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Call Out Slideshow
Maps of The Blue Mountain
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Maps of Jamaica
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Maps of Mandeville
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Maps of Montego Bay
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Maps of Negril
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Maps of Ocho Rios
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Maps of Port Antonio
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Discover Kingston
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Kingston's Best New Restaurant
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Kingston's Best Hotel
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Kingston's Best Attraction
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Food
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Accommodations
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Shopping
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List of Maps
Maps of Jamaica
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Discover Jamaica
chapter divisions map:
The Best of Jamaica:
Kingston
Kingston:
Metropolitan Kingston:
Downtown Kinston:
Uptown Kingston:
Spanish Town:
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The Blue Mountains
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Port Antonio and the East Coast
Port Antonio and the East Coast:
Port Antonio Coastline:
Northeast Coast:
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Ocho Rios and the Central North Coast
Ocho Rios and the Central North Coast:
Ocho Rios and Vicinity:
Ocho Rios Detail:
Runaway Bay:
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Montego Bay and the Northwest
Montego Bay and the Northwest:
Montego Bay:
Montego Bay Detail:
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Negril and the West
Negril and the West:
Negril Beach:
West End:
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Mandeville and the South Coast
Mandeville and the South Coast:
Treasure Beach:
Mandeville:
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Mama Marley's Bar & Grill
Mama Marley's Bar & Grill (50 Main St., tel. 876/795-4803) serves mediocre Jamaican and international dishes. The restaurant was owned by the late Cedella Marley, Bob's mother, known as Mama B.
Lion's Den
Lion's Den (2.4 km west of cruise ship terminal, contact supervisor Joseph Morrison, cell tel. 876/896-1352, US$4–8.50) serves some of the best Jamaican home cooking in the Ocho Rios area, with dishes like fried chicken, curry goat, and stewed pork. It makes a great stop for lunch on the way in or out of Ochi.
One Stop Veggie Shop
One Stop Veggie Shop (Shop #9, Simmon's Plaza, 73 Main St., cell tel. 876/877-1315, US$3–5) sells vegetarian food, porridge, soup, pastries, and natural juice.
Healthy Way Vegetarian Kitchen
Healthy Way Vegetarian Kitchen (Shop #54 Ocean Village, tel. 876/974-9229, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Sat., US$1.50–5) serves escovitch tofu, hominy, or peanut, plus plantain carrot, bulgur porridge, steamed cabbage with banana, and fried dumplings.
Coconut Grove Supermarket and Wholesale
Coconut Grove Supermarket and Wholesale (188 Main St., tel. 876/974-3049) is the best wholesale liquor store in Ochi, also selling a limited range of grocery items.
Liu's Rexo Supermarket
Liu's Rexo Supermarket is located at New Ocho Rios Plaza (tel. 876/974-2328).
DJ Supermarket & Wholesale
DJ Supermarket & Wholesale (80-A Main St., tel. 876/974-3462, 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) sells groceries and liquor.
Money's Worth Meat Mart
Money's Worth Meat Mart (128 Main, tel. 876/974-2917) is the best place for fresh meat and imported frozen fish if you have trouble finding the local, fresh variety. Beef, chicken, local pork, snapper, Cornish hens, and imported turkey are sold.
Willy's Variety
Willy's Variety (130 Main St., tel. 876/974-5175, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) sells groceries, liquor, and hardware.
Park 'N' Shop Wholesale Supermarket
Park 'N' Shop Wholesale Supermarket is at 20 Main Street (tel. 876/795-4718).
Golden Loaf Baking Company
Golden Loaf Baking Company (72 Main St., tel. 876/974-2635 or tel. 876/974-5417 for the pizzeria, 8 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) makes bread, pastries, and pizzas, and baked chicken.
Tropical Oven
Tropical Oven (Shop #2, Ocean Village, tel. 876/795-4970) is a bakery selling pastries and breads.
Scoops Unlimited
Scoops Unlimited (9 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sat and Sun.) is one of the local Devon House I Scream franchises.
St. Ann Chamber of Commerce
The St. Ann Chamber of Commerce (tel. 876/974-2629) has tourist booklets that advertise the area's tourism businesses and attractions.
Freehill Car Rental
Freehill Car Rental (Coconut Grove beside Petcom gas station, manager Cecil Subaran, cell tel. 876/865-3704 or tel. 876/795-4966, www.freehillcarrental.com, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon.–Sat., till 5 p.m. Sun.,) rents Toyota Corollas, RAV-4s, and the Nissan Cube or March (US$60–110/day, US$500–650/week), as well as scooters. The company also offers airport transfers and tours.
Villa Car Rentals
Villa Car Rentals (Shop #7, Coconut Grove Shopping Centre, tel. 876/974-2474, villacarrentalscoltd@msn.com, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Sun.) has the 2006 Toyota Corolla (US$420/week) and 2005 Yaris (US$320/week) plus tax and optional insurance ($50). Linda Mash and Harry Chung are co-owners.
Sunshine Car Rentals
Sunshine Car Rentals (154 Main St., Pineapple Place, tel. 876/974-2980 or 876/974-5025, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Sat.) has 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitaras (US$125/day, US$582/week) and Mitsubishi Lancers (US$149/day, US$700/week).
SunSpree Car Rental
SunSpree Car Rental (tel. 876/974-6258, cell tel. 876/378-5682, fax 876/974-2652) rents Lancers and Corollas (US$70/day, US$378/week).
Caribbean Car Rentals
Caribbean Car Rentals (99-A Main St., tel. 876/974-2513, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Sat., 9 a.m.–noon Sun.) has 2004 Mitsubishi Lancers, 2005 Suzuki Lianas (US$82/day, US$492/week), and 2006 Toyota Corollas (US$97/day, US$571/week).
Power Plus Computers
Power Plus Computers (Shop #6, Rexo Plaza, Main St., tel. 876/795-4664, powerpluscomputers@yahoo.com, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Mon.–Fri., Sat. till 3 p.m.) sells and repairs computers and basic accessories and offers Internet access at eight computer terminals, one with a webcam and microphone. Power Plus charges the Jamaican equivalent of about US$2.25 per hour for Internet access.
Computer Wizz
Computer Wizz (Shop #11, Island Plaza, Main St., tel. 876/974-5844, 8:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m., Mon.–Sat.) sells computers, accessories, service, and repairs and offers Internet access with almost a dozen desktops in use and Wi-Fi access for those who bring their own machine (US$2/half hour, US$3/hour, or J$100/half hour, J$150/hour if paying in local currency).
Jerkin' @ Taj Internet Cafe
Jerkin' @ Taj Internet Cafe (Taj Mahal Centre, tel. 876/795-0862, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) has access for US$8 per hour. The restaurant section (10 a.m.–7 p.m.) serves decent jerk; a quarter chicken is US$15.
NCB Bank
NCB Bank is at 40 Main Street next to Island Plaza/BK and across from the craft market (tel. 876/974-2522).
Nancy's Cambio
Nancy's Cambio (Taj Mahal, 4 Main St., tel. 876/974-2414; 50 Main St., tel. 876/795-4285; St. Ann's Bay, tel. 876/972-8842, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) offers slightly better exchange rates than the banks. Travelers' checks are accepted with two forms of ID. Money transfers are also possible at the St. Ann's Bay Moneygram outlet.
Kulkarni Medical Clinic
Kulkarni Medical Clinic (16 Rennie Rd., tel. 876/974-3357, cell tel. 876/990-7726) has a well-respected private practice used by many of the area's better hotels. It's located between RBTT bank and Jamaica National.
St. Ann's Bay Hospital
St. Ann's Bay Hospital (Seville Road, tel. 876/972-2272) is the most important in the region, with people coming from kilometers around. Better service can be obtained at private health centers in Ocho Rios, however.
Ocho Rios Pharmacy
Ocho Rios Pharmacy is in Ocean Village Shopping Centre (Shop #67-A, tel. 876/974-2398, 8 a.m.–8 p.m. daily).
Pinegrove Pharmacy
Pinegrove Pharmacy is east of the clock tower on Main Street (Shop #5, Ocho Rios Mall, tel. 876/974-5586, 9 a.m.–8 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Sun.).
Quick Shots Imaging Labs
Quick Shots Imaging Labs (4 DaCosta Dr., tel. 876/974-8498 or 876/974-8498, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) offers one-hour processing and sells film and memory cards.
Bailey's Photo Studio & Colour Lab
Bailey's Photo Studio & Colour Lab offers photo processing and sells a limited range of digital camera products.
Carib Laundro-Mat
Carib Laundro-Mat (Shop #6, Carib Arcade opposite of 112 Main St., tel. 876/974-7631, 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) and Express Laundromat (18–20 Pineapple Place, Main St., tel. 876/795-0720 or 876/795-0721, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Sun.) both offer laundry services.
DHL
DHL is at Ocean Village Plaza (Shop #3, tel. 876/974-8001, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Sat.).
Studio Tokyo
Studio Tokyo (Coconut Grove, cell tel. 876/864-3640) offers music recording, mastering, and video production services in a modest studio near Irie FM.
Getting There
Route taxis and buses leave for Kingston and points east and west along the coast from the lot just south of the clock tower in downtown Ocho Rios. Buses go between Ochi and Downtown Kingston (US$4) as well as to Montego Bay (US$4), while route taxis ply every other route imaginable: to Brown's Town (US$3), Moneague (US$1), and east and west along the coast to Oracabessa (US$2) and St. Ann's Bay (US$1.50).
Flights into the Oracabessa Aerodrome, renamed Ian Fleming International Airport in 2010, 15 minutes east of Ochi, can be booked with any of the island's charter operators from Kingston, Montego Bay, Negril, or Port Antonio. All the fixed-wing operators are based in Montego Bay and offer better rates when departing from there.
International AirLink
International Airlink (tel. 876/940-6660, res@intlairlink.com, www.intlairlink.com) offers service from Montego Bay (US$302 one-way paid in cash for two persons), Kingston (US$1,324), and Port Antonio (US$1,575). Airlink passes on bank charges of an additional 5 percent when paying with a credit card.
TimAir
TimAir (tel. 876/952-2516, timair@usa.net, www.timair.net) also offers service from Montego Bay (US$316 for up to four persons plus tax), Kingston (US$579), Port Antonio (US$549), and Negril (US$566).
Captain John's Island Hoppers
Captain John's Island Hoppers (tel. 876/974-1285, helicopter@mail.infochan.com, www.jamaicahelicopterservices.com, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) offers helicopter airport transfers for up to four passengers from Montego Bay to Ochi (US$970), from Kingston (US$811), and to and from virtually any other points on the island, as well as tours for sightseeing. The company has two Bell Jetranger aircraft.
Getting Around
Route taxis are the most economical way of getting around if you don't mind squeezing in with several other people. Taxis leave from the rank by the clock tower and can also be flagged down by the roadside if there is any room. Route taxis display their destination and origin in painted letters on the side of the cars and are typically white Toyota Corollas. Overcrowding has been somewhat reduced in recent years with increased oversight from the authorities. It is impossible to walk the streets of Ocho Rios without being offered a chartered taxi; bear in mind that these drivers will quote any figure that comes to mind. Haggling is very much a part of hiring a local charter, and be sure not to pay the total in advance if you hope to see your driver stick around.
