Ocho Rios is a popular stop for cruise ships in the Caribbean. The stunning Jamaican town has beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, tranquil gardens, and a vibrant culture. So, there is plenty to see if you plan a cruise day in Ocho Rios. But with limited time in port, how do you make the most of your visit?
Ocho Rios has something for everyone. You can relax in beautiful parks and gardens or admire stunning waterfalls. But if you’re looking for fun and excitement, outdoor adventure activities include river rafting, ziplining, horseback riding, and exploring caves. Of course, no cruise day in Jamaica would be complete without browsing local crafts in the various street markets in Ocho Rios.
Ocho Rios also offers many options for enjoying local Jamaican cuisine, the most famous of which is jerk chicken. Plenty of cafes and restaurants serve variations of authentic jerk chicken, with its characteristic spicy and smoky flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Whether you’re a history buff, beach lover, or adventure seeker, this tropical paradise offers something for everyone.
This article is a comprehensive guide to planning a cruise day in Ocho Rios. You’ll get my top tips on getting around the island, where to shop, and the best cafes and bars to make your stop in this Caribbean port memorable.
Getting to Know Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is a small town of 16,000 inhabitants on Jamaica’s north coast. It has become a popular destination for cruise ships in the Caribbean Sea. The small town features stunning beaches—both private and public. There are also plenty of restaurants, luxury resorts, and possibilities for outdoor activities.
In Spanish, Ocho Rios means “Eight Rivers.” However, there are not eight rivers in or near the port town. Therefore, many people think the name is a corruption of the original Spanish name “Las Chorreras,” meaning “the waterfalls”—in reference to the stunning Dunn’s River Falls and many other waterfalls in the area.
Map of Ocho Rios
Exploring Ocho Rios on a Cruise Day — Overview
What is on offer if you have a day to spend in Ocho Rios, Jamaica?
The most popular destination is the incredible Dunn’s River Falls, where you can climb the waterfalls. For lunch, many cruise travelers head into town to enjoy authentic Jamaican cuisine—either jerk chicken or Jamaican patties. Other attractions include swimming with dolphins, the famous Bobsled roller coaster, or a leisurely drive through Fern Gully.
Where Cruise Ships Dock in Ocho Rios
There are two piers for cruise ships in Ocho Rios—Reynold’s Pier and Turtle Bay Pier.
Turtle Bay Pier
Turtle Bay Pier in Ocho Rios is a picturesque cruise ship pier near the town. The cruise terminal is only a five-minute walk to the local restaurants, shopping centers, and market stalls. You’ll find the popular cruise ship terminal is well-maintained and caters well to cruise passangers.
The Turtle Bay Pier provides a convenient starting point for exploring everything Ocho Rios has to offer during your cruise day.
A word of warning: You’ll probably encounter people selling stuff on the streets, and unfortunately, they can be a bit pushy. For example, they may hand you something but refuse to take it back, insisting you pay for it.
So, it’s best to politely ignore them to get your cruise day off to the best start.
Reynold’s Pier (James Bond Pier)
Reynold’s Pier is a 15-minute walk from the center of Ocho Rios. The pier is mainly used for cargo ships and is only used as a cruise pier for larger cruise ships or when there’s high traffic at Turtle Bay Pier.
However, don’t worry about the distance. Once the cruise ship docks, cruise lines organize plenty of transport to take you to the town center, local beaches, tours, or nearby attractions. You’ll also find many private taxis and independent local tour operators outside the exit gates.
The cruise terminal is called the James Bond Pier because it was used in the 1962 spy thriller “Dr. No.” This is the first of many James Bond references you’ll learn about when planning a cruise day in Ocho Rios.
How to Get Around Ocho Rios
To explore many of Ocho Rios’s tourist attractions, you will need transportation. If you arrive at Turtle Bay Pier, you will have several options to choose from upon disembarking. For cruise passengers arriving at James Bond Pier, the primary transportation option is taxis.
