what to do in ocho ríos, jamaica
We've been to Ocho Rios twice. Each time did not leave a pleasant picture of the city. I will return, but just to make sure that it isn't so bad. You know, in baseball terms, three strikes, you're out. I seem to give everything 3 chances. Depending on the cruise line, you will either port directly in Ocho Rios or in Falmouth. We experienced both.
It is known as "Ochi" to the locals and they are very proud of their city. It's name in Spanish translates to Eight Rivers, but we discovered that it is more known for their waterfalls. We also discovered that this port is not best for cruise tourists but for resort tourists. The locals seem to treat the two quite differently. Cruise tourists get handled more rudely from what we have experienced.
If you port in Falmouth, there is a 30-40 minute taxi ride to Ocho Rios. A fairly comfortable ride, depending on your taxi driver. Once in Ocho Rios, the city itself isn't much to look at. There are your usual bars and souvenir shops but nothing that would take up an entire day. You will want to plan a tour or some type of excursion.
It gets pretty hot here, with temps ranging between the 80s and 90s. It is hottest in July and August (of course) and it is coolest in February. It's main hurricane season is June through November.
Here are some of the highlights...
Visit Mystic Mountain
Mystic Mountain, in Ocho Rios, offers many thrilling adventures in the heart of the Jamaican rainforest. Hop onboard the signature bobsled attraction to reenact a scene from Cool Runnings as you soar down the mountainside in your very own bobsled just like the famous Olympic team. Mystic Mountain also offers a canopy zipline tour where you can glide through the rainforest while admiring the aerial vistas. If you want to soar above the treetops without the thrill of the ziplines, Mystic Mountain also offers an aerial Sky Explorer tram providing similar panoramic views of the rainforest and nearby Dunn’s River Falls. We have never done Mystic Mountain (one of those touristy things we don't usually do) but now that the kids are older they like things like this, so maybe one day, we will.
Also available with any of these attractions are access to the Lookout Tower, water slide, infinity pool, butterfly garden, hummingbird garden, and nature trail. The Tranopy tour is all-inclusive providing access to the sky explorer tram, ziplines, and bobsled. Combo tours also exist with a visit to Dunn’s River Falls. Excursions can be booked through the cruise line or on your own, in person or online.
Experience the Falls
Dunn’s River Falls is often described as a one of a kind attraction and voted the best shore excursion in Ocho Rios. It provides an exhilarating climb up a series of waterfalls ascending over 600 feet. As a group, you are led up the falls with an experienced guide in a human chain over the rocky terrain. With natural stone steps and some extra man-made accommodations for safety, you will feel the rush of the cool water as you make your way to the top, making a few stops along the way to pose under the waterfalls and dip into the natural pools. Some physical strength is required to make the climb to the top, and water sneakers are recommended as the climb can get a bit slippery. Dunn’s River Falls can be coupled with a variety of other activities for a fun-filled day in Jamaica.
EAT
This is not a difficult thing to do in Jamaica! No trip to Jamaica would be complete without tasting the local flavor. That is why it makes our list of the best things to do in Jamaica on a cruise. You would be missing out if you didn’t experience the Jamaican jerk chicken. With a spicy rub not intended for the delicate palette, your smoky jerk chicken will pair nicely with rice and beans and a Red Stripe beer. Scotchies, a casual eatery with locations in Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Kingston, is often rated as one of the best restaurants in Jamaica, so why not stop in for a meal? This is a MUST for our family.
Another popular local snack are the patties. Juici Patties and Tastee Patties both claim to serve the best flaky meat filled pastries, so you be the judge! Terry loves these but the kids and I are not a big fan.
Ackee and Salt Fish is another Jamaican favorite. The ackee fruit when boiled resembles scrambled eggs and is often paired with salted cod and vegetables for a tasty authentic dish. If none of these dishes peak your interest, you can still experience some local flavor by trying a cup of Blue Mountain coffee or some Appleton Estate Rum.
Beach, of course!
So, there is no shortage of beach options when visiting Ocho Rios! Just ask a local taxi driver to take you to one they recommend.