30+ Enjoyable Issues to Do
Jamaica is a Caribbean island nation is residence to pristine seashores, lush rainforests, beautiful waterfalls, and naturally conventional Jamaican meals. There’s all the time one thing for everybody in Jamaica, whether or not you’re on the lookout for a quiet retreat or an action-packed journey.
From studying about its historical past to scenic raft excursions to swimming at among the most lovely spots on the island (and lots extra!), let’s take a look at the very best locations, distinctive actions, and enjoyable issues to do in Jamaica.
1. Take a Tour at Appleton Property (St. Elizabeth)
The Appleton Estate is a rum distillery positioned within the coronary heart of Jamaica. The property’s rum crafting started with its first distillation in 1749, and as we speak it is without doubt one of the hottest manufacturers on the earth.
Whether or not you’re an avid rum lover or wish to step into the world of Jamaican-style rums a go to to the property will probably be enjoyable! You possibly can take a tour of the ability, be taught concerning the historical past of rum manufacturing, see how they make the spirits, and have a guided style of a few of their rums.
2. Take a Black River Safari (St. Elizabeth)
The Black River is considered one of Jamaica’s hottest vacationer points of interest and considered one of its longest rivers (measuring 33 miles/53.4 km.) And what higher technique to expertise what this river gives than happening a safari boat tour!
The Black River Safari takes you on a ship experience via the waterlands, residence to American crocodiles and over 100 chicken species like egrets and Jacana (Jesus chicken).
3. Take a Rum Tour at Hampden Property (Trelawny)
Jamaica is well-known for its rum consuming tradition and what higher technique to discover it than with a distillery tour? The Hampden Property Rum Tour will sweep you off your ft proper from the palm tree lined entrance to the working distillery that was established within the 1750’s. To not point out their Rum Fire punch that can welcome you to the tour.
Take the time to discover these picturesque grounds, be taught the distillery course of and pattern among the finest rum round.
E book a Tour: Hampden Estate Rum Tour Reservations
4. Swim within the Blue Gap (Ocho Rios)
The Blue Hole is a vacationer paradise positioned in Ocho Rios. It consists of a sequence of pure limestone swimming pools in a secluded space, which can also be a brief hike from a gorgeous waterfall.
The place acquired its identify from the bluish hue of the swimming pools’ waters that rise up to a depth of 20feet, making them excellent for swimming and diving. You possibly can take a easy swim, plunge into the water Tarzan model on a rope swing or, for the fun seeker, head over to the waterfall for a loopy cliff dive.
5. Raft the Blue Lagoon (Port Antonio)
There’s by no means a scarcity of picturesque sights in Jamaica, and the Blue Lagoon is one other proof of this. Situated in Port Antonio, the lagoon is a mixture of freshwater from the springs and salt water from the open sea. It was as soon as believed to be bottomless, however has since been measured to be round 200 ft in depth at its deepest level.
Whereas swimming is the primary apparent alternative for having fun with the lagoon’s waters, one other technique to expertise its magnificence is by happening board a bamboo raft. Make sure you have your cameras prepared for these Instagrammable pictures!
6. Go to the Bob Marley Museum (Kingston)
The Bob Marley Museum in Kingston is devoted to the life and legacy of the legendary Jamaican reggae musician of the identical identify. The museum has a group of Marley’s belongings, together with his devices, clothes, and paintings. Plus, to make it an much more bucket listing worthy expertise, the museum is housed within the former residence and studio of Marley, the place he wrote and recorded a lot of his songs!
7. Get pleasure from Booby Cay Island (Negril)
Booby Cay Island is a well-liked vacation spot for snorkeling, sunbathing, consuming contemporary seafood and picnicking on the white sand seashores. And the easiest way to get there? Hop on one of many glass-bottom boats across the shores of Negril.
8. Take within the Historical past at Columbus Park Museum (Discovery Bay)
The Columbus Park Museum overlooks Discovery Bay and is devoted to the historical past of the Jamaican individuals. The open-air museum reveals the historical past of the arrival of Christopher Columbus on the island, options Spanish-era ruins and totally different artifacts in Jamaica’s historical past (like Taino canoes, sugarcane mills, and cannons).
