4 Places To Visit In Ocho Rios (Jamaica)

Dunn's River Falls

Considered one of the most beautiful places in Jamaica and one of its national treasures, the Dunn's River Falls are definitely the main attraction in Ocho Rios.

It is located in an area that the Spanish called "Las Chorreras" when they owned the island. It means "the waterfalls/springs" and it's the perfect description of that wonderful place.

Entering the Dunn's River Falls park, you can't imagine that such a beautiful sight is hidden somewhere there. In what seems like a completely normal setting, full of sellers trying to trick the passing tourists into buying something they don't want or need, you suddenly reach a completely dreamy scenario full of lush forests and unbelievable waterfalls.

The fall's small dome-shaped cataracts are often connected to thermal spring activity and, combined with Dunn's River Falls' location a stone's throw away from the sea, it makes them a very unique place, unlike any other in the Caribbean.

Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios

When visiting Dunn's River Falls, you will soon understand that the many people walking around the waterfalls aren't just having fun in the water. In fact, they are on a project and their goal is to climb the whole thing from bottom to top. Does it sound dangerous? It kind of is. But that's the reason why there are plenty of incredibly skilled Jamaican guys going around the waterfalls and helping people out, plus people are strongly recommended to wear water shoes while doing it, so they don't slip. Apart from that you will also notice that the people wanting to climb the waterfalls have clever ways of doing it: they make human chains to help each other out.

Human chain at Dunn's River Falls in Ocho Rios

After admiring the waterfalls and the many people making their way up the whole thing, continue downwards: there's an ultimate surprise at the bottom.

As if the waterfalls aren't breathtaking enough in the middle of the exotic forests where visitors first get to see them, they continue all the way down and create the last waterfall, from which the water runs straight into the sea.

Dunn's River Falls connecting to the sea

Not only will you be greeted by that astonishing last waterfall, you will also be pleased to realize that you have arrived at a paradise beach where you will be able to swim around to your heart's content in those exotic Caribbean waters.

The beach at the bottom of Dunn's River Falls

Crab Key Beach

Are you a fan of the James Bond movies? If so, you might recognize this beach when you see it. In fact, it is the beach where they filmed the famous scene of James Bond meeting Ursula Andress in her iconic white bikini.

In full disclosure, this is not a public beach by any means. In fact, it is a private beach owned by a nearby villa which arranges events and ceremonies. Officially speaking, only the guests of said villa are allowed to access the beach, but for those who just want to pop up for some quick pictures of the famous place, there might be ways around it. If you go to the beach's surroundings, you will find a path that will lead you through the woods and to the beach. You will known it when you hear the sound of a waterfall. But be prepared to turn around in disappointment if you get told off by the guards.

Crab Key Beach in Ocho Rios

Turtle River Falls and Gardens

This wonderful attraction in Ocho Rios is sure to please both adults and children. With 15 acres worth of pools, ponds, waterfalls, gardens and places to relax, the Turtle River Falls park offers its visitors the opportunity to be in close contact with Jamaican Nature while in Ocho Rios.

For those looking to meet some exotic birds, there is an aviary full of parrots waiting to be admired and even fed - visitors are allowed to do so.

Bring a swimsuit, comfortable walking shoes and towel; and make sure to book your guided tours if you are interested in some more in-depth explanations about the park and its fauna and flora.

Ocho Rios Bay Beach

In terms of how clear and turquoise the water is, this beach is by no means the best one available in Ocho Rios - even though it is still very good by non-Caribbean standards. But this beach is well worth visiting while in Ocho Rios because of its beautiful scenery overlooking the harbor, and due to its very well maintained surroundings.

Bear in mind that this is not a public beach, so you will have to pay a couple of dollars to get in. But in all honesty, it is well worth it to pay that small price in order to see one of the best views over the Ocho Rios waterline and to be able to enjoy a well maintained and clean beach.

View from Ocho Rios Bay Beach