First called “Las Chorreras” (“the waterfalls”) by early Spanish colonists because of the nearby world famous cascading Dunn’s River Falls the name “Ocho Rios” is said to be most likely a British corruption of the original Spanish name. Once a small fishing village Ocho Rios is one of Jamaica’s major tourism hubs. Fun and excitement blend with rest and relaxation within this astoundingly beautiful garden parish and there’s no shortage of things to do, but just in case you’re having troubling deciding what to do next, here are 5 things to do in Ocho Rios Jamaica:
Dolphin Cove
( via Dolphin Cove )
If you’ve ever wondered what it was like to swim with dolphins or sharks, then Dolphin Cove in Jamaica is the place to find out what a thrilling experience that is. With two locations (in Ocho Rios and in Lucea, Hanover) Dolphin Cove is Jamaica’s number one marine attraction. It has all the makings of a great family adventure; offering the excitement of interacting with not only bottlenose dolphins, but stingrays, snakes, iguanas and a host of colourful tropical birds as well! Adjacent to the world famous Dunn’s River Falls, Dolphin Cove in Ocho Rios is an idyllic 5 acre tropical retreat, set against the backdrop of Jamaica’s picturesque North Coast. Here, in addition to swimming with the dolphins, sharks and stingrays, guests can also captain their own mini-boat or go glass-bottom kayaking to explore the fascinating underwater world of the Caribbean Sea.
James Bond Beach
Located just 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Ocho Rios, James Bond Beach is a spectacular, beautiful beach surrounded by crystal clear water and an amazing backdrop; the lush mountains of St Mary reaching straight down to the sea. James Bond Beach is well known for the fabulous fresh fish and seafood served at the two-storey Moonraker “Jamaican” Bar & Grill. The fish is so fresh we let you pick which one you want to eat! If you are looking for a little excitement James Bond Beach also offers the ultimate guided waverunner tours. The tours riders pass the famous Golden Eye, where Ian Fleming wrote the James Bond novels then pass on to UB40′s home and some of the most breathtaking views that can only be seen on a personal watercraft.
Horseback Riding
Equestrian lovers can choose to experience the thrill of riding a beautiful horse through the countryside and down to a magnificent beach, where your dream of riding a horse into the sea becomes a reality. This horseback riding adventure provided by Hooves Ltd. in Ocho Rios takes you along the shoreline and then into the ocean! Your two hour long Heritage Beach trail tour takes you back in time to learn about Jamaica’s turbulent past, and combines history with fun, as you take a horseback ride through the waves. Your knowledgeable guide with give you a constant narration of the scenery and area, telling the story of Jamaica along the way. Horseback riding in paradise does not get any better than this it is truly an experience like no other! A history lesson and beach ride all in one. Specialty rides and private rides for experienced riders also available.
Wassi Art
Wassi Art has been described as “an unexpected treasure chest of unusual pottery that absolutely delights collectors and visitors”. Guests are invited to watch as young, talented Jamaican artists mold clay into creations that are unique, beautiful and inherently cultural. Take a leisurely tour through Wassi’s studio complex and see local potters and artists creating one of a kind works of art. Jamaican terracotta clay is mixed and cleaned by hand on site. Potters throw each piece individually and artists create works inspired by emotion and surrounding. True Jamaican Art. Items available for purchase include plates, jars, vases, candle holders, tumblers and sculptures to name a few. Each creation is an experience of human spirit poured into fire and earth to create a cherished island treasure worth taking home to your living room.
Green Grotto Caves
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Green Grotto Caves are said to have been a haven for pirates and even runaway slaves in the 18th century, the caves (named for the green algae that cover its walls) are characterized by coastal limestone and are easily accessible. They feature a series of innerconnected passageways and chambers, light holes, stalactites and stalagmites. Their most striking features are the rock formations and the small, eerie, crystal-clear Grotto Lake at the innermost cavern. The caves are also home to nine of Jamaica’s 21 species of bat including the Big-Eared Bat, the Mustache Bat, and the Jamaican Fruit-Eating Bat.The tour of the caves (measuring 1,525 metres in length and 12 metres in depth) lasts just under an hour!
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