Day at Green Castle
Another option offered, best for more dedicated birding and exploring, is a Day at Green Castle (self-guided tour is US$10 for half day and $15 for full day; guided is $30 half day and $50 full day), where visitors are allowed to roam the vast estate to count bird species, visit the orchid houses, or just relax and enjoy nature along the many hiking trails and coastline. The birds that frequent Green Castle Estate are as spectacular as the orchids and include 20 of the country's 28 endemic species: the chestnut-bellied cuckoo, Jamaican owl, yellow-billed parrot, red-billed streamertail, Jamaican mango, Jamaican tody, Jamaican woodpecker, rufous-tailed flycatcher, sad flycatcher, Jamaican becard, Jamaican elania, Jamaican pewee, Jamaican crow, white-chinned thrush, Jamaican vireo, Jamaican euphonia, orangequit, yellow-shouldered grassquit, and the Jamaican stripe-headed tanager. In total 120 species have been sighted at Green Castle Estate, including the native and visiting birds.
Jacks Bay Beach
Jacks Bay Beach (US$3 adults, US$1 children) has a bar and restaurant serving fish and Jamaican fare. Jacks Bay is located on the main road from the North Coast highway going into Robin's Bay. It is part of Green Castle Estate but managed independently by Gary Smith and Melicia Clarke (cell tel. 876/394-4982 or 876/360-6341, jacksbayvillage@yahoo.com). Jacks Bay is open daily and is happy to accommodate large groups or special occasions. Stop in for excellent food and drinks (US$8–10) or give Gary a call to make special arrangements for groups.
Sunrise Lawn
Sunrise Lawn (contact the proprietor Sanchez Swaby, cell tel. 876/436-1223, noon–last customer leaves, daily) is one of the coolest chill-out spots in Robin's Bay, with its picket-fenced east-facing lawn overlooking the sea. There are benches for enjoying the view on the lawn, and a cook shop prepares steamed and fried fish and conch soup, based on demand throughout the day (US$5–15). A bar serves white and red rums and beer, with stacks of speakers perpetually warming up for the next session. Try the house drink, "Smooth Sunrise," made with Guinness, Supligen, and Wray & Nephew white rum. It allegedly improves stamina and enhances libido, according to its creator, Sanchez. Gold Label is on special on Thursday nights with DJs spinning dancehall, reggae, R&B, and all sorts of classics.
Robin's Bay Village and Beach Resort
Robin's Bay Village and Beach Resort (tel. 876/968-3031 or cell tel. 876/361-2144, www.robinsbayvillageresort.com, US$75–135) has 43 rooms designed mainly for retreats or romantic getaways. The lower-priced rooms have mountain views with ceiling fans; the more expensive rooms have sea views and air-conditioning. All rooms have private bathrooms and hot water. There is a pool on the roof as well as a restaurant serving Jamaican dishes open to nonguests (US$6.50–21).
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
Strawberry Fields Together
Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages and Adventure Tours (US$90–220) sits on a seven-hectare property with six cottages ranging in comfort level from rustic Hibiscus to seaside honeymoon lavishness in Moonlight Magic. Two small private beaches with fine white sand line idyllic crystalline coves protected by coral reefs. An outdoor dining area has a wood deck, bar, pizza oven, and jerk center for eating and entertainment under the heavens.
Nature excursions based at Strawberry Fields include five-hour ATV tours (US$125 per person) through the bush to waterfalls, mountain biking to a volcanic black-sand beach (US$75), guided hikes to the same black-sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20), and snorkeling on Long Reef (US$50). Jeep tours with Everton in one of his many Land Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be arranged for any of the tours at US$12 per person.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
River Lodge
River Lodge (US$60–80 per room, including breakfast) is located on the site of a refurbished 400-year-old Spanish fort owned by Brigitta Fuchslocher. Rooms inside the fort complement a pair of cottages. From River Lodge there are hectares and hectares of unspoiled wilderness reaching almost all the way along the coast to Port Maria, where waterfalls and black-sand beaches are best reached by boat with the local fishermen. The rustic guest house offers five double occupancy rooms, one at USD 70 per night, two at USD 80 per night and two stand-alone cabins, one for USD 70, the other USD 80.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Green Castle Estate House
Green Castle Estate Great House (US$3,200/3,600 weekly low/high season, for up to four people, inclusive of meals, or US$3,600/4,200 low/high season for up to six with meals) is the fanciest accommodation you're likely to find between Port Maria and Port Antonio. While a weekly rental is preferred, it is also possible to rent a room at the Estate House for as little as three nights (US$260 d. nightly). For those who enjoy nature and an alternative idea of tourism but don't want to sacrifice elegant comfort and old-time Jamaican pace, there's probably no better accommodation option around. The great house has classy colonial furnishings in three spacious bedrooms with private baths, and a fourth room with two twin beds. The swimming pool overlooks gardens with a spectacular view of the coast and Blue Mountains from almost every window and veranda. You're guaranteed to see several species of hummingbird buzzing about, including the red-billed streamertail, the country's national bird. Tennis courts are well maintained. All estate tours are included with the great house rental. Opportunities for farm volunteer work and outreach in the neighboring community of Robin's Bay can be pursued with Angie.
Getting There and Around
The best way to reach Robin's Bay is by route taxi (US$0.75) or private taxi charter (US$7) from Annotto Bay. Getting around in Robin's Bay often requires long waits before a car passes, but the road is only a few kilometers long before it becomes a dirt track and disappears in the wilderness to the west.
Carib Resort
Carib Resort (tel. 876/970-0305, caribochorios@hotmail.com, www.caribochoriosresort.com) has one- (US$80/90) and two-bedroom (US$140/150) apartments, all with hot water and cable TV.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
Kaz Kreol
Kaz Kreol (US$98) is located on a beautiful beach along White River Bay, adjacent to the Shaw Park Beach Hotel (which is run-down and definitely not recommended). Rooms have queen or king beds, cable, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and private bathrooms with hot water.
The only place in town for falafel or a Greek sandwich is Little Santurini Grill (Kaz Kreol, White River, 7am-10pm daily, tel. 876/974-4613, US$10-20). Both are convincingly prepared and affordably served beach- side on a gorgeous stretch of coast by the mouth of the White River.
The Village Hotel
The Village Hotel (54–56 Main St., tel. 876/974-9193, villagehtl@cwjamaica.com, www.villagehoteljamaica.com, US$90 includes breakfast) has standard, deluxe, and suite rooms. All rooms have air-conditioning, kitchenette, cable TV, and ceiling fans. The Village Hotel has a swimming pool on property, and The Village Grill serves a mix of international and Jamaican cuisine (US$10–25).
Turtle Beach Towers
Turtle Beach Towers (Main St., tel. 876/974-2381, turtlebeachtowers@cwjamaica.com, www.turtlebeachvacations.com, US$65–160) is one of the original and less-attractive apartment-style accommodation options, with its cluster of gray towers at the base of Fisherman's Point resembling government housing projects. Do not book here without first seeing the room in person, as individual owners appoint the apartments according to taste (or neglect, as the case may be), and the decor and amenities vary greatly from unit to unit. Reduced rates can be negotiated for longer stays.
Executive Inn
Executive Inn (60 Main St., tel. 876/795-4070, US$100/person) has 20 rooms with one, two, or three beds, and TV, air-conditioning, and private baths with hot water. It includes continental breakfast in its nightly rate. The Executive Inn also runs Carlito's Cafe, located around back on DaCosta serving typical Jamaican dishes.
Columbus Heights Apartments
Columbus Heights Apartments, managed by Jennifer Llewellyn, is a large condo complex on a hill overlooking Ocho Rios, affording great views. Studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments with air-conditioning and hot water range US$100–200, with a US$20 difference between low and high season. Longer stays afford reduced rates.
Fisherman's Point
Fisherman's Point (Cruise Ship Wharf, contact Charmaine Annikey for bookings, from the US/Canada tel. 877/211-6313, cell tel. 876/798-7647, accounts@selfcateringapartmentsjm.com, www.fishermanspoint.net or www.selfcateringapartmentsjm.com, US$100/125 low/high season) is run as a strata with individual apartment owners pooling their units. These are some of the nicer self-contained units available in Ocho Rios, and while decor and furnishings vary considerably between apartments, there is much better oversight of the conditions than at neighboring Turtle Towers. All units are fully furnished, with hot water, living rooms, equipped kitchens, TV, air-conditioning, and telephones. There is a nice pool at the center of the complex, with Turtle Beach access two minutes away.
Rooms on the Beach
Rooms on the Beach (Turtle Beach, Main St., tel. 876/974-6632, toll-free from U.S. or Jamaica 877/467-8737, info@superclubs.com, www.roomsresort.com, www.superclubs.com, US$105–141) is SuperClubs' answer to the demand for a dependable European-plan option on the beachfront in Ochi. Located in the heart of town, ROOMS is a beachfront property with a pool and all the fixtures of an all-inclusive--without the all-inclusive. The rooms are clean, with TV, air-conditioning, telephones, and hot water. The property is a short walk from all the restaurants and nightlife in downtown Ocho Rios.
Crane Ridge Resort
Crane Ridge Resort (17 DaCosta Dr., tel. 876/974-8051, craneridge@craneridge.net, www.craneridge.net) has 90 units perched on a hill overlooking Ocho Rios off the bypass above Ruins at the Falls. Standard (US$80/133 low/high season) and one-bedroom rooms (US$99/157 low/high season) have private bathrooms with hot water and shared balcony. The two-bedroom suites (US$157/191 low/high season) have a private balcony, whirlpool tub, kitchenette, and living room. The nine three-story buildings surround a large pool with a swim-up bar. Complimentary Wi-Fi is accessible from the lobby and dining room area.
Hibiscus Lodge
Hibiscus Lodge (83 Main St., tel. 876/974-2676, info@hibiscusjamaica.com, www.hibiscusjamaica.com) has comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, TV, and private baths with hot water. Rooms are either garden (US$135/147 low/high season) or ocean view (US$147/159 low/high season), and come with two twins or one queen-size bed. Rates include breakfast. The hotel is within easy walking distance of the heart of Ochi and Mahogany Beach.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn (from US$349/586 d. low/high season) has remained one of the top hotels in the island for decades for good reason. Several features make the 55-unit property unique and charming.
The beach is one of the best in Jamaica, with fine golden sand and crystal clear water that drops off quickly, fringed by low coral bluffs. Thatch umbrellas are planted abundantly across the sand and the bar staff makes regular rounds. Even at full occupancy Jamaica Inn never feels overcrowded.
The rooms themselves have effective fans over the bed and in the living area, which is open on one side to the tropical air. Ensuite bathrooms have marble-topped vanities and bathtub showers with walk-in showers in the larger suites and cottages. The bedrooms are furnished with dark mahogany king-size beds, matching desks and chester drawers. Local paintings and prints adorn the walls, soft white linens and fluffy pillows ensure restful slumber. You won't find clocks or TVs in the bedrooms, deemed wasteful reminders of the rat race in the tropical dimension where Jamaica Inn carved out its identity. Notwithstanding, Wi-Fi coverage is strong throughout the hotel and the library has a large flat screen.
Three room categories differ mainly in size and proximity to the water: The highlight of all rooms is the indoor/outdoor living spaces, overlooking the gardens and croquet pitch in the second-floor Superor Balcony Suites (US$349/586 low/high season), opening right onto the sand in the Deluxe Verandah Suites (US$411/710 low/high season) or sitting at the coral-lined waters edge in the Premiere Verandah Suites (US$493/874).
The most glamorous rooms include the White Suite (US$820/1,760 low/high season), where Winston Churchill stayed, and the slightly more modest Cowdray Suite (US$489/969). Four one-bedroom cottages (US$759/1,459 low/high season) and four two-bedroom cottages (US$919/1,699) step it up a notch with plunge pools, decks and outdoor showers. Three bungalows were added to the inventory in 2017 on an adjacent property that has its own beach but shares the cove with a few other hotels.
