Travelling to Jamaica always feels a little bit like a journey through time. Imagine a place where lush jungles tumble into clear blue seas, where the air smells fairly of rum, and where the locals are more warm and welcoming than that salty ocean breeze. Sounds like paradise, right?

Well, this is Ocho Rios, a small seaside town on the northern coast of Jamaica. It’s the kind of place where you can zipline through the rainforest in the morning, lounge on the beach all day, and eat the best jerk chicken you’ve ever tasted in the evening. Paired with rum, of course.

But best of all, since it’s an affordable destination, it’s a place where backpackers can explore without breaking their budgets.

But the most exciting thing about this small town is its versatility. Whether you’re seeking adventure, craving a bit of culture, or hoping to leave with a golden tan, this beach town has it all. It hits the perfect median between laid-back and vibey.

And while it’s diverse and exciting, deciding how to spend your time here can be tricky. That’s where I come in, with 24 of the best things to do in Ocho Rios: let’s go!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.










    24 Top Things to Do in Ocho Rios

    From exploring Dunn’s River Falls to the Blue Hole, there is no shortage of natural beauty around here. Or you can learn more about the vibrant culture with a side of jerk chicken. Then there’s the vibey atmosphere and friendly locals that top off the entire experience.

    There is something going on here for every type of traveller. Here are 25 of the best things to see and do in one of the best places to stay in Jamaica.

    1. Cool Off in the Pools at Dunn’s River Falls

    Dunn’s River Falls

    The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.

    Dunn’s River Falls might be the most popular attraction in this town. Sure, it’s a bit of a tourist hotspot, but there is no getting around the fact that it is absolutely worth a visit. 

    This 600-foot-high waterfall cascades over gorgeous limestone terraces, falling into a series of refreshing pools. The park is one of the country’s national treasures. And don’t worry about safety – this is a family-friendly spot!

    But it’s not all beautiful rivers and landscapes here. The falls are said to be the location of the legendary Battle of Las Chorreras, fought in 1657 between the English and Spanish Expeditionary Forces from Cuba. 

    Beyond history, it’s made an appearance in pop culture, too. You might recognize it from the James Bond film Dr. No, or the Tom Cruise movie Cocktail. No wonder it’s such a tourist must-see in Ocho Rios! To avoid the crowds, plan to visit early or late in the day. Most cruise ships arrive on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, meaning you should avoid visiting on these days if possible.

    2. Zipline Through the Rainforest at Mystic Mountain

    Mystic Mountain Ochos Rios
    Photo: Chris Short (Flickr)

    If you’re travelling with kids (or are just a big kid yourself), Mystic Mountain delivers on all fronts. It’s an eco-adventure park tucked away in Jamaica’s hills, with all sorts of fun activities like ziplining, bobsledding, and a gravity-defying ride that lets you fly through the air.

    Ziplining over the rainforest is a serious highlight, with views just as incredible as the exhilarating ride itself. But I recommend exploring all the park’s fun features, including the bobsledding ride inspired by the famous Jamaican Olympic Bobsledding team featured in Cool Runnings. If you know, you know!

    The park also embraces the island’s culture, with educational displays and exhibitions showcasing snippets of Jamaica’s history and ecology. Just make sure to book tickets for your family well in advance, especially during peak season.

    3. Visit a Working Farm and Traditional Healing Garden for Lunch

    Visit a Working Farm and Traditional Healing Garden

    Unlike the first two items on this list, this fantastic thing to do in Ocho Rios is a lot more niche. And by this, I mean it requires taking a bit of a step off the trail, visiting a local farm with Airbnb, and experiencing the Jamaican working experience at a traditional healing garden.

    You’ll take a deep dive into the northern region of the island’s agricultural roots. Most farms are tucked away in the countryside, often run by families and passed on from generation to generation. Many offer guided tours through their fields, which are brimming with everything from tropical fruits to herbs and vegetables. 

    Depending on the time of year you visit, the island is well known for its plantains, bananas, coconuts, and breadfruit. On this trip, you’ll learn about local farming practices and the different uses of medicinal plants in traditional Jamaican healing—think aloe vera, soursop leaves, and moringa.