Taxi
Officially certified taxis, called Freelance Taxis, have fixed fares for specific journeys. In most cases, prices are displayed on notice boards at the pier. The prices are for a round trip for up to four passengers. It’s good to know that you cannot haggle with them. However, it’s worth taking a picture so you have a record of official fares.
You may get better prices in downtown Ocho Rios from private taxi drivers. In most cases, they will look for you, not the other way around. If you decide on a private taxi driver, check the officially rated fares first. Then try to haggle a better price.
Bus
There are local buses available for transportation between towns, but they might not be the most convenient option for tourists due to irregular schedules and longer travel times.
As navigating local buses is challenging, especially if you are only spending one day in Ocho Rios, it’s best to stay clear of them.
Walking
Ocho Rios is a charming town with many restaurants, shopping centers, markets, and public beaches within walking distance of both terminals.
It’s about a five-minute walk from Turtle Bay Pier to the main beach, Turtle Beach. Also within walking distance of the cruise terminal are Margaritaville, Island Village, Ocho Rios’s Main Street, Turtle River Park, and Harbor Shops.
From Reynold’s Pier, it takes about 15 minutes on foot to get to the center of Ocho Rios.
It’s good to note that street vendors tend to harass tourists constantly. It’s best not to make eye contact, politely refuse, and to keep walking.
Car rental
Renting a car in Ocho Rios is not recommended. Although many car rental companies and private vendors rent cars, it can be more trouble than it’s worth. Jamaican roads tend to be narrow and full of potholes, and you must deal with dangerous drivers. Additionally, there are stories of unscrupulous police officers pulling rental car drivers over and trying to extort money.
Typically, JUTA taxis are cheap enough to take you where you want to go in Ocho Rios without the hassle of renting a car, especially if you are only in the vicinity for a day.
Tours and excursions
Book a tour with your cruise line for a trouble-free day on your Caribbean cruise day trip in Ocho Rios. Cruise lines offer a plethora of excursions to the most popular destinations in the northern part of Jamaica.
Of course, expect to pay a premium price for these tours. You may also miss out on local culture as the tour operators tend to deal with large commercial companies rather than private, local vendors.
What to Do in Ocho Rios on a Cruise Day in Port
As you disembark from the cruise ship to spend a day in the Jamaican paradise, what awaits you in Ocho Rios? Here are the top things to do and see in this beautiful Caribbean town.
Discover the beauty of Dunn’s River Falls
Dunn’s River Falls is one of the most popular and iconic shore excursions in Ocho Rios. This natural wonder is a must-visit destination for most cruise travelers spending a day on the island. It takes ten to 15 minutes by car or taxi from the cruise ship port.
Dunn’s River Falls is a stunning cascading waterfall 180 ft. (55 m) high and 600 ft. (180 m) long. With appropriate water shoes, tour guides take you up the terraced stair-like waterfall. The falls are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors to take pictures and videos.
The magnificent Dunn’s River Falls is one of the few travertine waterfalls in the world that flows directly into the Caribbean Sea.
Another popular attraction in Dunn’s River Falls includes zip lining at the award-winning Dunn’s River Falls Zip Line.
Have a rainforest adventure at Mystic Mountain Adventure Park
When your cruise ship docks in Ocho Rios, don’t miss the opportunity to have a thrilling rainforest adventure at Mystic Mountain Adventure Park. This eco-friendly attraction offers a variety of exciting activities surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views.
Start your day with a ride on the Rainforest Sky Explorer, a chairlift that takes you high above the treetops for panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Most people visit the adventure park to experience the world-famous Bobsled Jamaica. This state-of-the-art bobsled adventure takes you 0.6 miles (1 km) through dense tropical landscapes.
The park also features a zipline where you can glide from platform to platform in the rainforest’s canopy.
Go rafting and tubing on the White River
White River tubing is one of the most relaxing ways to spend part of your cruise day in Ocho Rios. This shore excursion is perfect for those looking to add a splash of excitement to their day. Imagine yourself in a tube, outfitted with a bottom, navigating through the White River’s gentle rapids and serene ponds.