The staff at Jamaica Inn strikes the right balance between attentive, courteous and unobtrusive. Meals are served in the dining room or terraces in the Main House. Breakfast offerings range from Jamaican staples like ackee and salt fish accompanied by steamed starchy sides, to continental fare, fresh fruit and pastries. The dinner menu features prix fixe (US$45pp) and a la carte options with daily specials and an extensive wine list. Scrumptious starters like the spicy conch cigar or caprese salad invigorate a dynamic menu executed with home-cooked quality. Entrées range from a catch of the day, always the best bet for seafood, to steak and vegetarian options.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
The Ocean Spa
The Ocean Spa (Mon-Sat 9:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Sun 10 a.m – 6 p.m.,) is located beside the cottages at Jamaica Inn along the coral-cliffed waterfront. Massage huts sit atop the lapping waves. A barrel-shaped sauna sits in one corner of the inner courtyard facing the outdoor shower and hydrotheraphy hut. The spa offer massage, facials, manicures and pedicures as well as sauna and hydrotherapy sessions starting at US$70 for the 30-minute head and shoulders massage.
Royal Plantation
Royal Plantation (tel. 876/974-5601 or U.S. tel. 305/284-1300, rpres@jm.royalplantation.com, www.royalplantation.com, US$1,548/1,636 d low season/high season European plan, US$1,978/2,066 d all-inclusive Royal Plan low/high season, stays of three nights or more receive a 65 percent discount) is an upscale property owned by the Sandals group. It's basically a Sandals resort on champagne and caviar, the extra amenities well appreciated by its guests. Royal Plantation gives guests the opportunity to get off the premises and taste a bit of local cuisine, if they so choose, on the European plan. Royal Plantation has three restaurants: One features "Nouveau Caribbean Fusion," Le Papillon is a French restaurant, and La Terrazza serves Mediterranean cuisine.
Royal Plantation has six room categories: deluxe; premium oceanfront junior suite; luxury oceanfront junior suite, with whirlpool tub and French balcony; the honeymoon grand luxe, with a walkout balcony and larger whirlpool bath with separate shower; the honeymoon plantation one-bedroom suite with living and a whirlpool area with separate standing shower; and the one-bedroom suites have two walkout balconies with lounge chairs and a huge living room area with 1.5 baths. Royal Plan guests have greens fees and transportation to the Sandals Golf Course included.
In addition to the rooms in the main building, there's a three-bedroom villa with a private pool. The top of the villa has two bedrooms sleeping 2–4 persons with a third bedroom downstairs that can be added. All bedrooms have king-size beds.
Red Lane Spa
Red Lane Spa (876/670-9015, www.redlanespa.com) is one of the most comprehensive spas on the island, with 14 full-time employees and eight full-time therapists specializing in different treatments. The spa offers a wide variety of services, from hot stone massage to nails and facials. Specially built for the grand opening of Royal Plantation Inn, the European-inspired spa is open to nonguests as well.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
Scotch on the Rocks
Scotch on the Rocks (Pineapple Grove, just east of the junction of Main St. and the Ocho Rios bypass) is one of Jamaica's top five villas in terms of elegance, luxury, and an all-permeating sense of class, while still remaining unpretentious and full of vibes. The five-bedroom house (US$6,535/8,035 low/high season per week, US$7,535/9,535/10,035 Thanksgiving/Christmas/New Year's) is well laid out for privacy but still spacious enough for the whole family. Each bedroom has a private bath and a large balcony overlooking the sea. You won't find more soothing rooms anywhere, with soft linens and delicate white curtains that catch the evening breeze, blurring the lines between heaven and earth. A large pool deck out front overlooks the sea at the top of a staircase down to the picture-perfect dock with a gazebo at its tip. The exquisite meals are served either in the large indoor dining room, or more often outside on the veranda. Scotchie, as the villa is known by those who have become its intimate guests, is situated on Sandy Bay, the equivalent of Ocho Rios' Riviera. The neighbors to the east and west are the most upscale hotels in town, Jamaica Inn and Royal Plantation, respectively, where tennis courts and spa facilities are within a few minutes' walk. The staff at Scotchie is top-notch. By the end of your stay, these exemplary Jamaicans will be family, and if you're wise put the Piña Colada cheesecake on the menu. Minimum seven-night booking in high season, four-night in low season.
SunVillas
SunVillas (contact Alan Marlor, SunVillas, U.S. tel. 888/625-6007, alan@sunvillas.com, www.sunvillas.com) rents a nice assortment of villas across Jamaica varying considerably in price while all having much more than the basic amenities. Scotch on the Rocks in Ocho Rios and Golden Clouds in Oracabessa are definite highlights on the North Coast.
Prendergast Real Estate and Villa Rentals
Prendergast Real Estate and Villa Rentals (7 DaCosta Dr., tel. 876/974-2670, pren@cwjamaica.com), run by Clinece Prendergast and her daughter Jacky, books a large selection of villas, some in the hills overlooking Ochi and others directly on the water in and around town and from Oracabessa to Montego Bay along the North Coast. One of the nicer waterfront properties is Lime Tree, an expansive five-bedroom villa in the heart of Ocho Rios along a choice stretch of coastline just off Main Street. Other highlights include Seven Seas, a four-bedroom property on the beach in Mammee Bay, Four Winds, a five-bedroom villa on the beach in Old Fort Bay, and Golden Clouds, a nine-bedroom villa on a two-acre property seafront in Oracabessa.
Prospect Villas
Prospect Villas (tel. 876/994-1373, ian@prospect-villas.com, www.prospect-villas.com) rents five villas in addition to the Prospect Plantation great house. The villas (US$2,500–14,000 low season, US$3,500–16,500 high season for a weeklong stay) have three or four bedrooms, with a minimum two-night stay (from US$360/500 low/high per night). Part of the Prospect Plantation Estate, formerly owned by Sir Harold Mitchell, Prospect Villas hosted some of the most important political and entertainment figures of the 20th century, including Charlie Chaplin and Henry Kissinger, to name a few. The villas have every amenity imaginable, from DSL to iPod docks to satellite TV, not to mention the private waterfront and full staff.
Jamaica Association of Villas and Apartments
Jamaica Association of Villas and Apartments (JAVA) has its local headquarters at the Pompano Commercial Complex in Tower Isle (tel. 876/975-5504 or 876/975-5643, from the US tel. 773/463-6688 or 800/845-5276, javavillas@aol.com, java-jam-villas@cwjamaica.com, www.villasinjamaica.com) and offers booking services for member villas across the island.
Garden House
Garden House (Shaw Park, across from Coyaba Gardens, tel. 876/974-4481, U.K. tel. for booking +44 1296/614-451, enquiries@gardenhouse-jamaica.com, gardenhouse-jamaica@hotmail.com, www.gardenhouse-jamaica.com, US$4,500/6500 low/high season for up to 19 guests) is a beautiful villa located on a 4.5-acre estate in the hills above Ochi, commanding spectacular views of the city and north coast. The main house has eight guest rooms with air-conditioning and en suite bathrooms, balconies, and walk-in closets. There's a freshwater pool in the garden.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande
Moon Palace Jamaica Grande (rom US$466 low season, US$652 high season) is the most prominent hotel on Turtle Beach, occupying the prime piece of real estate on the point of the bay. Completely refurbished in 2014 and taken over by Mexico-based Palace Resorts, the 705-room hotel boasts its own Dolphin Cove, a surf pool, a discotheque, buffet and à la carte dining. Rooms come in partial sea view and sea view categories, are modern and immaculate with quality toiletries, soft linens and minibars. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms and throughout the property.
Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach and Villa Resort
Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach and Villa Resort (Main St., tel. 876/974-5691, www.sandals.com, US$880 weekly) is a 529-room property covering land on both sides of the bypass. Sandals properties are exclusively for couples. Sandals Grande Ocho Rios features three resorts in one, set amid a 100-plus acre seaside estate. The Ciboney Villas are nestled among lush, tropical foliage, and come with private pools. A small white sand beach hugged by a wraparound pier dotted with gazebos dubbed the Grande Promenade, is the prominent feature at The Riviera. The Manor House is set among sprawling lawns and gardens on the opposite side of the road from The Riviera. All three Sandals Jamaica resorts boast rooms with amenities like four-poster king beds, flat panel TVs, CD players, stocked fridge, en suite bathrooms, and air-conditioning. Internet is available for an additional charge. Guests can choose from 11 restaurants, seven pools, and 22 whirlpools, and are offered complimentary access to the Sandals Ocho Rios Golf Club.
ClubHotel Riu Ocho Rios
ClubHotel Riu Ocho Rios (tel. 876/972-2200, US tel. 888/RIU-4990, clubhotel.ochorios@riu.com, www.riu.com), located in Mamee Bay, is a massive 865-room resort facing the sea. Rooms are clean and well appointed in replica furniture and either one king, a king and a double, or two double beds. Riu is among the least expensive of the all-inclusive hotels, but it's hard to see the value when reservations in one of the three "premier dining" restaurants requires standing in a long line 10 a.m.–noon to secure a reservation, and after all that the cuisine tends to disappoint. In the buffet dining room, where no reservations are required, the food quality is decent, albeit overwhelmingly imported. There is little inside the purple-painted buildings to remind guests that they are in Jamaica. Internet access is offered in the café off the lobby for a whopping US$18 per hour.
Couples
Couples (www.couples.com, from US$507/551 low/high season) has two all-inclusive resorts just east of town across the border in Tower Isle, St. Mary: Couples San Souci (White River, tel. 876/994-1353) and Couples Tower Isle (Tower Isle, tel. 876/975-4271), reborn in 2008 after a US$30 million renovation gave the property a sleek South Beach feel.
Couples Resorts are easily at the top of the all-inclusive ranking, first for the quality of the food with a lot of local fruit and produce, a delicious mix of local and international cuisine, details like black pepper grinders at each table, and premium drinks and liquor.
The rooms at Sans Souci, which means "worry-free" in French, are tasteful with simple decor and balconies overlooking a private beach. Couples Tower Isle boasts a private island within swimming distance from the beach, reserved for nudists to hang loose.
Spring Garden Café and Seafood Grill
Spring Garden Café and Seafood Grill (tel. 876/795-3149, 11 a.m.–11 p.m.) serves seafood, steak, and chicken (US$8–30). It's located on the bypass near Irie FM.
Tropical Vibes Seafood and Bar
Tropical Vibes Seafood and Bar (contact Garwin Davis, tel. 876/392-8287 or 876/386-0858, 8 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, US$6.50–21) is a great breezy bar serving the best fresh escovitch fish and bammy in town, as well as lobster, conch, and shrimp.
A host of other fish shacks, grub shops, and craft vendors line the fishermen's beach area. It's possible to set up informal arrangements to charter one of the fishing boats, known as canoes, but bear in mind shady characters and hustlers tend to congregate in the area as well.
Jack Ruby's
Jack Ruby's (1 James Ave., contact Peter Turner, cell tel. 876/381-3794 or 876/974-7289, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, US$5–13) serves local fare, such as fried chicken with rice and peas, as well as seafood.
World of Fish
World of Fish (3 James Ave., no phone, 8 a.m.–1 a.m. daily) serves fish, chicken (US$3.50), rice and peas, curry goat (US$5), stew chicken, and fried, roast, or steamed fish with bammy or festival.
