Jamaica is commonly the primary vacation spot that involves thoughts when individuals consider the Caribbean. With charming pure sights, world-renowned athletes and luxurious delicacies, it’s not exhausting to see why. This island, the land of Reggae music and Dancehall, is likely one of the largest islands within the Caribbean. Added to that, a lot of the tradition within the smaller islands is closely influenced by all issues Jamaican – every little thing from the music to the meals and lingo.
For avid vacationers, this island is the ultimate vacation spot because it’s simply brimming with journey. From stress-free on scenic seashores to marveling at glowing lagoons, Jamaica has one thing for everybody. Learn on as we discover the highest 15 sights on this island and should attempt excursions!
1. The Blue Gap
Positioned: Ocho Rios
Photograph credit score: Natascha Kaukorat/Shutterstock.com
Set within the mountains, the Blue Gap is a hidden gem that’s simply the correct match for nature lovers. Usually described as “a bit piece of heaven,” it options rope swings, refreshing pure swimming pools, scenic trails, and cascading waterfalls. The views you’ll see alongside the way in which as you hike to this attraction provides to the tranquility of the expertise. A go to to the Blue Gap generally is a romantic day journey or an adventurous exploration that teams can take pleasure in!
Professional tip: The Blue Gap is positioned on a 20-minute drive from Sandals Ochi and Sandals Royal Plantation. Convey alongside some water sneakers for added consolation.
2. Seven Mile Seaside
Positioned: Negril
Image: The all-inclusive Sandals Negril is positioned on the expansive Seven Mile Seaside. With resorts, eating places and water sports activities out there, this is likely one of the most handy seashores in Jamaica.
Don’t be shocked in case your Seven Mile Seaside go to seems to be one in every of your finest seashore days but. This is likely one of the hottest seashores in Jamaica, and arguably the most effective. This seashore is expansive, and in actuality, round 4 miles lengthy—the remaining three miles lengthen into Bloody Bay seashore. However, there’s nonetheless a lot of house to carry your island seashore getaway goals to life! You can also make your expertise there as quiet or as concerned as you’d like, however you’ll absolutely discover simply what you want for a memorable seashore day!
Professional tip: Wish to take pleasure in tropical-accented cocktails on Seven Mile Seaside? Contemplate staying at an all-inclusive resort like Sandals Negril (adults-only) or Beaches Negril (family-friendly, consists of waterpark) – positioned straight on Seven Mile Seaside!
3. Mayfield Falls
Positioned: Negril
Photograph credit score: Michael Kucsmas/Shutterstock.com
Tucked away within the mountains, you’ll discover Mayfield Falls. It is a spot the place you’ll be able to dive headfirst (not actually!) into peace and rejuvenation. The waterfalls and mineral springs listed below are beloved by locals and guests alike. There are two waterfalls at this location, 21 freshwater swimming pools, and sufficient wildlife to set your coronary heart comfy. As you tour the property, you’ll be capable of cease and relaxation at numerous gazebos and snap unbelievable photographs alongside the way in which!
4. Attain Falls
Positioned: Portland
Photograph credit score: mr.innis/Shutterstock.com
Cascading waterfalls, serene pure swimming pools, and a lush rainforest setting are among the many issues you’ll be able to stay up for at Attain Falls. This attraction is value a go to throughout a Jamaica getaway and may be explored as a part of a guided tour. Many guests take pleasure in picnicking right here and venturing upstream to the “Rabbit Gap” on Driver’s River for an exhilarating expertise. The guides make this tour lighthearted and enjoyable, and the surroundings brings a stage of peace that’s exhausting to beat.
5. Floyd’s Pelican Bar
Positioned: Close to Treasure Seaside (accessible by boat).
A visit to Floyd’s Pelican Bar in Jamaica is a should for journey seekers. Afterall, the place else are you able to discover a bar that’s smack in the midst of the ocean? You’ll want a ship to get to this standard native bar, and when you get there, you’re in for a day of enjoyable. Sip on chilly drinks, style the native fare, and dip a toe into the expansive surrounding blues. Excursions can be found to this location, together with some that cease at a number of areas. That is a kind of sights in Jamaica that you just received’t need to miss!
