Jamaica is commonly the primary vacation spot that involves thoughts when folks consider the Caribbean. With charming pure sights, world-renowned athletes and luxurious delicacies, it’s not onerous to see why. This island, the land of Reggae music and Dancehall, is among 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 part 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 strive 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 proper match for nature lovers. Usually described as “a bit of piece of heaven,” it options rope swings, refreshing pure swimming pools, scenic trails, and cascading waterfalls. The views you’ll see alongside the best way as you hike to this attraction provides to the tranquility of the expertise. A go to to the Blue Gap could be a romantic day journey or an adventurous exploration that teams can get pleasure from!
Skilled tip: The Blue Gap is situated on a 20-minute drive from Sandals Ochi and Sandals Royal Plantation. Deliver alongside some water footwear for added consolation.
2. Seven Mile Seaside
Positioned: Negril
Image: The all-inclusive Sandals Negril is situated on the expansive Seven Mile Seaside. With resorts, eating places and water sports activities obtainable, this is among the most handy seashores in Jamaica.
Don’t be stunned in case your Seven Mile Seaside go to seems to be one among your greatest seashore days but. This is among the hottest seashores in Jamaica, and arguably the perfect. This seashore is expansive, and in actuality, round 4 miles lengthy—the remaining three miles prolong into Bloody Bay seashore. Nonetheless, there’s nonetheless a number of house to convey your island seashore getaway desires to life! You can also make your expertise there as quiet or as concerned as you’d like, however you’ll certainly discover simply what you want for a memorable seashore day!
Skilled tip: Need to get pleasure from 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) – situated instantly 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 possibly can dive headfirst (not actually!) into peace and rejuvenation. The waterfalls and mineral springs listed here are beloved by locals and guests alike. There are two waterfalls at this location, 21 freshwater swimming pools, and sufficient natural world to set your coronary heart relaxed. As you tour the property, you’ll be capable to cease and relaxation at varied gazebos and snap unbelievable images alongside the best way!
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 possibly can sit up for at Attain Falls. This attraction is price a go to throughout a Jamaica getaway and could be explored as a part of a guided tour. Many guests get pleasure from 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 onerous 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 course 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 places. That is a type of sights in Jamaica that you just received’t need to miss!
Skilled 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 among Jamaica’s most iconic sights. There are many causes for this, however that record begins and begins with simply how spectacular it’s to see the falls up shut. The cascading waterfalls at this location movement over limestone terraces and downward into the ocean. Should you’re feeling significantly courageous, you possibly can climb the falls, hand in hand with different guests and make your solution to the highest. Or you possibly can embark on the dry climb alongside the perimeters of the falls. This journey is greatest achieved with a information, and it is extremely advisable throughout a Jamaica trip!
Skilled tip: Bask within the pure swimming pools on the base of the falls, that are extremely invigorating! Additionally, don’t overlook your water footwear if you happen to plan on climbing by way 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 chance to tour the Appleton Property is one which should be accepted in any respect prices. That’s, if you happen to’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 concerning the historical past of this fine Caribbean rum, and total, be taught concerning the rum-making course of within the islands. Whereas at Appleton Property, look out for the Copper Pot Stills that are mentioned to offer 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 searching 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 type 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 concerning 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. Nonetheless, 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. Among the finest 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 if you happen to can summon the braveness! The pure swimming pools are additionally a part of the attract, and they are often an glorious spot to only chill out and never fear a few factor!
Skilled Tip: On-site lifeguards can lead you to the perfect areas to swim at YS Falls. It’s price strolling with water footwear or buying a pair when you arrive. Tour corporations like Island Routes supply nice costs for this attraction.
11. Mystic Mountain
Positioned: Ocho Rios
A go to to Mystic Mountain makes it attainable to benefit from the tropical attract of Jamaica whereas taking within the distinctive mountain vistas. Rising over 700 toes above sea stage, guests can get pleasure from 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 through Island Routes.
Word: Name forward to search out out whether or not this attraction is out there.
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 elements of Jamaica. This makes the seashores right here excellent if you would like a seashore day with an out-of-the-way really feel. On some days, you would possibly 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 if you happen to 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 perfect issues in life are free. With a go to right here, you possibly can sit up for merely inhaling recent, crisp air, scoping wildlife, and being immersed within the lush terrain. The encompassing views are nothing wanting distinctive, and with mountaineering a chance, you could 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 lot 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 greatest 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 Sixties. Right here, other than being scared foolish, you’ll be taught concerning 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 together with a bunch, or with the love of your life. For aspiring cliff jumpers, please be aware that the greatest leap 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 manner into the waters under.
It’s an expertise you received’t quickly overlook, particularly with the chance to view reside performances from the principle stage when you’re achieved diving. There’s additionally a pool space and a lounge with tasty bites.
Skilled tip: Rick’s Café is simply round quarter-hour from Sandals Negril in Jamaica!
Top 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 completely. Not solely will you be capable to take within the sights and sounds of this pure attraction, however you’ll be capable to scope the scenic coast of Jamaica as a part of your tour too. This mixture tour brings collectively the perfect of Jamaica on land and sea and is among the hottest excursions obtainable on this island.
