Ocho Rios
The northern coast of Jamaica
Ocho Rios is the second major tourist Town on the northern coast of Jamaica and is known locally as ‘Ochee’. Previously a quiet fishing village, it is now a popular tourist destination, renowned for scuba diving and other water sports. It attracts over 700,000 tourists, with around 350,000 of these from cruise ships - every year. The majority of attractions here are located around Ocho Rios; there is not much to see in the Town itself. Today it has a high concentration of hotels, condominium complexes, and office blocks, multiple shopping centres. The Town’s economy relies mainly on tourism.
For shoppers there are six shopping plazas to please even the most dedicated. To the west of town are Coconut Grove and Pineapple Place and in town you will find Ocean View and Island Plaza. Soni's and Taj Mahal Plaza are the places to go if you are seeking luxury items. The Crafts Market is located in the downtown area; the main flea market is Ocean Village, which sells everything imaginable is in the center of Ocho Rios.
Turtle Beach and Mallard Beach are two of the most popular beaches in Jamaica. Both are tourist-oriented beaches with an abundance of food, activities and fellow visitors. There are quite a lot of hotels situated along both of the beaches.
The Coyaba River Garden and Museum is located on the hill overlooking the Bay on Shaw Park Ridge Road. This authentic water garden has the stunning Mahoe waterfalls which cascade down in a terrace like fashion. Other attractions include the Museum which exhibits about the Island’s history, which includes the Taino/Arawak cultures and also a large collection of artefacts.
Take a guided tour through the garden with its extensive array of tropical plants, flowers, small fountains amongst winding streams and ponds, or climb Mahoe Falls and dip in the pool at the bottom of the falls. There is a Juice bar, restaurant and gift shop on site. It is a perfect romantic location for a Wedding venue.
Dunn's River Falls & Park are located around 5 km from Ocho Rios. For the adventurous, you can climb these magnificent falls in a human chain led by skilled Falls Guides or independently (sensible footwear required for either option). There are also a number of points along the adjacent path where you can effortlessly access the river and enjoy the cool water and energetic flow of water over your body. Or you can view the activities of the more fearless from the vantage point of the terrace or deck. Stroll along the beach or walk the property and explore the lush tropical foliage with ferns, bamboos, ginger lilies, crotons, orchids, a variety of palms and breadfruit trees. There is a cafeteria and craft shop for souvenirs at the park.
Dolphin Cove is located near Dunn’s River Falls and park; it is the Caribbean's newest and Jamaica's only dolphin attraction. This superb property has a natural cove which is surrounded by 4 acres of abundant tropical rain forest. Visitors can swim with bottlenose dolphins, have a dolphin encounter, touch the dolphins or just unwind on the white sandy beach. The Cove is home to other interesting marine species such as Stingrays, Eels, Sharks, and Snakes, distinctive tropical birds such as Macaws as well as fish and reptiles.
The White River Valley is famous for its tubing tours along the river where you can enjoy a tranquil ride, by raft, tube or boat, along the White River located east of Ocho Rios. The White River is the largest in the area giving fantastic scenic views as you drift along. There are many different companies that offer various tours. Also, Romantic River floats at night with the passage lit by torches and a romantic dinner with local wine are available.
The Cranbrook Flower Forest and Riverhead Adventure Trail is located in St. Ann, around 18 miles west of Ocho Rios. Sited on 130 acres, this versatile property comprises of exotic tropical gardens, lawns, water pools and a tropical rain forest. The Riverhead Adventure Trail along the Little River leads to the head of the river, passing through some exquisite scenery on the way. Other activities include wading in the Little River, bird watching, nature walks, pond fishing, and volley ball and there is also a children's play area. Facilities include a gift shop and snack counter with outdoor dinning area near the entrance.
The Seville Great House and Heritage Park is located on the historic Seville Estate in St Ann's Bay. The Great House was built in 1745 on the site of the original Great House by the grandson of Richard Hemmings, the first English owner of the property. The Great House houses the collection of artefacts depicting the life of the Tainos, Africans and Europeans. It is now a museum that is owned by the Jamaica National Trust Commission.
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