Booby Cay Island
Negril, Jamaica
A small, uninhabited island off the northern coast of Jamaica near Negril, Booby Cay Island is named after the booby birds that live and nest there. Known for its white sand beach and clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, the island is a popular day-trip destination.
The basics
It’s easy to visit Booby Cay Island on a boat tour, with the option of a glass-bottom boat, from Seven Mile Beach, with most tours lasting from a couple of hours to a half day. Some tours include snorkeling gear, plus freshly grilled seafood and drinks, while some combine Booby Cay Island with other area attractions, such as Seven Mile Beach, Margaritaville, or Rick’s Cafe. It’s also possible to visit the island independently by kayaking or paddleboarding over, or chartering a private boat.
Things to know before you go
Booby Cay Island is ideal for nature lovers, beach and water enthusiasts, and families.
There are limited amenities on the island, so bring everything you might need, including a swimsuit, sun protection, towels, bug spray, water, and snacks.
There are usually locals grilling fresh lobster and fish on the beach and vendors selling drinks and other refreshments.
How to get there
Booby Cay Island is located off the northern coast of Jamaica, near Negril. Most boat tours depart from Seven Mile Beach. Some tours also include hotel transfers from Negril, or other cities such as Montego Bay. It’s also possible to kayak or paddleboard over to the island from Seven Mile Beach.
When to get there
Booby Cay Island is open 24 hours a day and can be visited year-round. High season in Jamaica runs from January to March, while hurricane season runs from June to November. To enjoy fresh lobster from one of the local grills on the island, avoid visiting from April to June, which is the closed season for lobster fishing.
Seven Mile Beach
Considered one of the best beaches in Jamaica (and indeed the world), Seven Mile Beach offers miles of white sand, clear waters, and swaying palm trees. It also hosts just about every kind of water sport, including snorkeling, water skiing, jet-skiing, parasailing, kayaking, boating, and horseback riding, along with a wide assortment of beachside bars and restaurants.
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