No conversation about top vacationing spots in Jamaica is complete without mentioning Ocho Rios. The location, with a name that literally translates to “eight rivers,” is popular for its perfect blend of sun, sea, and sand.
There’s a lot to do in Ocho Rios, to the point where you might never want to leave. From world-renowned waterfalls to hidden, off-the-beaten-path attractions, in addition to jamming nightspots, you really can enjoy the best of all worlds when it comes on to having a good time in “Ochie” as the locals call it. But finding it all is not easy.
Here are 10 fun things tourists love to do in Ocho Rios:
1. Climb Dunn’s River Falls
Highly regarded locally and internationally as one of Jamaica’s most impressive natural attractions, Dunn’s River Falls is one of the most-visited spots in Ocho Rios, if not the island. It’s a 600-foot drop to the sea and features step-like rocks to help you get to the top, as well as trained guides who help you to make the right steps. In addition to climbing the falls, you can also spend some time by the beach where the falls meet the sea.
One thing to bear in mind, Dunn’s River Falls gets pretty crowded at times due to its immense popularity. Still, there are still plenty of opportunities to have fun and some visitors are pretty friendly. It is not recommended for you to take along young children to climb Dunn’s River Falls (although some people still do), as they may find it difficult to traverse the rocks.
What to bring: swimwear, climbing shoes (sold on site as well), waterproof camera, towels, spending money.
Entrance fee: 12 years and over – $20, Children (3-11 years) – $12
2. Bob Marley Museum Tour
A must-visit if you are a fan of the legendary Bob Marley or even just a fan of reggae. The small museum, located in Nine Miles, which is also the birth and resting place of the iconic singer, contains artifacts that will help you to understand Bob Marley during his life, as well as the music he helped to popularize. Also, the tour guides are quick to offer up loads of information about Jamaica, the Rastafarian culture, and Bob himself. Totally worth your time.
What to bring: extra cash
Entrance: 13 years and over – $25, Children (4-12 years) – $12
3. Visit Konoko Falls and Park
Looking for a quieter, more laid-back vibe than what is available at Dunn’s River Falls? Konoko Falls is an excellent substitute. The smaller sized falls might see less traffic on any given day but it also offers much more than climbing.
At the top, you will find somewhat of an adventure park, consisting of a botanical garden, a mini zoo, and also a small museum. You can get up close and personal with animals such as snakes and crocodiles. You can also have the exhilarating experience of feeding birds from your hand, plus the view is impressive. Konoko Falls is a perfect spot for couples or families.
What to bring: swimwear, towels, sneakers for climbing (water shoes sold on location as well), camera, extra cash.
Entrance fee: 13 years and over – $20, Children (3-12 years) – $10
4. Diving at Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a nice little escape that comes packaged with beauty and fun. Since it’s off the beaten path, you will need to do some hiking to get there, but it’s all worth it once you reach the destination. You will be awestruck by the splendor of the lush vegetation, as well as the picturesque Blue Hole, which is fed by several springs. There are guides on hand who help you to climb safely, as well as find the best diving spots, once you get to the top. Once there, you won’t want to leave.
What to bring: swimwear (if you plan to dive/go in the water), extra cash for tipping, towels, camera, comfortable walking/climbing shoes.
Entrance fee: $15
5. Mystic Mountain
Mystic Mountain is the place to be if you’re looking for an attraction that will send your pulse racing. The well-loved attraction has several offerings, or rainforest adventures, including a Sky Explorer ride, which takes you atop the surrounding trees; a bobsled ride that allows you to relive the achievements of the Jamaican Bobsled team (albeit at high altitude); and a breathtaking, zip-lining experience.
Adding to the fun factor is that all these rides take place within a rainforest atmosphere, hence Rainforest Adventures, which is as close to nature as you will get. There is also an infinity edge pool, a waterslide, and other amenities to ensure your visit to Mystic Mountain is always on a high.
What to bring: comfortable casual wear, extra cash, camera.
Entrance fee: prices start at $46
6. Island Village
You can get your shopping bug satisfied at this retail oasis and entertainment hub. The open-air center combines natural occurrences, such as spring lagoons and a lush garden with modern amenities. It is right by the beach and close to the cruise ship pier, which is why it’s such a favorite stop for cruise ship passengers and regular visitors alike.
The eclectic atmosphere and layout of the shops, which includes eating spots, makes it a unique chilling and shopping location before, during, and after your exploration of Ocho Rios.
What to bring: spending cash, camera.
Entrance fee: none
7. Green Grotto Caves
Possibly Jamaica’s most well-known set of caves, the Green Grotto offers a plenty to look at and learn. In addition, it now boasts the envious title of being the first cave in the world to receive Green Globe Certification.
The underground feature, which includes a lake and impressive rock formations, was once a hiding place for runaway slaves back in the day. Bats and snakes now call the Green Grotto home and some hiking skills might be needed. However, there are guides, who not only try their best to keep you safe, they also are quite knowledgeable and are quick to give you some oral history about the Green Grotto Caves.
What to bring: comfortable walking gear, extra cash
Entrance fee: 13 years and over – $20, Children (4-12 years) – $10
8. Dolphin’s Cove
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience while visiting Ocho Rios, you should make Dolphin’s Cove one of your stops. Its main draw is getting to swim and interact with real, live and trained dolphins in open seawater. But it doesn’t stop with the friendly mammals; you can also get to swim with stingrays and…sharks. Yikes! Don’t worry about it, though, it’s all fun and harmless and is safe for both adults and kids. You will be awed by just how smart the dolphins are, for instance, as well as the show put on by the sharks.
In addition to having fun with the marine life, you can also enjoy snorkeling, going out in a glass-bottomed kayak, and go trail walking in the mini-jungle, where you will get to see and touch other wildlife. If you like, you can even spend some time on the beach. In fact, you can easily spend an entire afternoon at Dolphin’s Cove with all that is available for you to do.
What to bring: towels, extra cash, camera (can’t be used in the dolphin area), swimwear.
Basic entrance fee (prices vary): 12 years and over – $69, Children (6-11 years) – $45
9. Shaw Park Gardens & Waterfalls
If you have never heard the saying before, St. Ann is known as Jamaica’s Garden Parish and the Shaw Park Gardens shows exactly why. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, as well as for photographers looking to take the most stunning pictures. Located in the hills of Ochie, it offers breathtaking views of the harbor below and introduces you to some of the best-looking birds, plants, and flowers. There is even a waterfall for you to explore if you want to let down your hair a bit, and plenty of spots for picnics.
What to bring: comfortable shoes for walking/climbing, extra cash, good camera
Entrance fee: $10
10. Evita’s Italian Restaurant
Perhaps the most famous eating place in Ocho Rios, Evita’s is the perfect spot to enjoy an excellent meal after conquering the city’s top attractions. Its setting allows spectacular views of the cruise shipping pier and the wider city. But above all, you will enjoy the sumptuous meals it serves up, which is an exciting fusion of Jamaican and Italian cuisine.
The restaurant caters to both meat eaters and vegetarians, so there is something for everyone, plus, the old-world charm of a 19th Century Gingerbread house type of vibe makes it one of the most interesting eating locations around town.
What to bring: spending cash, your appetite
Entrance fee: none
Note: Prices quoted are in US dollars and may be different for Jamaican residents in some cases. Also, you can incorporate these activities into tour packages with your hotel or local tour companies.