Professional Tip: Excursions to Floyd’s Pelican bar can be found from Sandals South Coast in Jamaica. Make your reservations and lunch requests upfront!
6. Dunn’s River Falls
Positioned: Ocho Rios
No query about it, Dunn’s River Falls is one in every of Jamaica’s most iconic sights. There are many causes for this, however that listing begins and begins with simply how spectacular it’s to see the falls up shut. The cascading waterfalls at this location circulation over limestone terraces and downward into the ocean. When you’re feeling notably courageous, you’ll be able to climb the falls, hand in hand with different guests and make your approach to the highest. Or you’ll be able to embark on the dry climb alongside the sides of the falls. This journey is finest carried out with a information, and it is extremely beneficial throughout a Jamaica trip!
Professional tip: Bask within the pure swimming pools on the base of the falls, that are extremely invigorating! Additionally, don’t overlook your water sneakers for those who plan on climbing by means of the falls.
7. Appleton Property
Positioned: Nassau Valley, South Coast Jamaica
Photograph credit score: Debbie Ann Powell/Shutterstock.com
Appleton is a well-liked Jamaican rum, and a possibility to tour the Appleton Property is one which have to be accepted in any respect prices. That’s, for those who’re into rum tastings and need to see what Jamaica has to supply. As a part of the rum tasting tour at Appleton Property, you’ll be taught in regards to the historical past of this fine Caribbean rum, and total, be taught in regards to the rum-making course of within the islands. Whereas at Appleton Property, look out for the Copper Pot Stills that are stated to provide Appleton rum its distinctive style. Don’t overlook to buy a bottle or two to take house with you!
8. Frenchman’s Cove
Positioned: Portland
Photograph credit score: Travelling Thilo/Shutterstock.com
A captivating and charming Jamaican focal point, Frenchman’s Cove is the place the river and sea collide. You received’t discover many different spots in Jamaica like this, so take a while to soak within the surroundings when you get there. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a fun-filled seashore day or a tranquil river ‘lime’, you’ll discover simply that at this Jamaican locale!
9. Martha Brae River
Positioned: Montego Bay
Photograph credit score: Debbie Ann Powell/Shutterstock.com
Rafting on the Martha Brae is a kind of Jamaica experiences that merely shouldn’t be missed. It’s greater than only a romantic escape, although it may be simply that if that’s what you want. However what actually stands out about this expertise is the sense of peace that comes with it. As you drift alongside the river, you’ll be taught in regards to the legend of Martha Brae and the historical past behind this location. The story of this river consists of particulars about hidden treasures and Spanish explorers, however a lot of it has been misplaced in translation. However, attending to raft down this river is a treasure of an expertise in itself.
Good to know: In Rafter’s Village, the leisure facility at this location, you’ll discover memento retailers, a swimming pool, restrooms, a bar, and a picnic space.
10. YS Falls
Positioned: St. Elizabeth
Beat the Caribbean warmth with a Jamaica waterfall tour. Probably the greatest spots for that is YS Falls. Right here you’ll discover seven tranquil falls, lush gardens, and loads of room to zip-line over the falls for those who can summon the braveness! The pure swimming pools are additionally a part of the attract, and they are often an wonderful spot to only chill out and never fear a few factor!
Professional Tip: On-site lifeguards can lead you to the most effective areas to swim at YS Falls. It’s value strolling with water sneakers or buying a pair when you arrive. Tour firms like Island Routes supply nice costs for this attraction.
11. Mystic Mountain
Positioned: Ocho Rios
A go to to Mystic Mountain makes it potential to benefit from the tropical attract of Jamaica whereas taking within the distinctive mountain vistas. Rising over 700 toes above sea stage, guests can take pleasure in excursions just like the Sky Explorer chairlift, rainforest bobsledding, or zip-lining. For thrill-seekers, mixture excursions take the journey to new heights! Excursions can be found by way of Island Routes.
Word: Name forward to seek out out whether or not this attraction is obtainable.
