Things to do in Ocho Rios

Coffee farm hike through Jamaica’s Blue Mountains with brunch

As you hike through the misty Blue Mountains of Jamaica, take a moment to breathe in the scent of jasmine from the white-flowered coffee trees that mingle with palms, ferns and orchids in this part of the rainforest. Following the trails, you'll hear all about the traditions and techniques of coffee growing in this region – and why its beans are some of the most sought-after – and expensive – in the world. Marcus, a local guide, explains “the Blue Mountains are special, not just for their beauty, but for what they give the farming community. The high altitude, the cool climate and the rich soil are a dream for coffee growers.” The trail will take you on a leisurely trek up the mountain, past small family-owned coffee farms. Here, you'll learn more about how farmers have been harvesting ripe coffee cherries by hand, to create the mild, fruity and sweet flavour of Blue Mountain coffee, since the 18th-century. And the scenery here is pretty historic, too, like something out of Jurassic Park – think thick green rainforest dotted with waterfalls, valleys and misty mountain peaks. You'll want to keep your phone handy for pics.After a little over two miles of walking, you'll be rewarded with a cooling dip in the Blue Mountains Whirlpool. Marcus adds “don't worry – it's a deep rocky pool with a waterfall flowing into it – not a swirling vortex! It's locally known as the Fountain of Youth, so come swim off a few years.” Round off the tour by making a lasting impact on the local greenery. You'll plant a tree as part of a programme to support reforestation and sustainable farming in this part of Jamaica.

Spirit of the Maroons cultural tour with lunch in Jamaica

Your journey through Jamaica's north will unveil the culture and history of the island. You'll visit the Charles Town Maroon Museum to learn about the Maroons' struggle for freedom, enjoy a tasty lunch at Strawberry Fields Together, and stroll through Sun Valley farming estate to sample fresh fruits and vegetables. Jada, one of our expert local guides, says 'The Jamaican Maroons have a proud and fascinating heritage. They are descendants of enslaved West Africans who escaped from plantations and created communities known as Maroon Towns. These communities preserved their African roots - the Maroon culture is known for vibrant music, dance, storytelling, herbal medicine, and cuisine.'Our first stop is the Charles Town Basic School, a small school at the heart of the Charles Town Maroon community. Then we'll visit the Charles Town Maroon Museum - home to a wealth of artifacts, including traditional clothing, weaponry, and musical instruments. You'll learn about the Maroons' long struggle for freedom and their important role in Jamaica's history. Next, we'll enjoy a tasty lunch at Strawberry Fields Together, overlooking the coast where you can savour Jamaica's famously flavoursome cuisine. Our final stop will be at the Sun Valley estate, a farm that showcases the best of Jamaica's produce. Take a stroll through gardens bursting with tropical flowers and sample the fresh fruits and vegetables that grow there. You'll also learn about traditional farming practices that have sustained Jamaican communities for generations.

Appleton Rum tasting, YS Falls and Pelican Bar tour

A tantalising blend of rum, waterfalls and floating bars awaits on this action-packed trip. Showcasing the island's cultural heritage and natural beauty, this excursion has 100% Jamaica stamped all over it. As one of our expert local guides, Floyd says, ‘Experiencing Jamaica through rum tasting, wild swimming at a waterfall and an iconic bar gives you a great perspective on the many attractions of Jamaica. It's like stepping into a living postcard.' Begin your day with a fascinating tour of the Appleton Estate rum factory, renowned for producing some of the finest rums in Jamaica. Floyd enthuses, ‘Discover the distillation process, juice your own sugar cane and savour the honey-coloured rum – it's a truly immersive experience.' Next, you'll be whisked away to the cascading waters of the YS Falls where you can cool off in the refreshing waterfall pools. After lunch, it's time to hop on a boat and glide out to the Pelican Bar. With luck, you might spot dolphins en route. The Pelican Bar is a ramshackle hut on stilts which has to be seen to be believed. Standing on glittering waters, it's probably the coolest bar in the world. Be sure to carve your name into the wood as a memento of your visit. After a swim in the natural pools surrounding the bar, round off your day by raising a glass to Jamaica's intoxicating charm.

Mystic Mountain Adventure Pass

For an adrenaline-packed day out, head to Ocho Rio's famed Mystic Mountain. The adventure kicks off straight away as you hop on the Sky Explorer chairlift to take you 700ft above sea level to the park. You'll land at the top of Mystic Mountain looking down at the treetops below, where you'll have the chance to explore. Swing like Tarzan on Anancy's Web rope course, take the plunge into the infinity pool with waterslide or simply stroll through the Hummingbird Garden, the choice is yours.

