We all know that Jamaica is known for its great beaches and tropical sunsets, but there is a lot more to do than go to the beach. Although this is a great way to spend a vacation, some people want to be able to do a little more and see Jamaica and all the things that it has to offer.
Whether it's on land, in the water, or even flying through the treetops, there are a lot of exciting adventures ahead. Travel over the rugged terrain of Jamaica's interior or surf the squally waves on our coastline. Your experience is definitely up to you! Here is a list of some of the most amazing things to do in Jamaica that don't involve sitting on the beach and catching some rays.
Water Other Than The Beach
Waterfalls
Jamaica's waterfalls are lavish, brimming with freshwater rivers radiating out from its abundant and mountainous interior. The most famous waterfalls are Dunns River, Mayfield Falls, and YS Falls. The most unique and less touristy falls are Tacky Falls, Cane River Falls, Reggae Falls, Scatter Waterfalls, Reach Falls, Turtle River Falls, Kwaaman Waterfall, Fishdone Waterfalls, and Nanny Falls.
2. Fire-Water Pond
Windsor Mineral Spring is located at St. Ann's Bay. This pond gets its name because it really can catch on fire. It is said to have such high levels of sulfur that the surface of the water can catch fire. For decades, locals have talked about the rejuvenating and healing potential that this small body of water has. Residents are also known to cook on this water, as well.
3. Blue Hole
This beautiful "cenote" type body of water is rumored to be bottomless, according to locals. The turquoise blue water is surrounded by some of the tremendous tropical greenery that makes Jamaica beautiful. It is the perfect place for some snorkeling, swimming, and many people love to jump in from the vines in the trees that surround the Blue Hole.
4. Black River
This 33-mile-long river is the perfect place to see one of Jamaica's most rare creatures, the crocodile. These animals are a rare sight in Jamaica, but they can be seen in the Black River near the southern coast of the island. A tour of the Black River is a great way to get into the wilds of Jamaica and get in touch with its wildlife.
5. Pirate City Under the Sea
Port Royal was once known as the most wicked city in the world, and now it sits under about 40 feet of water. An earthquake destroyed much of the town and killed hundreds of people, and what it didn't destroy was laid to rest underwater. It is a great place to go diving to tour the pirate city that was cast into the sea.
6. Luminous Lagoon
This lagoon has a fantastic "glow in the dark" quality that comes from the microorganisms that call it home. The Luminous Lagoon is located in Falmouth, Trelawny, and there are only three lagoons like it in the world. Tours offer visitors an unforgettable experience as they can swim and dive in such a rare body of water.
7. Swimming with horses
This is an attraction that is offered at some of the resorts across Jamaica, such as Half Moon Resort. These resort train thoroughbred horses to swim with visitors on their backs. Many people say that riding a horse is a spiritual experience, imagine getting into the water with these majestic creatures who, by the way, are great swimmers.
Into The Mountains
8. Mystic Mountain Nature Park
There are vast mountainous areas to see in Jamaica as well, including the mountains of Ocho Rios. Whether it is on their "bobsled"-like rollercoaster or zip line, visitors can explore the 700-foot-high peak of Mystic Mountain. It is splendid fun that is a great way to see Jamaica in a way that most people don't consider.
9. The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountain range is the longest mountain range on the island of Jamaica. These mountains are lush with tropical forests, and they are the perfect setting for camping, hiking, and biking. Who considers camping when they are in Jamaica?
Bird Watching
Serious birders around the world travel far and wide to add endemic birds to their life lists – birds that can only be seen wild in one location. Jamaica is a favorite Caribbean destination for endemic birding. Over a year of counting the full range of migrant species, more than 300 bird species can be found in Jamaica. Of the 300, more than 125 breeds on the island, and 28 are found only in this part of the world.
Some unique species you may find in Jamaica are waterfowl and wading birds, an extensive suite of songbirds, raptors, game birds, swifts and nighthawks, etc.
Fun for the WHOLE Family!
Jamaica is a family-friendly travel getaway, thanks to its many all-inclusive beach resorts, but the fun doesn't end at the hotel. Be sure to go zip-lining, bobsled on a mountain coaster, take a catamaran trip on Negril's beautiful coast, go horse-riding, go on river adventures, visit Dunn's River waterfalls, and go dog-sledding. A lot of these activities are within a day's distance of any of the main resort areas.
Family Travel Highlights
Swim With The Dolphins
Discover Treasure Bay
Dip into Milk River Spa
Admire Shaw Park’s floral splendors
Go on a Bob Marley pilgrimage
I'd love to help you plan your trip to Jamaica so you can see some magnificent birds, hike the mountains, have some great photo ops at a water destination of your choice, and build some great memories with your family! Be sure to click on the link below when you're ready to start planning.
Jamaica