I haven't been to Jamaica in a little bit, but I regret not seeing more of the country. It is so tempting to stay on your all-inclusive resort, because after all, you booked it because of the array of activities and how much money it would save you. But if you are visiting Jamaica and not leaving your resort or villa, you are missing out!
While we all know Jamaica has fantastic beaches and tropical sunsets, there is a lot more to this Caribbean paradise. Beaching it sounds like a great way to spend a vacation, but some people want to do a little more and see Jamaica and all its offerings. Here is a list of some of the most amazing things to do in Jamaica that don't involve sitting on the beach and catching some rays:
Water Other Than The Beach
Fire-Water Pond- Windsor Mineral Spring is located at St. Ann's Bay. This pond gets its' name because it really can catch on fire. It is said to have such high levels of sulfur that the water's surface can catch fire. For decades, locals have talked about the rejuvenating and healing potential of this small body of water. Residents are also known to cook on this water, as well.
Blue Hole- This beautiful "cenote" type body of water, rumored to be bottomless by many, is surrounded by some of the tremendous tropical greenery that makes Jamaica beautiful. It is the perfect place for snorkeling and swimming, and many people love to jump in from the vines in the trees surrounding the Blue Hole.
Black River- This 33-mile-long river is the perfect place to see one of Jamaica's most rare creatures, the crocodile. These animals are unique in Jamaica, seen in the Black River near the island's southern coast. A tour of the Black River is a great way to get into the wilds of Jamaica and get in touch with its wildlife.
Pirate City Under The Sea- Port Royal was once known as the most wicked city globally, and now it sits under about 40 feet of water. An earthquake destroyed much of the town and killed hundreds of people, and what it didn't destroy was laid to rest underwater. It is a great place to go diving to tour the pirate city once cast into the sea.
Luminous Lagoon- This lagoon has a fantastic "glow in the dark" quality from the microorganisms that call it home. The Luminous Lagoon, located in Falmouth, Trelawny, is one of only three lagoons like it in the world. Tours offer visitors an unforgettable experience as they can swim and dive in such a rare body of water.
Swimming With Horses- This is an attraction offered at some of the resorts across Jamaica, such as Half Moon Resort. These resorts train thoroughbred horses to swim with visitors on their backs. Many people say that riding a horse is a spiritual experience; imagine getting into the water with these majestic creatures who, by the way, are great swimmers.
Into The Mountains
Mystic Mountain Nature Park- There are vast mountainous areas to see in Jamaica, including the mountains of Ocho Rios. Whether it is on their "bobsled"-like rollercoaster or zip line, visitors can explore the 700-foot-high peak of Mystic Mountain. It is splendid fun that is a great way to see Jamaica in a way that most people don't consider.
The Blue Mountains- The Blue Mountain range is the most extended mountain range on the island of Jamaica. These mountains are lush with tropical forests, and they are the perfect setting for camping, hiking, and biking. Who considers camping when they are in Jamaica?
Great Places To Eat
Rick's Café- Rick's Café in Negril, Jamaica, sits atop beautiful 35-foot tall cliffs overlooking the ocean. Aside from the great food and drinks, visitors can go to cliff jump off these cliffs. Some daredevils even jump from the trees and other buildings that line these cliffs. Then some want to enjoy the Jamaican sunset from these cliffs.
Floyd's Pelican Bar- This bar and restaurant is built from driftwood and sits atop stilts on a sandbar that is about a quarter of a mile out to sea. It is just a 20-minute boat ride from the coast of Negril. It is the perfect place to spend an evening swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying some great food and a cold Red Stripe.
Most think of Jamaica's beaches when looking for things to do, but take the time to look into what is around, and you may find some memorable experiences. Jamaica has a beautiful culture and a landscape that is just as diverse as anywhere else. There are great people, tropical wildlife, and things to do inland and on the coast. Just expand your horizons and see all the things that Jamaica has to offer.
When you are ready to explore a Jamaican or any other vacation, send me an email at tara@escapeintotravel.com. You can also click the button below to get on my calendar.