    Want to save money on accommodation?

    supporting image for Booking.com deals promo

    Enjoy 15% OFF on stays ALL around the world.


    4. Enjoy a Vegan Riverside Picnic Prepared by a Jamaican Chef

    Vegan Riverside Picnic Prepared by a Jamaican Chef

    For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, this private tour invites you to treat yourself to a vegan picnic on the riverside. But here’s the twist: you’ll be learning how to prepare the meal by watching a Jamaican chef work his magic. The chef will start off by sharing stories about his trade and why he decided to focus on vegan cuisine. 

    Then comes the cooking class, where you will be taught how to use spices, vegetables, and nuts to make a wholesome vegan meal. Parts of the experience will even teach you how to make raw food. And the best part is that after the chef has plated up the meals, you’ll be able to dive in and eat his creations on the banks of the river. 

    It’s basically a cooking show in real-time, but instead of sitting on your living room couch, you’ll be on the banks of a river in a tropical jungle. Not too shabby if you ask me.

    5. Take the Whole Family to the Ocho Rios Bay Marina for a Beach Day

    Snorkeling at Ocho Rios Bay Marina

    For a low-key, family-friendly thing to do in Ocho Rios, this beach at the Bay Marina is an all-time favourite and one of the best places to visit in Jamaica. It’s located right near the heart of the town (although to be honest, nothing is too far away in this area). The beach has calm, clear water and soft golden sand, making it great for young kids learning to swim. 

    While a lot of the town’s beaches are exclusive to all-inclusive resorts, this one is open to the public. There is a small entrance fee to use the beach, but at less than $2 per person, it’s a no-brainer.

    Local vendors often pop up shops nearby, selling classic tropical Jamaican fruit snacks and drinks like fresh coconuts.

    6. Trek Through the Konoko Falls and Gardens

    Trek Through the Konoko Falls and Gardens

    If you’re looking for a mix of nature, history, and adventure all in one activity, Konoko Falls and Gardens are a gem that deserves a spot on your itinerary. This isn’t exactly a hidden gem, but with cascading waterfalls, botanical gardens, and lush plants, it sure is a gem nonetheless.

    The garden’s main feature is the Konoko Waterfalls, which is the smaller and much less crowded version of the Dunn’s River Falls. The waterfall cascades into natural pools that are shallow, clear, and open for swimming. Take it from a tourist heavily impacted by tropical heat; swimming in the NANA swimming pool is like taking a bath in heaven.

    The gardens also offer a little sneak peek into the life of Jamaica’s indigenous Taino people, who were the original inhabitants of the area.

    The entrance price is a bit steep, but absolutely worth it. It costs $20 per adult or $10 for children, with guided tours available for a bit of extra insight.

    Small Pack Problems? 😉

    Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

    These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

    Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

    Get Yours Here Read Our Review

    7. Taste the Jerk Chicken at the Ocho Rios Jerk Center or Scotchies

    jamaican jerk chicken

    It might as well be a forbidden act to leave Jamaica without tasting traditional jerk chicken. Sure, exceptions may apply to vegetarians, but you get the gist. This food is an absolute must-try in Ocho Rios, and two of the best places to taste the local spiced-and-grilled chicken dish are the Ocho Rios Jerk Center and Scotchies.

    These two iconic spots offer a no-frills dining experience that really lets the food do the talking. But with that in mind, the basic plastic furniture and low-key decor give it the authentic touch we love so much. 

    Jerk chicken is smoky, spicy, and perfectly charred, marinated with a delicious mix of spices. Both places serve their dish with traditional sides like sweet fried bread, bammy (a cassava flatbread,) and local beer. And with open-air seating, it’s no wonder these restaurants have a bit of a cult following.

    8. Shop For Local Arts and Crafts at the Ochos Rios Craft Market

    Not everyone loves to shop as much as I do, but shopping at the Ocho Rios Craft Market is nothing like your local strip mall. Located in the heart of the town, this bustling marketplace is packed with vendors selling handmade treasures. You’ll find everything from hand-carved wooden figurines to colourful paintings and woven hats. Of course, there is plenty of reggae and Bob Marley-inspired travel souvenirs on offer, too. 

    jamaican craft art

    It can be a bit of a sensory overload, but it’s a fantastic place to meet local artisans and learn about Jamaican arts and crafts. 

