Ocho Rios, Jamaica Travel Guide
Embrace the spirit of adventure and relaxation in a setting known for its natural beauty and warm hospitality.
Welcome to Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Has Ocho Rios landed on your radar for a possible vacation?
I mean, this is a place that perfectly blends adventure and relaxation, so it would be a pretty good choice.
Curious about what makes this Jamaican gem a standout choice? This guide will fill you in on everything from the best places to stay and things to do, to what you can expect when you get there.
Ready to see if Ocho Rios is your ideal getaway? Let’s find out.
Table of Contents
Ocho Rios & Surrounding Areas Overview
Ocho Rios or “Ochi” as we like to call it consistently ranks among Jamaica’s top destinations, securing the #2 spot in 2022 according to the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB).
This former fishing village turned into resort town, has a lot going on. You’ll find not just some of the Caribbean’s most stunning beaches and amazing attractions, but also the island’s best hotels.
It delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Something most people are looking for on vacation.
Ocho Rios is also a small resort town, you are in the heart of the local scene, soaking up an authentic taste of Jamaican life.
Ochi is a destination that you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Highlights of Ocho Rios
- Top-Notch Hotels and Resorts: Ocho Rios has some of the best places to stay in Jamaica. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious all-inclusive resort, a boutique hotel with a unique vibe, or something more budget-friendly, you’ll find it here.
- Amazing Beaches: You can’t beat the beaches in Ocho Rios, with so many options with white sand with crystal-clear water all around.
- Great Location: Ocho Rios is in a sweet spot on the island. It’s a fantastic base for checking out nearby spots like Kingston and Montego Bay, so you can easily explore more of Jamaica.
- Delicious Food: From fancy dining to tasty street eats, the food scene here is diverse and delicious. You’ll find everything from high-end restaurants to local favorites that won’t break the bank.
- True Jamaican Vibe: Experience the real Jamaica with Ocho Rios’ warm, welcoming atmosphere. You’ll feel right at home with the friendly locals.
Ocho Rios is all about mixing luxury, convenience, and that genuine island feel. It’s got everything you need for an amazing Jamaican getaway!
Why Ocho Rios?
Found on Jamaica’s northern coast of the island, Ocho Rios is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with vibrant experiences. From its breathtaking waterfalls, such as the world-renowned Dunn’s River Falls, to its pristine beaches and a wide range of thrilling activities, Ocho Rios offers a great mix of everything you need for your vacation.
It’s a small town, that is vibrant, walkable and has a bit of character to it. Everything is within a stone’s throw. Attractions such as the world-famous Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole, Ziplining and so much more are conveniently close.
There is an abundance of top-rated restaurants ranging from renowned establishments to charming hidden gems, ensuring that you make a big stamp on the culinary part of your journey. Additionally, immerse yourself in the local culture by browsing through a variety of local crafts, as well as upscale goods available at duty-free stores. Whether you’re seeking unique souvenirs or upscale shopping experiences, this town has it all to fulfill your retail desires.
There is so much more we can say about “Ochi”! We have only scratched the surface, but we will now look at what makes this place truly exceptional.
Where is Ocho Rios, Located?
Ocho Rios is located on the north coast of Jamaica, in the Jamaican parish of St. Ann. You will find many of Jamaica’s popular attractions nearby, including Dunn’s River Falls, Blue Hole, and the White River. Ocho Rios is 90 minutes by car from Montego Bay and about and hour from Kingston.
Being located at the north of the island also means that Ocho Rios has some of the best beaches in Jamaica. You will not only experience the stunning turquoise waters that Jamaica is known for, but you can also find many white sand beaches and secluded coves to relax in.
Things to Do:
Ok, so you’ve kinda decided on Ocho Rios, but now you might be wondering what are the things to do in this sleepy resort town. Well, we’ve got you covered! Below, we’ve handpicked our top 5 options (though believe us, there are at least 20 more you should definitely consider). From the iconic Dunn’s River Falls to the thrilling adventures at Mystic Mountain, Ocho Rios has something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover the best ways to make your Ocho Rios getaway an unforgettable experience!”