The tour includes the tube and safety equipment. All you need to bring is your water shoes and a waterproof camera. This scenic, blue-colored river is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
Several tour operators in Ocho Rios offer guided rafting and tubing excursions on the White River. You can find tours that include ziplining and blue hole swimming, finished with authentic Jamaican jerk chicken.
Despite its name, White River, the water is spectacular blue or emerald-green, thanks to the limestone bedrock.
Zip lining in White River Valley
One exciting way to spend a cruise day in Ocho Rios is by going ziplining in the beautiful White River Valley. This exhilarating activity allows you to soar through the lush tropical landscape while taking in stunning views of the surrounding scenery.
Before embarking on this adventure, you’ll receive thorough safety instructions and be outfitted with all necessary gear. You can also combine the ziplining adventure in the White River Valley with tubing, rafting, and swimming. Some tour operators also include an authentic Jamaican jerk lunch.
Sail in a Cool Runnings Catamaran
A catamaran cruise lets you explore the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Named after the Jamaican bobsled team Cool Runnings, this tour operator offers snorkeling to explore reefs and marine life along Jamaica’s north coast.
Some tour operators also offer cruise ship passengers a buffet-style lunch while enjoying the sun, sea, and breeze.
Experience beach horseback riding
Horseback riding on the beach is one of the most unique and thrilling shore excursions in Ocho Rios. However, the activity doesn’t only involve riding along pristine sandy beaches. Trails also include riding through tropical forests, historic castles, and sugar plantations.
Imagine trotting along pristine sandy beaches, feeling the warm sun on your skin and the gentle sea breeze in your hair while on horseback. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced rider. There are horses to suit all riders of all abilities and experience.
Visit Bob Marley’s Childhood Home and Mausoleum located in Nine Mile
Be sure to visit Nine Mile in St. Ann Parish, situated a short distance inland from Ocho Rios. The village is home to the Bob Marley Museum and Mausoleum. In Nine Mile, you can visit his childhood home and burial place. For many of his fans, visiting Nine Mile is a pilgrimage to pay homage to the most famous reggae musician.
Nine Mile is about an hour and a half drive from Ocho Rios. During the tour, you’ll learn about Bob Marley’s life, legacy, and Rastafarian beliefs. Guides are usually the musician’s friends or relatives who give a unique insight into his personal life.
Drive through the stunning Fern Gully
Plan your drive through Fern Gully on your way to Nine Mile when visiting the Bob Marley Museum and Mausoleum. This drive is an enchanting scenic journey through a three-mile-long canyon. The eerie landscape is shaded by lush greenery from towering trees and tall ferns 30 ft. (10 m) tall.
If you have a rented car or are in a taxi, stop off along the way. Many local vendors sell souvenirs, and many photo opportunities are available in this unique, mystical landscape to post on your social media.
Go caving in Green Grotto Caves
Exploring Green Grotto Caves is usually on the list of things to do in Ocho Rios when visiting for a day on a cruise.
The stunning caves are a 50-minute drive from Ocho Rios along the A1 north coast road. These natural limestone caves offer a unique and fascinating adventure for visitors of all ages. Descending into the depths of the caves, you are greeted by mystical stalactites, stalagmites, underground water pools, and natural stone bridges.
James Bond film lovers will recognize Green Grotto Caves from the film “Live and Let Die.” However, they have also been home to native tribes, Spanish settlers, rumrunners, escaped slaves, and arms smugglers. Nowadays, they provide shelter for bats.
After exploring the caves, you could plan to visit the Ultimate Jerk Centre, which is just across the road. Here, you can experience authentic Jamaican jerk pork, chicken, and rabbit.
Swim with dolphins at Dolphin Cove
One of the most popular attractions for cruise passengers spending a day in Ocho Rios is swimming with dolphins. Close to Dunn’s River Falls and Park, the aptly named Dolphin Cove is a five-acre natural cove home to a group of stunning bottlenose dolphins. You can feed, swim, pet, and play with these incredibly intelligent animals.