12. Treasure Seaside
Positioned: On the south Western Coast of Jamaica
Photograph credit score: Paul W. Henry/Shutterstock.com
The Treasure Bay area in Jamaica has a much less ‘touristy’ really feel than a few of the extra standard components of Jamaica. This makes the seashores right here ideally suited if you need a seashore day with an out-of-the-way really feel. On some days, you may actually be the one particular person right here. On different days, you’ll discover a mixture of locals and guests, all having fun with just a few hours of quietude. There are just a few eating places and bars on this space, so for those who go, you’ll be in good palms.
13. Blue John Crow Mountains Nationwide Park
Positioned: The border of Portland and Saint Thomas
Photograph credit score: Yardie Inc/Shutterstock.com
The Blue John Crow Mountains and Nationwide Park is Jamaica’s solely nationwide park and a UNESCO heritage web site. This pure attraction brings an previous adage to life: the most effective issues in life are free. With a go to right here, you’ll be able to stay up for merely inhaling contemporary, crisp air, scoping wildlife, and being immersed within the lush terrain. The encircling views are nothing wanting distinctive, and with mountaineering a chance, you may be completely positioned to take all of it in. Earlier than ending a day of exploration right here, take a swim beneath the waterfalls or tour the espresso plantations.
14. Rose Corridor Nice Home
Positioned: Montego Bay
Photograph credit score: Debbie Ann Powell/Shutterstock.com
Some name the Rose Corridor Nice Home the Home of Horrors of Jamaica, however that doesn’t scare the a whole bunch of people that tour this property whereas in Jamaica. Legend has it that the home is haunted by Annee Palmer, the famed ‘White Witch’, and as a part of the tour, skilled actors do their finest to scare the residing daylights out of anybody that may be caught off-guard. The Home dates again to the colonial period and was restored within the Nineteen Sixties. Right here, other than being scared foolish, you’ll be taught in regards to the lifetime of the British elite within the not-so-distant Caribbean previous.
15. Rick’s Café
Positioned: Negril
Photograph credit score: Debbie Ann Powell/Shutterstock.com
Sunsets, Reggae music, and cliff jumping… not essentially in that order. You’ll have a blast at Rick’s Café, whether or not you go along with a bunch, or with the love of your life. For aspiring cliff jumpers, please observe that the largest bounce is 35 toes excessive, which appears a simple feat for native divers, who’re entertaining to look at as they fling their our bodies any which method into the waters under.
It’s an expertise you received’t quickly overlook, particularly with the chance to view stay performances from the primary stage when you’re carried out diving. There’s additionally a pool space and a lounge with tasty bites.
Professional tip: Rick’s Café is simply round quarter-hour from Sandals Negril in Jamaica!
High Jamaica Excursions
1. Dunn’s River Catamaran Cruise from Ocho Rios
To see Dunn’s River Falls up shut is one factor, however to mix this tour with a catamaran cruise is one thing else fully. Not solely will you be capable of take within the sights and sounds of this pure attraction, however you’ll be capable of scope the scenic coast of Jamaica as a part of your tour too. This mix tour brings collectively the most effective of Jamaica on land and sea and is likely one of the hottest excursions out there on this island.
2. Bamboo River Rafting
Jamaica has some fairly neat rivers, and the Rio Grande is among the many most extremely rated. If you get right here, you’ll doubtless discover tour teams ready to go on their Jamaica bamboo rafting tours, which generally final for about two hours.
This romantic guided tour is the proper setting for nature lovers. You’ll glide by means of the tropical rainforest, and take within the sights alongside the way in which. Notably, this river was first utilized by banana farmers to move bananas to different areas. Now, it’s free to be loved by vacationers and locals alike.
3. Pelican Bar Spotlight Catamaran Cruise
Discover the South Coast of Jamaica with a catamaran cruise that units Pelican Bar because the spotlight of the day. This catamaran cruise is the proper approach to get higher acquainted with this charming floating bar. Get pleasure from upbeat island tunes, swim, snorkel, discover and simply chill as absorb the most effective of Jamaica.
4. Mini-Routes to Ocho Rios
Drive your individual journey in Jamaica with the Mini Routes to Ocho Rios excursion. As a part of this tour, you’ll get behind the wheel of a mini-cooper as you immerse your self in native life. Meals, enjoyable and journey carry this expertise along with time for a Dunn’s River Falls go to, lunch and memento buying factored in!
