From lush waterfalls and white sand beaches to vibrant music and food, there are so many incredible things to do in Jamaica. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history lover, or someone looking to relax under the sun, this Caribbean gem has something for everyone.
6 Unmissable Things to Do in Jamaica
1. Climb Dunn’s River Falls
This iconic natural attraction located in Ocho Rios lets visitors scale terraced waterfalls and swim in cool, refreshing pools. It’s one of the most thrilling things to do in Jamaica and perfect for adventurous travelers.
2. Relax at Seven Mile Beach
With crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, this beach is ideal for sunbathing, water sports, or just lounging with a tropical drink. Don’t miss the sunset views — they’re unreal. It’s located in Negril
3. Dive into the Blue Hole
The Irie Blue Hole in Ocho Rios is a hidden gem with turquoise swimming holes and lush surroundings. You can cliff-jump, swing on ropes, or just float peacefully.
4. Visit the Bob Marley Museum
If you love music, this Kingston spot is essential. Dive into the life and legacy of Jamaica’s most iconic artist, with intimate memorabilia and immersive stories.
5. Watch the Sunset at Rick’s Cafe
Famous for cliff diving and reggae beats, Rick’s Cafe is one of the top things to do in Jamaica. The sunsets here are legendary, and the vibe is chill and unforgettable.
6. Explore the Blue Lagoon
Swim or boat through waters that shift from emerald to deep blue. Surrounded by jungle and peace, this is one of the most scenic things to do in Jamaica.
Dive into Jamaican Culture
Exploring cultural traditions is one of the most rewarding things to do in Jamaica. Here’s how to go beyond the beaches and connect with the island’s spirit.
Try Jamaican Food
From jerk chicken to patties and ackee with saltfish, Jamaican cuisine is spicy, rich, and full of flavor. Be sure to visit local restaurants or street food markets.
Attend a Festival
If you can, time your visit with Reggae Sumfest in Montego Bay or the Accompong Maroon Festival to witness Jamaica’s vibrant music and heritage up close. March and April are also eventful times to go to Jamaica, and for a full breakdown of parades and festivities of these months, check out this Jamaica Carnival 2025 guide so you get a feel of the yearly festivities.
Tour a Rastafari Village
Learn about the Rastafari lifestyle, spiritual practices, and “ital” (natural) foods by visiting a community near Montego Bay. It’s one of the most authentic cultural experiences in the country. To understand the broader urban culture on the island, explore this definitive guide to Jamaican cities.
Shop for Handicrafts at Local Markets
Visit craft markets in Kingston or Ocho Rios to shop for locally made wood carvings, jewelry, art, and more. It’s a great way to support Jamaican artisans. Plus, knowing a bit of the local language makes interactions even more fun — here’s a great guide to Jamaican Patois that can help.
Travel Tips for Things to do In Jamaica
While planning things to do in Jamaica is a lot of fun, staying safe and well-prepared makes all the difference as well. Here are travel essentials to know before exploring:
Stay Safe
Jamaica is generally safe for tourists, but use basic precautions: don’t walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas, keep valuable items hidden, and trust licensed taxis.
Use Reliable Transportation
Knutsford Express is a top-rated bus service for intercity travel. In cities, use recommended taxis or arrange transfers with your hotel.
Prepare for Tropical Weather
Pack light clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a rain jacket, especially if traveling between May and November (rainy season).
Understand Currency and Payments
The Jamaican dollar (JMD) is the local currency, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Carry small cash amounts and use cards for bigger purchases.
Bring a Power Adapter
Jamaica uses 110V and Type A/B plugs. Bring a universal adapter if needed.
Watch Out for Hurricane Season
Hurricane season runs from June to November. Stay informed on weather alerts and consider travel insurance.
Health Tips for Things to do In Jamaica
Drink bottled water, stay hydrated, and avoid raw foods from unverified vendors. Tourist areas usually follow good hygiene standards.
Historical things to do in Jamaica: Port Royal
While Jamaica is often celebrated for its beaches and music, its rich history offers some of the most intriguing things to do in Jamaica. Exploring the island’s past through lesser-known historical sites can give your trip a whole new layer of meaning.
Port Royal, for example, was a pirate stronghold during the 17th century and considered the “wickedest city on Earth”, known for its bustling taverns, stolen riches, and infamous residents like Captain Henry Morgan. In 1692, a powerful earthquake sent much of the city into the sea, creating one of the most unique underwater archaeological sites in the Caribbean.
Today, you can visit Fort Charles, one of the few remaining structures from that era. Explore the Giddy House — a tilted building caused by the earthquake — and get a sense of what life was like in colonial Jamaica. The museum on-site features artifacts recovered from sunken ruins, offering a rare look into pirate life and British naval history.
Efforts are underway to develop underwater heritage tours, making it an even more exciting stop for those interested in maritime history.
You can easily visit Port Royal as a day trip from Kingston. It’s not crowded like other tourist attractions, making it a peaceful and educational escape.
If you’re a history lover, visiting Port Royal is one of the most memorable things to do in Jamaica — it’s not just a tour, it’s a journey back in time.
