This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Dreaming of an unforgettable getaway to Ocho Rios, Jamaica? You’ve come to the right place!
Known for its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and thrilling adventures, Ocho Rios has stolen our hearts. After many visits here, we’ve curated a list of the top activities you won’t want to miss!
From marveling at the iconic Dunn’s River Falls to chilling on a catamaran cruise and tubing down the Rio Bueno, we’ve had a ton of fun adventures in Ocho Rios. So whether you’re here for relaxation or an action-packed shore excursion, we’ve got you covered. Keep on reading to uncover the best this tropical paradise has to offer!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Ocho Rios is this combo adventure tour! It combines three epic activities – swimming at the Blue Hole, tubing on the river, and a scenic horseback ride.
It’s the perfect way to see the best of Ocho Rios!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- 1. See the famous 600-foot waterfall at Dunn’s River
- 2. Visit the iconic Blue Hole on a combo adventure tour
- 3. Go ziplining
- 4. Learn about Ocho Rios on a private sightseeing tour
- 5. Enjoy a relaxing catamaran cruise
- 6. Go river tubing on Rio Bueno
- 7. Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains
- 8. Take a private tour to Bob Marley’s home, Nine Mile
- 9. Swim in bioluminescent water at the Luminous Lagoon
- 10. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour
- Where to Stay in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
1. See the famous 600-foot waterfall at Dunn’s River


- Duration: 4 – 5 hours
- Time: 8 am – 2 pm
- Highlights: Climbing Dunn’s River Falls, cliff jumping and swimming at the Blue Hole, Tarzan swing
- Inclusions: Pier or hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, driver and guide, admission fees to Dunn’s River Falls and the Blue Hole, soda and bottled water
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 250+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re heading to Ocho Rios, this Blue Hole and Dunn’s River Falls tour is an absolute must! This half-day adventure was one of our favorite experiences in Ocho Rios, as it combined breathtaking natural beauty with thrilling activities that left us grinning from ear to ear.
The Blue Hole was pure magic. We had so much fun swinging on the Tarzan rope and plunging into the crystal-clear water. Cliff jumping was also a blast, but honestly, simply splashing around in the pools in the middle of the lush green jungle was a thrill. Plus, our guide, Ryan, was so encouraging and ensured that everyone stayed safe while having fun.
Next, we tackled the hike to the epic Dunn’s River Falls. And this is no ordinary hike, either – we actually got to walk up the waterfall itself, with the water cascading over our feet as we climbed. It was unlike anything we’ve ever done before!
We had an absolute blast on this tour. If you’re only docking in Ocho Rios for one day, then we think that this tour is hands down the best way to spend it. It’s a true adventure from start to finish, and we’ll never forget it!
You can book our favorite Ocho Rios tour here, with FREE cancellation!
2. Visit the iconic Blue Hole on a combo adventure tour


- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Swimming and cliff jumping at the Blue Hole, horseback ride on land and sea, relaxing river tubing
- Inclusions: Cruise or hotel pickup and drop-off, round trip transport, Blue Hole entry fee, horseback ride, tubing
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 475+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re short on time but craving a wicked adventure, this combo adventure tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Ocho Rios in just a few hours!
It combines three epic activities into an unforgettable half-day adventure. We got to go swimming at the Blue Hole, tubing on the river, and take a scenic horseback ride – not bad, eh?
The first stop of the day was the Blue Hole, where we swung from ropes, jumped off cliffs, and swam in the sparkling blue water. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful spot, and a real must-visit while you’re in Jamaica.
Next, we floated down the White River on inner tubes, which was the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. The water was mostly calm, but we did come across the occasional gentle rapid!
Then, finally, the horseback riding experience was the cherry on top. We rode through a picturesque forest trail before we headed to the beach. Our guides even let us ride our horses into the ocean, which made the experience even more unique.
And throughout all of these adventures our tour guides, Anthony and Adrian, were fantastic. They were full of energy and local knowledge, and made sure that we felt safe the entire time. This combo tour is the perfect way to maximize your time in Ocho Rios, so it definitely gets our stamp of approval, and tons of other travelers love it too – just check out the hundreds of 5-star reviews!
Book your spot on this epic combo tour here!
3. Go ziplining


- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Climbing Dunn’s River Falls, traversing hanging bridges, ziplining through the rainforest and over the falls, swimming in natural pools
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Dunn’s River admission and climb, zipline and hanging bridges admission, local guide
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 150+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Adrenaline junkies, this one’s for you! The Dunn’s River Falls climb is an absolute must while you’re in Ocho Rios, and this adventure tour allows you to not only hike the falls, but also zipline over them. How cool is that?
The adventure begins at the base of the iconic Dunn’s River Falls, where we began our climb up the 600-foot cascading waterfall. We loved scaling the rocky terraces while water rushed around our feet.
Our guides were amazing, too, as they ensured we stayed safe and pointed out ideal swimming spots along the way. Then, the views from the top of the falls were simply breathtaking!
And as if that weren’t enough, we then got to go ziplining over these iconic falls. The views as we soared over the rainforest and waterfalls were incredible. Thanks to this tour, we really did get to see them from every angle! We also walked along hanging bridges through the lush canopy, which offered even more fantastic views and made us feel a bit like Indiana Jones.
Last but not least, we made a stop at Island Village, which is an ideal place to go souvenir shopping. We actually did a coffee-tasting experience instead, which was the perfect pick-me-up!
This tour was flawlessly organized, and packed with adventure. If you’re seeking a thrill in Ocho Rios, don’t miss this fantastic combo deal.
Check availability and reserve your spot here!
4. Learn about Ocho Rios on a private sightseeing tour


- Duration: 2 -3 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Private tour with a local guide, botanical gardens, seeing Mick Jagger’s home, driving along Fern Gully Road, Turtle Beach
- Inclusions: Port or hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, private driver and guide, bottled water
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring Ocho Rios with a private guide was hands down one of the best decisions we made during our trip. The beauty of this private tour was that it was tailored entirely to our interests, allowing us to take things at our own pace and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.
Our guide, Winson, was amazing. He was punctual, kind, and incredibly knowledgeable about Ocho Rios’ unique flora and fauna. After he picked us up, he asked us about our preferences and ensured the tour’s itinerary was designed exactly to our liking.
We began with a scenic drive through Fern Gully, where we saw hundreds of fern species framing the winding road in a lush, magical canopy. Winston explained the history of the area to us and pointed out unique species. He even picked leaves and fruit for us to smell and taste, which we really enjoyed.
After that, we visited Ocho Rios’ botanical gardens and got a glimpse of Mick Jagger’s home! Winston shared insights about the local lifestyle and also introduced us to some of his local friends, as well as taking us to a street food spot to sample some authentic Jamaican food.
Finally, our tour wrapped up with a peaceful visit to Turtle Beach, where we soaked in the scenery at our own pace and even went for a swim. If you want an authentic, personalized experience of Ocho Rios, this private tour is definitely the way to go!
Book this tour here, and pay nothing until 48 hours before you go!
5. Enjoy a relaxing catamaran cruise


- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Hotel pickup and drop-off, luxurious catamaran cruise, sailing past Jamaica’s best waterfalls, stunning views of the North Coast, live DJ and dancing, open bar on board, snorkeling at a protected reef, climbing Dunn Falls
- Inclusions: Catamaran ride, captain and crew, snacks, unlimited alcoholic drinks, all activities, pastries and fresh fruit snacks, snorkeling equipment
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Nothing says “vacation” like this relaxing catamaran cruise, and so of course we had to book it while we were in Ocho Rios! It only runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, but trust is, it’s definitely worth planning your schedule around it.
With an adventurous waterfall climb, an open bar, upbeat tunes, and epic snorkeling, I really don’t think there’s much more that you could ask for!
The first stop of the day was a visit to a snorkeling spot, where we spotted tons of colorful fish in the crystal-clear water. We then had some time to relax on board before we arrived at the iconic Dunn’s River Falls which, as we’ve previously mentioned, is one of the main must-see highlights in Ocho Rios.
Climbing the 600-foot waterfall was certainly a thrilling adventure, and our guides helped our group form a human chain to tackle the slippery rocks, which was pretty wholesome. However, this activity was totally optional, so no worries if you don’t want to climb!
Then, back on the boat, the real party started. The open bar served up delicious rum punch and the DJ kept the energy high with dance tunes as we cruised around Jamaica’s north coast. The crew also handed out tasty pastries and fruit, and everyone on board was laughing, dancing, and enjoying the sunshine. It truly was the perfect day out!
Secure your spot on this fun-filled boat tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Go river tubing on Rio Bueno


- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: Short jungle trek, tubing down the Rio Bueno, riding over river rapids, relaxing on the river beds, playing on the rope swing, landing on the white sand shores of Bengal Bay, free time to relax on the beach
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off from Ocho Rios, round trip transportation, professional guide, river tube, life jacket and helmet, paddle, waterfall hike and swimming
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 270+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
As soon as we heard about this river rapids tubing experience, we knew that we had to book it! They even offer pickup from Ocho Rios and surrounding areas like Ocho Buenos, so it’s super convenient.
Our day started out with a short and scenic drive through the lush Jamaican countryside, and a short trek through the jungle until we arrived at the Irie Bridge. Once there, we were each handed a tube and hopped into the river. The cool water was so refreshing, and the surrounding scenery was lush and beautiful. We loved gliding along the river’s twists and turns – as well as the occasional rapid!
Midway, we took a little break under a canopy of bamboo trees. We had time to relax on the riverbank and even test out the rope swing, which was definitely one of the highlights of the tour! Our guide, Davin, was fantastic, too. He kept us laughing the entire time and shared some fascinating tidbits about Jamaican ecology and wildlife.
After our rest stop, we continued drifting towards the river’s delta, where we landed on the pristine shores of Bengal Bay. With the tubing completed, we had time to soak up the sun and go swimming in the turquoise waters. You really can’t miss this fun and relaxing way to soak up the natural beauty of Jamaica!
Click here to read all of the 5-star reviews and grab your spot on this river tubing tour!
7. Take a day trip to the Blue Mountains


- Duration: 7 hours
- Time: 8 am
- Highlights: Passing through some of Jamaica’s most exclusive communities, seeing the famous Goldeneye resort, exploring the valley of the Blue Mountains, glimpsing rivers and waterfalls, touring a local coffee farm, and sampling fresh coffee
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, return transportation, driver and guide, light refreshments, coffee farm tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 60+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
With lush rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and dramatic views, I think it’s safe to say that the Blue Mountains are a must-visit while in Jamaica! They’re about 2 hours from Ocho Rios, so we decided to book this tour and let someone else handle the driving for us – and we’re so glad that we did!
Our driver, Tevary, greeted us with a warm smile and was full of insider knowledge about the island! We enjoyed not having to worry about navigation and could sit back and enjoy the views as we passed through some of Jamaica’s most exclusive communities. We even caught a glimpse of Goldeneye, the retreat where Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels.
Things only got better as we entered the breathtaking valley of the Blue Mountains. We were in awe as we admired towering peaks and cascading waterfalls, and Tevary made frequent stops so that we could admire the scenery in the open air.
We absolutely loved visiting a local coffee farm. The farmer greeted us warmly and shared fascinating insights into how coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted in the Blue Mountains. Watching the process was fascinating, but sampling the freshly brewed coffee was even better!
This tour is truly a must-do for anyone looking to experience the best of Jamaica’s scenery. Sure, the country’s beaches are beautiful, but the Blue Mountains definitely give them a run for their money!
Book this tour here, with free 24-hour cancellation and the option to buy now, pay later!
8. Take a private tour to Bob Marley’s home, Nine Mile


- Duration: 4 – 6 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Visiting the village where Bob Marley was born, private tour with a Rastafarian guide, listening to Bob Marley’s music, learning about life in rural Jamaica, paying your respects at the Bob Marley Mausoleum on Mount Zion, private experience
- Inclusions: Hotel or port pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, private driver and guide, entry fees, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (check 85+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re a Bob Marley fan, then this tour to Nine Mile is a must-do experience while you’re in Jamaica! Arriving at Nine Mile, the birthplace and final resting place of Bob Marley, was like stepping into a sacred piece of musical history.
Our Rastafarian guide greeted us warmly, and his passion and expert storytelling brought Bob Marley’s journey to life, from his humble beginnings to his global legacy.
Having a private tour of Nine Mile gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace and ask plenty of questions. It was a really personal experience, and we loved hearing about the King of Reggae’s struggles, influences, and inspiration, as well as his cultural impact on Jamaica and the rest of the world.
Then, before we ascended Mount Zion, Marley’s final resting place, we visited a local bar where we listened to his tunes with a cold drink in hand and chatted with some locals. Then, we visited his mausoleum while his music played in the background, which was a pretty moving experience.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Bob Marley or simply keen to experience a slice of Jamaican history, this tour is the perfect way to connect with the heart and soul of the island. It definitely gave us a newfound appreciation for the legendary musician!
Check availability and book this private tour here!
9. Swim in bioluminescent water at the Luminous Lagoon