5. Dolphin Swim
There isn’t any query about it, dolphins are sensible, humorous, and to not point out, tremendous lovely! They’re actually man’s finest buddy of the ocean, and a possibility to swim and play with them shouldn’t be missed. Whereas in Jamaica, you’ll be able to go to the Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios to expertise this for the primary time… or second, or third time! At this location, it’s additionally potential to swim with sharks and stingrays and be taught extra about every species.
6. Black River, YS Falls, Zipline & Appleton Rum Expertise Ocho Rios
Rum, river, falls? Properly, that about sums it up. The Black River, YS Falls, Zipline & Appleton Rum Experience Ocho Rios tour provided by Island Routes consists of a few of the most enjoyable Jamaica experiences. And you may take all of it in on the identical day! Set within the south coast of Jamaica, you’ll begin off with the Black River Safari. Subsequent, you’ll enterprise to YS Falls for some waterfall rejuvenation. The day wraps up with the Pleasure Spence Appleton Property Rum Expertise inclusive of cocktails and lunch!
7. Deep Sea Sport Fishing
There are numerous methods to go a few fishing expedition, however deep sea fishing is among the many most enjoyable. Whereas in Jamaica, you’ll be able to arrange a deep sea fishing tour with one of many native tour firms and discover a few of the prime fishing areas across the island. With chilly drinks at hand and knowledgeable seafarers on the helm, all you’ll want to consider is the most effective time to reel in your line!
8. Luminous Lagoon Tour
Naturally glowing water is a uncommon discover, not simply within the Caribbean however on the earth. On the Luminous Lagoon in Falmouth Jamaica, dinoflagellates are the star of the present. These microorganisms are answerable for the luminescent glow of this physique of water in an space the place the Martha Brae River meets the ocean.
There are solely 4 different areas on the earth the place you’ll be able to witness this phenomenon. And guess what? The water on this blue lagoon in Jamaica is alleged to glow the brightest of all of them. That is stated to have one thing to do with the constant local weather. When you plan on heading to this attraction whereas in Jamaica, understand that this is likely one of the locations the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in a few of the finest snorkeling in Jamaica.
9. Black River Tour
Photograph credit score: Malgorzata Litkowska/Shutterstock.com
Get in contact with nature with a tour alongside the Black River in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica. This tour makes it potential to be taught in regards to the species that inhabit this space, together with scores of birds and crocodiles. You simply may spot the latter creeping alongside the riverbanks as you glide throughout the river on a ship tour. Don’t have any worry, they’re largely nearly their very own enterprise. This tour is a good way to be taught in regards to the geography and ecology of the realm, in addition to a little bit of historical past.
10. Konoko Falls Tour
Photograph credit score: DosanJones/Shutterstock.com
Konoko Falls is taken into account one in every of Jamaica’s best-kept secrets and techniques. Inside this Ocho Rios attraction, you’ll discover a botanical backyard, a waterfall, and a zoo. This space is often used as a location for weddings, household reunions, gala occasions, and even photoshoots. Guided excursions can be found to Konoko Falls, or you’ll be able to discover this attraction by yourself whereas in Jamaica. Outdoors of a tour, adults pay US$20 to get in, kids (3-12 years) US$10, and youngsters below 3 years previous are free.
Good to know: A tour of Konoko Falls and Park is a good way to be taught in regards to the indigenous Taino Indians who have been early inhabitants of Jamaica. Probably the greatest excursions for this expertise is the Konoko Falls Rainforest Trek.
Finest seashores to go to in Jamaica
Past the highest 25 issues to do in Jamaica, there’s heaps extra to discover on this island. Just like the seashores! This island is thought for its lovely white sand seashores with crystal clear waters. Although you could find outstanding seashores alongside all the coast of the island, there are just a few that basically stand out. Seven Mile Seaside in Negril involves thoughts.
Apart from Seven Mile Seaside, you can even discover Winnifred Seaside (west of Port Antonio), Physician’s Cave Seaside (Montego Bay), Boston Bay (Portland) and Half Moon Bay (Negril). Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a seashore with dreamy views, an out-of-the method golden strand, and even someplace to catch mega waves or get into water sports, there’s a seashore on this island together with your title on it!
