Jamaican holidays are so varied! One day you’ll discover plunging waterfalls and the Martha Brae River, and the next you’ll be snorkelling in a marine park. Immerse yourself in the Caribbean culture and explore the Blue Mountains, vibrant jungles and golden sandy beaches. In the evening‚ wind down by taking in the stunning views of the tropical ocean or stay up late dancing until dawn to Jamaica’s homegrown reggae music. You’ll soon find this island is full of breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering local dishes and the friendliest people.
Things to do
For dreamy Caribbean views and laidback hours stretched out under the tropical sun, you’re onto a winner with Jamaica. Relax on the sands of Seven Mile Beach and sip fresh fruit cocktails under the fronds of a huge palm tree, soaking up the sounds of the waves, sea birds and, above all, Bob Marley.
Or, for a more exciting tropical exploit, set off up Dunn’s River Falls near Ocho Rios. Making your way right through the gushing water, you’ll need your swimming kit and water shoes rather than walking gear! The climb to the top is one of the most memorable things to do in Jamaica, so it’s a real must for both older families seeking a forever experience and couples looking for a romantic adventure.
Refuel with delicious street foods like spicy jerk chicken, curried goat, and peppered shrimp. Think the kids won’t like the local flavours? Your little globetrotters might just surprise you! Look for family-pleasers such as buttery funchi (polenta), the meat-and-veg sancocho stew, and sweet, coconutty cassava cake for an easy-in starting point.
After your lunch has gone down, why not take a boat trip to Lime Cay for some of the best snorkelling in Jamaica? The beaches on this uninhabited coral island are astonishingly lovely, too. It’s hard to believe Kingston, Jamaica’s bustling capital, is just across the water when you’re chilling in a paradise like this! The mood at Lime Cay’s buzzing at weekends, though, with a youthful party vibe - so go with the flow and get ready to let your hair down.
If top-notch golfing holidays are more your thing, book a round or two at the spectacular Runaway Bay Golf Club, just one of the world-class courses you’ll find in Jamaica. Looking for more challenging sports? Join a 12-hour hike up Blue Mountain Peak via the notoriously steep Jacob’s Ladder; go bobsledding, river rafting, horse riding or surfing; or whizz through the treetops on an exhilarating zipline ride - there are several to choose from, so take your pick!
Where to go
There are tons of sights to fill your holiday to Jamaica - it’s an irresistible place to explore. If it’s spectacular scenery you’re after, head west to Mayfield Falls. Immerse yourself in lush greenery and play in the shallow river with its series of small but beautiful cascades. This knockout highlight is just outside Negril, where you’ll find some of Jamaica’s most popular beaches and buzzing West End nightlife, as well as the legendary Rick’s Cafe. Known for cliff-diving and good times, it’s been voted one of the best bars in the world. It probably goes without saying that Negril is holiday central, so you might well find your dream hotel here. How about a luxe hideaway on the clifftops, or a family paradise on the sands?
There are more crowd-pleasers over in Montego Bay (aka Mobay). From gentle adventures like a leisurely ride on a bamboo raft to posing with Usain Bolt’s statue for an Insta-worthy photo opp, you’re sure to find all sorts of things to do in this cultural melting pot of a resort.
Montego Bay is also home to the infamous Rose Hall Great House. This lovingly restored 18th-century beauty may look stunning but its walls could tell some brutal stories. Visit the museum to learn about the harsh lives of the enslaved Africans who worked the sugar cane plantation, and take the guided tour for spooky tales of Annie Palmer - a supposed White Witch and murderer whose ghost is said to haunt the house. There’s even a night-time option… if you dare!
Fancy bobsledding, ziplining or riding a chairlift through the rainforest? Make your way to Mystic Mountain, one of Jamaica’s biggest and best spots for outdoor adventures. It’s just one of many reasons to visit Ocho Rios, on the north coast. Other top attractions in this popular resort include the all-day beach parties at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, mud buggying at Yaaman Adventure Park and, when you’re ready for some quiet time, the much calmer setting of Turtle River Falls & Gardens.
But if this is all sounding a bit action-packed for you, check out Runaway Bay. Peace, quiet, romance… this is one of the most chilled out resorts on the island. It’s perfect for honeymoons, anniversary breaks and laid-back family escapes. When you’re not playing on the white sands or floating around your hotel’s pool, you could be horse riding on the beach, exploring the subterranean Green Grotto Caves or enjoying the low-key nightlife with a rum punch or two.
More travel guides
We also have travel guides for top destinations in Jamaica including: Montego Bay | Negril | Ocho Rios | Runaway Bay
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