A sensual land of bright colors, tropical paradise, white sand, gin-clear sea, soulful rhythms, and unfailing creativity, the island keeps its own personality, perhaps more resonant and distinctive than you’ll find in any other Caribbean nation. But away from the coast, a different scenery is waiting for you with spectacular mountains and rivers, tumbling waterfalls, and cactus-strewn savannah plains.
Looking for dynamic activities and pristine landscapes in Jamaica? Search no more! These 33 Best & Unmissable Things To Do In Jamaica are the perfect balance between secret spots, majestic beaches, and vibrant nightlife.
It’s time for a state of mind that only Jamaica can deliver. In between the culture’s vibrant energy and the island’s warm tranquility is where the magic happens.
Jamaica is mostly known for its spectacular resorts in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Not surprisingly as you will even find overwater bungalows, but there are way more things to do in Jamaica beyond the resorts!
Although it’s easy to lay back most of your time, you must experience the local music scene and Rastafarian culture while you’re here. Jamaica’s natural environment forms the backdrop to a dynamic cultural history, illustrated most vividly by the explosive reggae scene and the stunning original flavors of its national cuisine. This is what makes this island so popular.
One thing is for sure, Jamaica is a way of life!
While you are crossing things off this list when planning out your next holiday, use Expedia’s Price Tracking tool to check the best flight prices for your 2023 trips!
Moreover, I suggest using an Airalo eSim card. This app is incredibly useful for when you are going to travel. They have eSIM cards for seemingly every country on Earth and offer a lot of flexibility, which makes it the perfect way to avoid extra Roaming costs!
Iconic Sights in Jamaica
Jamaica is an extremely popular destination and as a consequence, there are a few unmissable things you should do and see especially if this is your first time here!
Dunn’s River Falls
Dunn River Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jamaica. It’s also highly promoted because of its beauty and the satisfaction level of many tourists who decide to go there while on vacation in Jamaica. With multiple waterfalls, which cascade over limestone ledges, this is a must-visit. Adventure-seekers can hike the falls!
Luminous Lagoon
Looking for a natural wonder where the water is a bright shade of turquoise when touched? Head straight to The Luminous Lagoon in Jamaica!
Go cliff jumping at Ricks Cafe
Sunsets, reggae music, and cliff jumping! Although not necessarily in this order, one thing is for sure, this restaurant’s main attraction is cliff diving. Definitely, an experience you won’t ever forget!
History in Jamaica
If you are a history lover, you will definitely enjoy taking a tour end exploring the time gone by.
Visit Rose Hall
Back in 1770, the Rose Hall was a former Jamaican Georgian plantation house and later became Annie Palmer’s home, a notorious mistress who was known as the “White Witch of Rose Hall”. Now serves as a historic house museum and a horror attraction where visitors can tour the hall and learn about its haunted past.
Croydon Plantation
Nestled in the foothills of Jamaica’s Catadupa Mountains, Croydon Plantation is a working estate widely recognized for its history and attractions. While you explore the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the rich history you can taste the different varieties of pineapple and citrus fruits.
Devon House
If you want to explore the country’s history, you must visit Devon House. While visiting this Jamaican landmark you can learn of the fascinating history of the site, which was built by Jamaica’s first black millionaire George Stiebel.
Traditions and Culture in Jamaica
Whether you simply want to stroll Jamaica’s old towns or dive into the local culture, there is no way to skip this out of your itinerary.
Farm Tour and Lunch at Zimbali Retreats
Located in a tropical mountain valley, Zimabali Retreats Farm is an off-the-grid farm where you can enjoy a relaxing day filled with a Jamaican vibe. This breathtaking landscape surrounded by rivers, forests, and springs tells you enough about the views you’ll be treated with.
Take a tour of the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston
Whether you’re or not a fan of reggae music, you need to add the Bob Marley Museum to your list of must-see attractions when visiting Jamaica. This museum is entirely dedicated to the life and work of Bob Marley, one of the most iconic figures in reggae music history.
Rastafari Indigenous Village
If you’re looking for a spectacular experience that gives direct insight into the unique and deeply-rooted culture of Jamaican people, then the Rastafari Indigenous Village is the best opportunity to experience the local way of life.
Day Trips in Jamaica
Exploring the surrounding is the perfect way to see the love of locals for their country, cultures, and traditions. They will explain everything, whether is about the Jamaican lifestyle, famous sights, or culinary secrets, with a lot of passion and pride.
Enjoy an ATV tour
Although you can go on an ATV ride anywhere in the world, Jamaica offers a unique experience, especially after recent rain.
Rafting on the Martha Brae River
The water and lush scenery of Martha Brae River make for an impressive backdrop as you paddle your way down the river on a bamboo raft.
Margaritaville at Seven Mile Beach
Negril Seven Miles Beach is a natural paradise of wide shores and pristine waters, definitely one of the best places to visit, relax and settle down in Jamaica.
Go swimming in the Blue Hole
The Blue Hole in Ocho Rios is certainly one of the most popular things to do in Jamaica. The pools created by erosion and the waterfalls offer a spectacular experience. The iconic blue hole is a great place to swim and create some Instagramable memories.
Visit YS Falls
If you are looking for a hidden gem in Jamaica, head straight to YS Falls. Is a lot less busy than the blue hole or Dunn River and you’ll find seven waterfalls with several areas to jump into pools and rope swings to enjoy as you hike up the falls.
