Guide to Ocho Rios

'Noel Coward and Errol Flynn were both huge fans of it, and Ian Fleming was inspired to write many of his James Bond adventures whilst living here - see Ocho Rios' natural beauty for yourself and you'll soon appreciate its appeal.'

Ocho Rios started out as a small rural fishing village, but with an ever-increasing number of visitors this resort is now all grown up. That said, it still manages to retain its original character - and remains a firm favourite with couples and families alike. Natural beauty reigns supreme in Ocho Rios, giving visitors plenty of attractions to see. It's also a popular stop off point for cruise ships touring the Caribbean. Undoubtedly the most popular attraction is Dunn's River Falls. Visitors hold hands to form a human chain and climb the impressive waterfall to stand and enjoy the views from the top. Be sure to take up the challenge of clambering up the 600 feet high falls for yourself – it's well worth the effort but do be prepared to get absolutely soaked. Other outdoor adventure spots worth exploring include Shaw Park and the Coyaba Botanical Gardens. Or, for an experience you'll never forget, take the plunge and go swimming with dolphins in Dolphin Cove. Whilst a drive out east of Ocho Rios will take you to the glorious hilltop setting of Noel Coward's house, Firefly. You can just imagine him singing, 'Mad Dogs and Englishmen,' as you soak up the sun. Not surprising he wanted to be buried in the grounds and his grave lies in arguably one of the most scenic spots on the entire island. This is one holiday hotspot you'll never want to leave.

Find the cheapest late deals to Ocho Rios leaving in the next six weeks.

Recommended Ocho Rios hotels and apartments

Clubhotel Riu Ocho Rios

Couples Sans Souci

Sandcastles Resort

Ocho Rios hotels and apartments

Our hotels and apartments in Ocho Rios include Clubhotel Riu Ocho Rios, Couples Ocho Rios, Couples Sans Souci, Rooms On The Beach, Sandcastles Resort, Shaw Park Beach Hotel And Spa and Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort And Spa.

More Jamaica holiday destinations

Looking for holidays in Jamaica? Our Jamaica holiday destinations include Falmouth, Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay.

Beaches

With several good sandy beaches along this section of coast, you shouldn't have any problems finding a spot to sit back and sun yourself. Watersports are run from most of the beaches, either through your hotel or from the beach itself.

Eating out

Dining in Ocho Rios revolves around the hotels, which frequently open their doors to the public as well as those staying at their hotel. Whilst the local specialities are seafood and spicy Jamaican dishes, the resort has a good range of Chinese, Italian, Indian and French cuisine, along with the simpler and cheaper fast food restaurant chains.

Nightlife

Though the nightlife in Ocho Rios isn't as developed as some of the neighbouring resorts, it does have a holiday buzz. Most of the entertainment is hotel-based, with shows, simple discos and activities. Outside of the hotels, the resort has a few low key bars, discos and a cinema showing new American releases.

Shopping

Ocho Rios has developed a tourist targeted commercial trade, with the usual array of duty-free shopping and trinkets on sale. For a more Caribbean flavour, there are small stalls scattered throughout the resort selling clothing, crafts and souvenirs.

Local information

In the area around Ocho Rios, you'll find some breathtaking natural beauty. The Dunn's River Falls, one of Jamaica's most famous attractions, is only 3 miles west of the town. Here you can marvel at what some call the Caribbean Niagra Falls, before actually clambering through the water yourself. Shaw Park and Coyaba Botanical gardens are also nearby. For an experience that you'll never forget, take a plunge and go swimming with dolphins in Dolphin Cove.