A bonus is that the park museum additionally boasts a bar and a well-liked genuine Jamaican restaurant referred to as Scotchies, the place you will get your jerk hen repair.
9. See the Vegetation at Coyaba Gardens (Ocho Rios)
Coyaba Gardens is filled with blooming flowers (just like the Blue Jade Vine and Torch Ginger), lush foliage, and the Mahoe waterfalls. All of which make it an incredible place to discover.
It’s simple to see why it’s named after coyaba, a phrase in Jamaica’s Taino language which suggests ‘paradise’!
10. Go to the Croydon Plantation (Montego Bay)
The historic Croydon Plantation is positioned on the foot of the Catadupa Mountains, which is the explanation it’s recognized for some fairly spectacular panoramic views of the mountains. However, that’s not all it has—it’s a working plantation recognized for among the finest pineapples and occasional in Jamaica! So you’ll undoubtedly be in for a deal with.
11. Tour the Devon Home Mansion (Kingston 10)
The Devon House Mansion was constructed within the early nineteenth century by Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. Designated as a Nationwide Monument in 1990, the mansion has develop into considered one of Jamaica’s well-liked vacationer points of interest and considered one of its most photographed buildings within the county. The home is surrounded by a big backyard, and has a gorgeous view of the Jamaican shoreline.
Guests to the Devon Home Mansion can tour the totally different rooms in the home and surrounding grounds. Plus, the Scoops Limitless store on premise makes the well-known Devon Home I-Scream (talked about by Nationwide Geographic as among the best!), so don’t miss out on consuming a scoop.
12. Climb Dunn’s River Falls (Ocho Rios)
Dunn’s River Falls aren’t solely lovely, however you can too climb the 180-foot-high, 600-foot-long falls, which cascade down a sequence of terraces into the Caribbean Sea. The falls are surrounded by tropical vegetation, and there are a number of platforms alongside the best way the place guests can cease to relaxation and benefit from the views.
13. Stroll By way of Emancipation Park (Kingston)
Emancipation Park was opened the day earlier than Emancipation Day on July 31, 2002, serving as a tribute to the nation’s freedom. It’s a well-liked spot for locals and vacationers alike, that includes an eleven-foot-high sculpture referred to as ‘Redemption Tune’ by Jamaican artist Laura Facey. Adinkra symbols may also be discovered in lots of locations within the park, just like the perimeter fence and benches.
Plus, the park is filled with beautiful tropical flowers and timber that nature lovers will certainly love!
14. Drive By way of Fern Gully (Ocho Rios)
Nestled within the mountains of St. Ann is the Fern Gully, a nature lover’s paradise. This hidden gem is a haven for Jamaican birds and animals, and can also be residence to a whole bunch of fern varieties—therefore the identify.
The easiest way to expertise the Fern Gully is by driving down its winding 3-mile highway, which connects Ocho Rios and Colgate. As you drive your approach via the gully, you’ll come throughout a number of distributors promoting totally different fruits, greens, wood carvings, and sculptures.
Only a phrase of warning, additionally they have life-size male sculptures which might be ‘well-endowed’ down there, so that’s one thing to remember when you’re touring with the youngsters!
15. Go Underground at Inexperienced Grotto Caves (Discovery Bay)
The Green Grotto Caves are a well-liked Jamaican attraction on the island’s north coast. It acquired its identify after the inexperienced algae protecting the caves’ partitions. The Arawak Indians as soon as inhabited the caves, forsaking numerous pottery and instruments, such because the adzes.
Parts of the caves are accessible to the general public, which embrace a big ‘lounge’ with tables and benches made from rock. Distinctive rock formations are additionally a delight for the eyes as you journey deeper into the caves, with an underground lake referred to as the Grotto Lake awaiting at its bowels.
