access to outdoor spaces. It’s not far from the Hope Botanical Gardens and is a good starting point for exploring the Blue Mountains.
The Bellagio Gateway | Best Hotel in Barbican
The Bellagio Gateway is one of those spots that exudes Caribbean charm. While modern and practical, it feels more like you’re staying in a family home than a hotel.
While the interiors are homey and inviting, the location is particularly special. It’s just off the main road in Barbican, close to public transport, and within walking distance of the Bob Marley Museum.
Modern Rustic Cabin in City Center | Best Cabin in Barbican
You wouldn’t expect to find a rustic cabin in the heart of Jamaica’s biggest city, but the City Nirvana Cabin is here to prove you wrong. It’s tucked away in a quiet jungle garden that you would never believe is in a city at all.
The space is modern, rustic, and warm, with soft lighting and a minimalistic yet homey aesthetic. If you’re looking for a quiet escape without sacrificing urban convenience, this could be the best vacation rental in Jamaica.
Spacious 1-Bed Apartment with Pool Access | Budget-friendly Apartment in Barbican
This bright and airy one-bedroom apartment proves that traveling on a budget doesn’t mean skimping on boring accommodation. With a spacious layout, stylish decor, and access to a refreshing swimming pool, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day exploring Kingston.
Plus, its epic central location and low price point sure don’t hurt!
Things to See and Do in Barbican
- Tour the Peter Tosh Museum and learn about another reggae legend
- Spend a day strolling around the Hope Botanical Gardens to see exotic tropical plants
- Stroll through the UWI Mona Campus and admire the historical architecture
- Taste your way through a farmer’s market
- Visit one of the many artisanal markets to buy souvenirs of handmade crafts and local arts
- Take a day trip to the Bob Marley Mausoleum and Nine Mile Town
3. Nordbrook / Stony Hill – Best Area in Kingston For Nature
Nordbrook and Stony Hill is another residential area tucked away at the base of the misty Blue Mountains. It’s a serene escape from the intensity of the city. Technically, there are a lot of retirees and diplomats living around here, but it’s also a hotspot for nature lovers looking for a breath of fresh air and breathtaking views.
Accommodations range from family homes to apartments to B&Bs. If you love hiking, birdwatching, or simply waking up to a good view, this is the perfect place to stay in Kingston.
Orchid Cottage | Best B&B in Nordbrook / Stony Hill
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in the burbs, Orchid Cottage goes one step further than being purely residential – it feels like a secret garden retreat. It’s tucked away in a lush garden of draped moss and giant tropical leaves, with a swimming pool and al fresco dining area.
The home itself is simple yet comfortable, with a kitchenette and spacious living area perfectly suited for two guests.
4-Bed Family Home with Pool and Office | Best Family-Friendly Home in Nordbrook / Stony Hill
One look at this stunning family home, and I can already feel the Caribbean vibes. It’s spacious, stylish, and designed for a family or group of friends. The sparkling pool and huge garden immediately grabbed my attention, but it’s the extras that really set this spot above the rest.
It has a dedicated workspace for those who need to sneak in a little work. It also has an open-plan living area – it is so beautifully designed that it could easily appear in an interior design magazine.
1-Bed Apartment with Balcony | Best Apartment in Nordbrook / Stony Hill
This one-bedroom apartment in the suburbs kind of feels like somewhere you might rent in a major U.S. city. And sometimes, isn’t that all we want? A bit of luxury and familiarity? It’s simple and charming, and the show stopper is no doubt the private balcony – perfect for morning coffee or a sunset cocktail.
You’ll appreciate the modern interiors and tranquil setting that feels worlds away from this Kingston neighborhood’s bustle.
Things to See and Do in Nordbrook / Stony Hill
- Join a coffee-tasting tour in the hills to sample Jamaica’s famous Blue Mountain coffee
- Spend a morning hiking through the Blue Mountains National Park before the midday sun hits
- Go horse riding at the nearby equestrian center
- Hike to the top of Strawberry Hill for panoramic views of Kingston
- Explore Holywell National Park
- Visit the 19th-century Craighton Estate to taste local coffee
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Where to Stay in Kingston
Got burning questions but no time to read the full article? I’ve got your back. Here are some frequently asked questions about the different accommodation options and places to stay in Jamaica’s capital city:
What To Pack For Kingston
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kingston
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Kingston.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Kingston
Deciding where to stay in Kingston all comes down to the type of experience you want. New Kingston is the best part of the city for nightlife and shopping. Barbican offers a quieter, more residential area with a mix of culture and nature. There are some lovely places to stay around here, my top pick being The Bellagio Gateway.
Further north, Nordbrook and Stony Hill are the most serene areas for travelers who prioritize nature over cityscapes. Tucked away at the foot of the mountains, this area is a great jumping-off point for those wanting to explore the national parks around the city. Check out the Orchid Cottage, for example.
Kingston’s energy, music, and good vibes will leave a lasting impression on any traveler, no matter where you stay.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Kingston.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Jamaica instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Jamaica to plan your trip.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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