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Doctor's Cave Bathing Club: Montego Bay's Iconic Beach

Experience the crystal-clear waters and soft white sands of Montego Bay's legendary Doctor's Cave Bathing Club, a Jamaican treasure.

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Doctor's Cave Bathing Club is a renowned beach in Montego Bay, Jamaica, celebrated for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sands. Founded in 1906, it gained international fame in the 1920s when a British osteopath declared its waters had curative properties, attracting visitors from around the globe. Today, it remains a popular destination, offering a range of amenities and activities in a vibrant setting.

A brief summary to Doctor's Cave Bathing Club

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot on the beach, as it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
  • Rent a beach chair and umbrella for the day to maximize your comfort and relaxation.
  • Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life in the Montego Bay Marine Park.
  • Take advantage of the food and beverage options available at the beach bars and restaurants.
  • Consider visiting the nearby Rocklands Bird Sanctuary or taking a bamboo rafting tour on the Great River for a complete Montego Bay experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Doctor's Cave Bathing Club is located on Gloucester Avenue, also known as the 'Hip Strip', in the heart of Montego Bay. If you are in the vicinity of the Hip Strip, simply walk along Gloucester Avenue until you reach the well-marked entrance of the club. The entrance is pedestrian-only. Note that the walk from one end of the Hip Strip to the other is relatively short, with many shops and restaurants along the way.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Montego Bay. From most locations in Montego Bay, a taxi ride to Doctor's Cave Bathing Club is a short and convenient option. Simply ask your driver to take you to Doctor's Cave Beach on Gloucester Avenue. A typical taxi fare from downtown Montego Bay to the beach ranges from $6 to $8 USD. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey.

  • Parking

    If you are driving, note that Doctor's Cave Beach does not have its own dedicated parking area. However, paid parking is available along Gloucester Avenue. The Municipal Corporation offers parking permits, which can be purchased at the Payless Souvenir Store across from the Deja Hotel for approximately JA$150 per hour. Parking is free on Sundays and public holidays. Parking spots fill up quickly, so it's best to arrive early.

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Discover more about Doctor's Cave Bathing Club

Doctor's Cave Bathing Club, located on Montego Bay's 'Hip Strip' (Jimmy Cliff Boulevard), is one of Jamaica's most famous and historically significant beaches. In 1906, Dr. Alexander James McCatty, who originally owned the property, donated it to found a bathing club. The club got its name because access to the small beach was initially through a cave. Although a hurricane destroyed the cave in 1932, the name and the beach's popularity endured. In the early 20th century, Sir Herbert Barker, a British osteopath, visited the beach and wrote an article touting the water's healing properties. This declaration turned Doctor's Cave Beach into an overnight sensation, drawing wealthy and famous visitors seeking its supposed curative powers and spurring the development of hotels in the area. Today, Doctor's Cave Beach is part of the protected Montego Bay Marine Park, known for its diverse marine life and coral reefs. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on the pristine beach. The club provides amenities such as restrooms, showers, changing rooms, and rental services for beach chairs and umbrellas. The beach also features restaurants and bars, offering a variety of food and drink options. With its calm, clear waters and vibrant atmosphere, Doctor's Cave Beach remains a must-visit destination in Montego Bay.

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