Scotchie's Too
Scotchie's Too (Drax Hall, beside the Epping gas station, tel. 876/794-9457, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Sun., US$4–11) is Jamaica's most respected jerk center, consistently grilling up the best jerk the country has to offer, with pork, chicken, and roast fish accompanied by breadfruit, yam, and festival.
Ocho Rios Jerk Centre
Ocho Rios Jerk Centre (16 DaCosta Drive, tel. 876/974-2549, 10 a.m.–11 p.m. daily, US$5–13) serves pork, whole and half chicken, ribs and fish by the pound, as well as conch, accompanied by breadfruit, sweet potato, bammy, and festival. It's located between Crane Ridge and the stop light at the junction of DaCosta and the road to Fern Gulley.
John Crow's Tavern
John Crow's Tavern (10 Main St., tel. 876/974-5895, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 a.m. daily, later on Fri. and Sat., US$8–14) is a small restaurant and bar on Ochi's main drag, a few steps from the Hard Rock Café. Dishes include club sandwiches, oxtail, escovitch fish, curry conch, curry chicken, jerk chicken, and pasta Alfredo and marinara. The mixed vegetables and dip is very popular, as is the coconut jumbo shrimp. Friday is jerk night, with a sound system and a mixed crowd of locals and tourists, with a little band on Saturday nights as well. There are three 42-inch flat-screen TVs generally showing some kind of sporting event, and free Wi-Fi. Ravi Chatani owns the joint.
The Ruins at the Falls
The Ruins at the Falls (17 DaCosta Dr., tel. 876/974-8888, www.ruinsjamaica.com, noon–10 p.m. daily) has an extensive menu with buffet lunch (US$15) that includes jerk chicken or pork and escovitch fish. Dinner items include Chinese roasted chicken (US$14), grilled lamb chops (US$28), Jamaican-style oxtail, curry goat (US$20), Jamaican Red Stripe butterfly shrimp (US$28), and grilled lobster thermidor (US$35).
An American doctor, Robert Page, created The Ruins in 1960s with bricks brought from a great house in Trelawny. The restaurant is one of the most scenic in Ocho Rios, with its dining room overlooking a natural 12-meter waterfall. The Ruins was once part of a larger property called Eden Bower, which covered much of the hill behind the restaurant, including the plot on which Evita's Italian restaurant sits today. Eden Bower was owned by the Geddes family, one of the founding partners of Red Stripe beer. In 1907 the property was parceled off and sold.
Almond Tree Restaurant
Almond Tree Restaurant (7:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m., noon–2:30 p.m., 6–9:30 p.m. daily) serves a mix of Jamaican and international dishes like lobster (US$24), a variety of chicken (US$14), and fish (US$21), pork chops (US$15), lamb chops (US$17), and butterfly shrimp (US$30). A full bar in the restaurant serves the typical Heineken, Guinness, and Red Stripe (US$2.50), as well as mixed drinks. Indoor and outdoor dining areas overlook the water.
Michelle's Pizzeria
Michelle's Pizzeria (tel. 876/974-4322 or 876/974-9484, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. daily) is located at the Pineapple Hotel and has a nice outdoor dining area. Four specialty pizzas are served (10- or 16-inch, US$6–25): Hawaiian delight, seafood sensation, meat lovers, and conscious decision. Other dishes (US$7–8) include lasagna, spaghetti Bolognese, and vegetarian Rasta penne with traditional Jamaican ingredients. Subs are also prepared with smoked ham, jerk pork, fish, or plain cheese.
Evita's
Evita's (Eden Bower Rd, reached by turning up the hill next to The Ruins, tel. 876/974-2333, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon.–Sat., till 4 a.m. Sun. morning, US$11–30) is an Italian restaurant serving seafood, including lobster, steak, and pasta dishes. While Evita's might lack the upscale edge of Toscanini, the view is excellent and worth a trip.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar
Passage to India Restaurant & Bar (Shop 2, Fisherman's Point Resort, next to Ocho Rios Cruise Ship Pier, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. daily, US$11–26) serves authentic North Indian cuisine, with dishes like palak paneer, mala kofta, chicken vindaloo, lamb, lobster, and shrimp, as well as South Indian favorites like masala dosai and idli. This is the real deal, as good as India.
A move in 2015 from the restaurant's longstanding location rooftop in Soni's Plaza on Main Street to the breezy waterfront at Fisherman's Point was a welcome relocation, overlooking the town's modest marina where a few fishing, cruising and glass bottom boats await charters and the Moon Palace Hotel can be seen across the bay.
The only Indian restaurant in Ocho Rios for many years, Passage to India remains the best in St. Ann. It shares the same premises with Bottles & Chimney, a fancy Jamaican bar and cookshop operated under the same management.
Hong Kong International Restaurant
Hong Kong International Restaurant (Soni Plaza, 50 Main St., tel. 876/974-0588, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, later on the weekend, from US$8.50) is one of the better places for Chinese food in Ochi, serving chicken, beef, shrimp, seafood, and pork, with noodles and rice. Hong Kong is a bit dodgy in its ambience, making takeout a good option.
Irish Rover
Irish Rover (Greenwich Park, Drax Hall, tel. 876/972-9352, cell tel. 876/573-4933, info@irishroverjamaica.com, 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon.–Fri., open later on weekends, starting at US$8.50) lays claim to being Jamaica's first Irish pub. Jamaican Winston Samuels and Irish wife Angela opened the place in 2008. The kitchen offers garlic bread ciabatta, garlic mushrooms, chicken wings, coconut shrimp, soups and salads, sandwiches, burgers, baked potatoes, steaks, shepherd's pie, crab cakes, salmon, and snapper, in addition to more typical Jamaican dishes. Reggae night features a live band on Fridays, Latin night brings out Latin dance enthusiasts on select Saturdays, and there's jazz on Sundays (6–9 p.m.). The bar offers a wide selection of liquor, with bottled domestic brews and Red Stripe on tap.
Bibibip's Bar & Grill
Bibibip's Bar & Grill (93 Main St., tel. 876/974-7438, 9 a.m.–1 a.m. daily, US$7–34) is a nice spot overlooking the water near Mahogany Beach. It features a wide range of seafood, as well as Jamaican and international dishes.
Coconuts
Food at Coconuts (Fisherman's Point, opposite Cruise Ship Pier, tel. 876/795-0064, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. daily, US$7–25) ranges from the ménage à trois appetizer (coconut shrimp, chicken samosa, and conch fritters) to jerk chicken quesadillas and wings to a medley of shrimp, conch, and chicken to grilled sirloin strip steak. Coconuts has an all-you-can-drink special (9 a.m.–4 p.m., US$20) that includes house-brand vodka, gin, and Appleton Special rum.
Toscanini Italian Restaurant & Bar
Toscanini Italian Restaurant & Bar (Harmony Hall, Tower Isle, tel. 876/975-4785, US$10.50–24) is the most high-end and best-quality Italian restaurant in town, with tables on the ground floor of a beautifully renovated great house and outside on the patio. Dishes include appetizers like marinated marlin, prosciutto and papaya, and yellowfin tuna tartare and entrées like spaghetti cioppino di mare; the menu changes daily. The food is excellent, but be prepared to pay for it. Toscanini is run by congenial Lella, who is always around the place chatting with customers. Toscanini has been in operation since 1998.
Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock Café (4 Main St., tel. 876/974-3333, hrsales@cwjamaica.com, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–midnight Fri.–Sat., US$10–30) opened in November 2006 in Ocho Rios, bringing the world's greatest tourist trap to one of the Caribbean's foremost tourist towns. Dishes are typical Hard Rock fare, from club sandwiches to burgers and steak. Local memorabilia adorning the walls includes Junior Murvin's guitar, used by Bob Marley for recording of the Kaya album, as well as the original handwritten lyrics to "Jammin'." Also on display are a suede jacket worn by Jimi Hendrix and a cap worn by John Lennon.
Ocean's 11 Watering Hole
Ocean's 11 Watering Hole (Cruise Ship Pier, tel. 876/974-8444, manbowen@cwjamaica.com, open when ship in town, closes at midnight at Tues. and Fri.) is a bar and restaurant opened in 2004 on the wharf that services cruise ship passengers primarily. Hours are determined by when the ship is in port (8 a.m.–1 a.m., 4 p.m.–1 a.m. when it's not in port). Much business in Ochi resolves around cruise ship schedules, which tend to change. Call ahead if you're not within sight of the pier to be sure. You can get Red Stripe (US$3) at the bar downstairs; upstairs there's a snack bar, coffee shop, and seafood restaurant with some nice antique coffee equipment that was at one time part of the small coffee museum on-site. Coffee is sold by the cup and by the pound (US$18–26/lb.).
Three Star Restaurant
Three Star Restaurant (Rexo Plaza, tel. 876/795-1320, 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Sat., US$2–20) serves Chinese food, with dishes like chop suey, sweet and sour chicken, shrimp fried rice, stir fry, and Cantonese lobster.
My Favorite Place Restaurant
My Favorite Place Restaurant (Shop #7, Ocean Village, tel. 876/795-0480, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Mon.–Sat., breakfast only on Sun., US$2–6) serves typical Jamaican dishes like fried chicken, curry goat, escovitch fish, brown stew, and baked chicken; the menu changes daily, apart from the Jamaican staples. Paulette Garvey is the helpful proprietor and manager.
Nice-and-Nuff
Nice-and-Nuff (Shop #8, Simmon's Plaza, 73 Main St., contact Lesreen Goulbourne, tel. 876/489-2190, 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Mon.–Sat., US$3–4) serves typical Jamaican food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with items like ackee and saltfish, oxtail, curry goat, and fried chicken. Food is served in foam clamshell lunch boxes ready for takeout.
San-Mar Cafe
San-Mar Cafe (Shop #8, Ocean Village Shopping Centre, tel. 876/795-1024, US$2–6) serves local staples and Chinese dishes.
Mom's
Mom's (7 Evenly St., tel. 876/974-2811, 8 a.m.–10 p.m. Mon.–Sat., US$4–20), not to be confused with Mother's on Main Street, is located in a blue building across from the police station toward the clock tower. It's a local favorite, with oxtail, brown stew fish, baked or fried chicken, curry goat, stewed peas, and stewed beef.
Amnesia Nightclub
Amnesia (US$3–7, cash only) is Ochi's most authentic, down-market Jamaican nightclub. Thursday is Ladies' Night and gets quite busy, with a regular after-work jam and occasional deejay performances on Fridays. Muddy Mondays features mud wrestling.
Amnesia Nightclub
Amnesia (US$3–7, cash only) is Ochi's most authentic, down-market Jamaican nightclub. Thursday is Ladies' Night and gets quite busy, with a regular after-work jam and occasional deejay performances on Fridays. Muddy Mondays features mud wrestling.
Blitz Nightclub
Blitz Nightclub (4 DaCosta Drive, aka Main St., tel. 876/974-4407 or cell tel. 876/899-5540, 10 p.m.–6 a.m. Tues. and Fri., admission US$7) is open only on Tuesdays for an after party following Ocean 11's karaoke night, and Fridays for ladies night, dubbed Girls Gone Wild, where women pay no cover.
Spinning Wheel Club
Spinning Wheel Club (James Ave., no phone) is a local hangout where men gather any time of day for dominoes. There is no bar; it's basically just a hangout spot where you may be able to get in on a game.
Strawberries Night Club
Strawberries Night Club (James Ave., no phone) is another earthy Jamaican club where blasting music competes with Roof Club across the street.
