Parks & Natural Reserves
Fern Gully
A rocky gorge of tremendous depth which zigzags for about four miles from the Ocho Rios coast up to the central mountain area of the island. Although it has become rather commercialized in recent years by souvenir vendors, it is still well worth a visit to see the profusion of tropical ferns (over 500 species) and the kind of foliage only to be found in a tropical rain forest. In the deepest parts of the gorge, only faint dapples of sunshine penetrate through the thick foliage and the temperature is about ten degrees cooler.
Cranbrook Flower Forest
Cranbrook is located off the North Coast Highway in Laughlands, St. Ann. Well laid out gardens with nature hikes, swimming, bird watching, pond fishing, horse and donkey rides. 876-995-3097
Coyaba Gardens
A refreshing escape; immerse yourself in the colourful beauty of this garden refuge. Explore the gardens with its vibrant hued flora, natural springs and small pools or learn about the island’s history in its small museum.
Green Grotto Caves
Traverse these series of underground connected limestone caves. History and nature meets at location which is said to have been used as a hideaway for runaway slaves. Spelunkers will appreciate the intricate passageways, stalactites and stalagmites. 876-973-3217
Shaw Park Gardens
Situated high on a hilltop overlooking the sea and only five minutes from Ocho Rios, Shaw Park Botanical Gardens encompass 25 acres of tropical splendour. 876-974-2552.
Turtle River Park
In the centre of the bustling town lies this green respite. A simple yet lovely garden with the Turtle River running through it, the park provides a enclosed area for children to frolic in the sun and a great place to take a break from sight-seeing.
Shopping
Visitors can get everything from Jamaican handicrafts and souvenirs to duty-free bargains from the in-bond stores. Plazas such as Island Village, which is located on the beach and stays true to its tropical location, gives visitors a relaxed shopping experience with its vibrant gardens, picturesque boardwalk and water features. Find Reggae XPlosion, duty free shops, an ice cream parlour, Margaritaville and much more on-site. Close by is the Taj Mahal with additional shopping options while the Crafts Market is further in the downtown area.
Sightseeing, Soft Adventures & WaterSports
Cool Runnings Snorkel & Dunn’s River Cruise
Set sail to an exotic cove for swimming and snorkeling. On board enjoy the pulsating beat of Reggae music while you sunbathe and sip on refreshing cold drinks. Call Jamaica Dive Centre at 876-973-4845
Chukka Cove
Situated about 15 minutes from Ocho Rios, Chukka Cove is a farm and stable which offers rides to suit anyone, from beginners to the most experienced. Their beach ride takes you through a dairy and cattle farm to the beach where an exhilarating ride through the waves will get your adrenaline flowing. They recently added an exciting new attraction: a bike ride through the spectacular scenery of the Jamaican mountains down to a white sand beach and a refreshing plunge into the clear blue sea. Other adventures including river tubing and atv bike riding available through Chukka Caribbean Adventures. 876-972-2506
Safari Tours
Zebra-striped jeeps will take you to White River for a breathtaking river tubing ride or on a hiking trip through the hills and down to Dunn’s River Falls or through the timeless, unhurried, Jamaica countryside, seldom seen by visitors. 876-972-2506
Heave Ho Charters
Take a sea-taxi and you can cruise in style to places like Dolphin Cove or Reggae Beach. Plan your private charter on any one of four vessels. From fun, snorkel, dinner or sunset cruises. Also speed boat tours to Cuba. 876-974-5367
Dolphin Cove
Visitors can touch, play and swim with the dolphins. Dolphin programs start at 9.30 a.m., 11.30 a.m., 1.30 p.m. and 3.30 p.m. Reservations are necessary to participate but not if you only mean to watch. An exciting nature hike is offered. See parrots, native snakes, turtles, iguanas and don’t miss the shark pool. Their cheerful restaurant offers buffet lunch. Also browse awhile in their delightful gift shop for souvenirs. 876-974-5335
Dunn’s River Falls – Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Perhaps the most celebrated beauty spot in the Ocho Rios area. Dunn’s River Falls is not to be missed. The waterfall, which cascades over wedding cake tiers of smooth rock directly onto the beach, offers a challenging climb to the top-600 feet up. But don’t be discouraged if you are not athletic, as it is much easier than it looks and experienced guides are always willing to assist. This breathtaking site is definitely a “bucket list” worthy experience.
James Bond Beach
James Bond Beach is just another example why Jamaica is renowned for its spectacular beaches. Just 20 minutes east of Ocho Rios offers a great swimming beach and spots for picnics. Do not feel like packing the meal? The Moonraker Bar and Grill serves up fresh seafood at affordable prices.
