Ocho Rios is definitely one of my favorite places to visit in Jamaica. We came here often for vacation weekends when I was a child. Back then it seemed like it took forever to get there.

Now it is only an hour drive from Kingston with the new highway. Spanish for “eight rivers” and fondly referred to as “Ochie” by Jamaicans, Ocho Rios is located on the north coast in the parish of St. Ann.

Once a little fishing village, Ocho Rios is now a popular tourist area with several hotels and a cruise ship harbor.  You can fly into Montego Bay or Kingston, then drive to Ocho Rios. It is also a popular stopping point for many cruises. If you are wondering what to do in Ocho Rios while on a cruise or vacationing in a hotel, check out this list.

Keep in mind that some of these activities are located outside of Ocho Rios, so you may want to plan accordingly depending on how much time you have.

1. Enjoy the Beaches

If you are planning to stay in Ocho Rios for a few days, I highly recommend that you choose a hotel or villa that is located on the beach. That way, you have easy access to our beautiful white sand beaches. If your hotel or villa is not located on the beach, don’t worry! You can always visit Bamboo Beach Club or James Bond beach. Either way, make sure you take the time to lay out, soak up the sun, and take a dip in the blue Caribbean sea.

2. Climb Dunn’s River Falls

Dunn’s River is a beautiful waterfall located in the Mammee bay area (near Ocho Rios). Dunn’s River Falls is a popular site for tourists but enjoyed by Jamaicans too. Climbing is optional but I highly recommend it. Experienced guides will take you up the falls while you hold hands with fellow-climbers. Quite the experience! If climbing the falls isn’t your thing, you should still visit Dunn’s River anyway and take in the beautiful beach and scenery.

3. Swim in the Blue Hole

The Blue Hole isn’t as popular as Dunn’s River Falls, probably because getting there is not as easy. It is located on the other side of Ocho Rios (closer to St. Mary) and the road to get there is in bad condition. If you can organize transportation (see info above) and don’t mind the trip, I highly recommend visiting the Blue Hole as it is truly a sight to behold. From the luscious green plants and flowers to the turquoise blue water, this place is a beautiful hidden gem. Jump in and enjoy!

4. Swim with the Dolphins at Dolphin Cove

Dolphin Cove is another fun spot located in the Mammee Bay area (near Ocho Rios). Swimming with the Dolphins was definitely the highlight for me. I can’t wait to go back! Of course there are other activities such as snorkeling with sting rays, kayaking, exploring the nature trail, jet skis, boat rides, and more! Dolphin Cove is a must if you are looking for a fun-filled family day.

5. Zip line at Mystic Mountain

If you are not big on the sun and sea or simply just want to do something different, then check out the mountains. Mystic Mountain is perfect for a family trip. Think of it as a tropical forest adventure with various activities to choose from – ride a bobsled, experience the Sky Explorer, or of course, zip line!

6. Take the Bob Marley Nine Mile Tour

This tour takes you to Nine Mile, the birth and resting place of Jamaican legend, Bob Marley. The tour consists of a 1 ½ hour drive through Fern Gully and other scenic spots in Ocho Rios. On your way, you will experience beautiful scenery and see rural villages all while listening to the melodic reggae tunes of Bob Marley. Once you get to Nine Mile, your guide will take you through the village to see the house where Bob Marley lived as a child. You will also experience stories of Bob Marley’s childhood, music, and life. If you are a Bob Marley fan, or just want to see a different side of Jamaica, this tour is for you.

7. Visit the Green Grotto caves

Travel to Runaway Bay (not too far from Ocho Rios) and visit the underground mystical caverns known as Green Grotto caves. You will experience this natural labyrinth while learning about its rich history all the way back to the days of Jamaica’s first people – the Arawaks. The Arawaks used these caves for different purposes and left behind many artifacts which have been unearthed from time to time. During the 17^th Century, the Spaniards used the caves as a hideout when the English were invading Jamaica. If you are looking for something entirely different, you will want to visit the Green Grotto caves for a historical underground adventure.

