Surrey County, Jamaica Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of Surrey County, Jamaica – a perfect blend of mountains, beaches, and urban excitement.

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Surrey County

Surrey County in Jamaica is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the eastern end of the island, this region is home to some of Jamaica's most stunning landscapes, including the majestic Blue Mountains and pristine beaches. The county's lush greenery and diverse ecosystems make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. In addition to its natural wonders, Surrey County boasts a rich cultural heritage. Kingston, the capital city of Jamaica, is part of this county and serves as a cultural hub. Here, you can explore the Bob Marley Museum, the National Gallery of Jamaica, and the historic Devon House. The lively street markets and local eateries offer a taste of authentic Jamaican cuisine and hospitality. Surrey County also offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking, bird watching, and coffee tours in the Blue Mountains provide a unique way to experience the region's natural beauty. The coastal areas offer excellent spots for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach. No matter what your interests are, Surrey County has something to offer every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Surrey County.

Visit the Blue Mountains early in the morning for the clearest views and best hiking conditions.
Take a guided tour of the Bob Marley Museum to fully appreciate the life and legacy of the reggae legend.
Try the local Blue Mountain coffee, considered some of the best in the world.
Explore the local markets in Kingston for unique souvenirs and authentic Jamaican cuisine.
If you're visiting during the summer, check out the Reggae Sumfest, a major music festival celebrating Jamaica's vibrant music scene.

Top City Travel Guides in Surrey County

The cities of Surrey County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Port Antonio

Portmore

Kingston

Explore Surrey County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Surrey County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Club Kingston - VIP Airport Lounge / VIP Attractions

Experience luxury and relaxation at Club Kingston, the premier VIP airport lounge at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica.

4.4

Best landmarks in Surrey County

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Rose Hall Great House

Discover the rich history and stunning views of Rose Hall Great House, a captivating Georgian mansion steeped in Jamaican lore and elegance.

4.5

Rio-Grande River

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Rio Grande River in Port Antonio, Jamaica—a haven for adventure and relaxation amidst stunning natural landscapes.

4.5

The World Famous Dunn's River Falls & Park

Experience Jamaica's iconic Dunn's River Falls: Climb the living waterfall, explore lush gardens, and bask on the beautiful beachfront near Ocho Rios.

4.6

Blue Mountain Peak

Hike Jamaica's highest peak, witness stunning sunrises, and explore the unique biodiversity of the Blue Mountains.

4.6

Best restaurants in Surrey County

Top-rated picks

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Gloria's

Experience authentic Jamaican seafood at Gloria's in Port Royal - where fresh flavors meet rich cultural history.

3.9

South Avenue Grill

Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine at South Avenue Grill in Kingston - a culinary delight with an extensive menu for all tastes.

4.2

Gloria's Seafood City

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaica at Gloria's Seafood City – where fresh seafood meets traditional culinary artistry.

3.6

CRU Bar and Kitchen

Experience delicious Jamaican grill cuisine at CRU Bar and Kitchen in New Kingston – where great food meets vibrant atmosphere.

4.0

Best bars in Surrey County

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CRU Bar and Kitchen

Experience the vibrant flavors of Jamaican cuisine at CRU Bar and Kitchen, a must-visit grill in Kingston for food lovers and tourists alike.

4.0

The Pub Bar and Grill

Experience Kingston’s vibrant dining scene at The Pub Bar and Grill, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for unforgettable nights.

3.7

Janga's Soundbar & Grill

Discover the taste of Jamaica at Janga's Soundbar & Grill, where vibrant atmosphere meets delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks.

4.2

Uncorked!

Explore Uncorked! in Kingston for an unforgettable culinary journey through fine cheeses and exquisite wines, a true gem for food enthusiasts.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Surrey County

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Kingston Dub Club

Discover the heart of reggae at Kingston Dub Club, where vibrant music meets stunning views in Jamaica's lively capital.

4.6

Go Go Club

Discover the heartbeat of Portmore's nightlife at Go Go Club – where music, dance, and local culture collide for an unforgettable experience.

3.7

420 hookah lounge

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of 420 Hookah Lounge, where unforgettable nights in Kingston come alive with music, friends, and flavorful hookah.

4.2

Klub Ova-Dose

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Klub Ova-Dose, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await in Portmore, Jamaica.

3.8

Best shops in Surrey County

Top-rated picks

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Sovereign Centre

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Sovereign Centre, where unique Jamaican crafts, diverse dining options, and entertainment await.

4.2

Bijoux

Bijoux in Kingston offers exquisite handcrafted jewelry reflecting Jamaica's vibrant culture, perfect for memorable souvenirs and unique gifts.

4.4

CARBY'S SOUVENIR DISCOUNT CENTRE & CRAFT VILLAGE

Explore Carby's Souvenir Discount Centre & Craft Village for authentic Jamaican crafts and unique souvenirs in Kingston, a true cultural treasure.

4.2

Kingston Craft Market

Discover unique handcrafted treasures and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture at Kingston Craft Market, the heart of Jamaican artistry.

4.1

Explore Surrey County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Surrey County, mapped for you.