Nicky's Bar & Games
Nicky's Bar & Games (Old Buckfield Rd., sign says Swingers on the outside) offers cards and dominoes, and domestic beers and rums at local prices (US$1–5.50).
Priory Beach
Priory Beach, a bit farther west, holds a popular dance party on Sunday evenings that last until about 2 a.m. on a good night.
Festivals and Events
Jamaica can be a tough place when it comes to continuity, and some of the more obscure annual events wane with the passing of years, while others regroup and come back stronger than ever. St. Mary hosts a few notable music festivals that are not to be missed should they coincide with a sojourn in the area.
Follow di Arrow
Follow di Arrow is an annual dancehall stage show held at James Bond Beach on the last Saturday in February.
St. Mary Mi Come From
St. Mary Mi Come From is held at James Bond Beach on the first Saturday in August and hosted by conscious reggae icon Capleton, born a short distance away from the venue in Islington. The event showcases some of Jamaica's most popular dancehall artists, many of them inspired Rastas like the fire man himself.
Ocho Rios Jazz Festival
Ocho Rios Jazz Festival (www.ochoriosjazz.com, US tel. 323/857-5358 or 866/649-2137) is held at various venues, from Kingston to Ocho Rios to Port Antonio over the course of seven days, starting around the second week in June. The festival features a few dozen local and international jazz acts.
Other Events
Luau is an annual dance session held at Reggae Beach, also around Easter. Beach J'ouvert, part of the carnival season's festivities, is held at James Bond Beach in Oracabessa in early April, where revelers whine out to soca and throw paint on each other, with after-parties spilling into Ocho Rios.
Farther inland in St. Ann parish, the Marley family hosts an annual concert on the weekend before or after Bob's February 6 birthday, and nearby the Claremont Kite Festival is held on Easter weekend a few months later in a big field, with a stage show in the evening.
Seville Heritage Park hosts a number of excellent events throughout the year, including a Kite Festival on Easter Monday and, the main event of the year, the Emancipation Jubilee held on July 31.
Once a popular annual festival, Reggae Sunsplash has been on ice for several seasons after it was poorly executed and lost money in 2006. Keep your ear to the ground for a potential comeback in the future.
Kampai
Kampai (baycrestlimited@gmail.com, admission US$50) is one of the best all-inclusive parties held in Ocho Rios over the Easter Weekend put on by BayCrest, a promotions company led by Andrew-David Campbell and Dominic Azan. Held at Enchanted Gardens, or a similar exotic venue, on Easter Sunday, the party features an assortment of food from ribs and beef to pasta and seafood, catered by many of the best Kingston- and Ochi-based restaurants. Bars are plentiful, with sponsoring beverage companies doing their best to impress with creative concoctions, and top-class selectors spinning a mix of soca, dancehall, reggae and hip-hop.
Daydreams
Daydreams (Wright Image Entertainment, US$30) is another popular all-inclusive party, a bit less upscale than Kampai, held on Easter Sunday at an open air venue like the beach at Drax Hall.
Neville Dread International Boutique
Neville Dread International Boutique (Shop #4, Chuck's Plaza, 78 Main St., cell tel. 876/403-2875) sells mix tapes, Rasta-inspired apparel, dress shirts, Rasta-colored tam hats, and name-brand gentlemen's dress shoes, socks, and boxer shorts. The shop is a long-standing institution; it was established in 1980 by proprietor Neville George Ellis.
Ahead of Time
Ahead of Time (77 Main St., tel. 876/974-2358) sells Indonesian furnishings and trinkets like carved chests, moon mirrors, handbags, and ceramics and is worth a visit.
David Simpson's Fine Art Gallery
David Simpson's Fine Art Gallery (11 Old Buckfield Rd., tel. 876/840-1152) sells canvas wood carvings and ceramics. Viewing by appointment only at Simpson's home.
Jewels in Paradise
For the best deals on Jewelry, try Jewels in Paradise (tel. 876/974-6929, avi@jewelsinparadise.com, www.jewelsinparadise.com, Mon.–Sat 9 a.m.–5 a.m.) owned by the affable Avi Doshi who will give you the best deals around on brands like Audemars Piguet, Jaeger le Coultre, Corum, and IWC, duty free. Margaritaville shares the complex with several duty-free, but nonetheless overpriced, jewelry and gift shops. Reggae Xplosion and the Blue Mountain Cafe are also located here and accept dollars exclusively. Nevertheless, it's a decent place to get some real Blue Mountain coffee. Shade Shack (shop #K-4, tel. 876/675-8965) is one of the best places in Ochi to get brand-name sunglasses; it's staffed by owner Jackie Dodson.
Poco Loco Gifts & Souvenirs
Poco Loco Gifts & Souvenirs (4-A Taj Mahal Shopping Centre, tel. 876/974-3429) and Coco-Joe's (12 Burger King Plaza) sell authentic CY Clothing gear, in addition to other brands of T-shirts, clothes, and accessories.
Countless smaller shopping centers vie for the cruise ship dollars farther into the heart of Ochi, most notably in the Taj Mahal complex behind Hard Rock Café. The crafts market on Main Street across from Scotia Bank is definitely worth a visit. There's also another crafts center at Pineapple Place, and a third in Coconut Grove at the eastern junction of Main Street and the Ocho Rios Bypass, across from Royal Plantation, where the best deals can be found.
For clothes and shoes, there are several stores in the downtown area; haute couture will not be featured anywhere. Deals, in Soni's Plaza, is the best place for tight-fitting clothes for clubbing in Jamaican style.
Classic Footwear
Classic Footwear (20 Main St., tel. 876/974-4815) has shoes for both men and women.
The Shoe Works
The Shoe Works (Shop #6, Ocean Village Plaza, tel. 876/974-5415, 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Mon.–Sat.) has the best service in town for fairly priced name-brand footwear.
Scent of Incense & Things
Scent of Incense & Things (79 Main St., tel. 876/795-0047), run by Janet Gallimore, is a nice shop selling incense, oils, herbs, spiritual products, and a variety of small gift items.
Sandals Golf and Country Club
Sandals Golf and Country Club (tel. 876/975-0119, www.sandals.com, 7 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, US$100 green fees, US$45 for locals) is a Golf Digest 3.5-star-rated course in the hills above Ochi. The course is compact and very walkable, but carts are also available (US$40). Clubs are also rented (US$30 Wilson/US$45 Calloway), and players are obliged to use a caddy (US$17, plus minimum tip of US$10/person).
A patio restaurant and bar serves burgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches (US$7). The driving range offers baskets of 40 balls for US$4. Sandals guests don't pay greens fees, and special rates apply for guests of several other area accommodations.
Water Sports
From the Marina at Fisherman's Point there are several outfits that offer sailing, snorkeling, and water sports.
Margarita
Margarita (contact Paul Dadd, cell tel. 876/381-4357, pdadd@cwjamaica.com) is a 12-meter sloop that can be rented for sailboat charters ranging from day sails to multiple-night trips around the island or to neighboring islands. The boat is chartered with a captain and can accommodate up to 15 people for day sails (US$50/person or US$400 for half day, US$800 full day). For overnight charters (US$1,000/day), the boat can sleep eight passengers.
Fantasea Divers
Fantasea Divers (contact Paul Dadd, cell tel. 876/381-4357, pdadd@cwjamaica.com) caters to hotel and especially villa guests along the North Coast. PADI instructors offer lessons and certification. Certifications range from bubble watching for children (US$65) in the swimming pool to PADI dive master (US$680) to assistant instructor certification (US$1,000).
Resort Divers
Resort Divers (Salem Beach, contact Laura or Everett Heron, tel. 876/973-6131 or cell tel. 876/881-5760, heron@resortdivers.com, www.resortdivers.com) is a five-star PADI dive facility, opened in 2007. Resort Divers also operates out of Royal Decameron in Runaway Bay, offering snorkeling, glass-bottom-boat tours, banana boat rides, water skiing, drop-line and deep sea fishing, and parasailing, in addition to its core dive services. Runaway Bay dive highlights include canyons, crevices, and flats, with popular sites being Ricky's Reef, Pocket's Reef, a Spanish Anchor, and wreckages like Reggae Queen, a 100-foot freighter, two airplanes, and a Mercedes Benz car.
From its base in Runaway Bay, Resort Divers will coordinate traditional drop-line fishing excursions with local fishermen. Resort Divers also operates Sharkies Seafood Restaurant at Salem Beach. Resort Divers has been in operation since 1986 with a five-star PADI rating since 1992. Call or visit the website for pricing specific to each activity.
Five Star Watersports
Five Star Watersports (Shop #14, Santa Maria Plaza, 121 Main St., tel. 876/974-2446, toll-free from Jamaica from JA 888/386-7245, toll-free from U.S. and Canada 877/316-6257, redstripecruises@cwjamaica.com or sales@fivestarwatersports.com, www.fivestarwatersports.com) operates three catamarans and a trimaran named some rendition of Cool Runnings. Cruises operate Monday–Saturday to Dunn's River Falls (US$72 plus transfer, 12:30–4 p.m.) and include an open bar, snorkeling gear, and the entrance fee to the falls. A Taste of Jamaica evening cruise (US $59/person, 5–8 p.m. Fridays only) offers an open bar and Jamaican food like jerk pork, chicken, steak, rice and peas, festival, and bammy. Other cruises offered are the Wet and Wild clothing-optional cruise (US$59, 2:30–5 p.m. Thurs., min. 15 persons). The boats depart and return to Mahogany Beach. Drinks at the open bar include Red Stripe, rum punch, rum and Coke, fruit punch, Pepsi, and water.
Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours
Blue Mountain Bicycle Tours (121 Main St., tel. 876/974-7075, info@bmtoursja.com, www.bmtoursja.com, US$93 from Ocho Rios area) runs a popular downhill biking tour which has been somewhat truncated over the past few years due to landslides that blocked the upper reaches of the route. The tour takes passengers to Cascade, above Buff Bay in the Blue Mountains, from where bikers descend for about an hour, have lunch, then descend for another hour to the Fish Dunn waterfall above Charles Town. Brunch is included at a restaurant along with orientation in Spring Hill before starting the ride. The entire excursion lasts 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Rowboat excursions
Rowboat excursions (US$10/person) to spot the manatees and snorkel in the surreal crystal blue waters are offered from the ranger station, a few kilometers south of Milk River. The rangers at the station also offer hikes to remote Taino Caves (rates negotiable). Turtles and alligators also share the waters; swimmers are advised to keep their eyes peeled.
Guts River
Guts River is located about five kilometers west of the Canoe Valley Protected Area, or 16 km east along the coast into Manchester from Alligator Pond, the Guts River creates a small pool as it emerges from the rocks with cool, crystal-clear waters said to have medicinal qualities. The deserted beach nearby is great for a stroll. Getting to Guts River requires chartering a taxi if you don't have your own vehicle, or hiring a boat from Treasure Beach if that's where you're based.
Chukka Caribbean Adventures
Chukka Caribbean Adventures (tel. 876/972-2506, ochorios@chukkacaribbean.com, www.chukkacaribbean.com) offers a host of organized tours, from horseback riding to ATV tours, canopy tours with ziplines through the forest, tubing and kayaking on the White River, the Irie Bus Ride to Nine Mile, and Stingray City at James Bond Beach. This is one of the island's most successful operations; it sees almost as many cruise ship passengers as Dunn's River. Chukka Cove, 15 minutes west of Ocho Rios, is the original flagship base for Chukka Caribbean Adventures, which now has operations all over the Caribbean basin.
