Ocho Rios Travel Guide

The port town of Ocho Rios used to survive on the strength of fishing and banana boats, but now the daily arrival of cruise ships full of tourists keeps the coffers full all along the northeast coast of Jamaica. Ocho Rios and its near neighbours Runaway Bay, Discovery Bay and Port Antonio are mainly clusters of holiday resorts and hotels that cater to package-deal holidaymakers and several celebrities who maintain their private retreats in the region.

Visitors will find plenty to see and do in-between bathing and sunning themselves on the magnificent beaches, from climbing up waterfalls and horseback riding through sugar cane plantations to enjoying afternoon tea at the former home of British playwright and songwriter, Noel Coward. While carefully tailored to suit tourist needs, the region is still beautiful and the good amenities are a bonus.

The surrounding countryside at Ocho Rios, which is situated in the Garden Parish of St Ann, is lush and tropical, with fern-clad cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls. A self-drive tour of the region to take in the scenery is recommended, with visitors travelling through the famous three-mile vine-draped Fern Gully.

Ocho Rios is a town dedicated to fun and sun; a crossroads of pleasure and leisure that's full of surprises and delights.