Dunn’s River Falls: Explore the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, a natural wonder where you can climb the cascading waterfalls or relax in the crystal clear pools below. (Link to detailed page on Dunn’s River Falls)
Mystic Mountain: Experience adventure at Mystic Mountain, where you can glide through the treetops on a thrilling zipline, take a bobsled ride through the rainforest, and enjoy panoramic views from the Sky Explorer chairlift. (Link to detailed page on Mystic Mountain)
Blue Hole: Dive into the refreshing Blue Hole, a hidden gem known for its turquoise pools, cliff jumping, and natural water slides. Don’t forget your swimsuit and sense of adventure! (Link to detailed page on Blue Hole)
Dolphin Cove: Interact with friendly dolphins and other marine creatures at Dolphin Cove. Swim, kiss, or even go on a thrilling shark encounter! This is a must-visit for animal lovers. (Link to detailed page on Dolphin Cove)
White River Tubing: Grab a tube and float down the White River, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning scenery. It’s a relaxing and fun way to enjoy the natural beauty of Ocho Rios. (Link to detailed page on White River Tubing)
James Bond Beach: Take a trip to James Bond Beach, made famous by the 007 films. Relax on the pristine sandy shore, swim in the turquoise waters, and soak up the sun in true Bond style. (Link to detailed page on James Bond Beach)
Ocho Rios Craft Market: Immerse yourself in Jamaican culture at the Ocho Rios Craft Market. Shop for unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and vibrant artwork created by local artisans. (Link to detailed page on Ocho Rios Craft Market)
For even more exciting things to do in Ocho Rios, check out the next section where we’ll help you discover additional hidden gems and popular attractions.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ocho Rios?
When it comes to Ocho Rios, there really isn’t a bad time to visit. The weather is generally beautiful year-round, and there’s always something to see and do.
With that said, here are some tips on the best time to plan your visit based on different time periods:
- High Season (December to April) – This is the winter tourist season in Jamaica. You will find that the hotels are jam-packed and prices soar, as everyone is trying to escape the cold winter weather in North America and Europe. It’s still a good time to visit Ocho Rios, as the event calendar is jam-packed and you’ll always be entertained.
- Shoulder Season (May to June) – Prices drop and there are fewer crowds. This makes it a great time to explore the natural beauty of Ocho Rios. Go hiking, explore the rainforest, or simply relax on the beach without the hustle and bustle of peak season.
- Summer Season (July to August) – Ocho Rios cranks up to another level during the summer months. Take part in lively cultural festivals like Reggae Sumfest, or hit the waves for some epic surfing and watersports.
- Low Season (September to November) – While the weather is still gorgeous, the low season in Ocho Rios is the perfect time to experience authentic Jamaican culture. Sample delicious street food, join in on local celebrations like Independence Day, and explore off-the-beaten-path attractions without the crowds.
No matter when you visit, Ocho Rios is a vibrant and welcoming destination that’s sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Places to Stay
Ocho Rios offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to every traveler’s needs. Whether you’re seeking luxury, romance, family, or a budget-friendly stay, you’ll find many options to choose from. From lavish all-inclusive beachfront resorts to cozy Airbnb’s, Ocho Rios has something for everyone.
In this section, we’ll showcase the different types of accommodations you can find in Ocho Rios. Whether you prefer a pampering experience, a tranquil retreat, or a central location, our guide will help you find the perfect lodging option that suits your style, budget, and preferences.
Let’s now explore the world of Ocho Rios accommodations and make your stay in this beautiful destination even more memorable.
THE GOOD
The Craft Market: Ocho Rios has one of the largest and most diverse craft markets on the island. The location is a must see for persons vacationing in the town. It is a great spot for authentic Jamaican art work, sculptures, games, jewelry, clothing and much more.
The Fishing Village: The town is home to the Ocho Rios Fishing Village which is a local hotspot for seafood favorites. Not only does the spot feature show stopping restaurants like Lobster Dave, but it has live music on select days and is overall a perfect spot for unwinding after a long day of activities.
Nature Attractions: Ocho Rios is famous for being the location of the renowned Dunn’s River Falls, but the town has so much more to offer. Rafting on the White River, swimming in the Blue Hole, horseback riding through lush tropical forests and secret get away beaches are just some of the treasures that one can find off the beaten path.
Local Cafes: Ochi, as it’s affectionately called by locals, has a boardwalk close to the pier that has several cafes that are to die for. These locations make for a relaxing morning by the sea.
Central Location: Ocho Rios is in the North, in the central parish of St. Ann. This means it’s halfway between Kingston and Montego Bay, and also close to the parish of Portland. The town’s location thus makes it an ideal base for persons who want to explore the island. In addition to being central to other great tourist spots, there is a daily boat cruise to the famous Rick’s Café in Negril.
THE BAD
Crowds on ship days: Dozens of cruise ships call at the Ocho Rios port during the high season. While many are small, most are large ships with hundreds of people on board and their descent can leave the town crammed. Ship days can therefore be a little hard to navigate in the first few hours after a ship docks. Most people, however, tend to visit attractions outside of the town and things get back to normal quickly.
Harassment: Street vendors are very common in Ocho Rios, especially on days when ships are in port. You might find yourself having to turn down several vendors offering wares for sale. While this can be intimidating for some, once you firmly indicate that you are not interested, you should be left alone.
Costly: Ocho Rios is not a cheap destination. The town runs on tourism and most of the offerings are directed at tourists. This means that a lot of prices are listed in US dollars and things can get a bit pricey at some locations.