H'Evans Scent
H'Evans Scent (Free Hill, cell tel. 876/847-5592 or 876/427-4866, info@hevansscent.com, www.mrmotivator.com, www.hevansscent.com, www.paintsplatjm.com, US$85/person) is an ecotourism outfit run by Derrick Evans, a.k.a. Mr. Motivator, offering ziplines, paintball, ATV tours, nature tours, and an experience where visitors get to mingle with locals 610 meters up in the hills of St. Ann. To get to H'Evans Scent, turn inland along the Bamboo Road in Priory for seven kilometers up the hill. The operation offers transportation from nearby accommodations in Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay, and Discovery Bay.
Strawberry Fields Adventure Tours
Strawberry Fields Adventure Tours (tel. 876/610-8658, cell tel. 876/999-7169 or 876/337-6127, kim@strawberryfieldstogether.com, www.strawberryfieldstogether.com) offers a variety of nature excursions based out of Strawberry Fields Together Beachfront Cottages in Robin's Bay, St. Mary. ATV tours (US$125 per person) last three hours, taking visitors through the bush to waterfalls; mountain biking tours lead to any number of places, among them a volcanic black sand beach (US$75), with guided hikes to the same black sand beach and Kwamen Falls (US$20). Snorkeling trips go to Long Reef (US$50), and Land Rover tours with Everton in one of his many rebuilt classic Rovers can also be arranged. Picnic lunches can be added to any of the tours for US$12 per person. Transportation can be arranged at an additional cost.
Lee's Elite Travel and Tours
Lee's Elite Travel and Tours (85 Main St., tel. 876/974-6234, cell tel. 876/487-6793, sales@leestours.com, www.leestours.com) is focused on airport transfers, accommodations bookings, and wedding planning, but Lee's also sells day cruise tours to Nine Mile, Dunn's River Falls, Dolphin Cove, H'Evans Scent, Hooves, and Green Grotto Caves. Lee's arranges transportation and entrance fees at discounted rates for families and groups and offers customized packages that include an airport transfer. Airport transfers to Kingston (US$140 for 1–4 people) and Montego Bay (US$80 per couple) are available. Leroy Villiers and Norma Lee-Villiers run the travel and tours operation.
Spas
The best spas in town are the Kiyara Ocean Spa at the Jamaica Inn (tel. 876/974-2514 or U.S. tel. 800/837-4608, reservations@jamaicainn.com, www.kiyaraspa.com) and the Red Lane Spa at Royal Plantation (tel. 876/974-5601 or U.S. tel. 305/284-1300, rpres@jm.royalplantation.com, www.royalplantation.com). In Tower Isle, Couples (tel. 876/975-4271, www.couples.com) opened a beautiful spa in 2008. All three spas are open to nonguests.
Veronica's Day Spa
Veronica's Day Spa (54–56 Main St. at the Village Hotel, tel. 876/795-3425) offers aromatherapy massages, reflexology, manicures, pedicures, and waxing.
Simanda Villa
Simanda Villa (1 Shaw Park Rd., tel. 876/974-0708, simi@cwjamaica.com) may just have the cheapest rooms in Ochi. The accommodations are basic with air-conditioning (US$25) or fan (US$20). Sun Flower Restaurant on the property serves local dishes like chicken with rice and peas (US$5).
Mahoe Villa Guest House
Mahoe Villa Guest House is a cozy and private guesthouse run by Michael Riley. There are seven basic rooms (US$40-60 depending on size) with either one double or two single beds, fan, TV, and shared bath; plus two slightly larger rooms (US$50) with private bath and private entrance; as well as a master suite (US$80) with standing fan, a component stereo, TV, a whirlpool bath, two walk-in closets, and a private balcony with sea view.
La Penciano Guest House
La Penciano Guest House (3 Short Lane, tel. 876/974-5472), run by Kenneth Thomas, is a relatively decent dive right in the center of town. The rooms are clean with fans, twin beds, TV, and hot water. The more expensive rooms (US$35) have private baths. Meals can be prepared to order. Longer stays can be negotiated. It should be noted La Penciano also gets its share of short-term guests.
Seville Manor Guest House
Seville Manor Guest House (84 Main St., tel. 876/795-2900) is a basic but comfortable guesthouse with queen-size beds in double-occupancy rooms (US$55), as well as triple rooms (US$64) that have a queen and a twin. Amenities include air-conditioning and hot water.
Marine View Hotel
Marine View Hotel (9 James Ave., tel. 876/974-5753) has rooms with either king-size or two double beds with air-conditioning and TV (US$65), one double with air-conditioning (US$45, with TV US$50), and one double bed with ceiling fan (US$35). There is a pool and restaurant at this ocean-view accommodation. Credit cards are accepted.
Little Shaw Park Guest House
Little Shaw Park Guest House (21 Shaw Park Rd., tel. 876/974-2177, littleshawpark@yahoo.com, www.littleshawparkguesthouse.com) is the only place in Ochi to offer camping (US$20) in addition to its 22 basic rooms (US$55 fan, US$65 a/c). Rooms range from standard with cable TV and private bath to studio apartments with kitchenette and living area. The property has been owned and managed since 1977 by Deborah and Trevor Mitchell, who have maintained a laid-back, quiet garden setting in spite of the development boom outside the compound walls. The furnishings inside the rooms have apparently changed little since the guesthouse was opened. There is one triple-occupancy room (US$75). The property is a 10-minute walk to the beach and town.
Pineapple Hotel
Pineapple Hotel (Pineapple Place, Main St., tel. 876/974-2727, fax 876/974-1706, US$60) has 18 basic rooms with hot water, air-conditioning, housekeeping, security, and pool access. Pineapple is one of the closest hotels to Mahogany Beach, a favorite local hangout.
Christianna
A small community near the highest reaches of Manchester Parish, Christiana is a quiet town with one main drag and a single guest house. The most popular attraction in town is Christiana Bottom, a gorge located within walking distance from the center of the small village. Gourie State Park (contact Trevor Anderson for guiding services, tel. 876/964-5088, cell tel. 876/771-4222 or 876/292-4631, trevormanderson@hotmail.com, US$20 per person) is a recreational area on government land managed by Jamaica's Forestry Department, located between Christiana and Colleyville, about two miles past Christiana. Immediately after passing Bryce United Church, take the first left turn and then the first right until reaching the unmanned Forestry Department station and picnic area. Gourie Cave, the highlight of the park, is not actually inside the park but rather about a quarter mile down the hill to the left of the park entrance. By the cave entrance there's a picnic and camping area with a hut and tables and benches. There is one main trail through the park that leads to the community of Ticky Ticky, with excellent views along the way of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Spur Tree Hill, and the historic Bethany Moravian Church.
Gourie Cave was a hideout for runaway slaves. The cave follows the channels of an underground river about three to four feet deep, depending on how much rain has fallen. If you go north from the entrance and upstream against the current, you end up on the other side of Colleyville Mountain. A different route leads downstream along the underground river, deep into the earth where there are several caverns along the way. If you're going to be exploring in the cave, you should monitor the weather and be aware of any fronts on the horizon. It's not wise to venture into the cave alone. Contact Trevor Anderson for his guide services.
In Christiana Bottom, there's a Blue Hole fed from underground streams with two waterfalls dumping into the pool. There's another waterfall at William Hole farther downstream. To get to Christiana Bottom coming from Mandeville, turn right immediately after the NCB bank on Moravia Road, then take the first left around a blind corner, and then the first right, which leads to Christiana Bottom. Continue past the first left that leads to Tyme Town and park at the entrance to the second left, a wide path that leads down to the river. Ask for Mr. Jones for a guided tour (US$20) of Blue Hole and William Hole and his farm, where he grows ginger, yam, potato, pineapple, bananas, and sugarcane.
Pickapeppa Factory
The Pickapeppa Factory (at base of Shooter's Hill beside Windalco plant, call in advance to arrange a visit, tel. 876/603-3441, fax 876/603-3440, pickapeppa@cwjamaica.com, www.pickapeppajamaica.com, US$3 adults, US$1.50 children) offers a half-hour educational tour (8:30 a.m.\3:30 p.m Mon.\Thurs.) led by Diana Tomlinson or Noel Miller, which covers the company's founding in 1921 and the process involved in the manufacture of its world-famous sauces. The factory is closed for the first two weeks in August and between Christmas and New Year's, but at any other time of year a sampling of the Pickapeppa sauces is included in the tour. The sauces are made with all-natural ingredients, and include mango chutney, jerk seasoning, and mango sauces in hot, spicy, and gingery varieties. The only preservative agents used in Pickapeppa sauces are vinegar and pepper.
Scott's Pass
Scott's Pass (between Toll Gate and Porus) is the headquarters for the Nyabinghi house of Rastafari in Jamaica, with the House of Elders based there. The land was bought by Bob Marley and given to the Binghi for that specific purpose. The community members are for the most part welcoming of visitors, but you may get some evil eyes if you fail to recognize their customs for the Binghi celebrations: women must wear skirts or dresses (no pants) and cover their heads, while men must not cover their heads. To arrange a visit or learn about the birthday celebrations or other Nyabinghi events around the island contact the Rasta in Charge, Paul Reid, known as Iyatolah (cell tel. 876/850-3469) or Charlena McKenzie, known as Daughter Dunan (cell tel. 876/843-3227). Arts and crafts are sold throughout the year at Scott's Pass.
Roy "Ras Carver" Bent
Roy "Ras Carver" Bent (cell tel. 876/866-7745, rascarver@yahoo.com) is a Nyabinghi elder and master drum maker associated with the Scott's Pass order of Rastafari who lives in nearby May Pen. Ras Carver fashions, tunes, repairs, and sells the full line of drums used at Nyabinghi ceremonies.
Other important Binghi celebrations throughout the year include Ethiopian Christmas (January 7), one during Black History Month (a couple of days in February), commemoration of His Majesty's 1966 visit to Jamaica (April 21), All African Liberation Day (May 25), Marcus Garvey's birthday (three nights around August 19), Ethiopian New Year's (3\7 days starting September 11) and Haile Selassie's coronoation (November 2).
To get to Scott's Pass, take the first left heading west of the train line in Clarendon Park where the Juici Patties plant is located. Look out for a small bridge crossing the Milk River before reaching Porus.
Villa Bella
Villa Bella (tel. 876/964-2243, villabella@cwjamaica.com, www.jamaica-southcoast.com/villabella US$65-80) is billed as "Jamaica's original country inn." Located in a cool setting at 914 meters above sea level, you won't find a more comfortably temperate climate on the island. The hotel has a lot of old-world charm in a gorgeous setting. Its allure as an accommodation is somewhat lessened by the tired state of its rooms. Owner Sherryl White-McDowell has initiated efforts to refurbish the property, which will be ongoing. The restaurant serves Jamaican dishes like ackee and saltfish, roast and jerk chicken, and steamed fish (US$6\12).
Clarendon
The second most-populous parish, Clarendon is a major agricultural region with a lively market (Mon.\Sat.) by the square (or triangle) in its capital, May Pen. The parish, like all others in Jamaica, was originally settled by the Tainos, who were later pushed out by Spaniards who favored the area for cattle farming on their hatos or haciendas. Cotton and indigo became important crops during the early British period, before sugar took over later into the British colonial period. The parish developed as British troops settled on land granted to them as rewards for service by Charles II in the 17th century. Cudjoe, the Maroon leader, is said to have been the son of a slave on Sutton Plantation in Clarendon, the site of Jamaica's slave rebellion of 1690. Following emancipation, large numbers of Indian indentured laborers were brought in, forming the basis of a distinct cultural enclave that still exists today.
Visitors to May Pen will find virtually no tourism infrastructure, as the parish has little developed coastline and scarce attractions to excite the imagination of the short-term visitor. The undeveloped coastline can, on the other hand, be an attraction in and of itself, for the adventurous, and it is known to be dotted with caves in the vicinity of Portland Point. The brush-filled landscape in this same area is a favorite place for hunters to shoot birds in season for about five weeks starting in mid-August. The protected areas along the coast are the last place in Jamaica you have a good chance of seeing a manatee--native to the country's waters but severely endangered. The famous bathhouse in the parish, Milk River, warrants a visit if you're an old-school spa buff; if you're into hanging with the locals and taking a dip, try Salt River, where a spring wells up from the earth and sound systems blast music to bathers' delight.
May Pen
Jamaica's second-largest inland town after Spanish Town, May Pen is strictly Jamaican--receiving few foreign visitors compared with other major population centers on the island.
May Pen is the parish capital, with several heritage sites in its vicinity, including Halse Hall Great House, and the birthplace of acclaimed writer and poet Claude McKay, who went on to contribute to the Harlem Renaissance movement after moving to the United States.
May Pen was established on the banks of the Rio Minho and grew thanks to the river, which hampered travelers who took rest in the inns that were established on its banks. In the 1880s a railway station was built, further fueling the town's growth. Clarendon has a disproportionately large population of East Indian descent and is the location for Hosay, a traditional Indian festival that has been Jamaicanized.
The town gets its name from the Reverend William May, who owned the estate that predates the settlement. May served as rector in Kingston, and his son went on to become custos of Clarendon and Vere. The second important annual event held in May Pen is the Denbeigh Agricultural Show, which is a fantastic display of the region's farming prowess.
Halse Hall Great House
Halse Hall Great House (halsehallgreathouse@hotmail.com, http://halsehall.tripod.com) has been owned since 1969 by aluminum mining giant Alcoa. The property was named Hato de Buena Vista (Ranch with a Nice View) by the Spaniards who laid the foundation on which the present structure stands. Major Thomas Halse arrived with the British forces in 1655 and was given the property as a land grant following the British takeover. Halse built the present structure in the fortified style of the time to defend against potential reprisals from the Spanish and their Maroon allies. A second story was added by his heirs in the 1740s. Perhaps the most distinguished owner of the property was Thomas Henry de la Beche, an English geologist who founded the geological survey of Great Britain Royal School of Mines and Mining Record Office and wrote Remarks on the Geology of Jamaica. Ownership passed from the hands of the family in the 1830s to settle debt. Visitors are welcome to pass through to tour the house and grounds with prior notice and approval. Call Vanecia Harris tel. 876/986-2561, extension 4210, to request a visit.
Sweet and Juicy
Sweet and Juicy (Swanzey district at the end of Bustamante Highway, contact Jamie Levy tel. 876/359-6158, 7 a.m.\9 p.m daily, US$3\4.50) serves staples like fried and curried chicken, and curry goat.
Murray's Fish and Jerk Hut
Murray's Fish and Jerk Hut (Toll Gate, tel. 876/987-1111 or 876/987-1684, 8 a.m.\10 p.m daily, US$5\10) is a roadside hut serving roast tilapia caught on the Murray family farm, as well as jerk chicken and pork.
Daily Delicious Restaurant & Sports Bar
Daily Delicious Restaurant & Sports Bar (28 Main St., next door to Island Grill, a Jamaican fast-food joint, tel. 876/986-9842, 8 a.m.\9:30 p.m Mon.\Sat., weekends till 11 p.m, US$2.50\6) serves cow foot, cow head, oxtail, fish, pork, curry goat, and baked, stew, curry, and fried chicken.
Juici Patties
Juici Patties (tel. 876/904-2618) has its factory and an adjacent outlet and drive-through in Clarendon Park.
Versalles Hotel
Versalles Hotel (42 Longbridge Ave., tel. 876/986-2775) is reached by taking the second left from Mineral Lights Roundabouts. Suites with air-conditioning and hot water, cable TV, and king-size bed or two double beds run US$56.
Bridge Palm Hotel
Bridge Palm Hotel (Toll Gate, tel. 876/987-1052, cell tel. 876/819-4332, U.S. tel. 905/963-3251, bridgepalmhotel@yahoo.com, www.bridgepalm.com, US$50\67) has rooms with mini refrigerator, air-conditioning, and ceiling fans. Some rooms have balconies and overlook the swimming pool.
Fyah Side Jerk
Fyah Side Jerk (Toll Gate, 10 a.m.-midnight Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-11 p.m Sun.) serves jerk roadside just past the Bridge Palm Hotel. It's a buzzing local hangout and has grown its clientelle steadily with consistent food and ambiance that mixes loud dancehall, good food, bar and gaming machines.
Banking
NCB (876/986-2343) has a branch and ATM located at 41 Main Street, with a Scotiabank (tel. 876/986-2212) branch at 36 Main Street.
Clarendon Parish Library
Clarendon Parish Library (Main St., tel. 876/902-6294 claparlib@cwjamaica.com) offers DSL Internet access (US$1.50/hour).
South of May Pen
The area south of May Pen is the prime agricultural land celebrated in the Denbeigh Agricultural Show each year. The area is dominated by cane production at the Moneymusk Sugar Estate. Few visitors to Jamaica make it to this remote side of Clarendon, and the few who do typically visit the somewhat run-down Milk River Baths. More interesting is the coastal region of Portland, where the Portland Lighthouse stands on the farthest point south on the island, which juts out into the sea. You will need to charter or rent a vehicle to properly explore this remote area.
Jackson Bay
Jackson Bay has some of Jamaica's deepest coastal caves, where legend has it the pirate Morgan stashed booty. The little-explored coastline around Jackson Bay is dotted with such caves, while the beach is a popular spot with locals on weekends and holidays. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is very helpful for heavy exploring along this stretch of coast.
Salt River
Salt River, 10 minutes east of Lionel Town near the coast, has a public mineral spring that is a favorite cooling off spot among locals. Dances are held on weekends for what they call Early Sundays. Seldom visited by tourists, the upkeep is substandard as the locals don't seem to mind the rubbish that litters the grounds, including deceased refrigerators parked at the water's edge and large tires parked beneath the crystalline waters. Nevertheless, it's a great spot to soak up the local scene and eat some fried fish and festival. To get to Salt River, take the left turn before reaching Lionel Town heading south following the sign for Milk River Resort (closed), or take the first left after going through the clocktower square in Old Harbour heading west and continue for about 10 km beyone Longville Park Farm.
Salt River
Salt River, 10 minutes east of Lionel Town near the coast, has a public mineral spring that is a favorite cooling off spot among locals. Dances are held on weekends for what they call Early Sundays. Seldom visited by tourists, the upkeep is substandard as the locals don't seem to mind the rubbish that litters the grounds, including deceased refrigerators parked at the water's edge and large tires parked beneath the crystalline waters. Nevertheless, it's a great spot to soak up the local scene and eat some fried fish and festival. To get to Salt River, take the left turn before reaching Lionel Town heading south following the sign for Milk River Resort (closed), or take the first left after going through the clocktower square in Old Harbour heading west and continue for about 10 km beyone Longville Park Farm.
Salt River
Salt River, 10 minutes east of Lionel Town near the coast, has a public mineral spring that is a favorite cooling off spot among locals. Dances are held on weekends for what they call Early Sundays. Seldom visited by tourists, the upkeep is substandard as the locals don't seem to mind the rubbish that litters the grounds, including deceased refrigerators parked at the water's edge and large tires parked beneath the crystalline waters. Nevertheless, it's a great spot to soak up the local scene and eat some fried fish and festival. To get to Salt River, take the left turn before reaching Lionel Town heading south following the sign for Milk River Resort (closed), or take the first left after going through the clocktower square in Old Harbour heading west and continue for about 10 km beyone Longville Park Farm.
Salt River
Salt River, 10 minutes east of Lionel Town near the coast, has a public mineral spring that is a favorite cooling off spot among locals. Dances are held on weekends for what they call Early Sundays. Seldom visited by tourists, the upkeep is substandard as the locals don't seem to mind the rubbish that litters the grounds, including deceased refrigerators parked at the water's edge and large tires parked beneath the crystalline waters. Nevertheless, it's a great spot to soak up the local scene and eat some fried fish and festival. To get to Salt River, take the left turn before reaching Lionel Town heading south following the sign for Milk River Resort (closed), or take the first left after going through the clocktower square in Old Harbour heading west and continue for about 10 km beyone Longville Park Farm.
Salt River
Salt River, 10 minutes east of Lionel Town near the coast, has a public mineral spring that is a favorite cooling off spot among locals. Dances are held on weekends for what they call Early Sundays. Seldom visited by tourists, the upkeep is substandard as the locals don't seem to mind the rubbish that litters the grounds, including deceased refrigerators parked at the water's edge and large tires parked beneath the crystalline waters. Nevertheless, it's a great spot to soak up the local scene and eat some fried fish and festival. To get to Salt River, take the left turn before reaching Lionel Town heading south following the sign for Milk River Resort (closed), or take the first left after going through the clocktower square in Old Harbour heading west and continue for about 10 km beyone Longville Park Farm.
St. Peter's Church
St. Peter's Church is one of the oldest churches in Jamaica. It was founded in 1671 as the parish church of the former parish of Vere. The present building was erected around 1715 on the foundation of the original. The church bell weighs a quarter ton and was commissioned by the same company that created Big Ben, London's most distinguishing landmark.
Moneymusk Sugar Estate
The original Moneymusk Sugar Estate windmill in nearby Amity Hall is an interesting octagonal brick structure that now houses a branch of the parish library (tel. 876/986-3128, 11 a.m.\5 p.m Mon.\Fri.); Maxine Reid is the branch assistant. Internet service is offered (US$1.50/hour) on one terminal. The Moneymusk windmill was the only one in Jamaica to be constructed of brick, which raises the question of why the owners went through the trouble of importing such heavy materials from England when other estates were building the structures of locally quarried limestone.
Milk River Hotel and Spa
Milk River Hotel and Spa (tel. 876/902-4657, milkriverhotel@yahoo.com) has three types of rooms. There are rooms with two twin beds and either shared bath (US$110) or private bath (US$117), both of which include breakfast, dinner, and bath access. The third room category has either a king-size or queen-size bed with private bath (US$137) and breakfast, dinner, and bath access. These can also be rented with just bath access included (US$48 shared bath, US$55 private bath, US$75 private bath and queen-size bed). One suite has a king-size and a twin bed (triple occupancy, US$112 room and bath alone, US$206 with bath, breakfast, and dinner). Most rooms have air-conditioning and TV. Rooms without air-conditioning have standing fans.
The Milk River Baths
The Milk River Baths (7 a.m.\9 p.m daily, US$4 per 15 minutes for adults, US$2 children 10 and under), located at the hotel, are spring fed with lukewarm water. A bath can be enjoyed whether or not you're staying at the hotel. For curative purposes, a minimum of three baths is recommended, but it is not advisable to stay in the water for longer than an hour because the water is highly radioactive--more so even than the springs at Vichy in France. To get to Milk River, turn south at the roundabout in Toll Gate before reaching Clarendon Park, heading west from May Pen. Continue straight from Toll Gate without turning off until reaching the hotel on the right. Keep heading south in Rest, instead of turning east along the B12 toward Alligator Pond in St. Elizabeth.
