Montego Bay Airport to Ocho Rios: How Long Is the Drive?

You booked a hotel in Ocho Rios, your flight lands in Montego Bay, and now you are wondering how far apart those two really are. The short answer: the drive runs about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours, covering roughly 67 miles (108 km) along the north coast. Here is what the trip is actually like and how to keep it easy.

How long is the drive?

Plan for around two hours from the airport to your hotel. On a clear day with light traffic you can do it in about 1 hour 45. Give it a little more time if you land in the afternoon, if it has been raining, or if you hit the busy stretch coming into Ocho Rios. We tell guests to think in terms of two hours so nobody feels rushed.

The route

You leave Sangster International (MBJ) and pick up the coastal highway heading east. The road follows the sea for most of the way and passes through Falmouth, Duncans, Rio Bueno, Discovery Bay, and Runaway Bay before you reach St. Ann's Bay and then Ocho Rios. It is one of the prettier drives on the island, so keep your camera close on the water side of the car.

What the ride is like

The highway is in good shape and mostly two lanes. You slow down through the small towns, where there are shops, fruit stands, and the odd goat by the road. The car will likely run cold, so keep a light layer handy. Our drivers make this run all the time and know the good spots to stop.

Taxi at the airport or a transfer booked ahead?

Booking a private transfer before you fly means someone is waiting with your name when you clear customs, the car seat is sorted if you need one, and the price is agreed up front. The route taxis are cheaper, but they stop often and are not built for luggage or a long ride with kids. After a full travel day, most people are glad they arranged the pickup in advance.

A few tips before you go

Have your hotel name and address ready to give your driver. If your group is large or you are bringing gear, tell us when you book so we send the right vehicle. And if your flight is delayed, we track it, so there is no need to watch the clock.

Ready to sort your ride? We run private airport transfers from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios every day. Send us your flight details and we will handle the rest.