Climbing Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios

One of Jamaica’s national treasures, Dunn’s River Falls is a truly special place and not to be missed. It’s an easy outing from Ocho Rios and whether or not you’ve visited before, it’s worth a second look. The travertine rock deposits over which the falls flow are constantly regenerating, creating dome-shaped cataracts typically only found near hot springs and limestone caves. See for yourself why this gorgeous setting lives up to the Arawak name for Jamaica, “Xayamaca,” land of rivers and springs. Visitors over age five can climb about on the falls, which are up to 600 feet wide. Additionally, there’s a splash pad and mini water park just for younger kids, and the exciting Chukka Zipline over the falls for those seeking the ultimate exhilarating experience. 

Watching the Sunset on Seven Mile Beach in Negril

You’ll likely already have daylight hours on the grandest beach in Jamaica – Negril’s Seven Mile Beach. Don’t overlook those romantic sunset hours, however. Come down, cocktail of choice or cold Red Stripe beer in hand, to the powdery white sand to cap off a perfect day in paradise. The sunset views are so mesmerizingly famous that just about every hotel or resort keeps track of the exact timing so you won’t miss that special moment. 

Taking a Bioluminescence Night Cruise in the Luminous Lagoon 

Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this dramatic nighttime excursion, where you’ll see the intriguing colorful waters come to life after dark. These family-friendly tours typically pick up guests at their resorts in Montego Bay, Ocho Rio or Negril, then cruise them around the lagoon, even inviting you to swim in the glowing waters. Learn all about the natural wonders of bioluminescence and how the millions of microorganisms in the water erupt in flashes of light when touched. This is one of just four places in the world where this natural phenomenon occurs!

Eating Jerk Chicken at Scotchie’s  

With three locations throughout the island, Scotchie’s is known for serving Jamaica’s best jerk chicken – it’s a foodie “must” when you’re on the island! It’s great for families and easy on the budget, too. Authentic Jamaican jerk chicken is grilled over dogwood and pimento wood logs – and that’s just how they do it at Scotchie’s. The open kitchen lets you see the chefs at work, as they douse whole chickens and freshly butchered pork with jerk sauce and spices. Add to your heaping plate scotch bonnet sauce (if you dare), Jamaica festival bread and roasted breadfruit and sweet potato. Whether you’re dining at the Ocho Rios, Montego Bay or Kingston location, you’ll be surrounded by local diners, always a sure bet that the food is delicious.

Enjoying a Drink at Floyd’s Pelican Bar 

You’re already in paradise, so why not go one step further and head out on the water to a thatched-roof bar for a cocktail or Red Stripe? The delightfully atmospheric Floyd’s Pelican Bar is only accessible by boat, so make a day of it from Negril, Ocho Rio or Montego Bay. What started as a somewhat private bar for Floyd and his fishing buddies became a popular Jamaica hangout. The name is thanks to the pelicans who typically perch on the sandbar next to the bar. Your resort might run its own boat to Floyd’s, otherwise make your way to Black River, Treasure Beach or Parottee Point to catch a ride.