Jamaica is a popular cruise ship port and Caribbean destination. Whether you have one day or an entire week, here are 8 of the best things to do in Jamaica!
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8 Unique Things to do in Jamaica
Table of Contents
- 1. Cliff Jump at the Blue Hole’s Island Gully Falls
- 2. Ride a Horse on the Beach
- 3. Explore Green Grotto Caves
- 4. Spend a Day at Yaaman Adventure Park
- 5. Climb Dunn’s River Falls
- 6. Stroll Through Cranbrook Flower Forest
- 7. Bike Down Blue Mountain
- 8. Experience the Magic of Luminous Lagoon
1. Cliff Jump at the Blue Hole’s Island Gully Falls
Talk about a slice of paradise! If Dunn’s River Falls is a little too touristy for you, then head to Island Gully Falls where you’ll find a secluded crystal blue swimming hole at the end of a quiet road.
Jump from a cliff, swing from a rope, or just dive into these cascading falls surrounded by a vibrant canopy of trees.
Open Sunday-Thursday 9 am-5 pm, Fridays 8:30 am-4:30 pm. Entrance fee (cash only): Adults $15 (13 yrs+), kids $10 (12 yrs and younger).
You can hire a private taxi to get to the falls or book a tour. Gully Falls is located not too far from Dunn’s River Falls and it would be easy to combine a visit to both locations.
2. Ride a Horse on the Beach
I come from a family of cowboys, so I’ve ridden a horse or two in my life, but never anything like this!
Take a Horseback Riding Tour where your guide will lead you through dense jungles, past villages, and along the coast. It really is one of the most memorable things to do in Jamaica.
You’ll reach a beautiful beach where you can ride the horse right into the water.
That’s right, the horses actually get in and swim in the water with you on their back!
They don’t go out too far, so don’t worry, but it is such a fun and unique experience (although I could do without the floating poop)!
3. Explore Green Grotto Caves
The Green Grotto Caves are a system of large labyrinth limestone caves that hold an element of mystery and adventure. These caves were once used as a hiding place for pirates and their treasure.
The caves also provided a hideout for the Spanish during the British invasion, where they used an underground tunnel to escape to the shores of Runaway Bay.
Green Grotto Caves also had a moment in the limelight as home to a thriving nightclub. More recently it was featured in the James Bond movie, Live and Let Die.
The 45-minute informative guided tour will tell you more about the fascinating history of the caves, as well as allow guests to visit the crystal clear waters of the Wishing Well.
4. Spend a Day at Yaaman Adventure Park
Formerly known as Prospect Plantation, Yaaman Adventure Park is an 18th-century estate where you’ll find something for everyone!
If you’re looking to experience the rich history and culture, then take an open-air carriage ride around the estate. You’ll learn about the different crops that are harvested such as coconut, bananas, allspice, and coffee.
The tour continues to the Great House where you can learn how to cook authentic dishes such as jerk chicken.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, check out the mud buggy ride, or take a segway tour. Guests can even ride a camel or swim with dolphins!
Prices vary depending on customized packages, check the link for all the information.
5. Climb Dunn’s River Falls
Dunn’s River Falls is a natural treasure and visiting these falls is one of the best things to do in Jamaica. They are unlike any other falls you’ve visited before!
Take a tour of the falls where your guide will help visitors form a human chain by holding hands while climbing up the 600-foot terraced falls.
The energy is so fun! You’re sure to meet some new friends and let all your inhibitions out the door while you pose for “Bachelor” pictures kissing your husband under the waterfall. Optional, of course, but I would highly recommend it (wink).
Water shoes are required, and I would highly recommend a waterproof camera.
Lockers are available at the entrance to store personal belongings. There are several different tour package options available that combine the Dunn Falls tour with other excursions.
Many tours also include a stop at a local village where you’ll get a chance to interact with the friendly locals and browse a wide variety of handmade gifts.
Most vendors are very friendly, but there are a few pushy ones so just be prepared.
*Related post: If you are taking a Caribbean cruise, be sure to check out our guide How to Spend 48 Hours in Miami and A Day Trip on Cozumel!
6. Stroll Through Cranbrook Flower Forest
If you’re looking for a way to experience the island without breaking the bank, then this is for you!
The Cranbrook Flower Forest is a working nursery with 40 acres of landscaped gardens. Entrance is FREE and as you enter the gardens you’ll see tame peacocks roaming the grounds.
You’ll also find the remains of a 200-year-old sugar mill that has been converted to a museum and gift shop.
Rent a bike or take a stroll along the 1.5-mile Little River nature trail where you can swim in natural pools along the river.
You can take a guided tour of the gardens for about $10/person or just wander around and explore on your own.
The gardens are also home to the Chukka Adventure Zip Line Tour with 9 different lines over the forest canopy.
7. Bike Down Blue Mountain
The Blue Mountain Bicycle Tour is more than just a bike ride. The drive up is informative and engaging as you drive past outdoor markets, a banana plantation, and other historical sites.
You’ll begin your ascent through the jungle to the fresh mountain air of the Blue Mountains. Lunch at Blue Mountain Coffee is included, along with a coffee roasting demonstration.
Once you reach the top at 5,600 feet, you’ll begin your descent. The relaxed and scenic ride is suitable for all skill levels.
The ride will take you through tropical rainforests and past coffee plantations and farms. There are several lookout points to stop at along the way.
The tour ends at a waterfall and swimming hole where you can cool off before making your way back. It is a unique and fun way to experience the rugged beauty of Jamaica!
Tours are $79 and include lunch, round-trip transportation, and all the equipment.
8. Experience the Magic of Luminous Lagoon
There are few places in the world where you can experience the magical phenomenon found at Luminous Lagoon. One of the other places you can find luminescent bays is in Puerto Rico.
Take a night boat ride out through the mangroves into the dark lagoon. After about 20 minutes watch as the wake behind the boat begins to glow a bright blue.
The lagoon is home to bioluminescent microorganisms that light up when disturbed. They are completely safe to touch, and as you reach the middle of the lagoon you will get a chance to jump in and swim in the glowing water. It is a surreal experience to witness this natural wonder.
It will be an experience you’ve never had before and one you will not soon forget!
There are so many unforgettable ways to experience Jamaica! I hope these 8 unique experiences will help you discover the best things to do in Jamaica!
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