Surrey County Essentials

Surrey County is located in the eastern part of Jamaica. The main gateway to Surrey County is Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car to explore the county. Alternatively, you can arrive via the Port of Kingston if you're traveling by cruise ship. Domestic flights and buses also connect Kingston to other parts of Jamaica.
Transportation within Surrey County includes taxis, buses, and rental cars. Route taxis (shared taxis) are a cost-effective way to travel between towns and cities. Public buses are available but can be crowded and less frequent. Car rentals provide the most flexibility for exploring at your own pace. Always use licensed taxis and agree on the fare beforehand.
The official currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (JMD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are readily available in Kingston and other major towns. It's best to withdraw sufficient cash to cover expenses in rural areas where ATMs might be scarce.
Surrey County is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Areas like Downtown Kingston have higher crime rates, so avoid walking alone at night and stay in well-populated areas. Keep your belongings secure, be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid displaying valuables. Stick to reputable accommodations and use only licensed taxis or transportation services.
In case of emergency, dial 119 for police and 110 for medical assistance. Major hospitals in Kingston include Kingston Public Hospital and University Hospital of the West Indies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of your country's embassy or consulate in Kingston.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove hats and sunglasses when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people warmly with a handshake or a friendly nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Surrey County like a local, visit the bustling Coronation Market in Kingston for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about Jamaica's history and culture. Don't miss visiting cultural landmarks such as the Bob Marley Museum and Port Royal. For a unique experience, attend a local reggae concert or a street dance event.

When is the best time to visit Surrey County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Surrey County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Surrey County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloWah Gwan
  [Wah Gwan]
- GoodbyeLikkle more
  [Likkle more]
- YesYea
  [Yea]
- NoNuh
  [Nuh]
- Please/You’re welcomeNo problem
  [No problem]
- Thank youTank yuh
  [Tank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorryScuse mi
  [Scuse mi]
- How are you?How yuh do?
  [How yuh do?]
- Fine. And you?Mi deh yah. An yuh?
  [Mi deh yah. An yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [Yuh speak English?]
- I don't understandMi nuh undastand
  [Mi nuh undastand]
- I’d like to see the menu, pleaseMi wud like fi si di menu, please
  [Mi wud like fi si di menu, please]
- I don't eat meatMi nuh eat meat
  [Mi nuh eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi wud like fi pay, please
  [Mi wud like fi pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Gweh!
  [Gweh!]
- Call the Police!Call di Police!
  [Call di Police!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a doctor!]
- I’m lostMi lost
  [Mi lost]
- I’m illMi sick
  [Mi sick]
- I’d like to buy...Mi wud like fi buy...
  [Mi wud like fi buy...]
- I’m just lookingMi jus a look
  [Mi jus a look]
- How much is it?How much dat?
  [How much dat?]
- That’s too expensiveDat too expensive
  [Dat too expensive]
- Can you lower the price?Yuh can lower di price?
  [Yuh can lower di price?]
- What time is it?Wah time it?
  [Wah time it?]
- It’s one o’clockA one o'clock
  [A one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYestahday
  [Yestahday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [Tomorrah]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Whe di...?
  [Whe di...?]
- What's the address?Wah di address?
  [Wah di address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh can show mi (pon di map)?
  [Yuh can show mi (pon di map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wen di next (bus)?
  [Wen di next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to....)
  [A ticket (to....)]

History of Surrey County

Surrey County, one of the three counties in Jamaica, was established in 1758 during the British colonial period. Named after the English county of Surrey, this region played a pivotal role in the island's early colonial history. The British established significant plantations here, leveraging the fertile land for crops such as sugarcane, coffee, and bananas. These plantations were largely worked by enslaved Africans, whose forced labor was integral to the region's economy.
Surrey County was a crucial battleground during the Maroon Wars of the 18th century. The Maroons, descendants of escaped African slaves, established free communities in the rugged interior of the parish. They fiercely resisted British attempts to subdue them, leading to a series of conflicts known as the Maroon Wars. These wars, particularly the First Maroon War (1728-1739) and the Second Maroon War (1795-1796), were pivotal in shaping the region's history and the eventual establishment of semi-autonomous Maroon communities.
Port Royal, located at the mouth of Kingston Harbour in Surrey County, was once dubbed 'The Wickedest City on Earth'. During the late 17th century, it was a bustling hub for pirates, privateers, and merchants. Its strategic location made it a prime target for colonial powers and a haven for notorious figures such as Henry Morgan. The 1692 earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated the city, sinking much of it beneath the sea. Today, Port Royal is a captivating site for history enthusiasts, offering insights into its pirate past and colonial heritage.
Following the destruction of Port Royal, Kingston was established in 1693 as a refuge for survivors. Over time, it grew to become the capital city of Jamaica, central to the island's political, economic, and cultural life. The city’s development was shaped by the influx of various cultural influences, including African, European, and Asian, creating a rich tapestry of traditions and heritage. Kingston's historical sites, such as Devon House and the Bob Marley Museum, offer glimpses into its storied past.
The movement towards the emancipation of slaves and Jamaica's eventual independence had significant roots in Surrey County. The abolition of slavery in 1834 marked a turning point, leading to the establishment of free villages and a shift in the socio-economic landscape. Kingston became a center for political activism and the push for self-governance, culminating in Jamaica gaining independence from Britain on August 6, 1962. The National Heroes Park in Kingston commemorates key figures in the struggle for freedom and independence.
Surrey County is a vibrant cultural melting pot, reflecting the diverse heritage of Jamaica. The influence of African, European, Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern cultures is evident in the region's food, music, festivals, and daily life. Annual events such as the Kingston Carnival and the Emancipation and Independence celebrations highlight this rich cultural diversity. The county is also home to significant cultural institutions like the National Gallery of Jamaica and the Institute of Jamaica, which preserve and promote the island's artistic and historical legacy.