Ocho Rios Travel Guide
The port town of Ocho Rios used to survive on the strength of fishing and banana boats, but now the daily arrival of cruise ships full of tourists keeps the coffers full all along the northeast coast of Jamaica. Ocho Rios and its near neighbours Runaway Bay, Discovery Bay and Port Antonio are mainly clusters of holiday resorts and hotels that cater to package-deal holidaymakers and several celebrities who maintain their private retreats in the region.
Visitors will find plenty to see and do in-between bathing and sunning themselves on the magnificent beaches, from climbing up waterfalls and horseback riding through sugar cane plantations to enjoying afternoon tea at the former home of British playwright and songwriter, Noel Coward. While carefully tailored to suit tourist needs, the region is still beautiful and the good amenities are a bonus.
The surrounding countryside at Ocho Rios, which is situated in the Garden Parish of St Ann, is lush and tropical, with fern-clad cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls. A self-drive tour of the region to take in the scenery is recommended, with visitors travelling through the famous three-mile vine-draped Fern Gully.
Ocho Rios is a town dedicated to fun and sun; a crossroads of pleasure and leisure that's full of surprises and delights.
Things to do in Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is a resort haven with many activities, attractions and excursions to occupy the holidaymakers that flock to its shores.
There is natural splendour galore in the area, which has wonderful Caribbean beaches and incredible waterfalls, jungle trails, rivers and caves. Some favourites include Dunn's River Falls and the nearby Dolphin Cove, where visitors can swim with dolphins and enjoy the natural series of waterfalls and pools.
The Green Grotto Caves are also very popular and conjure images of pirates, smugglers and runaway slaves who once utilised them. For thrilling jungle adventures, travellers should visit the Mystic Mountain Amusement Park for canopy tours of various kinds, while fun river-tubing ventures await at the picturesque White River Valley.
Cultural attractions within Ocho Rios include Columbus Park Museum, a varied and fascinating open-air museum with a vast collection of cultural and historical exhibits to explore; the Coyaba River Garden and Museum, an interesting history museum located in a gorgeous tropical garden; and the nearby Bob Marley Mausoleum, at the iconic musician's childhood home in Nine Mile Village.
Dunns River Falls and Dolphin Cove
Near the centre of Ocho Rios lies the popular beach and waterfall attraction of Dunn's River. The waterfall cascades down 600ft (183m), forming cool pools among slippery rocks. A favourite tourist pursuit is to climb to the top of the falls with a guide, enjoying the clear mountain water en route. Alongside the Dunn's River Falls is Dolphin Cove, where visitors can swim with a family of bottlenose dolphins. The natural cove is surrounded by four acres of lush tropical rainforest, and is also home to species such as rays, eels and sharks, as well as tropical birds such as macaws.
Green Grotto Caves
One of Jamaica's most prominent natural attractions, the labyrinthine limestone cave is 5,000 feet (1,524m) long and is characterised by stalactites, stalagmites and overhead ceiling pockets, along with numerous chambers, light holes and a subterranean lake. The caves have played an important role in Jamaican history: the island's original inhabitants, the Arawak Indians, used them for shelter; they were used as a hideout by Spaniards during the British takeover; they were a natural haven for runaway slaves; the Jamaican government used them to store barrels of rum during World War II; and they were even used as a den for smugglers running arms to Cuba.
Firefly
On the cliff above Port Maria, Firefly Cottage was the holiday retreat of famed British playwright and composer Sir Noel Coward. The house is now a national monument that has been preserved almost exactly as he left it, complete with two grand pianos on which he composed some famous pieces. Seeing all his belongings and the place he lived and wrote is a big thrill for his fans, but the place is delightful even for those who don't know him because of the spectacular coastal views. Coward is buried in the garden under a simple marble gravestone and there is a statue of him in the grounds.
Bob Marley Mausoleum
Reggae music fans the world over make the pilgrimage to Bob Marley's grave site at Nine Mile, where he was born. The two-room shack in which he lived is open to view as a museum and memorial, alongside which is the mausoleum in which Marley and his half-brother are buried. The site also has a vegetarian restaurant and small shop. Reggae concerts are held at Nine Mile each year on 6 February, Marley's birthday. Many tourists in Jamaica miss out on the beauty of the rural and inland regions, so this excursion is also a great way to explore the lovely scenery around Nine Mile and Mount Zion.
