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Luxury Villa Rentals for 2+ people
Tucked between Ocho Rios and St. Ann’s Bay, Old Fort Bay is a gated community known for its beautiful landscapes. The beaches here are serene and quiet, and the surrounding hills are thick and verdant. This perfect location is a big reason why Old Fort Bay villas are some of the very best stays in Jamaica.
The name “Old Fort Bay” harkens to its 17th-century origins, where the Spanish built a large fort. By the mid-20th century, it became a coveted refuge for Jamaica’s wealthiest families.
Since that time, Old Fort Bay has managed to keep its residential and authentic atmosphere. You won’t find large-scale resorts or tourist traps here. Old Fort Bay is all about beauty and privacy, and it carries this legacy to this day.
Rental Escapes makes renting a luxury villa in Old Fort Bay easy. First, choose your travel dates. Next, select your party size. From there, your Rental Escapes Villa Specialist will happily present you with the best available Old Fort Bay villas for your group. After, your Concierge customizes your trip, including transportation, chef service, excursions, boat charters, and more.
With colonial architecture, wide lawns, and ocean views, villas at Old Fort Bay embody what makes Jamaica so special.
Old Fort Bay villas can be found all across the community, including by the Club Area, where the most classic homes can be found; hilltop in the Ridge, overlooking the sea; in the Palms section, with its tropical landscaping; and over by the Bay, with its luxury waterfront homes.
No matter where you stay, expect old-world elegance mixed with modern amenities. You can also expect your villa to be fully-staffed, including a chef, waiters, maids, and more.
With stunning architecture and a privileged location, luxury Old Fort Bay villas make for an ideal Jamaican getaway. They include:
Reverie: Set across an acre of land, Reverie offers a Zen-like experience both inside and out. There are multiple water features, a calm aesthetic, lush tropical landscaping, a private gym, and more. Plus, it’s just three minutes from the beach.
Sea Salt at Old Fort Bay: Located directly on Old Fort Bay’s soft sands, Sea Salt is a beach lover’s paradise. It’s full of authentic Jamaican artisan work and relaxing little touches, including an atrium surrounded by shallow water, a tennis court, and a full gym. Combined with the full staff, you have the ultimate place to relax and hang out with friends and family.
Villa Lido: Also directly on the beach, Villa Lido is a recently renovated masterpiece that combines a modern design with warm, natural materials. Walls of glass open up to expansive ocean views and two large verandas. Take a dip in the pool, relax on the Baja ledge, walk along the sandy beach, or enjoy a game of pickleball. It’s all on offer here.
You must present a valid passport to enter Jamaica. If you’re traveling from outside the US, Canada, or Europe, then you may need to present an additional tourist visa.
Most travelers will fly into Montego Bay. From there, it’s a 75-minute drive along the scenic north coast highway.
Your Concierge can arrange airport transfers, rental cars, and any other transportation needs.
Old Fort Bay is very walkable, so you can get around on foot or by golf cart. Most villas include golf carts, and your Concierge can arrange additional golf carts if needed.
If you want to explore beyond Old Fort Bay, then your best bet is a taxi or private driver. Drivers know the area well and can double as tour guides, taking you to attractions around Ocho Rios.
While you can also rent a car, driving in Jamaica can be tricky, and the roads are narrow and busy.
Your Concierge can arrange private drivers, taxis, rental cars, and more.
Peak season is from mid-December to mid-April. The weather is perfect and the energy is lively, but still private. Be sure to book early if you want to visit at this time.
Shoulder season is from late April to June and November to mid-December. The weather is still great, but the island slows down. For many, this is the best time to go.
Off season is from July to October. The humidity is higher, and there’s a higher chance of rain, especially in the afternoon. That said, this is also when you’ll find the best deals on Old Fort Bay villas.
Yes, Old Fort Bay is one of the safest places to stay in Jamaica. It’s a gated community with 24-hour security, and access is strictly controlled. There’s also a community feel, and you’re close to Ocho Rios in case you need assistance.
Relax at Old Fort Bay Beach: With powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and no crowds, Old Fort Bay is home to one of Jamaica’s best beaches. Your villa staff can set up beach chairs, umbrellas, and even a small picnic.
Enjoy water sports: Kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling can all be arranged by your villa staff or Concierge. The calm waters make water sports here especially good for families.
Take a boat charter: From sunset cruises to snorkeling hidden coves, a boat charter will let you enjoy more of the coast. Ask your Concierge about the different options available.
The food scene in Old Fort Bay revolves around in-villa dining. Your Old Fort Bay villa includes a private chef, who will prepare meals based on your preferences. You can set up meal plans with your Concierge before you arrive or just trust the chef to surprise you. Your chef will also tailor meals based on your feedback.
If you want to eat out, there’s a casual-yet-elegant restaurant at the Old Fort Bay Club with Caribbean-inspired meals.
And you’re always just a 10–15-minute drive from Ocho Rios, where you’ll find a thriving food scene with plenty of great restaurants to enjoy.
Plus, your Concierge can arrange villa pre-stocking so all your favorite meals are ready to go when you get to the villa.
Spring in Old Fort Bay is warm and vibrant, with clear skies and gentle sea breezes. Average daytime temperatures range from 82–86°F (28–30°C). Rainfall starts light in March (around 1.5 inches / 38 mm) and rises a little by May (about 3 inches / 76 mm), but showers are usually short.
Summer brings hot, sunny days and balmy nights to Old Fort Bay. Temperatures hover between 86–90°F (30–32°C), and the sea stays warm and inviting. Rainfall increases, with July and August seeing around 4–5 inches (100–127 mm) of rain, often in quick, heavy afternoon showers.
Fall is the wettest season and the heart of hurricane season, though direct hits are rare. Temperatures stay steady at 84–88°F (29–31°C), while rainfall peaks in September and October, averaging 6–7 inches (150–178 mm) per month before dropping back to around 3 inches (76 mm) by November. Expect a mix of sunny mornings and short, heavy rainstorms.
Winter is the sweet spot at Old Fort Bay, with dry, breezy days and cooler nights. Temperatures are a little milder, usually around 80–84°F (27–29°C), and rainfall is low — typically 1–2 inches (25–50 mm) per month. The air feels crisp, the sea is calm, and the skies are mostly cloudless.
If you’re planning a getaway to this beautiful part of Jamaica, Rental Escapes can turn your Old Fort Bay villa rental into a true luxury experience.
Our portfolio includes the finest Old Fort Bay villas, including oceanfront villas, family villas, and more.
Your Rental Escapes Reservations Expert will help you find the perfect villa for your group, while your dedicated Concierge will customize your trip to ensure an unforgettable Old Fort Bay villa experience.
Contact us today to book your next dream holiday!