Ocho Rios holidays

Ocho Rios holidays

One of Jamaica’s most magical resorts is Ocho Rios. Settled on the beautiful north coast, this area combines luxury beachside hotels with jungle adventures and some of Jamaica’s most incredible natural wonders. Swim in crystal-clear water and go dolphin spotting, climb Dunn’s River Falls, and take a tour into the heart of the Blue Mountains, all on your Ocho Rios holiday.

Things to do

Ocho Rios is a popular cruise ship port, and it’s easy to see why. With lots of beaches and a lively community, it’s a great base from which to explore much of Jamaica. Close to sights like the waterfall at Dunn’s River Falls as well as the Blue Mountains, you’ll be truly spoilt for choice.

Hire snorkel gear and explore the coral reefs surrounding the town or take a boat trip and see this coastline from the water. A day trek in the dense, tropical forests will show you sights you’ll never forget and in the evening you can enjoy delicious local foods.

 

Excellent beaches

Ocho Rios has an array of beautiful beaches that have a typical Caribbean vibe. Soft, white sand stretches along the length of the resort’s most popular shore, Turtle Beach. Fringed with coconut palm trees, the swath of pristine sand is a perfect location to relax on sun loungers in the warm weather. Enjoy the picturesque views of the crystal clear coast with a fruity cocktail in hand from one of the several beachside drink shacks. Choose from an array of water sports, or discover the tropical wildlife that lives below sea level. Go snorkelling in the natural mangroves to see the different species of fish and colourful coral reefs.

History and culture

The Ocho Rios resort is probably best known as being one of the locations for Dr. No, the very first James Bond film, released in 1962. Today Ocho Rios is still an exotic paradise with soft, sandy shores and a laid back atmosphere. The charming resort is a main cruise port, which brings visitors to the surrounding resorts. It oozes tradition, from its rural village and rustic buildings to museums and local markets. Ocho Rios can be translated to Eight Rivers from Spanish, which relates to the streaming watercourse that runs through the tropical forests nearby.

Vibrant nightlife

Ocho Rios is a quieter alternative to neighbouring Montego Bay, but does still have an array of nightlife to experience. Enjoy the traditional charm of the restaurants servings local cuisine, like spicy jerk chicken severed with coconut-flavoured flavoured rice. In the evening, make your way to one of the live music venues and bars that come alive with reggae music. Dance until the early hours and be sure to sample some of the finest Jamaican rum and beer.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Antigua | Aruba | Bahamas | BarbadosCuba | Dominican Republic | Jamaica | Mexico | Montego Bay | Negril | Runaway Bay | St LuciaTobago

 

Map of Ocho Rios

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30 ℃

Average temperatures are around 26°C in January and 29°C in July. If you love activities like hiking, December to April are the cooler months, but expect the occasional splash of rain and remember that September to November is hurricane season, although storms rarely make landfall in this sheltered spot.

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9 hours

The nearest airport is Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, 100km from the resort.

Ocho Rios is best for...

Explorers: Take a canopy tour through the Jamaican rainforest and head underground to the eerie Green Grotto Caves. Venture deep into the Blue Mountains and discover amazing vistas and Jamaica’s world-class coffee.

Beach lovers: Kick back on Turtle Beach and swim over the coral reefs at Mahogany Beach. There are lots of beaches and coves to explore.

Foodies: With Jamaican favourites like spicy jerk chicken and fried dumplings, you’ll experience the best food Jamaica has to offer. Try a Caribbean hamburger and dip your fries into a little hot sauce.

Fast facts for Ocho Rios

Language: The language spoken is English.

Currency: The official currency is the Jamaican Dollar ($) but large hotels will accept US dollars.

Local time:  Ocho Rios is 5 hours behind GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Sangster International Airport. It takes about 2 hours to transfer to Ocho Rios.

Flight time from UK: The flight time to Ocho Rios is 9 hours.

Tourist information: Further tourist information can be found at www.visitjamaica.com.

Visa and health: Before your holiday, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/jamaica for recommendations and advice on visas and health.

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Getting around Ocho Rios

By taxi: Taxis are the most popular way to get around the resort. Make sure you book a taxi with a red number plate, as these are the official taxis of Jamaica. Check the price before you start your journey as well as the currency you’ll be charged in.

By bus: With so many interesting places in the area, many hotels will provide their own bus services for day trips.

By tour van: Tours go everywhere from here. Into the jungle, up into the mountains, down to secret beaches and over to Dunn’s River Falls. When you book onto a tour, the van will come and pick you up right from your hotel. Don’t forget your camera!

Events in Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios Jazz Festival: This eight-day music event is held every June. With some of the biggest names in jazz appearing, this is a real insight into this wonderful form of music.

The Bob Marley Experience: For anyone who loves the music of Bob Marley, or simply wants to know more about this iconic man, the Bob Marley tour is a must. Visit Nine Mile where Marley lived and see his world with your own eyes.

Bacchanal Jamaica: Easter is carnival season when revellers descend on Chukka Cove for some of the best parties in Jamaica. Celebrated all over the island, carnival is a great way of experiencing Jamaica’s personality.

Ocho Rios weather

Temperature: A fabulous 25-30 (°C) all year round.

Best time to visit: Between December and April when it’s slightly cooler with little rainfall, especially if you want to hike. Jamaica basks in year-round sunshine so the air and sea are always warm. Summer is a hot 29-32°C for sun worshippers.

Best hotels in Ocho Rios

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