16. Go to the Greenwood Nice Home (St. James)
The Greenwood Great House is a 1780s home in Jamaica constructed by Richard Barrett, a relative of the famend English creator Elizabeth Barrett Browning, to serve primarily as a visitor home. Situated on the island’s North Coast within the St. James parish, it is without doubt one of the finest preserved homes of the plantation period. It was later purchased by Bob and Ann Betton in 1975.
Immediately, it’s thought of a nationwide monument due to its historical past and Jamaican antiques. The guests can go for a tour (they solely take reservations), and the home’s kitchen serves as a bar the place you possibly can take pleasure in some chilly refreshments.
17. Take the Heritage Seashore Horse Experience (Montego Bay)
Trying to expertise Jamaica’s countryside and seashores in model? Then you must undoubtedly check out their Heritage Beach Horseback Riding tour. The tour takes you on a guided horseback experience following scenic trails via the countryside, the place you’ll be taught concerning the island’s wealthy historical past, cross via outdated sugarcane plantations, and go to different historic websites. It then ends on a white sandy seaside, the place you possibly can benefit from the coast on foot or horseback.
18. Stroll By way of Hope Gardens (Kingston)
The Hope Royal Botanic Gardens was established in 1873, protecting an space of roughly 200 acres.Due to its giant, inexperienced areas, particularly at their Sunken Backyard, it’s a well-liked spot for vacationers and locals to take pleasure in picnics, walks, workout routines, and live shows.
19. Go to Indigenous Rastafarian Village (Montego Bay)
Located simply outdoors of Montego Bay, the Rastafari Indigenous Village is a reside cultural heart that goals to advertise, shield, and protect Rastafarian tradition. Guests will get the prospect to find out about Rastafari philosophy and lifestyle. These embrace drumming and chanting ceremonies, consuming Ital vegan meals, studying concerning the totally different herbs of their backyard, and a conventional approach of creating drums.
20. Eat Jerk Rooster at Scotchies (Montego Bay)
In case you’re ever in Jamaica, you HAVE to attempt the jerk hen at Scotchies. It’s critically among the finest! The hen is marinated in a secret jerk sauce for hours, then slow-cooked over a hearth till it’s so tender it falls off the bone. The flavour is out of this world – an ideal steadiness of spicy, candy, and savory. So whether or not you’re a sucker for good meals or simply on the lookout for a singular Jamaican eating expertise, put Scotchies on the prime of your listing. Belief me, you gained’t be disenchanted.
21. See the Luminous Lagoon (Trelawny)
From the little settlement of Rock to the city of Falmouth, the Luminous Lagoon runs beside the Trelawny marshes. Falmouth was considered one of Jamaica’s most vital ports within the 18th century when sugar was king. The lagoon, which was on the distinguished intersection of the Martha Brae River and the Caribbean Sea, contained a dock the place giant English ships unload cargo into smaller boats earlier than being transported inland up the river.
The lagoon is filled with tiny bioluminescent plankton that glows a blue mild when disturbed. You possibly can take a ship experience out to the lagoon and swim within the glowing water. Now that’s one heck of a bucket listing expertise!
22. Float Down the Martha Brae River (Trelawny)
Martha Brae River is considered one of Jamaica’s hottest vacationer points of interest, positioned within the rural parishes of Trelawny and St. Ann. Due to its lush inexperienced forests and delicate emerald waters, it’s thought of among the best locations on the island for river rafting.
Simply head right down to the river the place bamboo rafts at Jamaica Rafting will probably be able to take you on the three mile experience. The experience on the 30-foot lengthy ‘2 particular person’ raft will not be solely very enjoyable, but in addition informative in Jamaican wildlife and nature.
We noticed blue herons, bamboo, mango, banana and fig timber, plus a termite nest and a cool ‘delicate plant’ that closes once you contact it. There are additionally stands alongside the best way promoting coconuts, work and different souvenirs.
TIP: Ask for a information who is ready to determine all of the vegetation and wildlife alongside the best way. This makes the expertise much more fascinating and informative!
