Best Activities & Fun Things To Do In Jamaica

by CountrySunshine

Dunns River Falls, jerk chicken, cliff diving, the Bob Marley Museum, and zip-lining are among the best activities and fun things to do on your next trip to Jamaica.

When you think of Jamaica, you might picture white beaches, swaying palm trees, and reggae music. But there is much more to Jamaica than the inside of an all-inclusive resort, and tanning on the beach! From water sports to shopping, to museums and music, there is an activity or tour for everyone!

Following are my recommendations for the top activities and fun things to do in Jamaica. Try one or all, and you'll have the best island vacation you can imagine!

Have you ever visited Jamaica?

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Dunns River Falls

One of the greatest attractions in Jamaica is Dunns River Falls. Located just a few miles from Ocho Rios, these falls are a favorite not only of tourists, but Jamaicans themselves. At 600 feet, Dunns River Falls does require a bit of strength and endurance to climb, but there are guides to help you along the way.

Forming a human chain, you'll hold hands while climbing through the drenching water falls. Be sure to wear water shoes and a bathing suit, and bring a waterproof camera along. The view is fantastic from both the bottom and top, and it well worth the small admittance price!

Cliff Diving at Rick's Cafe
Cliff Diving at Rick's Cafe

Cliff Diving at Rick's Cafe

A visit to Jamaica must include a stop at Rick's Cafe, located at the far end of Negril Beach. It's a quaint bar / restaurant, and the perfect place to watch the sunset.

It's also fun to watch the local Jamaican cliff divers, who will amaze you by jumping off the cliffs into the Caribbean Sea below. While it is not an activity for the faint of heart, it can be quite exciting if you are brave enough to try it yourself!

Zip-lining in Jamaica
Zip-lining in Jamaica

Zip-lining the Jamaican Rainforest

Another activity for the brave is zip-lining through the rainforests of Jamaica! You'll reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour as you soar over rivers and trees. In between each section, you'll have the opportunity to hike through the rainforest and learn more about Jamaica.

Instruction and equipment is included in the cost, and you'll quickly find yourself high over the trees!

Bob Marley Museum

Jamaica is known for reggae music, and Bob Marley is the king of reggae! This museum is the former childhood home of Bob Marley, and was converted to a museum a few years after his death.

The museum contains many of Marley's personal items, plus a photographic gallery, theater, gift shop and cafe. You'll learn about Marley's life, hear some of his music, and get a glimpse into what reggae brings to Jamaica.

 

Bob Marley Museum
Bob Marley Museum
Creative Commons Public Domain image

Craft Market - Montego Bay

While it's possible to purchase souvenirs at your hotel, you'll find much more authentic items at the Craft Market in Montego Bay.

Be sure to check out the wooden sculptures, straw hats, and of course, the food! There are also shops with t-shirts, posters, and other touristy type items. A great site to find the best of Jamaica, all in one place!

Appleton Rum Estate

Jamaica is known for its rum, and the best is Appleton rum! It is made from only the finest ingredients found in Jamaica, and has a smooth taste! I always purchase a couple of bottles to bring home - for both myself, and my friends.

Take a tour of the Appleton Rum Estate, where they make this fine rum. You'll learn the history of the estate, how they make the rum, and the best part? You'll get to sample Appleton rum at the end of the tour!

 

 

Try The Local Cuisine

While you can sample Jamaican dishes at most resorts, the true flavor of Jamaica is found at the Jerk shacks along the highways. While the buildings are not much to look at, the food is delicious!

Try a plate of jerk chicken, some ackee and rice, and you'll be eating just like a Jamaican! Top it off with some Red Stripe beer or Appleton rum, and you'll enjoy an authentic Jamaican meal!

 

Blue Mountain Coffee

Jamaica grows only the finest coffee beans, and their "Blue Mountain Coffee" is the best I've ever tasted! While I always purchase multiple bags before I  return home, I have to rely on the Internet in between trips. Try a bag of these unique Blue Mountain Coffee beans from Jamaica, and you'll learn why it is one of the best coffees in the world!

More Activities

There are many more fun things to do in Jamaica. Here are just a few more recommendations:

  • Swim with the dolphins or with the stingrays
  • Go horseback riding along the beach
  • Take a Luminous Lagoon Tour
  • Go snorkeling, Scuba diving or sailing
  • Hire a taxi, and visit the neighborhoods of Jamaica
  • View the sea life through the floor of a glass-bottom boat
  • Go skinny-dipping on one of the clothing-optional beaches

More Information on Jamaica

For more information on the activities and resorts in Jamaica, check out these articles:

Updated: 09/20/2015, CountrySunshine
 
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If you've visited Jamaica - or just wish you could - I'd like to hear which activities you enjoy.

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ologsinquito on 12/28/2014

Jamaica is such a fascinating country, and the Blue Mountain coffee is the best. Nice article.

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