Shopping in Jamaica
Making use of my motto again: No holiday without shopping! At least a bit! Whether you want to buy souvenirs, gifts, or some handmade crafts, shopping is an essential part of your trip.
Shop 'till you drop at Half Moon Shopping Village in Montego Bay
If unique, hand-crafted odds and ends made by local Jamaicans are on your shopping list, Half Moon Shopping Village is the right place for you! You’ll find a charming and well-manicured space with pastel buildings and pretty gardens, the popular Bob Marley exhibition along with many local shops.
Fill your cart at Times Square Mall in Negril
Times Square Mall in Negril is a great spot if you’re looking for good duty-free shopping, souvenirs, and gift items as well. You can enjoy your day starting with a Blue Mountain coffee, before diving into clothing, towels, shot glasses, wood carvings, jewelry, and more.
Dive into Musgrave Market in Port Antonio
Musgrave Market is a place to enjoy in many ways as tends to be entertaining as well. You’ll see local artists and crafters in the midst of bringing their creations to life. This open-air style local market is where you can purchase most things from fresh produce to clothing, shoes, jewelry, and handmade items.
Food and Rum in Jamaica
If you really want to explore the Jamaican lifestyle you definitely must taste the local dishes!
Sample local cuisines
You can’t go to Jamaica without trying some authentic local food. Is the perfect way to explore the local mixed cuisine. You’ll find ties to India in the staple, curried goat, jerk chicken which comes from the Arawak tribe in Peru, and ackee and saltfish brought over from Ghana.
Eat at Scotchies
Jamaica’s famous places to eat are the Scotchies restaurants, and you can’t miss this experience. There are well known for their authentic Jamaican jerked chicken, the best local dishes you will ever taste.
Visit Appleton estate
Home to the world-famous Jamaican rum, Appleton Estate is another culinary must for your Jamaican bucket list. Here you’ll learn how the process of rum-making has changed in the last 250 years.
Water Activities in Jamaica
No trip to Jamaica is complete without exploring as many water activities as possible. Here you definitely must take advantage of these crystal-clear turquoise waters and spectacular marine life!
White River Tubing
This is a great experience for adventure seekers. A guided tour will take you down a calm area of a river with clear water until you make it to some bumpy rapids.
Relax on the beach
Jamaica is known for its laid-back vibes and is set up to let you relax. There are many spectacular locations with white sand beaches and bright blue waters to enjoy swimming.
Go Snorkeling
Exploring the beautiful marine life is a must-do in Jamaica. Whether you’re an experienced swimmer or a beginner, snorkeling is a great way to see some amazing underwater spots.
Kool Runnings Waterpark
For more adventure and fun activities in Jamaica, you must go straight to Kool Runnings Waterpark. Is a superb destination with waterslides, tubing, go-kart racing, kayaking, and even paintball activities, perfect place to enjoy your day.
Top Fun Activities in Jamaica
Fun activities may be one of your major reason to visit Jamaica! There are plenty of things to do and to have a lot of fun since this place is all about parties, water, sun, and good vibes.
Go zip-lining through the jungle canopy
If you want to change the views and you are looking for an adrenaline rush in the Jamaican forest, then you need to experience zip-lining where you will soar through the treetops with the lush green landscape.
Ride the SkyExplorer chairlift at Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventures
Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventures offers the chance to come face to face with Jamaica’s fascinating rainforest ecosystem through SkyExplorer Chairlift, an undisputed highlight which takes you 700 feet above sea level for breathtaking views of the rainforest and the Jamaican coastline.
Visit the Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains in Jamaica are still fairly undiscovered and with plenty of things to do, from hiking and biking to exploring local villages and sampling delicious Caribbean cuisine. While visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site you will explore some of the most stunning scenery in the world, including rainforests, waterfalls, and incredible views from the peaks.
Explore the Green Grotto Caves
The Green Grotto Caves are a series of limestone caverns made up of more than 12 miles of passages and chambers, several underground waterfalls, and pools to explore.
Treat yourself at Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa
Treating yourself is part of any spectacular vacation and the Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa knows this really well. You can enjoy a comfortable stay at this renowned hotel while experiencing all the spectacular relaxing facilities.
Things to Do at Night in Jamaica
If you want to make the most out of your holiday in Jamaica, be sure to include the following night experiences on your itinerary.
Floyd’s Pelican Bar
No trip to Jamaica is complete without a fun evening at Pelican Bar. It’s literally a bar in the middle of the ocean, and you’ll have an unforgettable time sipping on cold drinks, sampling the local fare, and dipping your feet into the warm surrounding waters.
Go on a Catamaran Tour
A catamaran cruise is a perfect way to explore Jamaica. You’ll be able to soak up the sun and enjoy refreshing drinks while sitting back and taking in the beautiful scenery. This is definitely one of those items you’ll want to tick off your bucket list while in Jamaica!
Roxborough Bar & Grill
Located just right at the heart of Roxborough Beach, this beautiful restaurant-bar it’s a unique place to taste Jamaican flavors. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea in St. Ann’s Bay, the scenery is extremely beautiful during the day, and arguably more captivating at night as you dine and savor Jamaican seafood cuisines.
Kingston Dub Club
Kingston Dub Club is the perfect destination for those looking to party the night away. This club showcases authentic Roots, Rockers, Reggae, and Dub music every Sunday night for an unforgettable experience. You definitely want to dance to the rhythms and songs Jamaica is so well known for!