Professional Tip: On the subject of surfing in the Caribbean, Jamaica and Barbados are among the many prime locations! When you’re questioning which of those islands could be finest for you, try our article on Barbados vs. Jamaica.
Finest spots to expertise Jamaican tradition & historical past
Let’s spherical issues up with a dose of historical past and tradition. This is not exhausting to seek out in Jamaica, whether or not you enterprise to the historic museums and nationwide parks or discover different methods to immerse your self within the vibrant ambiance. Whereas in Jamaica, carve out a while to discover these and different native sights:
1. Fort Charles
Positioned: Port Royal
Photograph credit score: Rostasedlacek/Shutterstock.com
Let your explorations start with Fort Charles the place you’ll be able to discover the historical past of Port Royal. As a part of this journey, you’ll be able to be taught in regards to the individuals of this Jamaican village close to Kingston Harbour. Fort Charles was constructed within the mid-1600s by the English, after their historic invasion of the island. The Fort performed a big function of their protection in instances of conflict, and nonetheless right now there are a number of canons standing across the Fort. One of many highlights of this tour is the museum expertise, notably the educated and passionate museum curator!
2. The Bob Marley Museum
Positioned: Kingston
Photograph credit score: Photograph Spirit/Shutterstock.com
The legendary Bob Marley stated it finest, “each little factor is gonna be alright”. It all the time is, particularly for those who’re in Jamaica. Followers of the late Marley will probably be full of euphoria as soon as they set foot at this standard Jamaica museum. This attraction is predicated on the musician’s house, transformed by his spouse Rita Marley. As a part of a reggae-inspired tour, you’ll be capable of take an in-depth look into the lifetime of Bob Marley. You possibly can select between the ‘Combo “One Love” tour’, the ‘Bob Marley Residence’ tour, and the ‘Making of the Music’ tour.
3. Sunken Pirate Metropolis
Positioned: Port Royal
Neglect Pirates of the Caribbean. The true story ready to hit the massive display screen is in Jamaica, the place you could find a pirate story for the generations. Do you know that Port Royal was as soon as thought of a pirate haven, seeing the likes of Blackbeard, Henry Morgan, and Calico Jack? Properly, you could find out extra about this and extra with a go to to the Sunken Pirate Metropolis space in Port Royal. This space was destroyed by a large earthquake in 1692. The stays of the town lie underwater, and so they’re a significant vacationer attraction. Whereas in Jamaica, you’ll be able to discover the realm with a neighborhood dive middle.
4. Nationwide Gallery of Jamaica
Positioned: Kingston
Trying to find creative inspiration? Or perhaps you simply need to view a few of Jamaica’s most intricate artwork items? When you answered sure to both of those, then a go to to the Nationwide Gallery of Jamaica is so as. That is one of many oldest museums within the Caribbean (opened in 1974). This attraction options the work of artists from all around the Caribbean, from completely different time intervals, so it’ll really feel like a blast from the previous. Dive into the center of it, from the fastidiously composed to the completely summary.
5. Devon Home
Positioned: Kingston
Photograph credit score: Mihai-Bogdan Lazar/Shutterstock.com
Devon Home in Jamaica is a kind of locations that’s not simply important to the Jamaican individuals, however to Caribbean individuals at giant. This attraction was conceptualized by the island’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. Right here, Caribbean and Georgian structure collide, complemented by vintage furnishings, together with some recreated items. With rolling inexperienced lawns, the home is fastidiously maintained by the Jamaica Nationwide Heritage Belief. It’s a celebrated nationwide monument.
Professional Tip: Whereas at Devon Home, try its internationally acclaimed ice cream parlor.
Jamaica: A real Caribbean Paradise
Paradise matches when describing Jamaica, particularly relating to all-inclusive vacations. This island is a must-visit for anybody looking for an all-encompassing Caribbean trip that leaves nothing untouched, or unexplored. You possibly can select from a bunch of Jamaica factors of curiosity and issues to do, or take it simple, and do nothing however chill out at one of many all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica. No matter you determine, the wealthy recollections of your trip will final a lifetime!
Additionally learn: Best time to visit Jamaica.
Image: The all-inclusive Sandals Negril. Leisure simply appears to name your title relating to Sandals Resorts in Jamaica!