During your shore excursion at Dolphin Cove, you can select from various experiences that enable you to interact closely with dolphins. A highlight of this excursion is the opportunity to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat. Additionally, the attraction offers interactive activities with sharks and stingrays, allowing you to engage with marine life in a unique and memorable way.
Swim in the Irie Blue Hole (Island Gully Falls or Secret Falls)
When docking in Ocho Rios, it’s worth planning to visit the Irie Blue Hole or Secret Falls. This natural wonder and hidden gem is not far from the center of Ocho Rios. This natural swimming pool is not as crowded as Dunn’s River Falls, offering you the chance to swim in crystal-clear blue waters surrounded by tropical greenery.
Plenty of opportunities for having fun are available. There are rope swings around the blue pool for Tarzan-like adventures. Or you can climb to the top of the waterfall and dive into the deep pool. After expending your energy, you can relax in the tranquil, lush surroundings shaded from the Caribbean sun.
Unwind at the Bamboo Beach Club
Is relaxing for the day in an all-inclusive beach resort your thing? If so, it’s worth checking out deals at the Bamboo Beach Club.
The resort is located on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Depending on the package, you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks, dance to reggae music, and get access to a private beach with complimentary beach chairs. You can also try freshly caught seafood, jerk chicken, and other Jamaican goodies.
Relax at Shaw Park Gardens & Waterfalls
Shaw Park is a stunning mountain botanical garden with beautiful waterfalls. This former sugar plantation and orange grove is now a beautiful 25-acre space with well-appointed gardens featuring lush tropical plants. You can take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful oasis and enjoy the atmosphere.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike to the top of the waterfall and take a refreshing dip in the natural pools. The views are breathtaking and definitely worth the effort.
It’s good to note that food isn’t available within the park. So, if you plan on spending a significant amount of time exploring and enjoying Shaw Park as part of your cruise day, it is advisable to bring a packed lunch and refreshments with you. This way, you can fully enjoy your visit at the base of the spectacular falls without worrying about meal options.
Visit the tranquil Turtle River Falls and Gardens
The peaceful Turtle River Falls and Gardens is a popular place in the center of Ocho Rios to escape the hustle and bustle of the cruise port.
The gardens have 14 waterfalls surrounded by tropical rainforests and lush greenery. You can enjoy vibrant flowers and the soothing sound of cascading waterfalls. Additionally, it is possible to feed fish in the Koi pond and marvel at butterflies and birds in the aviary and butterfly house.
Formerly called the Enchanted Gardens, The Turtle River Falls and Gardens has plenty of opportunities for swimming. For the best experience, I recommend getting a tour guide. They will give you fascinating facts about endangered and endemic plants and show the best viewpoints.
Discover Konoko Falls and Botanic Garden
Visiting Konoko Falls makes for an excellent shore excursion. The beautiful botanical gardens feature lush plants, tropical flowers, cascading waterfalls, and a mini zoo. Additionally, there’s a small museum where you can learn about the indigenous Taino Indians and Jamaican history.
Remember to bring suitable water shoes for climbing the waterfalls to get the best out of the park. If you want to get lunch in tropical surroundings, there is a good-quality restaurant.
Firefly Estate and Lookout
If you want a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting Firefly Estate and Lookout. Located approximately 25 miles (about 40 kilometers) east of the Ocho Rios port, this historic estate offers a glimpse into Jamaica’s past and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. It was once home to Sir Noël Coward—a famous British playwright, composer, and actor.
Firefly Estate is now a museum showcasing the works of Sir Noël Coward. You also get to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views of Ocho Rios and the Caribbean Sea from its lookout point. It’s a great place to take in the island’s beauty and snap some memorable Insta-worthy photos.
If you are looking for peace and serenity in Ocho Rios, the Firefly Estate should be on your list of things to do. It typically has fewer tourists than the other attractions, and it gives a unique insight into Jamaica’s past.