    If you want to bring a little piece of Jamaica home with you, this is the place. Fair warning: bargaining is expected, so don’t be shy! Start with a friendly smile and negotiate with respect – it’s all part of the experience.

    9. Indulge in Traditional Seafood at Miss T’s Kitchen

    You’ve covered jerk chicken, and you’ve taken a food tour, but I haven’t yet spoken about the traditional seafood Jamaica is so well known for. It checks out since the country is an island nation surrounded by some of the freshest seafood in the Caribbean. Trying fresh seafood is one of the best things to do in Ocho Rios for foodies.

    Get out of that vacation rental and let’s head to this local joint!

    Seafood in Malta, mahi mahi, snapper, street food
    Freshly caught!
    Photo: @joemiddlehurst

    Miss T’s Kitchen is a slice of old Jamaica, served with a generous helping of charm. It’s as authentic as it gets. The colourful restaurant is located in downtown Ocho Rios and is as popular with locals as it is with tourists. Set in an outdoor garden with wooden tables under lush tropical greenery, it feels like you’ve been invited to a backyard cookout at a friend’s house.

    It’s one of those places where most traditional Jamaican dishes are done justice. But the star of the show is the seafood. Lobster curry, steamed shrimp, and rundown shrimp are some highlights.

    10. Groove to the Reggae Beats at Reggae Hill

    Reggae Beats at Reggae Hill

    Reggae is the backbone of Jamaican culture. With tunes this groovy, it’s no wonder Jamaicans are enviably laid-back and relaxed. If you’d like a taste of this down-to-earth music scene, there are few places more quintessentially Jamaican than Reggae Hill in Ocho Rios.

    This spot is all about soaking up the rhythm of Jamaica. Picture hammocks strung between palm trees, reggae beats wafting through the air, and friendly chatter between new friends. During the day, it’s a family-friendly spot where good food and drinks flow. At night, the energy increases with live performances and dancing, bringing reggae culture to life.

    It’s not flashy or over-touristy, which is what makes it so special. Vendors sell tasty snacks and cocktails, and there is even a river to cool off in if things get too hot. Bring your own swimwear and towels and spend a day hopping between the river and the bar.

    Is This the Best Backpack EVER???
    Aether Backpack

    We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

    Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

    View on Osprey View on REI

    11. Taste Jamaican Rum at Sandals Ochi

    Sandals Ochi Ocho Rios

    While we’re on the topic of reggae and rum, Sandals Ochi Beach Resort deserves a mention. If you love rum – or just enjoy a good excuse to sip an ice-cold cocktail – this beach club has a pool with a swim-up bar and plenty of rum-based cocktails to try. It’s easily one of the best places in Ocho Rios for those who love a little luxury.

    It’s part of an all-inclusive hotel, which means there will be a bit of an Americanized feel to things, but it doesn’t take away from the fun. Some days, DJs take over the decks, other days, organized line dancing gets the vibes high. 

    Take note: Sandals Ochi is considered a party resort. While there sure are opportunities for relaxation and peacefulness, this particular hotel and beach club are better suited for travellers who like to meet new friends and dance well into the night. If it’s within the budget, I would even recommend that our party-loving readers stay here.

    12. Walk in the Footsteps of Pirates at Firefly

    Firefly is a historic property on top of a hill just outside of Ocho Rios. It was once home to famous English copyright, songwriter, and actor Noel Coward. When he died in 1973, the home was donated to the Jamaican nation, which has since opened it to the public.

    A guided tour will take you through the art studio, into the drawing-room, where the previous owner entertained guests, including the Queen Mother and Audrey Hepburn, and through a lounge with some of the most beautiful views over the coastline. 

    But the most interesting thing about this property was that before Coward moved in, it was owned by a notorious ‘pirate’ named Sir Henry Morgan. I’ve put pirate in quotation marks because Morgan was technically a privateer – or a legal pirate – at the time. It’s worth researching him before visiting.

    13. Go Horseback Riding Through Rural Jamaica

    Go Horseback Riding Through Rural Jamaica

    If you’re looking for a memorable thing to do in Ocho Rios, horseback riding through the rural trails around the town is one of the best ways to see the countryside. This trip starts on the stunning shores of the coastline and will lead you through the aptly named Garden Parish, which is the largest of the 14 Jamaican parishes.

