Jamaica – is there a more iconic destination in the Caribbean? This tiny island nation offers some of the most spectacular sights and attractions, plus there’s the omnipresent crystalline waters to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in luxury rentals or you’re intent on exploring unspoiled nature, there’s something here for everyone. Of course, in order to make the most of your stay in paradise, you’ll need to know what to do in Jamaica. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular things to do in Jamaica, and we’ve included a little bit of everything.
Dunn’s Rive Falls and Park
For the nature lovers heading to the island, one of the top things to do in Jamaica is to visit Dunn’s River Falls and Park. Here, you can splash in rivers and pools, head down water falls, and more. It’s all set within the heart of the stunning jungle, too.
Ras Natango Gallery and Garden
Located in Montego Bay, Jamaica, this is an incredible option for anyone with a love of flowers, greenery, or sweeping views of the forest and the inner island. It’s also an eco-tourism attraction, which makes it one of the top things to do in Jamaica for anyone who wants to help green up the planet while still enjoying their travels. The site is open from 10 AM until 6 PM, and it will take around three hours to explore the entire thing.
Blue Hole
Blue Hole, located in Ocho Rios, is one of the most iconic places in Jamaica. The name really does say it all – it’s a massive lagoon beneath a waterfall where you can swim, dive, and generally relax and enjoy yourself. Blue Hole is open from 9 AM until 5 PM, and you’ll most likely what to spend at least a couple of hours in the incredible water.
Undersea Trekking
One of the most popular things to do in Jamaica is to swim in the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. However, most of that exploration takes place on the surface. There’s so much more to explore down below, and with the equipment offered by Trident Undersea Trekking, you can see it all. You’ll don unique air helmets and weights that allow you to descend to the bottom of the sea and move about freely, all without having to worry about scuba equipment. It’s an incredible opportunity, whether you’ve long been in love with the aquatic world or you’re just looking for something new to try.
River Rafting
When you think about water sports in Jamaica, chances are good that you immediately picture swimming in the ocean. However, there’s a lot to enjoy on the island’s rivers. With companies like Martha Brae River Rafting, you can get out and explore those waterways on bamboo rafts (while wearing life jackets, of course!). A native guide will pole you out into the water and then you’ll bob your way down to the pickup point once more.
Rastafari Indigenous Village
One of the places to visit in Jamaica that you just can’t miss is the Rastafari Indigenous Village. Located in Montego Bay, this village offers a direct connection with Rastafarian culture and history, from drums and dancing to exploring their way of life. Note that the official tour takes up to three hours, so plan for this to be a big portion of one day on the island.
Seven Mile Beach
Perhaps the most iconic of all attractions in Jamaica, Seven Mile Beach is exactly what it sounds like – mile after mile of pristine white sand, lapped by blue waters, and shaded by swaying palm trees. It really is a Jamaica must see attraction, whether you intend to spend the entire day here, or just want to walk the beach for a little while and let the waves wash away your cares.
The Bob Marley Museum
What’s more Jamaican than Bob Marley? A visit to one of the top tourist attractions in Jamaica will give you a much better appreciation not just of the man’s music, but also the causes he supported and the struggles he endured. It is a great way to really appreciate the enduring legacy of Bob Marley and the reggae revolution.
Treasure Beach
Don’t have the time to visit Seven Mile Beach? Don’t want to deal with all the other tourists? If either of those sounds like you, then one of the best things in Jamaica for you to do is to visit Treasure Beach. It’s a historic site, but also one of the more rugged beaches on the island. That means there are fewer sunbathers and swimmers, so you’ll have a little bit of seclusion while you enjoy the incredible beauty of nature.
Theme Park It Up
Want to explore Jamaica activities that stand out for reasons other than history? Why not enjoy the fun things to do in Jamaica at Mystic Mountain. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of Ocho Rios, explore the mountains, spend time in the rain forest, and more. And, you’re in control during the bobsled-like portion of the experience. There’s ziplining, too, and so much more to enjoy here.
Mayfield Falls
Mayfield Falls is one of the things you must do in Jamaica. This is a full-day tour, so plan accordingly. You’ll head out from Montego Bay and up into the jungle, where you’ll visit 21 natural pools, all fed by a massive river. There are also underwater caves, five water falls, and the chance to get up close and personal with some of the island’s native wildlife.
Dining and Nightlife
If you want something a bit more urban to enjoy, some of the best things to do in Jamaica can be found in Montego Bay, Negril, and other cities once the sun goes down. While some places do close at sunset, there are plenty of dance clubs, bars, nightclubs, and other venues that start jumping, giving you the chance to get out on the town.
Charter a Cruise
No matter where you are on the island, you’ll have access to a wide range of cruise charter options. You can choose single-hull vessels, catamarans, and more. Cruises can get you up close to some of the best things to see in Jamaica, but they can also help you get away from it all, rocking on the waves in seclusion. You’ll find options that can accommodate any size group, as well – from just one or two travelers to entire families.
Conclusion
When it comes to what to see in Jamaica, we’ve really only scratched the surface. This island nation is big on things to see and do. You can take a private Blue Mountain tour, enjoy a café sunset cruise, explore incredible tropical jungles, and so much more. Of course, Jamaica is just one of many, many options in the Caribbean. You might also want to explore paradise by exploring Barbados villa rentals, or Turks and Caicos rentals.