Ocho Rios Jamaica Travel

Discover Ocho Rios's Wonders

With stunning scenery, renowned attractions, world-class resorts, and vast shopping options, the tourist-friendly hub of Ocho Rios is one of our island’s major tourist regions. Situated in what locals call ‘the garden parish,’ abundance awaits you here in forms of greenery, flavors, and variety. Traveling through this coastal area, the tones of the region are backdropped by the roar of nearby waterfalls flowing into the Caribbean Sea.

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Description

Originally called Las Chorreras in reference to the many waterfalls in the area, Ocho Rios has amazed its visitors for many centuries. The name was given by the Spanish who arrived here after Christopher Columbus set foot on the island in 1494. Jamaica was then a Spanish colony until the Battle of Chorreras in 1657, which ended with British victory. Throughout history, Ocho Rios was of minor importance to its colonizers and served mostly as a base for pirates. The area started to gain appreciation in the 20th century with the arrival of artists such as Noël Coward and Ian Fleming, who did not only buy an estate here but wrote all of his James Bond novels on the island. Today, Jamaica is packed with locations that have connections to the writer or the franchise. Many of them (such as Fleming's Goldeneye house in Oracabessa) are easy to explore from Ocho Rios. In the 60s, major developments began in the area with a focus on tourism, establishing good connections with other hubs such as Kingston and Montego Bay. Ocho Rios was transformed into what it is today: a lively city catering to all sorts of touristic needs, but with respect for all that natural beauty that continues to stun locals and visitors alike.

Useful information

Population:

8,189

Currency:

Jamaican dollar (JMD)

Emergency Info:

Ambulance & Fire: 110
Police: 119

Opening Hours:

Business hours vary, but most stores operate from around 8.30am/9am to 4.30pm/5pm Monday through Friday, with a shortened day on Saturday.

Do & See

Bay Beach (Turtle Beach)

This nearly 1700-feet long beach has fascinating views of the Caribbean and Ocho Rios' Turtle Bay, and has numerous facilities including bars, bathrooms, changing rooms, and sun beds which are available for hire. There are also plenty of activities to choose from including scuba diving and jet ski — unless you need nothing more than a refreshing dip and a nap in the white sand under the coconut trees.

Blue Hole

This landmark is a well-known secret of Saint Ann Parish: despite its growing fame as a tourist attraction, it has managed to reserve its secluded quality. Fed by gushing waterfalls and surrounded by rich tropical flora, these stunning azure pools provide a perfect setting for hiking and swimming. Adventure-seekers can even grab rope swings to plunge over the Hole, or sign up for a river tubing tour.

Bobsledding

Inspired by Jamaica's famous Olympic team, a bobsled ride on this 1000-meter track is the way to go for some adrenaline and an up-close experience of the Jamaican rainforest. The popular operator Mystic Mountain has a long list of other exciting activities, and is located just a stone's throw away from the magnificent Dunn's River Falls.

Dunn’s River Falls & Park

Natural formations like the Dunn’s River Falls are a good reason Jamaica has earned herself the nickname "Land of Springs." The 180-feet high, terraced waterfalls flowing down the travertine rocks just before making their way into the Caribbean is a stunning sight in itself, but there is also plenty to do here: climb the rocks, take a refreshing dip, or grab a zipline and see it all from above. There is also a water park for the youngest explorers.

Horseback Riding

For some unconventional sightseeing, saddle up and let an experienced guide show you the city's most remarkable landmarks from natural beauties to architectural gems — then end the trip with a ride straight into the sea for a movie-like finale. There are multiple tour guide operators offering horseback riding near Ocho Rios, including Ocho Rios Jamaica Tours (details below) and Jaital Tours.

Laughing Waters

The island is packed with locations that are linked to the James Bond franchise. The private beach of Laughing Waters, which also appears in the movie Dr. No, is probably the nearest of all to Ocho Rios. With only a 10-minute ride from downtown, just after Dunn’s River Falls, you can find yourself in one of Jamaica’s most picturesque beaches, where gurgling waterfalls will provide an idyllic setting to your peaceful getaway.

Margaritaville

Besides other Jamaican locations, Jimmy Buffett has also brought Margaritaville to Ocho Rios, to await visitors with a wide variety of services including pools with trampolines, private beaches, retail stores, night clubs, and a full-service restaurant where healthy appetizers and heavy burgers are all twisted with Caribbean flavors.

Dining

Evita's

At Evita’s, traditional Italian fares are given an exciting Caribbean twist, manifesting in meals such as the 'jerk spaghetti' and 'lasagna rastafari'. More traditional meals, albeit dominated by sea food, are also available on the menu.

Margaritaville

Miss T's Kitchen

A clash of Jamaican flavors as well as vibrant colors, Miss T’s is an excellent choice to indulge in the island's traditional cuisine, from oxtail to meals from ‘unda di sea’. Try and see if you can decipher the seasoning used for the justly famous jerk dishes!

Scotchies

The rustic, thatched-roof venue of Scotchies offers a large variety of Jamaica's signature jerk and other grilled dishes. Pick your meat, pair them up with some tasteful sides, and enjoy the vibe and hustle that characterizes this place at any hour of the day.

Usain Bolt Tracks & Records

No trip to Jamaica is complete without getting a taste of Usain Bolt’s world. This restaurant combines everything the world loves about Jamaica: jerk platters, reggae music, great vibes, and of course, the world record runner who is not only a co-founder but have also inspired the theme from the walls all the way to the menu: when in doubt, just try the legendary U-burger. The ultimate place to watch any kind of sports event!

Cafés & Bars

B'Cloud 9

At Ocho Rios’ prime hookah bar, visitors can select from over 17 flavours for their waterpipe party, and there is also an alluring drink selection to further elevate the mood.