Port Antonio
An hour and a half's drive east of Ocho Rios lies the rugged coastline of Port Antonio, where mist-shrouded mountains come right down into the sea forming hidden coves and beaches. Orchids and palms grow in profusion and waterfalls drop into fern-edged pools. Beaches in the area are among the prettiest in the country, especially Fairy Hill, San San, Dragon Bay and Boston Beach. The town of Port Antonio has been a favoured destination for the rich and famous for decades, from Hollywood stars to billionaires and royalty, and the seclusion of its beautiful beaches, the azure sea, verdant hillsides and lush flora continue to enchant all comers.
James Bond Beach
Fans of 007 will not want to miss a visit to James Bond Beach, where the 1962 film Dr. No launched the career of Sean Connery. The pristine stretch of white sand, surrounded by lush mountains and crystalline waters, is located just 20 minutes from Ochos Rios. Glass-bottomed boat tours from the beach are a fun way to explore the coastline, with opportunities to see turtles and other marine life. Those looking for a bit of excitement should catch a 'waverunner' tour past the famous Goldeneye villa, where Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels. Visitors can then head to Moonraker Jamaican Bar & Grill for a bite to eat with stunning views and good local food.
Rain Forest Adventures
Rainforest Adventures (or Mystic Mountain Amusement Park) offers a number of different things to do. Visitors can zip-line through the treetops; take the Sky Explorer chairlift for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and beaches; enjoy an infinity pool and water slide; and wander through the Butterfly Garden and Hummingbird Garden for a rest from thrills. For a bobsled ride with a difference, Bobsled Jamaica offers visitors a plunge through the rainforests with wonderful twists and turns. The park offers a great variety of activities, and visitors to Jamaica should definitely reserve a full day for this fun-filled attraction.
White River Valley
Just seven miles (11km) from Ocho Rios, lies the scenic and wonderfully relaxing White River Valley, a green, lush area, with the whispering sound of the river mixing with birdsong in the air. Most popular among the activities on offer is a tube ride down the river. There are a few exciting rapids but mostly it's just a relaxing float down the river through stunning scenery. It's a very safe excursion and suitable for all ages making it a great family activity. Adventurous tourists can also enjoy zip-lining, forest walks and bird-watching. On Tuesday and Sunday nights, visitors can sign up for an 'Exotic Night on the White River', where flaming torches create the perfect ambience for a romantic dinner by the riverside.
Coyaba River Garden and Museum
The Coyaba River Garden and Museum has exhibitions detailing Jamaica's history, from its original inhabitants to the colonialists, as well as independence in 1962. The incredible tropical gardens at the museum are a wonderful surprise. A lush, steamy garden complex dotted with giant banyan and cedar trees, its natural springs and pools are filled with koi fish and turtles. The gardens are also home to the gently-cascading Mahoe Falls, which are particularly fun for the kids to climb. There is also a gift shop on site, where you can buy local products such as carved figurines, coffee and rum.
Runaway Bay
Renowned for its perfect beaches and accessible coral reefs, the resort of Runaway Bay is an idyllic, laid-back corner of the Caribbean. Situated just to the west of Ocho Rios, the bay gains its name either from Spanish troops fleeing the British or from runaway African slaves - no one is really sure which. The quiet beaches such as Cardiff Hall Beach and Fisherman's Beach have calm, crystal clear water, perfect for snorkeling. With shallow waters and reefs close to shore, they are also perfect for scuba diving, with Shallow Reef a particularly good spot for beginners. The captivating Green Grotto Caves are nearby, ideally situated for an excursion. Also not far is the village of Nine Mile, the former home of Bob Marley.
Jamaica travel info
Electricity
Electrical current is 110 volts, 50Hz. Flat two- and three-pin plugs are in use.
Language
The official language of Jamaica is English but a local patois is also spoken, which is a mixture of English, Spanish, and various African languages.