E book a Tour: Cruise the Martha Brae River: Private Bamboo Raft Tour
E book a Tour: Jamaica: River Rafting and Waterfall Half-Day Tour
23. Have Enjoyable at Mystic Mountain (Ocho Rios)
Towering at 700 ft above sea stage, Mystic Mountain gives breathtaking vistas of Ocho Rios and in addition adrenaline-pumping rides so as to add to your journey bucket listing—like ziplining and wall climbing.
Additionally they have their ‘Massive 3’ rides, every with distinct and thrilling experiences you’ll absolutely take pleasure in: Sky Explorer, Bobsled Jamaica, and Raggamuffin. After hours of screaming your lungs out from all of the rides, you possibly can calm down and take within the views at considered one of their infinity swimming pools or take pleasure in a meal at their restaurant.
24. See the Artwork on the Nationwide Gallery of Jamaica (Kingston)
The National Gallery of Jamaica is a public artwork museum in Kingston Mall. The gallery is devoted to displaying the artwork of Jamaican and visiting artists, each previous and current. Although, one of many highlights is the everlasting assortment of artworks, from the Taino to current day.
25. Get Drinks at Pelican Bar (Treasure Seashore)
Pelican Bar is a well-liked and distinctive spot in Jamaica for drinks and leisure, with a hut constructed on a sandbar simply off Jamaica’s South Coast and accessible solely by boat.
Being in the midst of the ocean, you possibly can take pleasure in lovely views of the seascape whereas sipping on rum punch or beer. You may as well stuff your self with some scrumptious lobster and fish.
26. Tour Attain Falls (Port Antonio)
Tucked away within the river valley on the northern foothills of John Crow Mountain Vary is a hidden gem referred to as Reach Falls. This cascade of waterfalls is without doubt one of the most lovely in Jamaica, enveloped by the wealthy vegetation of the encompassing forest.
You possibly can calm down and funky off within the pool on the base of the falls, go on a guided hike as much as the legendary Mandingo Cave, and take within the views whereas having fun with a meal on the picnic space.
27. Eat at Rick’s Cafe (Negril)
Rick’s Cafe is a well-liked spot for each locals and vacationers in Negril, and it’s simple to see why. Situated on West Finish Street in Negril, the eatery is a superb spot to hang around for drinks, meals (check out their Crimson Stripe Beer Battered Shrimp and jerk hen!), and simply chilling. The bar is about on a 35-foot-high cliff and boasts among the most lovely sunsets within the nation.
28. Go to Rose Corridor Nice Home (St. James)
Rose Hall is an 18th-century plantation home set on 6,600 acres of land and features a sugar manufacturing unit used to provide sugarcane. What made the Rose Corridor Nice Home much more well-liked are the legends concerning the White Witch of Rose Corridor, Annie Palmer.
You possibly can take a guided day tour the place you’ll find out about its slave historical past and the Annie Palmer legend. Or go for the night time tour that delves extra into the White Witch’s haunting tales and is certain to be one hell of a hair-raising expertise.
29. Discover YS Waterfall (St. Elizabeth)
Most vacationers to Jamaica learn about Dunn’s River Falls, however YS Falls is somewhat lessor heard of. That may solely imply that it gives you little extra of a personal, customized expertise that’s fairly frankly – unforgettable.
This 7-tiered waterfall gives an exciting zip-line, a spring-fed pool, picnic grounds and, most significantly, a enjoyable experience on the rope swing that can have you ever plunging into the refreshing water beneath.
Regardless that YS Falls is much less recognized, it will possibly nonetheless get somewhat crowded later within the afternoon, so I like to recommend arriving early.
E book a Tour: From Montego Bay: Black River and YS Falls Adventure
E book a Tour: YS Falls & Appleton Estate Rum Tour from Montego Bay
30. Discover Your Favourite Seashore
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Seven Mile Seashore (Negril)
The clear water and powdery white sand of Seven Mile Beach makes it some of the well-liked locations in Jamaica. Situated on the island’s western facet in Negril, the seaside will get its identify from its size.
