Things to do in Ocho Rios

Appleton Rum tasting, YS Falls and Pelican Bar tour

A tantalising blend of rum, waterfalls and floating bars awaits on this action-packed trip. Showcasing the island's cultural heritage and natural beauty, this excursion has 100% Jamaica stamped all over it. As one of our expert local guides, Floyd says, ‘Experiencing Jamaica through rum tasting, wild swimming at a waterfall and an iconic bar gives you a great perspective on the many attractions of Jamaica. It's like stepping into a living postcard.' Begin your day with a fascinating tour of the Appleton Estate rum factory, renowned for producing some of the finest rums in Jamaica. Floyd enthuses, ‘Discover the distillation process, juice your own sugar cane and savour the honey-coloured rum – it's a truly immersive experience.' Next, you'll be whisked away to the cascading waters of the YS Falls where you can cool off in the refreshing waterfall pools. After lunch, it's time to hop on a boat and glide out to the Pelican Bar. With luck, you might spot dolphins en route. The Pelican Bar is a ramshackle hut on stilts which has to be seen to be believed. Standing on glittering waters, it's probably the coolest bar in the world. Be sure to carve your name into the wood as a memento of your visit. After a swim in the natural pools surrounding the bar, round off your day by raising a glass to Jamaica's intoxicating charm.

Kingston and Blue Mountains private tour with Bob Marley Museum

This exclusive private tour of Kingston and the Blue Mountains highlights the contrasts between urban and rural Jamaica. Among the star attractions are visits to a coffee plantation, Emancipation Park and the Bob Marley Museum. First, we'll head into the Blue Mountains. Stop for an authentic Jamaican lunch and then tour the Craighton Estate – certified by the Rainforest Alliance – and taste its coffee. Then, it's on to laid-back yet noisy Kingston. Tour historic sites in the capital's uptown like Emancipation Park – here you'll see the Redemption Song and the Bob Marley statues. At the Bob Marley Museum, you'll see mementoes such as his gold and platinum discs as well as his outfits and instruments.

Coffee farm hike through Jamaica’s Blue Mountains with brunch

As you hike through the misty Blue Mountains of Jamaica, take a moment to breathe in the scent of jasmine from the white-flowered coffee trees that mingle with palms, ferns and orchids in this part of the rainforest. Following the trails, you'll hear all about the traditions and techniques of coffee growing in this region – and why its beans are some of the most sought-after – and expensive – in the world. Marcus, a local guide, explains “the Blue Mountains are special, not just for their beauty, but for what they give the farming community. The high altitude, the cool climate and the rich soil are a dream for coffee growers.” The trail will take you on a leisurely trek up the mountain, past small family-owned coffee farms. Here, you'll learn more about how farmers have been harvesting ripe coffee cherries by hand, to create the mild, fruity and sweet flavour of Blue Mountain coffee, since the 18th-century. And the scenery here is pretty historic, too, like something out of Jurassic Park – think thick green rainforest dotted with waterfalls, valleys and misty mountain peaks. You'll want to keep your phone handy for pics.After a little over two miles of walking, you'll be rewarded with a cooling dip in the Blue Mountains Whirlpool. Marcus adds “don't worry – it's a deep rocky pool with a waterfall flowing into it – not a swirling vortex! It's locally known as the Fountain of Youth, so come swim off a few years.” Round off the tour by making a lasting impact on the local greenery. You'll plant a tree as part of a programme to support reforestation and sustainable farming in this part of Jamaica.

Appleton Rum, YS Falls and Pelican Bar private tour

For an experience that's 100% Jamaica, look no further than this exclusive private excursion. A tour and tasting of the Appleton Estate rum factory gets the day off to a great start, followed by a refreshing dip in the famous YS Falls and a boat ride over to the one and only Pelican Bar.

Dunn's River Falls & Nine Mile Tour

Two Jamaican legends are the magnets in this irresistible excursion. You'll visit the highland hamlet that gave the world Bob Marley to explore his birthplace and mausoleum, and discover one of the most exotic natural attractions in the country – Dunn's River Falls.

Dunn’s River Falls Tour

If you've seen Cocktail, you'll remember Tom Cruise and his leading lady enjoying a moment at Dunn's River Falls. And on this half-day tour you'll get to scale one of Jamaica's top natural attractions where you'll leave both astounded and slightly soaked – but it's well worth the journey.

