Charles Gordon Market
Experience the vibrant heart of Montego Bay at Charles Gordon Market, a bustling hub for fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic Jamaican culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively local atmosphere
Charles Gordon Market
Best Time
Lively local atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the vibrant heart of Montego Bay at Charles Gordon Market, a bustling hub for fresh produce, local crafts, and authentic Jamaican culture.
"This market has everything!! I found the castor oil, spices and the freshest fruit!"
💰 Bring JMD Cash
Vendors often prefer or only accept Jamaican Dollars. Small bills are best!
🍎 Shop Seasonal
Ask for what's in season for the freshest and tastiest produce.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Produce Paradise
Throughout the market
Discover a vibrant array of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and local herbs. Taste the island's bounty!
Local Artisans & Crafts
Various stalls
Find unique handmade crafts and souvenirs, perfect for a taste of Jamaican artistry.
Natural Remedies & Spices
Specialty stalls
Explore a selection of herbs and natural remedies, including sought-after castor oil.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Navigating the Market
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Bring JMD Cash
Vendors often prefer or only accept Jamaican Dollars. Small bills are best!
🍎 Shop Seasonal
Ask for what's in season for the freshest and tastiest produce.
🗣️ Ask for 'Bones'
If you're looking for specific items like castor oil, ask for 'Bones' for expert advice.
🚶♀️ Explore with a Guide
Consider going with a local driver or guide for a richer experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Bring JMD Cash
Vendors often prefer or only accept Jamaican Dollars. Small bills are best!
🍎 Shop Seasonal
Ask for what's in season for the freshest and tastiest produce.
🗣️ Ask for 'Bones'
If you're looking for specific items like castor oil, ask for 'Bones' for expert advice.
🚶♀️ Explore with a Guide
Consider going with a local driver or guide for a richer experience.
🌿 Natural Remedies
This is a prime spot for herbs and natural remedies.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Charles Gordon Market offers a vibrant, authentic Jamaican shopping experience with fresh produce and unique local goods. Visitors praise the knowledgeable vendors and great prices, especially for herbs and natural remedies. However, some reviews mention concerns about cleanliness and waste in certain areas, which can detract from the overall atmosphere.
"Our driver took us here because I was looking for real castor oil. This market has everything!! I found the castor oil, spices and the freshest fruit! When you go there, ask for Bones!! She very knowledgeable about everything!!"
Sheri S
"Great places to shop. Nice vendors"
Dexton Watkis
"Check out real Jamaican people, but be careful, not really, a tourist area but great prices"
oliver drew
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Charles Gordon Market is located in downtown Montego Bay, Saint James. You can easily reach it by taxi or local bus. Many drivers in Montego Bay are familiar with the market and can take you directly there.
Parking can be challenging in the busy downtown area. It's often best to rely on taxis or local transport to avoid parking hassles.
Depending on your resort's location, walking might be an option, but it's generally recommended to take a taxi or bus for convenience and safety, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.
For an authentic experience, consider taking a local bus or arranging a ride with a local driver who can offer insights into the area.
The market is a central hub in downtown Montego Bay. Fustic Road is often mentioned as a vibrant area leading to or near the market.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Charles Gordon Market is a public market, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can freely explore the stalls.
The market is typically open daily, with Saturday mornings being particularly lively. It's best to visit earlier in the day for the widest selection and to experience the peak local activity.
Saturday mornings are very popular and vibrant. For a slightly less crowded experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning.
There are no specific entry requirements. However, be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
Market hours on public holidays can vary. It's advisable to check locally or with your accommodation for specific holiday operating times.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Vendors
You can find a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, local herbs, natural remedies (like castor oil), and handmade crafts.
While some vendors might accept USD, it's highly recommended to use Jamaican Dollars (JMD), especially small bills, as many may not have change for USD.
Bargaining is common in many Jamaican markets. Be polite and respectful when negotiating prices.
Many visitors describe the vendors as nice and knowledgeable, especially those selling specific items like herbs.
Look for stalls selling handmade crafts, wood carvings, and local art for authentic souvenirs.
🎫 🌿 Health & Wellness
Absolutely! Charles Gordon Market is a well-known spot for a variety of herbs and natural remedies, including castor oil.
Yes, you'll find vendors selling fresh coconuts and a variety of seasonal fruit juices.
Shopping local ensures you get the freshest, in-season produce, supporting local farmers and experiencing authentic Jamaican flavors.
It's generally safe, but as with any market, use your discretion. Freshly prepared juices and whole fruits are usually good choices.
Various stalls offer a range of authentic Jamaican spices, perfect for bringing a taste of the island home.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can generally take photos, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up shots of vendors or their products.
The vibrant displays of fruits, colorful stalls, and interactions between vendors and shoppers offer great photographic opportunities.
While not strictly enforced, be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if vendors are busy or seem uncomfortable.
Morning light is often ideal for capturing the market's vibrancy. Midday sun can be harsh, so look for shaded areas or use your camera's settings accordingly.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can also be useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep an eye on younger children in crowded areas and consider bringing snacks or drinks if you plan to spend a significant amount of time. While the market can be busy, it offers a valuable educational opportunity about local commerce and agriculture.
💰 Budget Travelers
Remember to bring JMD cash and be prepared to politely bargain. This is where you can stock up on fresh fruit for snacks or ingredients if you have access to a kitchen, making your trip more economical.
🌿 Health & Wellness Enthusiasts
Engage with the knowledgeable vendors who can guide you through the offerings and share insights into traditional uses. It's an opportunity to discover natural wellness solutions directly from the source.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Montego Bay's Commerce
While the market is a cornerstone of local commerce, some visitors have noted concerns about cleanliness and waste management in certain areas. Initiatives by organizations like the St. James Municipal Corporation aim to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of environmental responsibility within the market space.
For travelers, visiting Charles Gordon Market offers an authentic cultural immersion. It's an opportunity to interact with locals, discover unique products, and experience the vibrant spirit of Jamaica beyond the typical tourist resorts.
A Treasure Trove of Natural Remedies
Vendors specializing in these products are often highly knowledgeable, able to guide you to the right remedies for your needs. This aspect of the market highlights Jamaica's rich tradition of herbal medicine and natural healing practices.
Beyond castor oil, you can find a variety of other medicinal herbs and spices, offering a glimpse into traditional Jamaican wellness practices. It’s a unique shopping experience that caters to both health-conscious travelers and those simply curious about local traditions.
Navigating the Market: Tips from Travelers
Shopping for seasonal produce is also highly recommended. Fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and coconuts are at their best when in season, offering superior flavor and value. For specific items, like the sought-after castor oil, asking for a vendor named 'Bones' is a tip shared by visitors who found her to be very knowledgeable.
While the market offers great prices and a genuine local experience, some reviews mention cleanliness issues. Being prepared for a bustling, sometimes gritty environment is part of the authentic market experience. Consider going with a local driver or guide, as suggested by some visitors, to enhance your understanding and navigation of the market.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit