This Caribbean coastal town in Jamaica has white sandy beaches, the famous Dunn's River Falls, and Dolphin Cove. Visitors can explore local culture or ride the Mystic Mountain Sky Explorer.
Ocho Rios, a coastal town on Jamaica's north coast, offers a variety of experiences for travelers. You can climb the 600-foot Dunn's River Falls, race down Mystic Mountain on a bobsled, or swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cove. The town's gardens, beaches, and local cuisine provide an authentic Jamaican experience.
Climbing Dunn's River Falls
Dunn's River Falls, a 600-foot cascading waterfall, draws many visitors to Ocho Rios. You can climb its terraced rocks while enjoying the refreshing spray. For a less crowded experience, visit the Blue Hole, where you can jump into clear turquoise pools surrounded by lush vegetation. Take a drive through Fern Gully, a winding 4.8-kilometer road lined with over 540 species of ferns, creating a green tunnel effect.
Diving into Caribbean Waters
The clear Caribbean waters around Ocho Rios are home to diverse marine life, making it ideal for water activities. You can go scuba diving or snorkeling to explore coral reefs and colorful fish. At Dolphin Cove, you can swim and interact with dolphins in their natural habitat. For those seeking a thrill, you can encounter sharks and stingrays under professional supervision.
Racing Down Mystic Mountain
Mystic Mountain offers several exciting activities. You can ride a bobsled down a 1000-meter track, inspired by the famous Jamaican Olympic team. The park also has zip lining through the rainforest canopy, providing views of the coastline. For a different experience, explore the Green Grotto Caves, a labyrinth of underground caverns with an interesting past.
Relaxing on Beaches
Ocho Rios has several beaches where you can enjoy the sun and warm Caribbean Sea. Many all-inclusive resorts like Sandals Ochi and Beaches Ocho Rios have private beach access along with amenities. These resorts typically include multiple restaurants, bars, pools, and activities, allowing you to relax without leaving the property.
Tasting Jamaican Cuisine
During your stay in Ocho Rios, try authentic Jamaican dishes. Sample jerk chicken, a spicy grilled specialty, or try ackee and saltfish, the national dish. Many restaurants in Ocho Rios serve fresh seafood caught daily. For a true taste of Jamaica, visit local food stalls or small eateries where you can try patties, bammy, and other traditional snacks.
Dancing to Reggae Beats
As night falls, Ocho Rios comes alive with music and dancing. Margaritaville is popular for both daytime activities and nighttime entertainment, with a swim-up bar and regular live music. Many resorts host themed nights with live reggae bands and traditional Jamaican performances. For a more local experience, visit smaller bars where you can meet residents and enjoy rum cocktails.
Browsing Local Crafts
At the Ocho Rios Craft Market, local artisans sell handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and colorful textiles. The town also has duty-free shops where you can find international brands at discounted prices. For a unique souvenir, consider purchasing Blue Mountain coffee, known for its smooth flavor and grown in the nearby mountains.
Exploring Jamaican Culture
Learn about Jamaica's culture and history by visiting Nine Mile, the birthplace and final resting place of reggae legend Bob Marley. You can tour his childhood home and learn about his life and music. To learn about Jamaica's colonial era, visit Prospect Plantation, where you can tour the grounds and see traditional farming methods.
Navigating Ocho Rios
Most visitors arrive at either Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay (97 km west) or Ian Fleming International Airport (17 km east). Taxis and shuttle services are available for transportation to Ocho Rios. Within the town, taxis are the most common way to get around, but be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Some resorts offer complimentary shuttle services to popular sites.
Choosing When to Visit
Ocho Rios has warm weather year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 22°C to 31°C (72°F to 88°F). The busiest tourist season runs from December to April when the weather is driest. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during May to June or November. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, although direct hits are rare.
