Monday, April 1, 2024

11 IDEAL Things to Do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

ocho rios cruise port

The Jamaican Dollar (JMD, of J$) is the official currency in Jamaica. Most places in Ocho Rios accept US Dollars; however, they may give change in local currency. Credit cards, especially in tourist areas, are generally widely accepted. However, having some Jamaican Dollars on hand for smaller vendors or more remote locations is a good idea. Located close to Ocho Rios, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect day of relaxing in paradise.

Caribbean

The town center is a five to ten-minute walk when disembarking from the cruise ship. The closest attractions are the Taj Mahal Plaza beside Turtle River Park and Gardens and Harbor Shops. If you arrive at Reynold’s Pier, you should expect to walk 15 minutes to the start of Main Street. James Bond Beach is a secluded beach located in Oracabessa, a 20-minute drive from Ocho Rios. It consists of sandy stretches and lush mountains that plunge straight into the sea. This stunning beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Construction on Second Chinese-Built Cruise Ship Well Underway

ocho rios cruise port

Most cruise lines offer an excursion to the Bamboo Beach Club alone or as part of a larger package. Excursion costs generally include a padded lounge chair, and unlimited food and drink, but check specific details for your cruise line. Arguably, the number one destination for cruise passengers when they visit Ocho Rios is Dunn’s River Falls. The draw to these famous falls is the scenic climb from the white sandy beach at the bottom of the falls, all 180 feet up, to the very top. Along the way, tourists stop to take photos of its gorgeous cascading waters and enjoy its many the pools.

Amazing Things to Do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

A resort day pass allows you to use all of the resort amenities without paying for an actual room at the resort. The RIU has two pools and a beautiful palm tree-studded beach where you can lounge in one of the hammocks. The ride itself lasts approximately one hour, but bars, shops, and other facilities are available to enjoy both before and after the ride. Bring a swimsuit to take advantage of a swim in the river; however, staying completely dry is an option as well.

However, there are also stores like Harley Davidson, House of Diamonds, and Tanzanite International. If you disembark from the cruise ship at the James Bond Pier, the Island Village is the first attraction you will encounter. Rafting down the Martha Brae River is a must-do activity on your cruise day in Ocho Rios. The Martha Brae River is located in Trelawny Parish, roughly an hour and a half drive west of Ocho Rios, depending on traffic and the exact starting point of your journey. If you have a rented car or are in a taxi, stop off along the way. Many local vendors sell souvenirs, and many photo opportunities are available in this unique, mystical landscape to post on your social media.

Ocho Rios Bay Beach lies just to the East as you exit the cruise port. A quick 15-minute walk and a $3pp entrance fee grants you access to this secure and serene little beach. The water is calm and quite shallow making it an excellent stop for families with little non-swimmers. Swimming with dolphins is a bucket list activity that is available in many cruise ports.

Dunn’s River Falls

It has an outdoor concert venue, reggae and Jamaican art museums, a casino, water sports and of course plenty of shopping. Another shore excursion option combines Pearly Beach with the nearby Dunn’s River Falls. The smaller Mahogany Beach is about one and a half miles east of the port. It’s a less appealing option than the others, but it is convenient for anyone walking in that direction through the town. In addition, many visitors go to Eden Falls, Fern Gully and Shaw Park Botanical Gardens. Excursion companies offer jeep safaris, ATV safaris, zip line canopy tours and a bamboo rafting trip, among other adventures.

ocho rios cruise port

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In my experience, gentle haggling in local markets is always fun. Typically, stall owners mark up their prices because they expect some haggling. Firefly Estate is now a museum showcasing the works of Sir Noël Coward. You also get to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of Ocho Rios and the Caribbean Sea from its lookout point.

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Upon exiting the terminal, you’ll see numerous eateries and bars including the renowned Margaritaville. Off the beaten path and approximately 10 miles East of Ocho Rios is the famous James Bond Beach. The local town of Oracabessa was once the home of Ian Flemming, who is rumored to have written a number of his Bond novels while at this little beach. It was also the location for the scene in the movie Dr. No when Ursala Andress emerges from the water in her white bikini to meet James Bond.

Turtle River Falls and Gardens on Eden Bower Road is a 15-acre tropical garden with 14 cascading waterfalls. The gardens are about a half mile or a 10-minute walk south of the docks. Tickets are $20 per person and $10 for children ages 11 and under. Ocho Rios cruise port visitors will find it is one of the best destinations for attractions and things to do on the island of Jamaica.

The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring your dining experience is enjoyable from start to finish. Arriving at Scotchies Jerk Center, you’ll be greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of jerk seasoning and spices. The jerk pork and chicken are cooked over a pimento wood fire, adding to their unique flavor. I love the place because it offers a casual dining experience, great atmosphere, and tasty food.

Armed with a helmet and headlamp, you’ll descend into a mystical world of stalagmites and stalactites, along with natural stone bridges and underground water pools. The caves were first used by the native Arawak tribe, then later used by Spanish settlers trying to escape the British army. You’ll glide through the crystal-clear waters in a twin-hulled sailboat (called a catamaran). The unique design of these boats offers plenty of stability and a wide deck to stretch out and unwind.

A little piece of paradise surrounded by almond and palm trees, the Bamboo Beach Club is situated in a stunningly beautiful location. Unique to this beach break excursion is that its lively Jamaican cultural experience. Colorfully costumed dancers, drummers, singers, acrobats are present to perform throughout the day.

Geologists call the area a “living phenomenon” because it’s constantly forming new terraces based on the flow of water and sediment. When you catch your first glimpse of Dunn’s River Falls, you’ll quickly see why it’s been the backdrop in famous movies from Dr. No to Cocktail. If you only have time for one excursion, this is what to see in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. Culture vultures will enjoy sampling the amazing cuisine and taking a tour of Bob Marley’s home. When you’re ready to cool off, go tubing down the river, swimming in the Blue Hole, or spelunking in the Green Grotto Caves. As night falls, relax at the Bamboo Beach Club with your favorite cocktail in hand.

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