Rafting down Martha Brae River
Rafting down the Martha Brae River is a must-do activity on your cruise day in Ocho Rios. The Martha Brae River is located in Trelawny Parish, roughly an hour and a half drive west of Ocho Rios, depending on traffic and the exact starting point of your journey.
The Martha Brae River rafting is billed as Jamaica’s number one rafting attraction on bamboo rafts. The adventure itself takes place on a 30-foot bamboo raft that is guided by a skilled raft captain. You can journey on jade-green waters through lush, green rainforests. While floating gently on the river, you can spot tropical birds, iguanas, and other local wildlife.
The Martha Brae River rafting experience is three miles long and typically lasts an hour. The Rafters Village includes five acres of stunning gardens, a swimming pool, and an aviary. You can get up close with crocodiles, snakes, Jamaican coneys, and kinkajous. It’s a perfect addition to your cruise day itinerary in Ocho Rios.
A day of luxury at the All-Inclusive RIU Resort in Ocho Rios for cruise travelers
Do you want to continue enjoying the luxury of the cruise but on dry land? If so, plan to spend your day in Ocho Rios at the sumptuous All-Inclusive RIU Resort, located only a short 15 to 20-minute drive from the port. You can buy a day pass to enjoy all the resort’s facilities, which include live cooking stations, five pools, a tranquil spa, and reserved beach areas with complimentary loungers.
Located close to Ocho Rios, the resort offers everything you need for a perfect day of relaxing in paradise.
Shopping in Ocho Rios on a Cruise Day in Port
After disembarking from the cruise ship at the Turtle Bay Pier, you are only a stone’s throw from excellent shopping centers and markets. Here, you can pick up some souvenirs or gifts for loved ones back home. You can find everything from duty-free shops to souvenir stalls, authentic cafes, and craft markets.
Taj Mahal Shopping Center
Most cruise passengers head for the Taj Mahal shopping plaza, a bustling marketplace in the heart of town. It offers a wide array of shops and vendors selling everything from locally made handicrafts to designer clothing and accessories. It also has a fine selection of brand-name jewelry and watches.
As you stroll through the colorful aisles of the Taj Mahal plaza, you can pick up souvenirs to remember your time in Ocho Rios. But don’t forget some easy haggling with the vendors for the best prices. It’s good to note that the Jamaican Tourist Board approves all vendors in the plaza.
Island Village
It’s worthwhile spending some time in Ocho Rios in Island Village. Located right in the heart of Ocho Rios, this shopping and entertainment complex offers something for everyone. The area features restaurants, shops, and stalls selling locally-made crafts, souvenirs, and designer clothing.
If you disembark from the cruise ship at the James Bond Pier, the Island Village is the first attraction you will encounter.
However, the village is not all about shopping and eating. You can discover natural spring lagoons, beautiful trees, vibrant gardens, and scenic boardwalks. Typically, when cruise ships are in town, you can enjoy small-scale reggae concerts in the village. You may even want to pick up some reggae wear.
The Harbor Shops plaza
Opposite Island Village is the Harbor Shops plaza. As you step off your cruise ship, you will be greeted by a colorful array of shops selling various Jamaican goods. However, there are also stores like Harley Davidson, House of Diamonds, and Tanzanite International.
Although not as extensive as the Taj Mahal plaza, the Harbor Shops area is still worth checking out on your day in Ocho Rios.
Ocho Rios craft markets
No cruise day trip to Ocho Rios would be complete without strolling through the local markets on Main Street. The three main shopping areas—Taj Mahal, Harbor Shops, and Island Village—have excellent stalls selling authentic local produce and crafts. You can find everything from color-changing t-shirts to souvenirs, crafts, hand-carved wooden sculptures, unique folk jewelry, and traditional reggae wear.
In my experience, gentle haggling in local markets is always fun. Typically, stall owners mark up their prices because they expect some haggling. However, never be aggressive or insulting. If you don’t like their price, move on to the next stall.