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Drink Cocktails at Frenchman Cove Seashore (Port Antonio)
With golden white sands and azure waters towered by emerald timber, Frenchman’s Cove is certainly not your typical seaside. Situated in Port Antonio, Jamaica, this small however beautiful seaside gives a quiet spot for enjoyable and having enjoyable underneath the solar. It’s also one of many few locations the place you’ll see a river assembly the ocean, which in itself is a sight to see.
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Get pleasure from Physician’s Cave Seashore (Montego Bay)
Doctor’s Cave Beach is thought for its clear turquoise waters and white sand seashores. Physician’s Cave was first made well-known by a physician who claimed that the cave waters had therapeutic powers. Immediately, the seaside is a well-liked spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
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Loosen up at Boston Seashore (Port Antonio)
Boston Beach is a gorgeous sandy seaside positioned on the northern coast island of Jamaica and is taken into account among the best browsing spots on the island. The waves listed here are among the most constant on the island, making it a well-liked spot for each newbie and skilled surfers alike.
The seaside can also be recognized for its jerk hen/pork stands, and is claimed to be the birthplace of the jerk seasoning Jamaica is thought for.
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Hellshire Seashore (St. Catherine)
Hellshire Beach is one other lovely Jamaican seaside, positioned close to Portmore. The white sand and clear blue waters make it a well-liked spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
It’s also well-known for its meals (particularly fried fish), with a number of eating places and jerk stalls serving up scrumptious Jamaican delicacies.
31. Eat a Beef Patty
Whether or not you might be arriving to Jamaica by air or coming in via a cruise port, make a pit cease both at Juici or Tastee for a style of Jamaican meals custom. These are the 2 well-liked eateries serving one of many Caribbean islands hottest avenue meals referred to as beef patties, which has similarities to an empanada. They’ve quite a few fillings from hen to beef and even salt fish which might be stuffed right into a flaky pastry pocket.
On my go to to Tastee, I ordered a beef and cheese patty with coco bread, a dense bun made with coconut milk. The thought is to stuff the meat patty pastry contained in the coco bread. Double the carbs! The bottom meat had somewhat little bit of a kick to it, much like taco seasoning. It’s an journey within the native delicacies.
TIP: Provide your driver just a few patties of his personal and he’s positive to be happier about making that pit cease.
32. Toast Your Journey with a Crimson Stripe
No journey to Jamaica can be full with out having their native brew, Crimson Stripe. Brewed by Desnoes & Geddes, this 4.7% pale lager is nearly as well-liked as rum in Jamaica. It gained’t be laborious to get your palms on a bottle (or two) and simply stare into the sundown because the cool Caribbean breeze carries your troubles away—everybody sells them!
33. Benefit from the Luxurious Service at Bluefields Bay Villas (Bluefields)
Resorts such because the Bluefields Bay Villas are an enormous a part of why individuals love Jamaica a lot. At Bluefields they provide six 5-star personal villas in some of the serene and fairly actually, surreal environments within the area. You possibly can sit on the patio with a rum punch and take heed to the sounds of nature for hours. I did it simply that!
However, what actually units them other than the remainder is that you’ve got the chance to have a full employees together with a chef (who’s superb!), housekeeper and a butler, plus a nanny. We had all of it and have been handled like royalty throughout our total keep! Our group saved us pampered, well-fed and ensured that we wished for nothing.
Our villa, Mullion Cove, had a seaside entrance the place we may kayak, paddle board or just sunbath. Simply one more reason that once you go to Bluefields, you’ll almost definitely by no means wish to depart.
As if all that wasn’t luxurious sufficient, they even provide a helicopter transfer from the airport!
Get Pricing & E book a Villa: Bluefields Bay Villas
34. Take a Sundown Boat Experience (Bluefields)
Whereas staying at Bluefields, have them arrange a sundown boat experience that you’ll always remember. The boat will take you alongside the water’s edge to see the road of pristine resorts (together with your individual), then park in the midst of the ocean whereas the sky turns a gorgeous burnt orange.
35. Test into Half Moon Luxurious Resort (Montego Bay)
True to their phrase, Half Moon Luxury Resort is a vacation spot in itself. What would you anticipate once you pair 400 acres of manicured grounds with two miles of pristine seaside appearing because the backdrop?
With 197 individually appointed rooms & suites; 31 villas (most of them provide views of the Caribbean Sea); an award profitable spa; an 18-hole golf course and an equestrian heart that includes 28 horses, Half Moon Luxurious Resort definitely over-delivers (if there’s such a factor when consolation and luxurious are involved).
In case you thought that was an excessive amount of, wait till you dine on the ‘Sugar Mill’ (see beneath!) – awarded and lauded as the very best restaurant in all of Jamaica.
Get Pricing & E book a Room: Half Moon Resort
36. Swim with Horses (Montego Bay)
What? Swim with horses? You didn’t learn that title unsuitable! At Half Moon Resort they’ve an impressive equestrian center and their Turf-n-Surf program is the spotlight: a horseback experience alongside the oceanfront, plus a swim with the animals. A particular bucket listing once-in-a-lifetime!
37. Get pleasure from Dinner at Sugar Mill (Montego Bay)
Eating on the Sugar Mill restaurant is a luxurious expertise to savor with its beautiful outside seating amongst the foliage and distinctive twist on Jamaican delicacies. They concentrate on placing a spin on Caribbean flavors (like with the crispy jerk hen rolls with cho cho Slaw and sorrel-dark rum chutney).
A keep on the Half Moon Resort wouldn’t be the identical and not using a eating expertise right here.
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Jamaica is an ideal trip vacation spot for individuals who love the solar and the ocean. Whether or not or not it’s enjoyable underneath the solar in considered one of their beautiful seashores, exploring rivers and lakes atop bamboo rafts, or having fun with some jerk hen or Crimson Strip, there’s by no means a scarcity of enjoyable and memorable issues to do in Jamaica. Add to that the pleasant individuals and laid-back environment, and you’ve got your self a visit undoubtedly price taking.
Greatest Suggestions for Visiting Jamaica
Getting There: Sangster Worldwide Airport in Montego Bay, Norman Manley Worldwide Airport in Kingston, and the Ian Fleming Worldwide Airport in Ocho Rios are main hubs and most airways will fly into them. You possibly can simply examine for the very best fare offers at Skyscanner, which additionally has the choice to decide on ‘most cost-effective month’ because the departure to search out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot. From the airport to the town heart, you possibly can take a shuttle or take a taxi.
The place to Keep in Jamaica: It’s finest to remain close to the town heart, public transportation or the realm that you may be spending essentially the most time in. Rok Hotel Kingston Tapestry Collection By Hilton is a superb alternative within the Kingston district. For one thing on the cheaper facet, attempt Da Fabio positioned in Negril. For a lodge with somewhat extra extravagance, guide a room on the The Cliff Hotel. Or search some nice offers on lodges of your alternative at Booking.com. In case you’re on the lookout for extra of a house environment (or are touring with a gaggle of individuals), head over to Airbnb that has homes, residences and even only a room for lease in each worth vary.
Getting Round: Driving in a brand new vacation spot generally is a little bit of a problem, however when you select to lease a automotive, RentalCars.com has nice offers. In case you are not renting a automotive, there are many different choices. Taxis can be found everywhere in the metropolis. For a extra price range pleasant possibility, you possibly can take the general public bus, nonetheless remember that it is just accessible in Kingston and Montego Bay. You may as well lease bikes which can be found all through the vacationer areas of Jamaica.
Greatest Excursions in Jamaica: You’ll find among the prime excursions at Get Your Guide or Viator, and listed here are among the prime ones. excursions:
Insurance coverage: It’s all the time a good suggestion to journey absolutely insured so you might be protected in case of journey cancellations or medical emergencies. You possibly can take a look at pricing at Travelex Insurance.
Common Adapter: Your American plugged tools will want an adapter. I exploit the Celtic Universal Adapter, which has introduced me around the globe with no issues.
This publish could include affiliate hyperlinks. In case you make a purchase order via my hyperlinks, I earn a fee that helps to maintain this weblog operating—at no further value to you. You possibly can learn my full disclosure right here.
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