Marijuana in Jamaica is as ubiquitous as braids on the beach, or hats with fake dreadlocks. We’ve been offered it by cab drivers, lifeguards, dudes on jet skis, and numerous musicians. We’ve seen hotel guests smoke it on tennis courts, on their balconies, and on the beach.
Though ganja in Jamaica is easy to find, be prepared for a wide range of quality and prices. You can buy large quantities at cheap prices, but dealers will try to gouge you for a couple of joints or a dime bag. Also note that although weed in Jamaica is generally tolerated, it is technically illegal, so it’s awfully easy for policemen to bust tourists for a quick fine.
During a day trip to Bob Marley’s birthplace, about an hour outside Ocho Rios, we were inundated with marijuana sales pitches. Men pushed joints into our taxi’s windows the moment we pulled into the parking lot, insisting the only proper way to pay our respects would be to spark up at Bob’s grave site. Later, they took us on a tour of their nearby “plantation.”
Some of our favorite hotels within driving distance of the Marley Museum and all its smoky fun are Gran Bahia Principe Jamaica, Sandals Grande Beach, Moxons Beach Club, Royal Plantation and Jamaica Inn.
Also know that herb-free visitors can easily avoid marijuana if they so choose. Jamaica is, after all, one of the most family-friendly islands in the Caribbean.
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