It is a good idea to ask if they give change in US Dollars. While most vendors accept US dollars, some only give change in Jamaican dollars (JMD).
Where to Eat in Ocho Rios
No day trip to Ocho Rios in Jamaica would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The main center in Ocho Rios has a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy traditional Jamaican dishes such as jerk chicken, curry goat, ackee saltfish, and more.
For a quick bite, check out Scotchies Jerk Center or Juici Patties for delicious jerk chicken or pork. For a more upscale dining experience, head to Miss T’s Kitchen for authentic Jamaican cuisine in a cozy setting. However, most cruise passengers head for Margaritaville to enjoy classic Caribbean cuisine.
Margaritaville
Margaritaville is a vibrant beachside restaurant and bar offering a fun and lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind during your day in port. The restaurant boasts stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. You can enjoy tropical drinks at the bar or try classic Caribbean dishes and seafood.
This Caribbean hotspot also features a swim-up bar, water trampolines, live entertainment, and exclusive access to private beach areas.
Scotchies Jerk Centre in Ocho Rios
Scotchies Ocho Rios Jerk Centre is a cruise day must in Jamaica if you want to try authentic Jamaican food. Located close to the port, this popular restaurant is famous for serving some of the best jerk cuisine on the island. You can try mouthwatering jerk chicken, shrimp, pork, and ribs—all washed down with local Red Stripe lager.
Arriving at Scotchies Jerk Center, you’ll be greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of jerk seasoning and spices. The jerk pork and chicken are cooked over a pimento wood fire, adding to their unique flavor. I love the place because it offers a casual dining experience, great atmosphere, and tasty food.
Mrs T’s Kitchen
Mrs T’s Kitchen is another popular restaurant in Ocho Rios with cruise passengers. This well-known restaurant offers authentic Jamaican cuisine in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features traditional dishes such as jerk chicken, curry goat, oxtail, and ackee saltfish. Mrs T’s Kitchen is also known for its generous portion sizes and flavorful dishes.
If you can add Mrs T’s Kitchen to your cruise day itinerary, you’ll find it offers a warm and inviting ambiance. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring your dining experience is enjoyable from start to finish.
Juici Patties
If you want to try delicious Jamaican street food, check out Juici Patties on Main Street in Ocho Rios. This popular Jamaican fast-food chain offers beef, shrimp, vegetable, and vegan patties. The patties have a flaky pastry crust filled with seasoned meat, seafood, or plant-based ingredients.
Besides their delicious taste, locals and tourists love Juici Patties because of the price. The patties are ideal for a cheap snack on your day trip to Ocho Rios. For example, their ever-popular meat patty sells for under $2 (USD).
Bamboo Blu
A popular restaurant option for cruise passengers visiting Ocho Rios is a visit to Bamboo Blu for lunch or dinner. This Caribbean beach club and restaurant offers a beautiful setting with views over the Caribbean Sea, with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. The beach bar and restaurant consistently get high online reviews.
At Bamboo Blu, you can relax on the beach lounge chairs or hammocks while sipping tropical drinks. Or you can sample local cuisines like curry goat, jerk pork, and a range of seafood dishes, including their lobster specialty.
Try Devon House I Scream
No day trip to Ocho Rios would be complete without sampling Devon House I Scream. This Jamaican-made luxury ice cream is available in Island Village Beach Plaza. You can try delicious flavors you have probably never had, like guava, grapefruit, stout, and soursop. Depending on your appetite, you can choose a range of tub sizes or cones.
Beautiful Beaches in Ocho Rios
After a fun-filled day enjoying all that Ocho Rios has to offer cruise passengers, relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches is ideal. Several beaches near the cruise port let you relax in loungers or dip in the crystal-clear turquoise waters on Jamaica’s north coast.
Turtle Beach
Also called Ocho Rios Bay Beach, Turtle Beach is one of the most popular ones for cruise ship passengers. This stunning beach—the largest in Ocho Rios—features a swimming area, loungers, umbrellas, changing rooms, restrooms, and showers.