Dunn's River Falls & Blue Hole Tour

As one of the largest islands in the Caribbean, Jamaica packs a punch in the natural beauty stakes. On this trip, you'll get to visit two of her knockout spots in just one day. Make a Tarzan-like rope swing splash into the exotic Blue Hole springs before making the trek up Dunn's River Falls – the nation's number one natural attraction.

Nine Mile Tour

Whether you're a fan of Bob Marley or just want to see the real Jamaica, this one's a must. There's a trip to the music legend's home and burial place and a delicious lunch at a jerk restaurant too.You'll start with a scenic drive through St. Ann. Known as the ‘garden parish' it's a beautiful area of lush mountains and villages. Climbing up the slopes, you'll head for Nine Miles, the village where Marley was born in 1945. Here, you'll visit his old home, which is now a museum. Wander round viewing the memorabilia as your Rasta guide offers snippets about the reggae king's life before visiting the mausoleum where the musician is laid to rest.After paying your respects, you'll end the afternoon with a tasty local lunch at Scotchies Jerk Centre – voted by Trip Advisor as one of the top things to do in Jamaica.

Ocho Rios Shopping Tour

This half-day excursion does exactly what it says on the tin – the chance to shop ‘til you drop. You'll be dropped off in the lively port town of Ocho Rios where you'll have a few hours to browse the boutiques, pick up a few souvenirs and find the local market that's packed with all kinds of goodies.

Martha Brae rafting and Luminous Lagoon tour with dinner

"You'll feel at one with nature as you glide down the Martha Brae River on a bamboo raft," says Tania, one of our expert local guides. This truly Jamaican experience is one of the highlights of this tour, along with the chance to watch a wow-factor natural phenomenon at the Luminous Lagoon. The magic of nature makes the waters glow an electric blue here – so a swim in the neon deep, plus a Jamaican dinner and limbo show, make this tour a bucket-list must.Get ready to kick off your adventure of bamboo rafting down the serene Martha Brae River. Just sit back, soak in the tropical vibes, and let the lush scenery wash over you. After rafting, you'll drive through the town of Falmouth, a historic town bursting with charm and culture – and a great place to soak up Jamaican history. Plus, it's the childhood stomping ground of world's fastest man Usain Bolt. You'll also get to check out St Peter's Anglican Church, one of the oldest churches in Jamaica. Next up is the star of the show. Tania says "this lagoon is one of only four of its kind anywhere in the world. It's like stepping into a scene from the movie Avatar. That's why I find it such a special, magical place." Arriving at the Luminous Lagoon just after sunset, you'll have time to take a dip in the glowing neon waters. Finally, unwind with a welcome drink and sit back with a Jamaican dinner. As you let the vibrant flavours, made from locally sourced ingredients, tickle your taste buds, you'll enjoy an entertaining limbo dancing show.

Exclusive Dolphin Cove Ocho Rios Tour

Set against the lush tropical nature of Ocho Ríos, Jamaica, Dolphin Cove is Just 4km from the Cruise Terminal. The Dolphin Habitat and natural park is an ideal place for fun and relaxation, with authentic Jamaican vibes from the moment you step into the park, relax in the pool, or sit down to enjoy a traditional Jamaican coffee.Embrace your adventurous side as you make the most of your encounter with dolphins and explore this extraordinary park. As well as the dolphin and shark experiences, the park also offers a jungle trail, a water slide, kayaks, an interactive program with Stingrays, and a beach club. Marvel at the park's tropical species including iguanas and birds, and the diversity of flowers and colourful trees. Put a big tick on the bucket list with your visit to Dolphin Cove. Not only will you get a chance to interact or swim with dolphins but you'll also enjoy learn all about these amazing lovable mammals. With two exclusive experiences to choose from, you decide just how close you'll get to the world's friendliest sea creatures.Silver – 30-min dolphin encounter, maximum 36 guests per group, 1 dolphin, lunch, 2 hours free time, photo packageGold – 40-min dolphin swim, maximum 20 guests per group, 2 dolphins, lunch, 2 hours free time, photo package

Konoko Falls & Blue Hole Tour

Wild Jamaica always lives up to its billing. This exhilarating excursion explores the up-and-coming Konoko Falls area, which remains one few spots in the country's still off the tourist trail. It is jam-packed with tropical beauty and cultural attractions. Prepare also to make a Tarzan-like splash at the Blue Hole.