Things to do in Ocho Rios Jamaica

The not so touristy guide.

Is Ocho Rios the best spot to vacay in Jamaica? As the ‘capital of adventure’ on the island, it is one of those places with a long list of attractions to visit, adventures to create, and restaurants to try (foodies..you’re welcome). Let me confess, I’m an urban girl. The commercialized city life is what I wake up to most days. Fortunately for me, escaping the bustle is a little over an hour away. For you, it might be a couple more hours but an escape to Ocho Rios is definately the thing to do. A previous post introduced you to the small tourist town but here are more details on things to do in Ocho Rios.

Culture tours

Reggae fans rejoice. You can stand where Bob Marley stood as a young boy in his childhood home on the beautiful hills of Nine Miles St Ann. The scenic rural village has preserved everything Bob Marley. When you step into the reggae superstar’s humble home you’ll know where the song, ‘we’ll share the shelter, of my single bed; we’ll share the same room and Jah provide the bread’ came from. Just beyond the doorsteps, you’ll have a chance to sit on Mt. Zion Rock – Bob’s meditation spot. I imagine him there with a big spliff, puffing smoke over the hills while writing a song he didn’t know would be iconic to this day.

There’s no extravagance and it’s one hell of a ride on some pretty bad roads to get there but the tour is one of a kind. The crisp air, spectacular views, and immersive cultural experience is a great way to connect with people of a different culture, all just living their daily lives.

Trips to the river

Known to have the most attractions per square mile there’re lots more things to do in Ochi Rios. The most popular is climbing Dunn’s River Fall. The 600 ft waterfall appears on every to do itinerary but if you’d rather not be where 2000 other tourists are I have the perfect spot for you. Meandering through Ochi is a hidden gem along White River called ‘Hidden Beauty’ and for good reason. Away from the tourist crowded hotspots and beyond the better known Blue Hole (which is also gorgeous by the way), is a quaint property filled with laid-back charm. Lush greenery lines the ultramarine river providing the perfect backdrop for the cookout vibe they’ve got going on. Just be mindful of the shallow vs deep parts when you’re ready for a swim.

Touristy things

On the more touristy side, you can plant a kiss or pet dolphins at Dolphin Cove. The dolphins do a series of orchestrated tricks and put on quite a show. There’s also a mini zoo on the property where you can hold a snake or a heavier than expected iguana who isn’t shy to move around. I’m not a fan of any sized lizards but holding one makes a badass photo moment so have your cameras ready. The cute bunnies hopping around and my feathered friends a few metres away are more my speed but to each their own. An added bonus is getting to kayak, laze on the beach, or hop on a 10-minute motorboat ride to the base of Dunn’s River Falls.

Historic site tours

Another thing to do is explore a side of Ocho Rios many tourists don’t take the time to discover especially all-inclusive travellers. This side adds a more cultured experience to your stay. Start with a visit to Seville Estate during the week between 9 am – 4 pm. The Estate is a heritage attraction with a diverse collection of historic artifacts depicting various aspects of our indigenous heritage. There’s a park on the Estate that overlooks the beautiful Caribbean sea as well so an impromptu picnic would be a good way to finish off your time there.

When you’re done head to the historic home of Marcus Garvey, our first National Hero. The recently restored house is made from timber in a style known as Jamaican vernacular and honours Garvey’s life and work. The house itself is not much to see but it’s an important heritage landmark to know.

A market visit

The market on Main Street just off the main road is one of the most colourful things to do in Ocho Rios. With dozens of different stalls selling authentic Jamaican spices, local produce and a wide array of crafts pieces you’ll be invited to ‘have a look nuh.’ The colours will jump out at you first then the creative display of beaded trinkets, wood carvings, and every fabric creation in every colour imaginable. Nowadays it’s not as booming as before but it still manages to maintain a piece of island nostalgia you’d want back home.

I’ll be honest, vendors can be pushy at times but they are generally courteous and respond positively to a firm but polite ‘no, not today’. If you’re not sure, take a trusted local guide with you. Either way, the market is an ideal place to pass a few hours souvenir shopping, stocking up on jerk seasoning, and making new friends who pro tip, can also recommend some great things to do in Ocho Rios.

Where to dine

Things to do in Ocho Rios is as good as things to eat and above the cruise ship pier, perched on a hill is a visitor’s favourite – Oceans on the Ridge. The scenic view, friendly service, and delicious meals make for a satisfying time. Dinner time is my favourite. The illuminated town below as dusk approach is a great compliment to an already decadent meal. Back on the flat, not far from the market is another gem of a restaurant tucked on a side road. Bursting with colour and charm if you need a mood boost, Miss T’s restaurant gets you to a happy place in no time. The food, the colours, the service, the food is so nom nom nom!

Of course, there’s always more but these things to do in Ocho Rios with my recommendations will help you get the most out of your trip. Enjoy!