Island Coffees Café

A family business with a large coffee selection made of premium quality beans, where the island’s famous Blue Mountain coffee is also available. The owners are conscious about every step of the coffee-making process, and put great care into preparing not only their brews, but also the mouthwatering snacks that are available on the spot.

John Crow’s Tavern

With a large selection of drinks and grubs, both local and international, John Crow’s offers a real pub experience. Sip on your Bob Marley cocktail or try Red Stripe, the local brew, and if you arrive at the right time, you will also be treated to a concert or another fun event.

The Courthouse Gallery & Café

A paradise within paradise, this café serves coffee and other drinks as well as heartwarming treats and sandwiches, to be had in a nice ambience decorated by lush plants and a changing selection of crafts and artwork on display.

Shopping

Island Village

With its tropical design and ample facilities, Island Village could be easily mistaken for a village on its own. The place gives home to a variety of boutiques, liquor stores, and restaurants, and is also a great place to sign up for various local experiences, including rum tasting and chocolate workshops. Come here for souvenir shopping, visit Bob Marley’s Tuff Gong, or enjoy the beach at Margaritaville!

Mohan's Duty Free Shop

Located just a few minutes from Bay Beach, Mohan’s Duty Free is the place to go for jewelry and perfume shopping in Ocho Rios. Friendly customer service, great discounts and products sealed with certificate of authenticity: first-time visitors will find themselves mingle with a circle of returning customers, who have a good reason to come back.

Ocho Rios Craft Market

Visitors to Ocho Rios will be spoiled for choice as the Main street embracing Bay Beach is home to over a hundred craft vendors, offering a wide selection of products so you can take a piece of Jamaica home with you.

Sista's Liquor

Colorful Island Village is also home to one of Ocho Rios' best liquor stores: Sista's Liquor offers a variety of well-known and limited edition drinks, Jamaica's authentic Appleton rum, and extra facilities from customized bottles to hookah on the spot.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit Jamaica are either March and April, or November through December, when temperatures are just as comfortable but visitor numbers significantly lower. Summer has come to be known as "hurricane season," and temperatures can get uncomfortably hot in July and August, which means a trip is best planed outside of the summer months.

Passport / Visa

Nationals of most countries do not require a visa to enter Jamaica if their planned time of stay does not exceed 3 months (6 months in many cases). This applies to citizens of the USA, all of the EU, Mexico, Japan, Israel, and countries of the Commonwealth. If you do require a visa, it can, in most cases, be obtained upon arrival, but do consult an official source in advance. To receive a visa, you will most likely need to produce proof of onward travel (tickets) and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.

Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ)

Ocho Rios is served by Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ), located in Boscobel around 9 miles east of Ocho Rios. Several taxi and car rental services are available at the location, and can be arranged prior to or upon arrival.

Public Transport

The most reliable option for long-distance travel are the Knutsford Express Buses, which operate on a fixed schedule with daily departures to destinations across Jamaica such as Falmouth, Ocho Rios, Negril, Kingston, and more. Tickets may be booked in advance, and should be validated prior to boarding. Mini buses and route taxis are also available, but are less reliable as they only run when a certain number of passengers have signed up for a ride. With many locals opting for this form of transport, it certainly provides a more authentic travel experience.

Taxi

Official taxis in Jamaica run with red plates. With the exception of some carriers at the cruise terminals, these taxis often do not have fixed rates, which means these should be negotiated and firmly agreed upon prior to departure. You can find taxis near most hotels, shopping centres, and the airport. Two recommended taxi companies in Ocho Rios are Mr Jones Taxi (+1 876 349 3189), and Triple S Tours and Taxi Services (+1 876 854 7012).

Cruise Port (Turtle Bay Pier)

Turtle Bay Pier is the primary pier for cruise ship docking in Ocho Rios. It has a number of amenities including an information kiosk, coffee house and WiFi access. The Terminal is connected to Ocho Rios downtown via 300-feet long Turtle Beach Road, which is well within walking distance.

Electricity

In Jamaica, the local current is 110 V, 50 Hz. Most electric outlets are type "A" (flat two-pin plugs), but some are type "B" (these sockets also work for type "A" plugs).

Pharmacy

There are a number of pharmacies along Main Street to the east of Turtle Bay including Hue's Professional Pharmacy and the Great House Pharmacy, with opening hours from around 9am to 7pm or 8pm. Our recommendation is Fontana Pharmacy, located to the south of the pharmacies mentioned above:

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the must-see attractions in Ocho Rios?

Ocho Rios is famous for Dunn's River Falls, a stunning waterfall that you can climb. Mystic Mountain offers a rainforest adventure with bobsled rides and zip-lining. Dolphin Cove is a popular spot to swim with dolphins and interact with marine life.

When is the best time to visit Ocho Rios?

The best time to visit Ocho Rios is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.

What local dishes should I try in Ocho Rios?

In Ocho Rios, try jerk chicken or pork, a spicy and flavorful Jamaican specialty. Also, sample ackee and saltfish, Jamaica's national dish, and enjoy fresh seafood like curried shrimp.

How can I get around Ocho Rios?

Getting around Ocho Rios is easy with taxis and local buses. Many visitors also rent cars for more flexibility, but be prepared for left-side driving.

How many days should I spend in Ocho Rios?

Plan to spend at least three to four days in Ocho Rios to explore its main attractions, enjoy the beaches, and take part in local tours and activities.

What are some popular day trips from Ocho Rios?

Popular day trips from Ocho Rios include visiting the Blue Hole, a natural limestone sinkhole, and exploring Nine Mile, the birthplace of Bob Marley.

Where is the best area to stay in Ocho Rios?

The best area to stay in Ocho Rios is near the town center or along the coastline, where you'll find a range of accommodations from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.

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