There is also a range of water sports on offer, like jet skis, kayaks, snorkeling, and scuba diving. You can also get food and drink on the beach.
Mahogany Beach
Mahogany Beach is a beautiful spot located at the east end of the town. It’s one of the best places for swimming, as it has a designated swimming area. The beach is lined with swaying palm trees, adding to its idyllic ambiance, and providing welcome shade in the Caribbean sun.
It’s also less popular than Turtle Beach, meaning it’s the perfect spot for relaxing and chilling without many tourists. There is also a bar, restaurant, and gift shop.
James Bond Beach
James Bond Beach is a secluded beach located in Oracabessa, a 20-minute drive from Ocho Rios. It consists of sandy stretches and lush mountains that plunge straight into the sea. This stunning beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. It also has an onsite restaurant and bar.
James Bond fans may recognize the beach as the one where Honey Rider (Ursula Andress) emerges from the water to a surprised James Bond (Sean Connery). Staying with the James Bond connection, Ian Flemming’s estate, Goldeneye, is near the beach. It’s the location where he wrote several of his 007 novels.
Pleasure Cove Beach
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Ocho Rios on your day on the island, head to Pleasure Cove Beach. This beautiful beach is located a short distance from the cruise port. It offers crystal-clear waters, soft white sands, and shallow blue waters. Plenty of amenities are onsite to make your day in paradise even more enjoyable.
I love the fact that the almond trees provide plenty of shaded areas to escape the scorching Caribbean sun.
Tips for Cruise Travelers in Ocho Rios
Here are some top tips for spending a day in Ocho Rios while enjoying a Caribbean cruise.
Is Ocho Rios safe?
Ocho Rios is generally considered safe for cruise passengers. However, like any destination, exercising common sense and taking necessary precautions is advisable. Some pushy locals can try to sell goods or crafts, but it’s best to stick to stalls in the three main shopping plazas in the center. Of course, avoid displaying valuables in public and stay in well-traveled areas.
When is the best time of year to visit Ocho Rios?
The best time to visit Ocho Rios is during the dry season, which spans from December through April. You can enjoy favorable weather with lower chances of rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches. The hottest month is July, with average temperatures of 90°F (32°C).
What’s the weather like in Ocho Rios?
Ocho Rios has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C). The wet season occurs from May to November, with a higher chance of rainfall during these months. The driest months are December to March. It’s best to stay clear of hurricane season, which runs from June through November.
Can you walk to a beach from the Ocho Rios cruise port?
Turtle Beach is just a short walk from the cruise pier. Due to its proximity, it’s one of the most popular beach locations for cruise passengers. It’s open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:40 p.m. and has an entry fee of $1.30 ($200 JMD).
Can I walk from Ocho Rios cruise port to the town center?
The town center is a five to ten-minute walk when disembarking from the cruise ship. The closest attractions are the Taj Mahal Plaza beside Turtle River Park and Gardens and Harbor Shops. If you arrive at Reynold’s Pier, you should expect to walk 15 minutes to the start of Main Street.
What currency is accepted in Ocho Rios? Are credit cards widely accepted?
The Jamaican Dollar (JMD, of J$) is the official currency in Jamaica. Most places in Ocho Rios accept US Dollars; however, they may give change in local currency. Credit cards, especially in tourist areas, are generally widely accepted. However, having some Jamaican Dollars on hand for smaller vendors or more remote locations is a good idea.
Is Visiting the Blue Mountains Worthwhile on a Cruise Day in Port?
Visiting the Blue Mountains from Ocho Rios can be a captivating experience for those intrigued by Jamaica’s natural beauty, offering breathtaking views and the chance to sample world-renowned Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee at its source. However, you should be aware that the journey to the Blue Mountains from Ocho Rios is quite lengthy, taking several hours each way due to the distance and mountainous terrain. This makes it less feasible as a day excursion, as you will have limited time in port.
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