Walter Fletcher Beach is 15 minutes’ walk from downtown Montego Bay. The beach’s calm, bright blue water is perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Coral formations come right up the shoreline and are home to a variety of marine life including lionfish and turtles. Rent or buy snorkeling equipment from shops at the edge of the beach.

The beach is extremely popular with both locals and tourists. Come early to get a prime position on the sand and to rent snorkeling gear. In summer, the atmosphere is often lively, with music and lots of people.

Walter Fletcher Beach is also an excellent spot for families. Kids will love the Aquasol Theme Park, which is situated just on the edge of the beach and offers go-kart racing, jet-skiing and tennis, among other activities.

Take the short walk across the road from the beach to the Old Fort. This area was originally Fort Montego, used by British troops to protect Montego Bay from sea invasions. Today, a few old cannons remain, but the main attraction is the Old Fort crafts market. Local weavers and garment makers set up stalls throughout this park and down Fort Street street, selling colourful clothes, bags and more. Pick up a woven basket, a tie-dyed T-shirt, or shell jewellery. This area also provides a nice break from sun bathing and watersports.

Walter Fletcher Beach is open every day and is patrolled by lifeguards. There is a small admission price. For lunch, try Gloucester Avenue’s restaurants, which serve traditional Jamaican cuisine, or seek out one of the street vendors along the edge of the beach, where there are also shaded picnic tables.