    You’ll ride through emerald-green pastures with a local guide leading the way. Even if you aren’t horse-obsessed, this activity will leave you feeling connected to nature. 

    The tours are beginner-friendly, with well-trained horses carrying the weight. They are not cheap but they are an extraordinary way to see the island from a unique perspective.

    14. Hike Through Fern Gully

    Fern Gully is pretty much just as it sounds – a gully with over 300 types of ferns. But it’s not just a forest; it’s also a three-mile-long road that stretches through the massive grove of tropical plants, including the Blue Mahoe and banana trees.

    The gully was once a riverbed, one of eight rivers that flowed through the Ocho Rios area. After an earthquake changed the course of the river, the gully slowly became the road it is today.

    And while driving through the gully is beautiful (and usually necessary to get into town), the best thing to do in Ochos Rios’s Fern Gully is to hike or walk under the canopies. The path is well-marked, and temperatures are refreshingly cooler in the shade – although, like all rainforests, you can expect some serious humidity.

    Travel with peace of mind. Travel WITH a security belt.
    Active Roots Security Belt

    Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

    It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

    Hide Yo’ Money!

    15. Sail to Dunn’s River Falls on a Catamaran

    Dunn's River Falls Party Cruise

    Now, I’ve mentioned visiting Dunn’s River Falls above, but sailing a catamaran to the river is an entirely unique experience. Cruising along the Caribbean with reggae beats in the background and a beer in your hand is hard to beat.

    Catamaran tours are a good balance for those looking for relaxed fun. Depending on what type of charter you pick, you could join a party-focused trip or a more relaxed one. 

    Whatever you choose, most charters include stops for snorkelling on your way to the falls. Boat trips aren’t the cheapest things to do in Ocho Rios, but for a half-day tour that includes snorkelling gear, waterfall access, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there’s no price I wouldn’t pay.

    Once you arrive at the destination, you’ll embark on the hike to the terraced waterfalls – but you can read more about this at the top of this list.

    16. Dance the Night Away at Margaritaville

    Margaritaville Ocho Rios
    Photo: Joe Ross (Flickr)

    Margaritaville is the epicenter of Ocho Rios’s party scene. If you’re looking for a night out on the town, this lively restaurant buzzes throughout the season. It has a beachside bar and a restaurant, which is so good that it attracts both locals and tourists. 

    By day, it’s a chilled-out spot to enjoy cocktails by the pool, complete with a waterslide that leads straight into the sea. But by night, Margaritaville transforms into a dancefloor, with DJs spinning reggae, dancehall, and international hits until the early hours of the morning. 

    The vibe is relaxed, casual, and distinctly Jamaican. It’s a great spot for couples, groups, or even solo travellers looking to mingle. Their motto is ‘It’s always 5 o’clock,’ and with the rum flowing like water, they certainly aren’t wrong.

    My main tip would be to arrange transport back to your accommodation beforehand, as taxis can overcharge at night.

    17. Catch the Sunset at James Bond Beach

    James Bond Beach Ocho Rios Jamaica

    James Bond Beach is as epic as it sounds. It’s a little slice of cinematic history tucked along Jamaica’s northern coast. Named for being featured in the James Bond classic Dr. No, this small but stunning beach has golden sand, crystal clear water, and one of the best sunset views – it figures, right?

    Whether you’re a big fan of the James Bond franchise or just like the beach, this is one of the best places to visit in Ocho Rios.

    Save $$$ • Save the Planet • Save Your Stomach!
    backpacker drinking using grayl geopress filter bottle

    Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

    Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

    We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

    View on REI Read the Review

    18. Journey Underground to the Green Grotto Caves

    Green Grotto Caves

    The Green Grotto Caves are a bit like stepping into another world – one where shimmering stalactites create magical pathways and hidden chambers hide stories of pirates and smugglers. Located a 30 to 45-minute drive away west of Ocho Rios, this is the perfect place for a day trip along Jamaica’s northern coastline.

