Jamaica Attractions on the Caribbean Island
Family Friendly Travel Destinations from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios
Mar 1, 2009
Lori Henry
Daytrips to Jamaica attractions are a great way to get out of the high quality resorts and see the rest of the Caribbean island.
The following family friendly travel destinations are well run and fun places to go while on vacation. They are all located between the cities of Montego Bay and Ocho Rios.
Dolphin Cove at Treasure Reef
The most touristy attraction listed here, this is also one of the most popular for children. Kids (and adults) can swim with dolphins and even sharks. For the less adventurous, there is a “Touch Encounter Program" with the dolphins as well. The site is a small replication of Port Royal, complete with pirates, shops and live entertainment.
- Ocho Rios
- Phone: 1 (876) 974-5335
- There are age restrictions with some of the programs due to the close proximity to wildlife
- Price: mid to high price range, but call directly for program fees
Dunn’s River Falls
For the chance to climb up a waterfall, this fantastic spot is a cascade of fun. Hook up with a guide (no fee) and let them guide solos, couples or even large groups up the surging waterfall. The rocks that act as stepping stones are rubbed clean every morning to reduce the chance of slipping. The guides are charming: watch them jump from rock to rock while rarely looking down!
- Near Ocho Rios
- Phone: 1 (876) 974-2857
- Price: $12-$15 USD (plus tip for the guide, if appropriate), $5 USD to rent water shoes
Mystic Mountain
The one and only chance to bobsled like the Jamaican bobsled team is here at Mystic Mountain. Hop into the black, yellow and green “sleds” (they run on a steel track) and take the plunge. Other enjoyable treats include the zip line, replicated 1900s railway station with sports and culture memorabilia, and the Rain Forest Sky Explorer that takes guests from the entrance to 700 feet above sea level.
- Near Ocho Rios
- Phone: 1 (876) 974-3990
- Price: $42-$124 USD
Rose Hall Great House
For those who don’t know, this is the infamous house of Annie Palmer, known as “The White Witch of Rose Hall.” A visit to this restored Great House from 1770 comes with spooky tales of ghosts, black magic and murder. It keeps a family-friendly tone, though, by the excellent hostesses. They even sing a Johnny Cash song at the end of the tour in honour of Cash’s connections with the present owners.
- Near Montego Bay
- Phone: 1 (876) 953-8150
- Price: $10-$20 USD
Outameni Experience
Although quite over the top, the guides at the Outameni Experience act out Jamaica’s history through replicated “villages” that change from room to room. The dancehall moves at the end of the historical tour might be a little raunchy for young children.
- Near Montego Bay
- Phone: 1 (876) 954-4035
- Price: $38-$56 USD
Chukka Caribbean Adventures
For real outdoor fun, try the fun activities by Chukka: horseback riding in the Caribbean sea, ATVing, dune buggy racing, 4x4ing, and zip lining, to name a few options. Staff are friendly and have a blast doing their jobs.
- Montego Bay and Ocho Rios locations
- Phone: Ocho Rios, 1 (876) 972-2506 / Montego Bay, 1 (876) 953-6699
- Price: $44-$119
Jamaica Travel
Perhaps the easiest way to book a Jamaica vacation package is through Air Canada Vacations (1-866-529-2079). Travel advice and flight recommendations are available by contacting the Jamaica Tourist Board (1-800-233-4582 from the USA and 1-800-465-2624 from Canada). Read Jamaica’s All Inclusive Resorts for accommodation ideas.
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