About Ocho Rios

The town of Ocho Rios is in the parish of St. Ann, Jamaica. It is the vacation epicentre of the Caribbean and, some say, the world. On the island’s northern coast, it once was a fishing village, and the locals called it “Ochi.” Here, we will tell you some exciting facts about Ocho Rios.

Facts About Ocho Rios

• Ocho Rios is the place of the most famous waterfalls- Dunn’s River Falls. It is about 600 feet high, and visitors to the falls can climb the stair-like rocks, which is the natural form of the path. You can swim and bathe in the pool at the base of the falls that washes into the sea. Tours to the falls are part of most Ocho Rios resorts, costing about USD$23/per person. Experiencing Dunn’s River Falls is iconic.

• As the epicentre for vacation options, Ocho Rios is perfect for adventure and getting a history lesson about the town. There are many attractions, either natural or artificial. And one such attraction is a little way out of the city, the birthplace of the Reggae King, Bob Marley, and his remains are also there. 

• The Honorable Marcus Garvey was born in Ocho Rios, and he is the first national hero for Jamaica. 

• Ocho Rios is famous for Ian Fleming’s novels; he writes them here on the island. In addition, the James Bond epic novels and the first movie Dr No were filmed here in Ocho Rios in 1962. 

• Ocho Rios offers cuisine from around the world- Italian, French, Indian and Jamaican, a few to mention.

• The ‘fire water’ springs- The Windsor Mineral Spring is known for being able to ignite because of the high sulphur content. 

• Most of all, Ocho Rios, in a tropical location, offers the beautiful warm sun almost all year round. However, from May to November, and dry seasons are from December to April. The dry seasons are perfect for winter vacationers who want to escape the snow and cold for a while. On the other hand, May to November is for spring and summer vacationers. 

Vacationing In Ocho Rios

Because Jamaica is in the tropical belt, it is ideal for vacationers. Vacationers, meaning not only stay on the island visitors but cruise ship visitors. You can skip booking at any of the town’s dozens of resorts, hotels or all-inclusive resorts to enjoy Ocho Rios. You can do some fun things in one day.

• As Jamaica is a port of call, vacationers on cruises come to Ocho Rios every year. The cruise port is a must-stop as you can do many attractions and activities in one day. In addition, hundreds of tourists book excursions to places like Dunn’s River Falls, which is only 5 minute’s drive from the port. A visit to the Dunn’s River Craft Market across from the falls is necessary for souvenirs. 

• You can view the picturesque scenery of Ocho Rios and its environs at Chukka Caribbean Aerial Outpost by ziplining or walking across any of the four hanging bridges.

• There is rafting, relaxing at Reggae Hill, and eating local foods at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville while rocking to smooth reggae music and drinking an iced cold bottle of Red Stripe Beer. These exciting options for your day’s stay in Ocho Rios are about half an hour’s ride in any direction from the port. 

Unique Sights and Spots To Visit In Ocho Rios

Although there are known vacation spots and sights to explore in Ocho Rios, others could be better known. Therefore, these Ochi experiences are what we will introduce you to as options for exploration.

• Firstly, there is this small roadside restaurant just a bit outside Ocho Rios where you can buy the tastiest confection: Sweet Potato and Caramel flavoured puddings. This restaurant is the Puddin’ Man. The best-tasting sweet treat you can only imagine. It is inexpensive and is one item you are sure to enjoy.

• The Jamaica Swamp Safari Village tour is the next suggested option from the mundane. And if you are brave enough to cuddle up to some Crocodiles, the Jamaican Coneys, monkeys, the Jamaican Boa Constrictor, and the Grey fox. There is also the location, Kananga House, with the famous movie Live And Let Die, featuring the crocodile scene. 

• Next, get a certified ‘Camel Drivers’ License’. Ideally, this is the offering after visiting the Yaaman Adventure Park. You can ride the camels here in Jamaica on The Camel Trekking Safari Experience there. The safari gets you to experience the Jamaican countryside while enjoying the riding camel experience. If successful, you get the coveted License 🙂

More Unique Adventures In Ocho Rios

• Explore the Green Grotto Caves. The Green Grotto Caves are about 30 minutes drive outside Ocho Rios. The caves are limestone formations that speak of a fascinating history you want to experience. 

• The caves were once hideouts for enslaved people during this era, dating back to the Arawak. The Arawak were the native Jamaicans on the island before Christopher Columbus landed here in 1494. They eventually died from European diseases and overworking conditions. 

• The Green Grotto Caves are slippery on the surface, so it is best to wear sensible shoes. And for the aged and minors, care should be taken while exploring. 

The following unique experience: Have you ever driven a Mini Cooper before? If you have, you have yet to do so while in Jamaica, exploring the Jamaican countryside in Ocho Rios. The Island Routes Mini Cooper Half Day Tour is what you are in for this treat. Drive your car and plot the course while allowing the designated tour guide to ferry you. You’ll immerse yourself in the island and learn how to get around to popular local hotspots. 

You can visit Konoko Falls in your Mini Cooper, stop at a local jerk spot, see how to jerk meats, and dine to your heart’s content. The Puddin’ Man’s restaurant is on the way, so you can stop buying for dessert. You can even buy a few puddin’ to take back home. 

Conclusion

Ocho Rios is full of exciting and unique experiences. The town has much history to learn about and places not on the resort’s radar as tour spots to enjoy. Sightseeing is abundant while soaking up the Jamaican sun and fresh air and eating good food. And there still is a lot to know about Ocho Rios.

Source

1. https://www.visitjamaica.com/listing/chukka-caribbeans-aerial-outpost-over-dunns-river/18/

2. https://www.visitjamaica.com/cruises/ports/ocho-rios-port/

3. https://www.beaches.com/blog/things-to-do-in-ocho-rios-jamaica/