Money
The Jamaican dollar (JMD) is the local currency and is divided into 100 cents. The island is well supplied with ATMs, banks and bureaux de change, with banking hours usually running Monday to Thursday from 9am to 2pm, and Friday from 9am to 4pm. Cambio exchange offices are found throughout the country and often offer better exchange rates than banks, as do exchange bureaux at the airports and hotels. Travellers should retain receipts as proof of legal currency exchange. Major credit cards are widely accepted; cash is best taken in US dollars.
Tipping
Outside the all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica where tips are part of the package, visitors should tip 10 to 15 percent for taxis, personal services, room service and restaurants where a service charge is not already included in the bill. Parking attendants, bellboys and porters also expect a small tip.
Health
While generally safe, the tap water can cause stomach upsets and visitors are advised to drink bottled water. Mosquito-borne diseases, such as Zika, dengue fever and chikungunya have been confirmed. Private medical facilities are of a reasonable standard but can vary throughout the island, with facilities limited outside Kingston and Montego Bay. Medical treatment can be expensive so travel insurance is advised. If visitors require prescription medication, it's best to bring it with them, along with a signed and dated letter from their doctor naming the medication and explaining why they need it.
Safety
There are incidents of petty crime such as robbery, particularly in the capital city of Kingston and in Montego Bay. Tourists are advised to be cautious and take care of their belongings. It's best to avoid using buses at night and also to steer clear of any public demonstrations that may occur. Hurricane season runs from June to November. While it is rare for tropical storms to make landfall in Jamaica, visitors travelling at this time should monitor local and international weather updates for peace of mind.
Local customs
Contrary to popular belief, smoking marijuana is illegal in Jamaica. Homosexuality is also prohibited by law and the country is notorious for its intolerance towards it.
Doing business
Business in Jamaica is surprisingly formal, with proper titles used and suits and ties the norm despite the tropical climate. Introductions are usually made with a handshake and an exchange of business cards. Punctuality is key, and socialising is an important aspect of the business meeting. Business hours are usually from 8:30am to 4:30pm or 5pm on weekdays.
Duty free
Travellers to Jamaica over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 230g of other tobacco products; 1L alcoholic beverages and wine; and perfume up to 170ml. Prohibited items include products made from goatskin (e.g. drums, handbags and rugs).
Communications
The international access code for Jamaica is +1, in common with the US, Canada and most of the Caribbean, followed by 876. WiFi is available in the main towns, restaurants and resorts; travellers can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones.
Passport & Visa
All foreign visitors to Jamaica must hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country, return or onward tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Jamaica if visitors are arriving from or have transited through an infected area. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry requirements
US citizens must have a passport to enter Jamaica that has to be valid upon their return to the USA. A visa is required for stays of over 90 days.
UK citizens must have a passport to enter Jamaica that has to be valid for the duration of their stay. A visa is required for stays of over 90 days.
Canadian citizens require a passport valid for period of intended stay. No visa is required for stays of fewer than 90 days.
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Jamaica. No visa is required for stays of fewer than 90 days.
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Jamaica. A visa is required.
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Jamaica. No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Jamaica. No visa is required for stays of fewer than 90 days.
Useful contacts
www.visitjamaica.com
119 (Police); 110 (Ambulance, Fire)Embassies / consulates in other countries
Jamaican Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 452 0660.
Jamaica High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7823 9911.
Jamaican High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 233 9311.
Jamaican Embassy, Sydney +61 04 0220 5266.
Jamaican High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 362 6667
Jamaican Embassy, Brussels, Belgium (also responsible for Ireland): +32 2 230 1170.
Embassies / consulates in Jamaica
United States Embassy, Kingston: +1 876 702 6000.
British High Commission, Kingston: +1 876 936 0700
Canadian High Commission, Kingston: +1 876 926 1500.
Australian High Commission, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago (also responsible for Jamaica): +1 868 822 5450.
South African High Commission, Kingston: + 1 876 620 4840.
Irish Embassy, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Jamaica): +1 613 233 6281.
New Zealand High Commission, Ottawa, Canada (also responsible for Jamaica): +1 613 238 5991.