Exclusive sunset dinner at Reggae Hill

As the sun sets over the White River, Reggae Hill comes alive—and you'll be at the heart of it all. This exclusive evening blends gourmet dining with unlimited rum and vodka drinks, kicking off with a welcome cocktail to set the tone. Think glowing bonfires, reggae beats, and a vibe that pulls you in from the start.The night starts strong with a live cocktail demo, where a mixologist shows off local spirits and tropical flavours. Then, it's time to indulge in a chef-curated menu that fuses bold Caribbean spices with Mediterranean flair.Kick things off with fresh fish tartar and crispy festivals – Jamaican fried bread at its finest – before diving into mains like jerk lamb, fresh-caught fish, and handmade pasta. You'll wrap things up with a dreamy dessert by the water, served alongside the waves and a crackling bonfire.

Falmouth Mystic Lagoon sunset cruise

Spend an evening gliding along the Luminous Lagoon, sipping on Jamaican rum punch, with views of the Caribbean sunset and reggae music in the air. There'll be a fire dance and limbo show on board, so you won't be short of entertainment throughout the evening. If you feel like it, you can take the plunge into the bioluminescent waters of the lagoon as the sun sets. If you're lucky, you'll see the water lit up by microorganisms that emit a flash of light when touched – this is the brightest of four places this phenomenon can be seen.

River Tubing, Blue Hole, and Reggae Hill

Enjoy the ultimate chill-and-thrill day in Jamaica. Starting at Blue Hole Mineral Spring, you'll get to dive into turquoise waters, climb mini waterfalls and explore caves. Take things up a notch with a tube ride down the river – Jamaican style – enjoying mild rapids and lush views before hitting up Reggae Hill for some chill time. Sink into a comfy chair, soak up the lush scenery, and groove to reggae music. Watch the bartender mix a secret cocktail and wrap things up with a tasty island-fusion lunch featuring jerk chicken and plantains.

Greenwood Great House and Green Grotto Caves

Step into history at Greenwood Great House, a centuries-old Jamaican gem frozen in time. Get ready to soak up vintage vibes and explore a wow-factor collection of island antiques, musical instruments, and books. After geeking out on history, recharge with lunch before diving into Green Grotto Cave. This huge limestone maze is packed with epic rock formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and yes, bats. As you snap away, your guide will share tales from the original islanders, the Taino Arawak Indians.

Chukka Good Hope Outpost Tours

Whether you're a thrill-seeker or prefer the quieter side of life, there's something for everyone at Chukka Good Hope. With a range of options, you'll be spoilt for choice, with attractions including pools, slides, chill out spots and shaded hammocks overlooking Martha Brae River. It all takes place at one of Jamaica's oldest plantations. 2000 acres of gorgeous grounds including 18th Century buildings of historic importance. Jamaican country-style food is available in the Sugar House restaurant, or enjoy drinks at the thatched Caribbean River Bar.Choose your adventure: Estate Pass — admission ticket, access to a zero-entry pool with six wading pools and a waterslideUltimate Explorer Pass — access to bamboo rafting, zipline, river tubing and kayaking, Appleton Rum tasting & history museum, zero-entry pool with six wading pools, waterslide and lunchEco Explorer Pass — with two tours to choose from: river zipline, river tubing, bamboo rafting or e-bike country ride plus access to Appleton Rum tasting & history museum, zero-entry pool with six wading pools and a waterslideCultural Explorer — with aqueduct walk, bird aviary, nature hike, Appleton Rum tasting, zero-entry pool with six wading pools and a waterslideNature Pass — with one tour to choose from: river tubing, e-bikes or zipline, Appleton Rum tasting and if time permits, access to zero-entry pool with six wading pools and a waterslideBamboo Rafting — with bamboo rafting on the Martha Brae River, complimentary cocktail, and access to the eco spaces on the property

Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios Regular Tour

When it comes to bucket list experiences, Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios wears the crown. Set across a whopping five acres of tropical rainforest, its natural cove makes it a perfect habitat for dolphins to thrive. Choose from a range of packages, all with lunch, drinks and use of the infinity pool guaranteed. Options include:Admission - watch dolphins play, interaction with stingrays, Jungle Trail, buffet lunch with drinks, infinity poolEncounter - admission benefits, small interaction with one dolphinSwim Adventure - admission benefits, small interaction and swim with one dolphin Royal Swim - admission benefits, interaction and swim with two dolphins

Worthy Park Estate Rum Tour

Whether you're a rum lover, a history nut or simply a fan of fun days out, Jamaica's Worthy Park Estate is well worth a visit. Producing award-winning rums since 1741, it's one of the oldest sugar plantations in the Caribbean. Tour the factory to learn about the distillation process, juice your own cane and taste five of their finest rums. There's also a virtual reality experience and a rum cocktail to round off.

Private Black River & YS Falls Tour

Jamaica's longest river, Black River, is a tropical wildlife haven. Spend time on its waters with this private full-day tour, taking in ancient mangrove swamps and prehistoric crocodiles and having a refreshing dip in the waterfall pools of the famous YS Falls. Learn about the ecosystem's specific wildlife from your local guide and round the day off with a tasty lunch.