2. Bamboo River Rafting
Jamaica has some fairly neat rivers, and the Rio Grande is among the many most extremely rated. Once 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 right setting for nature lovers. You’ll glide by way of the tropical rainforest, and take within the sights alongside the best way. 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 right solution to get higher acquainted with this charming floating bar. Take pleasure in upbeat island tunes, swim, snorkel, discover and simply chill as absorb the perfect 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 convey this expertise along with time for a Dunn’s River Falls go to, lunch and memento purchasing factored in!
5. Dolphin Swim
There is no such thing as a query about it, dolphins are good, humorous, and to not point out, tremendous lovable! They’re actually man’s greatest good friend of the ocean, and a chance to swim and play with them shouldn’t be missed. Whereas in Jamaica, you possibly can 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 attainable 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? Nicely, 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 fun Jamaica experiences. And you’ll 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 lots of methods to go a few fishing expedition, however deep sea fishing is among the many most fun. Whereas in Jamaica, you possibly can arrange a deep sea fishing tour with one of many native tour corporations and discover a few of the prime fishing places across the island. With chilly drinks at hand and knowledgeable seafarers on the helm, all you’ll want to consider is the perfect 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 places on the earth the place you possibly can 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 mentioned to have one thing to do with the constant local weather. Should you plan on heading to this attraction whereas in Jamaica, take into account that this is among the locations the place you possibly can get pleasure from a few of the greatest 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 attainable to be taught concerning the species that inhabit this space, together with scores of birds and crocodiles. You simply would possibly spot the latter creeping alongside the riverbanks as you glide throughout the river on a ship tour. Haven’t any worry, they’re principally nearly their very own enterprise. This tour is an effective way to be taught concerning the geography and ecology of the world, 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 among 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 ceaselessly used as a location for weddings, household reunions, gala occasions, and even photoshoots. Guided excursions can be found to Konoko Falls, or you possibly can discover this attraction by yourself whereas in Jamaica. Exterior 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 an effective way to be taught concerning the indigenous Taino Indians who had been early inhabitants of Jamaica. Among the finest excursions for this expertise is the Konoko Falls Rainforest Trek.
Greatest 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 understood for its stunning white sand seashores with crystal clear waters. Although you’ll find outstanding seashores alongside the complete coast of the island, there are just a few that actually stand out. Seven Mile Seaside in Negril involves thoughts.
Except for Seven Mile Seaside, you can too 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 searching for a seashore with dreamy views, an out-of-the manner 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!
Skilled Tip: With regards to surfing in the Caribbean, Jamaica and Barbados are among the many prime locations! Should you’re questioning which of those islands is perhaps greatest for you, take a look at our article on Barbados vs. Jamaica.
Greatest spots to expertise Jamaican tradition & historical past
Let’s spherical issues up with a dose of historical past and tradition. This is not onerous to search 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 possibly can discover the historical past of Port Royal. As a part of this journey, you possibly can be taught concerning the folks 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 as we speak there are a number of canons standing across the Fort. One of many highlights of this tour is the museum expertise, significantly the educated and passionate museum curator!
2. The Bob Marley Museum
Positioned: Kingston
Photograph credit score: Photograph Spirit/Shutterstock.com
The legendary Bob Marley mentioned it greatest, “each little factor is gonna be alright”. It at all times is, particularly if you happen to’re in Jamaica. Followers of the late Marley will likely be stuffed with euphoria as soon as they set foot at this standard Jamaica museum. This attraction relies on the musician’s house, transformed by his spouse Rita Marley. As a part of a reggae-inspired tour, you’ll be capable to take an in-depth look into the lifetime of Bob Marley. You may select between the ‘Combo “One Love” tour’, the ‘Bob Marley Dwelling’ tour, and the ‘Making of the Music’ tour.
3. Sunken Pirate Metropolis
Positioned: Port Royal
Overlook Pirates of the Caribbean. The true story ready to hit the large display is in Jamaica, the place you’ll 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? Nicely, you’ll 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 possibly can discover the world with an area dive middle.
4. Nationwide Gallery of Jamaica
Positioned: Kingston
Trying to find creative inspiration? Or possibly you simply need to view a few of Jamaica’s most intricate artwork items? Should 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 everywhere in the Caribbean, from completely different time durations, so it’ll really feel like a blast from the previous. Dive into the center of it, from the rigorously composed to the completely summary.
5. Devon Home
Positioned: Kingston
Photograph credit score: Mihai-Bogdan Lazar/Shutterstock.com
Devon Home in Jamaica is a type of locations that’s not simply vital to the Jamaican folks, however to Caribbean folks at massive. 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 rigorously maintained by the Jamaica Nationwide Heritage Belief. It’s a celebrated nationwide monument.
Skilled Tip: Whereas at Devon Home, take a look at its internationally acclaimed ice cream parlor.
Jamaica: A real Caribbean Paradise
Paradise matches when describing Jamaica, particularly in terms of all-inclusive vacations. This island is a must-visit for anybody searching for an all-encompassing Caribbean trip that leaves nothing untouched, or unexplored. You may select from a number of Jamaica factors of curiosity and issues to do, or take it straightforward, 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.
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Image: The all-inclusive Sandals Negril. Rest simply appears to name your title in terms of Sandals Resorts in Jamaica!