Getting There and Around
Route taxis and buses serve May Pen from Kingston and Mandeville. May Pen is located at the western end of Highway 2000, one of Jamaica's best toll roads, making it a quick 45-minute drive from Kingston. From the taxi stand in the square in May Pen, route taxis for points south (like Milk River) leave sporadically as they fill up.
Planning Your Time
Unless your goal is to simply loaf on the beach, or you happen to be staying in a destination resort or villa that's too comfortable to leave, Ocho Rios is not a place to spend more than a few days if you're trying to see other parts of the island in a short period of time. It's the most practical base, however, for a number of key attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, Dolphin Cove, Nine Mile, Walkerswood, Seville Great House, White River Valley, Prospect Plantation, and the Rio Nuevo battle site. Oracabessa is only a half hour away, and there are a couple of good farm tours in that vicinity, in addition to James Bond Beach and Stingray City, which are popular attractions themselves.
Most of these sights are serviced by organized tours that generally consume the better part of a day. If you're driving yourself or have chartered a taxi, however, there's far more flexibility to fit in a string of activities in a day, and there's no reason you can't spend the morning horseback riding at Seville Heritage park and then stop by Dunn's River to cool off and climb the falls on the way back to Ochi. Most developed attractions have factored transportation into their formula, and while they certainly profit by it, it's often worth letting someone else do the driving given the potholed roads and the lack of clear signage. Car rentals in Jamaica are typically very expensive, as is fuel.
Several annual events make a stay in Ocho Rios all the more worthwhile. During Easter, Jamaica's carnival season is in full force with events east and west of Ocho Rios along the coast.
History
St. Ann figures strongly in Jamaica's early colonial history. Italian explorer Christopher Columbus landed on the shore near Discovery Bay in 1492 while under contract from the Spanish Crown to find a shorter passage to the Far East. Within a few years, the Spanish began to inhabit the island as they systematically wiped out the native Taino population, establishing their capital at Sevilla la Nueva, or New Seville, just west of St. Ann's Bay. Later, after the British seized the island in a carefully executed attack on Santiago de la Vega, or what's now known as Spanish Town, most of the Spaniards who were determined to stay in Jamaica fled to the North Coast, where they regrouped and continued to carry out guerrilla reprisal attacks on the British with the help of Maroon loyalists. But the British had exploited a disorganization that had its roots in a lack of commitment on the part of the Spanish to develop the island as it had done in many other colonies, a neglect many scholars attribute to the absence of gold in Jamaica. The decisive battle that ended any lingering doubt about the fate of Jamaica occurred at the mouth of the Rio Nuevo, just east of present day Ocho Rios. The town was later at the center of Jamaica's slave economy and sugar boom, with vast plantations around the area. Later, Ocho Rios played an important role in the development of Jamaica's chief mineral export, bauxite, and remains an import shipment point today. When tourism grew to overtake bauxite as the country's chief earner of foreign currency, Ocho Rios was again at the center of this transformation, building the cruise ship terminal to attract the massive flows of capital that continue to play a vital role in the local economy.
Fisherman's Beach
Fisherman's Beach (free), adjacent to Island Village, is one of the best spots around to get fresh seafood--at Tropical Vibes restaurant or the other fish shacks set up there. This is not a beach for swimming, but rather for chilling out with some food and a beer.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Irie River
Irie River (US$15) is a beautiful garden park on the banks of the White River southeast of Ochi that makes a great morning or afternoon day trip for a dip or to enjoy a picnic. The gardens host occasional events. To get there, head east out of town, taking a right off the highway opposite the entrance to Jamaica Inn just past the Texaco gas station. Follow the White River inland until you reach a gate with stone pillars on either side on your left. Drive in past a few houses and down a slope to the parking area.
Local rate: JMD 700 adults, JMD 500 children 12 and under.
Catering is offered with two main course dishes, i.e. fish, chicken, salad and juice for JMD 1600 (entrée can be different – based on request)
If you want to bring food and cook yourself, add JMD 200 to the entrance for adults and children.
Reggae Beach
Reggae Beach (contact Kavona, cell tel. 876/473-7077, 8 a.m.–6 p.m., 9 a.m.–midnight on Fri.–Sun., admission US$9.50) is a picturesque stretch of sand on an unspoiled cove a few minutes' drive east of Ocho Rios. The beach hosts excellent annual events like Luau and Frenchman's Parties, and an occasional stage show. A bar and restaurant on the property serves a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, fried fish, and chicken (US$12–25).
Reggae Beach
Reggae Beach (contact Kavona, cell tel. 876/473-7077, 8 a.m.–6 p.m., 9 a.m.–midnight on Fri.–Sun., admission US$9.50) is a picturesque stretch of sand on an unspoiled cove a few minutes' drive east of Ocho Rios. The beach hosts excellent annual events like Luau and Frenchman's Parties, and an occasional stage show. A bar and restaurant on the property serves a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, fried fish, and chicken (US$12–25).
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Laughing Waters
Laughing Waters is among the most stunning beaches in Jamaica for the gurgling falls spiling onto its fine, golden sand. The beach was made famous in the first James Bond film, Dr. No, where Ursula Andress emerges from the sea singing and echants 007, played by a young Sean Connery. Located just east of Dunn's River Falls around the bend from Pearly Beach, the property is managed by the St. Ann Development Corporation (SADCo) and its parent the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), a government body that owns and operates some of the island's most lucrative toursim attractions, including Dunn's River Falls, in addition to many others that see few visitors, and many more still unrelated to tourism. A protocol residence reserved for state use faces the beach. The beach can be rented by the day to groups of up to 100 (USD 2,000), 150 (USD 2,500), 200 (USD 3,000), 250, or more guests (250+/USD 3,500+), with a USD 500 refundable deposit required. Guests pay 50% plus the security deposit to confirm dates. Balances are due 90 days prior to a confirmed booking.
Blue Hole on the White River
Blue Hole on the White River features a series of waterfalls and natural pools found along the White River in an area known locally as Breadfruit Walk. Once relatively unvisited by tourists, this section of the river has become a hot spot, and locals who keep the banks clean and guide visitors to the different pools suitable for swimming ask for a US$10 per person contribution.
To get to the White River, turn right at the first stoplight you reach heading east out of Ocho Rios along the A3 just after the second gas station. Follow the road for four kilometers and turning left at the intersection in the second community of Lodge, and then make a right along the rough dirt road adjacent to a JPS pump station. Park and cross the footbridge, continuing along the trail up the hill. The first large pool is found on the left with several other pools, some of them suitable for jumping into from considerable heights as you continue upstream.
Blue Hole on the White River
Blue Hole on the White River features a series of waterfalls and natural pools found along the White River in an area known locally as Breadfruit Walk. Once relatively unvisited by tourists, this section of the river has become a hot spot, and locals who keep the banks clean and guide visitors to the different pools suitable for swimming ask for a US$10 per person contribution.
To get to the White River, turn right at the first stoplight you reach heading east out of Ocho Rios along the A3 just after the second gas station. Follow the road for four kilometers and turning left at the intersection in the second community of Lodge, and then make a right along the rough dirt road adjacent to a JPS pump station. Park and cross the footbridge, continuing along the trail up the hill. The first large pool is found on the left with several other pools, some of them suitable for jumping into from considerable heights as you continue upstream.
River Parks & Gardens
Ocho Rios is known for its lush gardens, though some are far better maintained than others. One of the nicest free waterfalls in Ochi, known as Nature Falls, is frequented mostly by locals who come for picnics and to wash off their vehicles in the shade. The river and falls are located just off Shaw Park Road, along a dirt road that branches off the road to Perry Town just past the Y where it splits from Shaw Park Road.
Shaw Park Botanical Garden and Waterfalls
Shaw Park Botanical Garden and Waterfalls (DaCosta Dr., tel. 876/974-2723, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. daily, US$10) is a nice river garden full of ginger lilies and little cascades. There is a rear entrance accessible from Shaw Park Road when the front entrance is closed. This is a great shady and scenic place to get some natural air conditioning when it's hot. The back entrance to the park can be accessed from the end of Shaw Park Road where a little bridge leads from a parking lot by some abandoned apartment buildings into the park.
Turtle River Park
Turtle River Park (7am-8pm Mon.-Fri., 8am-9pm Sat.-Sun., free) is located near the center of town at the junction of Milford Road, Main Street, and DaCosta Drive. A pedestrian entrance is accessible from Main Street across from Sandcastles. Ponds in the park have koi, butterfly koi, tilapia and turtles. There's a playground with a swing set for the kids and gazebos aplenty. Within easy walking distance from downtown Ochi, Turtle River Park is a pleasant spot for a stroll, to sit and read a book or to carry your picnic.
Turtle River Park
Turtle River Park (7am-8pm Mon.-Fri., 8am-9pm Sat.-Sun., free) is located near the center of town at the junction of Milford Road, Main Street, and DaCosta Drive. A pedestrian entrance is accessible from Main Street across from Sandcastles. Ponds in the park have koi, butterfly koi, tilapia and turtles. There's a playground with a swing set for the kids and gazebos aplenty. Within easy walking distance from downtown Ochi, Turtle River Park is a pleasant spot for a stroll, to sit and read a book or to carry your picnic.
Turtle River Park
Turtle River Park (7am-8pm Mon.-Fri., 8am-9pm Sat.-Sun., free) is located near the center of town at the junction of Milford Road, Main Street, and DaCosta Drive. A pedestrian entrance is accessible from Main Street across from Sandcastles. Ponds in the park have koi, butterfly koi, tilapia and turtles. There's a playground with a swing set for the kids and gazebos aplenty. Within easy walking distance from downtown Ochi, Turtle River Park is a pleasant spot for a stroll, to sit and read a book or to carry your picnic.
Fern Gully
Fern Gully is a former underground riverbed that was planted with ferns in the 1880s and later paved over to create the main highway (A1) between Spanish Town and the North Coast. Arts-and-crafts stands line a few of the less precarious curves along the steep, lush, and shady road.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.
Konoko Falls
Konoko Falls (8am-5pm daily, admission US$20 adults, US$10 children 12 and under) is a riverine botanical garden on the Milford River, which flows through the park before descending through town and out the storm gulley next to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande. Konoko was once a banana stand on Shaw Park Estate before the gardens and waterfalls were developed as an attraction in the early 1990s. Previously known as Coyaba Gardens and Mahoe Falls, the attraction was rebranded Konoko in December 2015 under the incoming management of Guardsman Hospitality, which brought endemic and exotic wildlife from the Hope Zoo in Kingston, managed by the same group.
Visitors can see native yellow-billed and black-billed parrots, iguanas, parrots and snakes as well as a pair of American crocodiles, turtle and two couple macaw, among a host of other endemic and exotic birds. Visitors can climb the waterfalls, where unobtrusive guides are on hand to help if needed. Tipping is at. A few small pools have enough space for several persons to be fully submerged and splash around. A Romanesque pavilion next to a bar and restaurant above the falls is used for events and weddings. A small museum features a history of the Taino, Jamaica’s earliest inhabitants, and a display covering the local watershed. Ysassi’s Lookout Point, named after the last Spanish governor of Jamaica, has a view over Ocho Rios and the bay. The entire park can be traversed in about 15 minutes.
To get to Konoko, turn right opposite the Anglican church heading south toward Fern Gully on Milford Road (the A3) keeping right at the Y immediately thereafter following the signs. The park entrance will be on your left. A taxi from the center of Ocho Rios shouldn’t cost more than US$10 for the 10-minute ride.