- Duration: 3 – 5 hours
- Time: 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Boat ride across the Luminous Lagoon, swimming in the bioluminescent water, passing by landmarks like the Green Grotto Cave and Columbus Park on the drive to the lagoon
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, live commentary, bottled water, transport by air-conditioned minivan, entry fee, boat ride, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 65+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Jamaica’s Luminous Lagoon is a true must-visit, so we couldn’t resist the chance to go night swimming in the bioluminescent waters on this epic tour!
The fun actually started on our drive out to Falmouth, as our guide filled the drive with fascinating stories about the local landmarks that we passed, such as the Bauxite Aluminum Mining Company and the famous Columbus Park.
Of course, we were super excited to arrive at the lagoon, as it’s one of just a handful of places in the world where you can experience the phenomenon of bioluminescence. The glow of the water under the moonlight was breathtaking, but it wasn’t until we boarded the boat and ventured into deeper waters that we got the full magic effect.
As we traveled across the lagoon, every movement of the boat ignited a surreal glow of shimmering blue light in the water. It was incredible, and things only got better when we actually jumped in. It was like swimming in liquid stardust!
The guides were fantastic, explaining the science behind it while ensuring we had plenty of time to marvel at the glowing lagoon. Then, on the way home, they took us to a local bar where we watched a dance performance, enjoyed a few drinks, and had some laughs. If you’re looking for a night to remember, this tour is it!
Book this magical nighttime swimming tour here and enjoy free cancellation!
10. Get your adrenaline pumping on an ATV tour


- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Exciting ATV ride, exploring the Jamaican countryside, swimming in the Blue Hole, cliff jumping and playing on a rope swing
- Inclusions: Use of ATV and safety equipment, Blue Hole admission fee, local guide
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 55+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s no secret that a visit to the Blue Hole is a must in Ocho Rios, and if you’re looking for an adventurous way to do it, you can’t go wrong with this ATV adventure tour! We loved this tour because it combines the thrill of an ATV ride through stunning Jamaican terrain with the epic beauty of the Blue Hole.
The ATV trail itself was epic. We were whooping and hollering as we tore through lush greenery and enjoyed incredible views at every turn. We even stopped at the Spanish Bridge for a refreshing break, as we got to use the rope swing to fly off the bridge.
But of course, the Blue Hole was the highlight of the day. The cascading waterfalls, pristine pools, and jumping spots were absolutely beautiful. In fact, we both said that it was a bit like nature’s own waterpark!
We also have to give a shoutout to our amazing guides, who did everything they could to ensure that we had the best experience possible. They were very encouraging to members of the group who were nervous, and they made us laugh nonstop.
The only other thing to note about this tour is that spots fill up fast, so if you’re craving the ultimate thrill ride, don’t hesitate to book. The tour includes free cancellation, so you’ve got nothing to lose!
Book this tour here before it sells out!
Where to Stay in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Now that you’ve got your activities planned, it’s time to find the perfect place to stay! Whether you’re looking for a luxury beachfront resort or a cozy budget-friendly stay, Ocho Rios has plenty of great options. To make your decision easier, I’ve rounded up the best places to stay for every budget below!
Luxury – $$$
For an all-inclusive, beachfront luxury stay in Ocho Rios, the Moon Palace Jamaica has it all. This stunning 5-star resort offers modern rooms, multiple outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and 12 on-site restaurants. For some extra fun, there’s also a wave simulator, water slides, and even the chance to swim with dolphins. If you’re looking for a resort that truly has it all, this is the place!
Prices range depending on the season and room category but usually start around $700 USD per night. Check all the room options and book this luxury all-inclusive stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
For a comfortable stay in Ocho Rios, the Sago Palm Hotel is a fantastic mid-range option. This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, some with balconies and even private kitchens. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool, enjoy a drink at the on-site bar, or grab a meal at the hotel’s restaurant. The central location also provides easy access to beaches, shops, and restaurants – making this a convenient place to stay!
Prices Start around $225 USD per night and you can check availability for your travel dates on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Ocho Rios, Wizzy Apartment White River is a great option. This cozy hotel offers no-frills suites and private apartments equipped with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi – perfect for travelers looking for affordability and independence. It’s located near White River and is only a short drive from Ocho Rios’ best beaches and attractions. If you’re looking for a simple, comfortable stay with great value, Wizzy Apartment is a solid choice!
Rooms start as low as $50 USD per night and you can visit Booking.com to make your reservation.
For more options, see all of Ocho Rios hotels listed here!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!

We loved our visit to Ocho Rios and think you will have a fantastic time too after checking out our guide! I think this part of Jamaica is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation – depending on the type of vacation you’re after. Hopefully, you have a few things to add to your trip itinerary now!
For more tips and guides to nearby destinations, check out all our blogs on the Caribbean. We have lots of ideas and travel inspiration for this part of the world!
10 Best Things to do in Montego Bay, Jamaica