What to do, what to eat, where to stay
Ocho Rios – Spanish for “eight rivers” – is a seaside town located in St. Ann on Jamaica’s north coast. Formerly a fishing village, “Ochi”, as it’s known to the locals, boasts a cruise ship harbour, as well as several ports of call for cargo ships that load limestone, sugar, and bauxite. But don’t let Ochi’s industrial frontage fool you. With a myriad of hotels lined along its busy bay beach, its close proximity to waterfalls and rivers, and endless dining opportunities, Ocho Rios is the perfect place to unwind. Keep reading for information on what to eat, what to do, and where to stay in this eclectic mix of history, industry, and recreation.
What to do
Climbing Dunn’s River Falls
No visit to Ocho Rios would be complete without stopping at this world-famous natural heritage site. Equally stunning as it is unique, Dunn’s River Falls is what’s called a living and breathing phenomenon. These 180-foot waterfalls continuously regenerate themselves from rock deposits, a result of calcium carbonate precipitation from the river as it flows over the falls. Combined with its close proximity to the sea, Dunn’s River Falls has the distinction of being the only one of its kind in the Caribbean. For US$20.00 (J$600.00 for local residents), you’re granted access to the park, where you can climb the falls, assisted by local guides. The climb takes about sixty to ninety minutes – depending on how fit and (un)afraid you are! Water shoes are recommended, but not needed. Get out of your comfort zone, and fully experience one of the most beautiful spots in the island.
Ziplining through the Mountains
One of the most famous attractions in Ocho Rios, the Mystic Mountain offers an exhilarating experience for island adventurers who want to careen through the lush green rainforests of the Jamaican countryside. The Sky Explorer lift offers up magnificent views of Ocho Rios and the Caribbean Sea as it carries thrill seekers high into hills. Once there, the options include jumping on a heart-stopping bobsled ride and ziplining above rare plants and animals in the Caribbean jungle.
Visiting Columbus Park
If the idea of climbing 180 feet (understandably) doesn’t appeal to you, or if you’d simply like to edify your Ochi experience, visit the open-air Columbus Park & Museum in Discovery Bay. Located just outside of Ocho Rios, Discovery Bay is said to be the site where famed Italian explorer, Christopher Columbus, first set foot on the island. As such, Columbus Park has a variety of old Spanish artefacts on display, such as eighteenth-century cannons, a corn husker, even a water wheel that once powered a sugar cane mill. At last visit park appeared run-down and overrun by weeds, but admission is free and the park is open from noon to 8:00 p.m., seven days a week.
What to eat
Pudding in Priory
Have a sweet tooth? Stop in Priory, outside of Ocho Rios,for sweet potato and cornmeal puddings. At this well-known spot sits rows of Dutch pots on live coals on iron pedestals. Sweet bites of heaven wait inside these pots – the puddings, slow-cooked in aluminium foil. The sweet potato pudding is so good, there’s a twenty-minute wait for it! At J$150.00 per generous slice, however, it’s worth the wait. Experience what hallelujah in the middle really means!
Seafood by the sea
As a seaside town, Ocho Rios is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood at one of many spots that overlook the Caribbean Sea. Enjoy juicy lobster, crabs, fish, and shrimp, seasoned to perfection with island spices, and served with Jamaican festival and bammy. Popular eateries include Margueritaville and Lobster Bowl, among many others serving up Jamaican favourites like ackee and saltfish and jerk chicken.
Evita’s Italian Restaurant
Take a ten-minute walk from the cruise ship harbour – up the hill opposite the Taj Mahal shopping centre – and you’ll find yourself in one of the most beautiful, romantic dining settings in the island. Evita’s offers a wide range of Jamaican-Italian fusion dishes, as well as traditional pasta dishes for adventurous and conservative eaters alike. Indulge in the Fettucine Carib Alfredo – one of the most popular dishes on the menu.
Where to stay
Ocho Rios is served by a number of internationally-known, all-inclusive hotels, as well as smaller, sometimes lesser-known guest houses. Regardless of where you’re staying, or the purpose of your trip, finding the type of accommodation right for you can make or break your trip.
Hotels
An all-inclusive hotel stay is perfect for the planner. Food, drinks and all amenities are usually on hand, and in the event that any of them aren’t, help is usually a phone call away. All-inclusive hotels also offer a sense of predictability. You know what to expect on checking in and checking out. This is perfect if you’re a highly organized traveller. However, an-inclusive hotel stay can be expensive, but it’s a great choice for the traveller who wants comfort and a bit of luxury.
Guest Houses
For a more customized feel to your vacation, consider staying in a guest house. Guest houses can seem more inviting and welcoming, as opposed to the impersonal feel sometimes characteristic of an all-inclusive hotel stay. Noticeably cheaper than hotels, guest houses are ideal for large groups of travellers and extended stays. With (usually) few people staying at a guest house, you’re also afforded some privacy. However, your guest house experience can be disastrous if you don’t book with a reputable host. Make sure you thoroughly research where you want to stay, and book with reputable travel sites.