    Back to the caves, these limestone caves are as enjoyable for history buffs as they are for nature lovers. They were once a hideout for Spanish settlers fleeing the British, a rum-storage hub, and even a shelter during Jamaica’s rocky colonial past. 

    The caves stretch for over 1500 meters and feature an underground lake so clear that it still looks like a sheet of glass. 

    Visiting these caves feels part adventure, part geology class, and part history class. You’ll want to book a guide who will lead you through the eerie passages and highlight all the unique rock formations.

    19. Discover the Marine Life at Laughing Waters

    Marine Life at Laughing Waters

    Laughing Waters is one of those picture-perfect beaches we dream up when we close our eyes and imagine paradise. This is another beach made famous by Sean Connery in the first ever James Bond film, which means it’s a big hit with many film-acquainted jet setters. 

    It’s one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with shallow water, palm tree shade, and crystal-clear rock pools. But the star of the show is no doubt the freshwater waterfall that flows right into the sea. I would say this is a must-see in Ocho Rios for all visitors.

    The beach is part of a private estate, which means it’s well-maintained and less crowded than other tourist hotspots. But this also means you’ll need to pay a bit of a fee to visit here. Well worth it – if you ask me.

    20. Walk Through the Cranbrook Flower Forest

    The Cranbrook Flower Forest might be my favourite place to visit near Ocho Rios. It’s about half an hour from the town centre and is a privately owned botanical garden that covers 130 acres of the island. 

    The place is as historical as it is beautiful. It is estimated that in 1494, the Taino population lived in organized settlements across the Cranbrook area. 

    But Cranbrook Flower Forest is primarily a thick jungle with a labyrinth of walking trails throughout it. Walking under the canopies, you’ll find yourself wandering under towering bamboo groves and past blooming orchids.

    The highlight here is the Laughing Waters River, which carves through the landscape like a snake. And be careful because there are a few of those around, too. In case you were wondering, this is the same Laughing Waters as above, where the river flows into the sea.

    Harmony Hall Gallery
    Photo: Kaspar C (Flickr)

    Harmony Hall Art Gallery is the place to go if you’re interested in a bit of local culture and creativity. It’s set in a charming 19th-century colonial-style mansion just outside of Ocho Rios. 

    The entire property is a love letter to the Jamaican art scene and a unique thing to do in Ocho Rios. Inside, you’ll find a collection of paintings, sculptures, and ceramics created by some of the island’s most talented artists. 

    But it’s more than just an art gallery – it’s a celebration of Jamaica’s rich artistic heritage. The building alone is worth the visit, with its wrap-around verandas, decorative details, and old-world charm. 

    It’s not huge, so you won’t need to spend more than an hour or two admiring the architecture and art. Admission is free, but you can buy art to support some of the 100 local artists featured in the gallery.

    Have you sorted your accommodation yet?
    promotional sidebar image for booking.com

    Get 15% OFF when you book through our link — and support the site you love so dearly 😉

    Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

    View on Booking.com

    22. Visit the Irie Blue Hole

    Ocho Rios Irie Blue Hole tour

    If there is one place that feels straight out of a tropical dream, it’s the Blue Hole. Sometimes called the Secret Falls or the Irie Blue Hole, this natural limestone sinkhole has remained relatively untouched for centuries. 

    Picture this: turquoise waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear pools surrounded by jungle foliage so lush it looks like a painting. After hiking to the waterfalls, you are rewarded with clear, deep pools that you can swim in. It’s adventurous, relaxing, and refreshing all at once!

    A top thing to do in Ocho Rios for adventure and nature fans, the Blue Hole offers a little bit of everything: natural swimming pools, cliff jumping opportunities, and hiking trails.

    23. Learn About the Rastafarian Culture at Nine Mile Village

    Ocho Rios Nine Mile Reggae Tour

    For a unique cultural experience, head to Nine Mile Village in the mountains. This iconic location is both the birthplace and the final resting place of reggae legend Bob Marley. Yup, you know who I’m talking about! It’s a bit of a journey from Ocho Rios—an hour and a half drive—but it’s a wonderful way to spend a day absorbed in the local Rastafarian culture. 