8. Go Tubing on the White River

Enjoy the tropical scenery as you go tubing along the White River in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Your tour guide will take you through the river where you will experience small rapids as well as a smooth peaceful ride. The water is cold and quite refreshing. Your journey will of course end on the beach. The entire tubing session can be anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 ½ hours depending on how often you stop along the way. Another fun-filled adventure!

9. Visit the Craft Market

If you want to experience some Jamaican culture then visit the Ocho Rios craft market. Located in the Ocho Rios town square, the Craft Market has been in Ocho Rios for years. You can get beautiful local art and craft items for a great deal. It definitely beats the overpriced craft shops at the hotels. Be prepared though, the vendors are very determined to sell you something and can be quite pushy. Keep in mind you can always say no. I do think it is worth the visit, especially if you are looking for authentic Jamaican souvenirs. Definitely a Jamaican cultural experience!

10. Eat Authentic Jamaican Food

Want to experience some authentic Jamaican food? Then visit some of the local spots to get a delicious Jamaican meal. Here are some places where I eat when I visit Ocho Rios:  Scotchies, Ms. T’s, Ocho Rios Jerk Center. You will definitely want to try one of these spots, especially if you are getting tired of the hotel food. As a Jamaican, I highly recommend these local eats!

A Few Tips

Getting There

Flight

You can either fly into Montego Bay (Sangster International airport) or Kingston (Norman Manley airport), then drive to Ocho Rios. If you are staying at a hotel, Montego Bay is probably the better option as many hotels arrange round-trip transportation from Sangster International airport for their guests. You should probably check with the hotel first.

If you are flying from the U.S., your options include Delta, American Airlines, Jetblue, Southwest (Montego Bay only), and Spirit. You should definitely compare airfare before booking your flight.

Cruise

If you prefer, why not go to Ocho Rios on a cruise? There are several cruises that stop in Ocho Rios. You can take a look at cruise options and book your cruise here.

Accommodations

All-Inclusive Hotels

Most people enjoy staying in all-inclusive hotels. My favorite all-inclusive in Ocho Rios is Jewel Dunns River.  Jewel Dunns River is located in Mammee Bay near Dunn’s River Falls and Dolphin Cove. It is smaller than the other all-inclusives in the area, and has less of a commercial feel to it. Plus, it is locally owned and the service is great! I really enjoyed my stay there.

Jewel Dunns River is adults-only, so it is not an option if you are traveling with kids. If that’s the case, you could always stay at Jewel Runaway Bay, which is a little further away (but not far) from the Ocho Rios area, but it accommodates kids.  Other all-inclusive options in Ocho Rios are: RIU Ocho Rios, Sandals, and Couples San Souci.  Check out hotel options and book your hotel here.

Villas

If you prefer something a little more relaxed or if you are traveling with a group, why not rent a villa? There are some lovely villas in Ocho Rios, particularly in the Mammee Bay / Old Fort Bay area. My favorite is Cannon Villas, which is located right on the beach.

The price includes a housekeeper/cook (if I remember correctly). If you are traveling with a group or simply looking for something quiet, relaxed, and private, take a look at villa options and book your villa.

Non All-Inclusive Hotels

If you decide you want to stay somewhere less fancy than an all-inclusive or a villa, then a regular hotel is your best bet. Rooms Ocho Rios, Sandcastles, and Chrisann’s Beach Resort are a few examples. You can take a look at hotel options and book your hotel here.

Getting Around

If you are comfortable with driving in Jamaica, you can rent a car. Don’t forget to stay on the left-side of the road.

If you prefer to hire a driver/taxi to take you around, give Christopher Pinnock a call (876) 360-7977 or shoot him an email christophergpinnock@yahoo.com. He will get you where you need to go in Ocho Rios.

What are you looking forward to in Ocho Rios? Any suggestions I may have left out? I would love to hear about it! Follow this blog and leave a comment!