Mystic Mountain Rainforest Adventures
This is an eco-friendly attraction with an adventurous twist. Located next to the world-famous Dunns River Falls, take the Sky Explorer (a chairlift ride) up to the top of this 700-foot mountain. Once there choose from the options of a fast-paced bobsled ride, lounging by the infinity pool overlooking the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, or do the thrilling zip lining tour. Also home to a great restaurant, recharge with a sumptuous lunch. 866-759-8726
Reggae Beach
This is an incredibly beautiful and secluded beach to spend the day at and enjoy Jamaican favourites such as fried fish and bammy. 876-974-5367
Transportation
Whether you’re staying in the city center of Ocho Rios or not, knowing how to get around will ensure you maximize your holiday experience.
Rental cars are an easy option, selections for which you can find easily upon your arrival through immigration at the airport. If you are however uncomfortable driving in a foreign country or are unable to, then taxis are the next best, most efficient way to do so. Martin at 876-291-2930 or 876-386-0039 can provide alternatives. Call him directly or let us you arrange travel with Martin at an extra cost.
Hiring A Taxi
While a taxi is the most convenient option for getting around Ocho Rios, it is key to note that the kind of taxi you choose is key.
Charter versus Route Taxis
Charter taxis are suitable for when traveling in groups, going long distances and want the freedom to make stops along the way. These taxis are distinguishable by their red coloured, white lettered license plates with the letters “PP” or “PPV” boldly indicated on them. These taxis are private and offer transportation to wherever you need to go for one flat rate regardless of the number of passengers (limited as per vehicle regulations).
Taking a Route taxi, on the other hand, is comparable to riding the public bus, though in a smaller vehicle (aka a van). These taxis have specific routes that they travel throughout the day, typically between hotels, shopping centers, and popular attractions, and charge a per person rate rather than per trip. Route taxis will make several stop to pick up passengers until the vehicle is full. These taxis will also have the letters “PP” or “PPV” on the plates, but they will be written in blue on white plates.
Both charter and route taxis are legal, sanctioned by the government, and are required to have proper licensing and insurance. Be sure you check that you are getting into a properly marked taxi so as not to end up riding with an ‘illegal robot’, the repercussions for which can be steep.
Car Rentals
The cars below are available for rent. Call Martin directly for arrangements. Rental rates are $60USD/day for vans and $45USD/day for cars. Some of the inventory is shown below.You can make arrangements BEFORE your travel by contacting Martin at 876-291-2930 or 876-386-0030.
Taxi Services
Most people have their first experience with taxis at the airport when they hire a charter to take them to their accommodations in Ocho Rios. These you’ll typically find waiting right outside Immigration but, you can call ahead of your vacation, give the company your name and flight information, and they will be waiting specifically for you when you arrive.
Recommendation – Martin
Airport pick-up and drop-off is available for an extra cost with Martin. The direct number to make these arrangements (let us know you have made these arrangements if you book with us, so we can coordinate) is 876-291-2930 or 876-386-0039. Tell Martin you have booked with us.
Taxi services like these you can also put to use if you’re out and about and need to call for a ride. In most cases you’ll find taxis congregating around beaches, busy resort properties, clusters of restaurants, and busy tourist attractions. If you are in an area where none are present, you have the option of waiting for a few minutes to see if a route taxi will drive by, or finding a phone to call for a charter. However, Martin is available for excursions and charter at an extra cost.
Tour Companies
Another great option is to go through a tour company where you hire one of their taxis to take you on a tour of Ocho Rios. For one set rate, usually including the price of admission to any attractions that have price tags plus drinks and sometimes even lunch, you can have a knowledgeable guide take you around to visit everything you need to see in one day. These tour drivers in Ocho Rios take their jobs seriously, many of whom are JUTA certified with years of experience giving island tours, and are easily distinguished by their white jackets and blue tailored pants.
Martin is our recommended tour driver at 876-291-2930 or 876-386-0039.
Rates, Fares, and Fees
There are no metered taxis in Ocho Rios. Each fare is set in advance, and will be markedly different between route and charter taxis. Route taxi fares are set by the government and will be in Jamaican dollars while charter taxi rates are independently set and are known to be accepted both in Jamaican and U.S. dollars.
See TYPICAL FARES AROUND OCHO RIOS to get an idea of what fares look like.
Whether you simply want to get around during your stay in Ocho Rios or go exploring around the island, rest assured that taxi services in Ocho Rios are top notch and a great choice.
You can make arrangements BEFORE your travel by contacting Martin at 876-291-2930 or 876-386-0030.