8 Must-Do Things to Do in Jamaica
Sun, sand, and palm trees: beach holidays are one of my favorite ways to relax!
When we decided to go on a cruise for our fifth anniversary, we wanted to go somewhere that had stunning natural surroundings. We ended up selecting a cruise through the Western Caribbean that stopped in Jamaica.
Although we didn't get to spend very long in Jamaica, Landon and I fell in love with the island and can't wait to head back.
If you've never been, you've got to add it to your list of places to visit! While you're there, you'll want to make sure to do these 8 amazing things.
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1. Explore the Green Grotto Caves. (Ocho Rios)
These caves have seen a lot: they served as a pirate hangout, an escape route during the island's tumultuous struggle between Britain and Spain, and--more recently--a nightclub. It was also one of the filming locations for the James Bond film, Live and Let Die.
We put on our hard hats, got acquainted with some bats, and had a blast learning about the history here!
Read my full review of the Green Grotto Caves experience here.
{photo via koolandgang | creative commons}
2. Sunbathe on Seven Mile Beach. (Negril)
You can't go to Jamaica without a trip to one of the many gorgeous white sand beaches!
Seven Mile Beach is one of the best known stretches of ocean front property for good reason. Although it's only 4 miles long, there's still plenty of space to stretch out on your favorite beach towel and enjoy the view.
{photo via yaiba82 | creative commons}
3. Channel Bob Marley at the Bob Marley Museum. (Kingston)
Reggae music is a staple of Jamaican culture, and you'll hear it all over the island when you visit.
A trip to the Bob Marley Museum is a great way to learn more about the man who brought international attention to this Caribbean island and redefined a music genre.
4. Climb Dunn's River Falls. (Ocho Rios)
Before going to Jamaica this past summer, I didn't even realize that you could climb a waterfall.
I'm so glad that I took a chance and tried it out because our experience at Dunn's River Falls was a highlight of our vacation.
Bring some water shoes, a bathing suit, and your camera, and prepare to have a blast!
>> Read our complete guide to hiking Dunn’s River Falls. <<
{photo via cingleton | creative commons}
5. Go cliff diving. (Negril)
Ready, set, jump! The crystal clear water surrounding Jamaica are perfect for a cliff jump.
This is the perfect way to add an adrenaline rush into your vacation.
{photo via nomadic frames | creative commons}
6. Visit a coffee plantation. (Blue Mountain)
While Jamaica's economy is fueled largely by tourism, the island still produces several crops, including coffee.
Tour the Creighton Estate or Old Tavern Estate just outside of Kingston to learn more about how coffee is grown and manufactured, and taste some of Jamaica's finest coffee.
{photo via laurie miller | creative commons}
7. Go rafting or tubing down the Martha Brae River. (Montego Bay)
Leave all of your worries behind you as you drift down the Martha Brae River.
Whether you choose to go in a tube or on a guided raft, you'll enjoy seeing the lush greenery and local wildlife as you float along.
{photo via naotake murayama | creative commons}
8. Try some jerk chicken.
This staple of Jamaican food is mouthwatering, and you'll see it on most menus in the country. While jerk seasoning can be applied to all different kinds of meats, jerk chicken is what you're most likely to see.
Warning: even the mild version is quite spicy!
No matter what you decide to do, Jamaican holidays are always an adventure. Time to start planning our return trip!
Have you ever been to Jamaica? What did you enjoy doing?