    The village is small but, like many Rastafarian things, full of vibrancy and fun. You can visit the house Marley grew up in, see family mementoes, and pay tribute to his mausoleum. Overall, the experience will leave you with a better understanding of his life and how Rastafarian culture influenced his music.

    24. Explore the Tropical Gardens at The Turtle River Falls and Gardens

    Turtle River Falls Ocho Rios
    Photo: keatssycamore (Flickr)

    Well, well, well. Look what we have here, another stunning waterfall – said no one ever. You can never visit too many amazing waterfalls, but if we’re counting, this might be one of the most gorgeous. I say this because the entire Turtle River Falls and Gardens area is basically a sanctuary that covers 14 waterfalls, plenty of scenic walkways, koi ponds, and even an aviary filled with colourful birds.

    It’s the less touristy alternative to Dunn’s River Falls. And because there are so many waterfalls here, you might be lucky enough to find yourself your own little slice of private waterfall heaven.

    The best way to explore is to spend a full day here, wandering through the botanical gardens, letting the gorgeous landscape work its magic. There are guided tours that will give more insight into the unique flora and flora, making this one of the best things for families to do in Ocho Rios.

    24 Things to Do in Ocho Rios: City Map

    Things to Do in Ocho Rios map

    How to Get Around Ocho Rios

    Getting around Ocho Rios is a big part of the adventure. Partly because it isn’t always the easiest. But hear me out; even without great public transport, there are plenty of ways to get around. 

    For backpackers, route taxis are a cheap and cheerful option. You can flag them down from the side of the road, paying as little as $1 to $3 for a short trip. They’re a bit chaotic but a fun local experience.

    I don’t recommend using the bus. They’re unreliable and often late, and some even say they are a safety risk. That said, this is the cheapest way to get around. 

    Are taxis safe in Jamaica
    Your best bet in town.
    Photo: Jason Lawrence (Flickr)

    If you’re travelling in a group or just want a bit more comfort, private taxis are available throughout the island. They’re definitely pricey, but this is no doubt the safest and most hassle-free way to get around. Most taxis are owned by JUTA or JCAL.

    Renting a car has its pros and cons. You’ll have the freedom to explore the island on your own, but you’ll also have to deal with some bad roads, dicey drivers, and confusing road signs!

    Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Ocho Rios

    Travel insurance isn’t the most glamorous part of planning a trip, but it can be a lifesaver. You’ll be climbing under waterfalls, ziplining, and trying a fair share of new foods on your trip. Having insurance means you’ll be covered if things don’t go as planned. From unexpected trips to the emergency room to delayed flights, it’s a safety net you hope you won’t need to use.

    ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

    They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

    SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

    Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

    FAQs on Things to Do in Ocho Rios

    Final Thoughts on The Best Time to Visit Ocho Rios

    Of all the towns in Jamaica, Ocho Rios has always been my favourite. This former fishing village now attracts a fair share of tourists to its shores – most visiting for the stunning waterfalls and gardens. And while the most recognized thing to do in Ocho Rios might be Dunn’s River Falls, there is so much more to see in this north coast town. 

    Whether chasing iconic waterfalls, working on your tan, or tasting the smokey perfection of the jerk chicken at Miss T’s, this small slice of Jamaica has something for every type of traveller. 

    I’ll admit it. The Dunn’s River Falls was the first thing to grab my attention. But while the famous waterfall brought me here, it was the charming town, laid-back beach scene, and friendly locals who drew me in. 

    My best memories include wandering through the craft market and picking up some hand-carved treasures that now sit on my desk as constant reminders of the trip. Dining at Miss T’s Kitchen was another highlight: being surrounded by the chatter of locals, eating the most deliciously flavoured seafood chowder I’d ever tasted. 

    I quickly realized that Ocho Rios isn’t about the big-ticket attractions but the small, unplanned, and unexpected moments that make you feel a connection with the place and its people.

    And while I absolutely recommend hitting as many of these things to do in Ocho Rios, I also advise leaving room in your itinerary to wander around, take in the sights, and let the down-to-earth charm of the town set the pace of your adventure. After all, this is still Jamaica.

    Catch ya’ in paradise!
    Looking for more info on travelling to Ocho Rios and Jamaica?

    Buy Us a Coffee!

    A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

    You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

    the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali
    Thank you <3