Jamaica - Ocho Rios Travel Guide

Ocho Rios does not as its name suggests, have eight rivers. In it the garden of Jamaica and the place where, Jamaicans say, heaven spills into the sea.

Grassy hills roll gently to white sandy coves and turquoise-blue waters of the craggy coastline. Ocho Rios is abuzz with activity and seems in constant motion. Bargaining for hand-made items at the Crafts Market is a treat in itself. Duty-free shops carry a bounty of brand-name goods. Nightclubs live happily beside taverns and lounges. Gourmands will delight in Ocho Rios’ elegant restaurants and cafes.

Ocho Rios is a place of waterfalls and exotic gardens. The world-famous Dunn’s River Falls offers an exhilarating climb through warm, cascading waters. The tropical splendor of Coyaba and Shaw Park Gardens is magnificent. Take a drive through a forest of ferns aptly called Fern Gully. Ride a horse on the trails at Prospect Plantation. Play polo at nearby Chukka Cove or relax and sun at James Bond Beach. Agent 007, the fictional creation of British writer Ian Fleming, was born in Jamaica. His first film, Dr. No, was filmed here. If you are a bond aficionado, stay at his luxurious home, Goldeneye, and dream of similar adventures.

Drive west of Ocho Rios to Discovery Bay where Columbus first landed, or to Runaway Bay, so called because slaves used the area as an escape route. Visit Seville Great house to see Indian and Spanish artifacts. Visit Green Grotto Caves or climb the hills to Nine Miles, the birthplace of the legendary Bob Marley. Just east of Ocho Rios is the village of Oracabessa, the celebrated Firefly property and Jamaican retreat of playwright Noel Coward.

Ocho Rios presents a mix of excitement and serenity; truly one of the world’s most exotic resorts.

Distance from Ocho Rios to Montego Bay’s International Airport: 70 miles or 90 minutes by car.