Booby Cay
A small, forested island off Negril's coast, famed for its exceptionally fresh grilled lobster and laid-back island vibes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak lobster grilling time
Booby Cay
Best Time
Peak lobster grilling time
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A small, forested island off Negril's coast, famed for its exceptionally fresh grilled lobster and laid-back island vibes.
"This was my very first time visiting Booby Cay Island, and let me tell you, it’s one of Jamaica’s best kept secrets!"
🎯 Bring Cash for Lobster
Many vendors prefer cash for lobster and other purchases. ATMs are not available on the island.
🚤 Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular tours, especially tiki bar cruises, fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Freshly Grilled Lobster
Island eateries
Savor the freshest lobster, grilled to perfection with authentic Jamaican flavors. A must-try culinary experience.
+1
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
Departing from Seven Mile Beach
Enjoy a scenic boat ride to the island, with opportunities to spot marine life through the glass bottom.
Island Relaxation
Booby Cay beach
Unwind on the sandy shores, soak up the sun, and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lobster Lunch & Island Vibes
Getting to Booby Cay
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bring Cash for Lobster
Many vendors prefer cash for lobster and other purchases. ATMs are not available on the island.
🚤 Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular tours, especially tiki bar cruises, fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
If your tour doesn't include it, bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the reefs.
🧴 Sun Protection is Key
The sun is strong! Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bring Cash for Lobster
Many vendors prefer cash for lobster and other purchases. ATMs are not available on the island.
🚤 Book Boat Tours in Advance
Popular tours, especially tiki bar cruises, fill up quickly. Book ahead to secure your spot.
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
If your tour doesn't include it, bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the reefs.
🧴 Sun Protection is Key
The sun is strong! Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
🐈 Cat Tour Guides Exist!
One visitor encountered a cat acting as a tour guide, adding a unique twist to the experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Booby Cay is celebrated for its incredibly fresh, grilled lobster and relaxed island atmosphere, offering a true taste of Jamaica. While some visitors note litter and aggressive vendors, the stunning natural beauty and delicious seafood make it a highly recommended destination for a unique culinary and scenic experience.
"Big thanks to Don,Got one of his boats over to the island via snorkelling at a reef, had a great lobster and crab lunch at his place. A bit rough and ready but the food was amazing!!! Then we were left to sunbathe and swim for as long as we wanted to. Called the boat back for us at the end of the day! We spent nearly 7hrs in total having a perfect day!!"
David
"🌴 Booby Cay Island – A Hidden Gem Just Off Negril! 🛥️🐚
This was my very first time visiting Booby Cay Island, and let me tell you, it’s one of Jamaica’s best kept secrets!
Just a quick 30-minute boat ride from Negril and you feel like you’ve entered paradise.
⚓ We booked our trip with Captain Jace, who operates a glass-bottom boa, such a cool way to travel across those beautiful Caribbean waters!
The package included it all:
• 🐟 Fresh seafood (your choice!)
• 🦞 Surf & turf
• 🍗 Jerk chicken full of real Jamaican flavor
• 🤿 Snorkeling in clear blue water
• 💦 An unforgettable island experience!
🔥 The food? Absolutely mouthwatering. The jerk and grilled seafood were seasoned to perfection.
🙌 Captain Jace and his team? Professional, friendly, and made us feel right at home.
🌊 Whether you’re a local or visiting Jamaica, add Booby Cay to your list. It’s peaceful, full of natural beauty, and truly a slice of heaven you don’t want to miss."
William Jacobs
"Beautiful spot but litter is piled up. They sell drugs openly and try very hard to get you to buy their wares. An hr is more than enough here. If you want to buy a lobster to have them grill, that seemed worth it. We waited too long and they sold out."
Cheryl Lampitelli
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Booby Cay is by boat from Negril's Seven Mile Beach. Many tour operators offer glass-bottom boat trips, tiki bar cruises, and private charters. Some tours include snorkeling stops at nearby reefs. +1
Public transportation does not directly go to Booby Cay. Access is primarily through organized boat tours or private boat hires.
The boat ride to Booby Cay from Negril typically takes about 10-30 minutes, depending on your departure point and the type of boat.
Yes, many boat tours to Booby Cay include stops for snorkeling at vibrant coral reefs. It's a great way to experience the marine life before reaching the island.
Popular options mentioned include Tiki Pon Da Sea for tiki bar cruises and Captain Jace or Captain Pogo for personalized experiences. It's advisable to book in advance. +2
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a formal 'ticket' for entry to Booby Cay itself. However, you will need to pay for a boat tour or charter to get there, and then purchase food and drinks on the island.
Booby Cay is generally accessible during daylight hours, as it's primarily a destination for daytime activities like lunch and swimming. Boat tours operate throughout the day.
No, there is no specific entrance fee for Booby Cay Island. The cost is associated with the boat transportation and any food or drinks you purchase on the island.
While some tours might be available for same-day booking, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and preferred timings.
Tours often include boat transportation, a meal (usually fresh lobster), and time for swimming and relaxing. Some may also include snorkeling gear or stops.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Booby Cay is famous for its incredibly fresh, grilled lobster. You can also find jerk chicken, seafood platters, and other local dishes. Garlic bread is a popular accompaniment. +1
Yes, you can purchase fresh lobster directly from vendors on the island who will grill it for you. It's often caught locally.
Options for vegetarians or vegans are limited, as the focus is heavily on seafood, particularly lobster. It's best to inquire with your tour operator or on the island beforehand.
You can typically find fresh coconut water, beer, and other beverages. Some tiki bar tours may offer a wider selection of cocktails.
Prices can vary, but expect to pay a premium for fresh, grilled lobster. It's advisable to confirm the price before ordering.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the turquoise waters, the sandy beach, fresh seafood preparations, and the unique island landscape. Drone photography is also popular here.
Yes, some tour guides and local operators offer photography services, especially for capturing your experience on the island.
Booby Cay's scenic location and open skies make it a great spot for drone photography, offering aerial views of the island and surrounding waters.
Late morning to early afternoon offers good natural light for photos. Golden hour during sunset can also provide beautiful, warm lighting if your tour extends that late.
Generally, photography is welcomed. However, always be respectful of other visitors and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Drone usage might have local regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on tours that offer a relaxed pace and ensure there are safe swimming areas. While the primary draw is lobster, inquire about other food options that might appeal to younger palates. Bringing along some kid-friendly snacks and plenty of sun protection is also a good idea.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider if bringing your own snacks or drinks might be feasible, though many tours include these. Negotiating prices for boat trips or food might be possible, but always be respectful. Focusing on the experience of fresh lobster and island vibes can make it a worthwhile splurge.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1Opt for a private boat charter for a more personalized and secluded outing. Enjoying fresh grilled lobster together on a quiet island beach, with the sound of the waves, offers a perfect romantic interlude.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Booby Cay Lobster Experience
When you arrive, you'll likely see vendors showcasing their catch of the day. You can choose your lobster and have it prepared on the spot. This hands-on experience, combined with the stunning island backdrop, makes for a memorable culinary adventure. Don't forget to pair it with some garlic bread and a refreshing drink!
+1While the lobster is the star, some visitors also enjoy jerk chicken and other seafood options. It's a true taste of the Caribbean, prepared with local flair and served in a unique island setting.
Navigating to Booby Cay: Boat Tours & Island Access
For a more festive experience, consider a tiki bar cruise, which often includes music, drinks, and a unique floating bar experience en route to the island. Some tours are designed as breakfast, lunch, or sunset cruises, offering different ways to enjoy the trip.
+1Booking your boat trip in advance is highly recommended, as these tours, especially the themed ones, can get fully booked. The short ride offers beautiful views of the coastline and the clear Caribbean waters, setting the stage for a relaxing island escape.
+1Island Life & What to Expect
While the natural beauty is a major draw, some reviews mention that the island can have litter and that vendors may openly offer drugs. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and focus on the positive aspects like the food and scenery.
Despite these minor concerns, the overall vibe is one of relaxation and enjoyment. You can spend your time sunbathing, swimming, and savoring delicious food. Some tours even include opportunities for snorkeling around the island's reefs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit