Jamaica may best known by tourists for its beach resorts and white sand beaches, but this beautiful Caribbean island offers so much more for the intrepid traveller.
The island’s wealth of natural sights is perhaps its most remarkable feature, with the soft sands and azure waters of its beaches complemented by unique array of inland waterfalls like Dunn’s River Falls, the towering summit of Blue Mountain Peak and the rainforest-fringed waters of the Martha Brae River.
The towns and cities are mesmerising too. The capital, Kingston, acts as the beating heart of the country and its cultural centre, while seaside towns like Ocho Rios or the famed Montego Bay provide a dose of the laid-back Caribbean vibe that Jamaica is renowned for.
In between is a glut of outdoor adventures, cultural activities and Jamaican jewels to discover, from the wonders of Reggae to Jamaica’s culinary exports. Below, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Jamaica to help you make the most of your visit.
Take a tour of the capital
Kingston became Jamaica’s capital in 1872
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As the capital, Kingston is the ‘centre’ of Jamaica and the cultural heart of the country. It is a stark contrast to the relaxed resorts and tranquil coastline of much of the rest of Jamaica, but its lively energy has provided much of what has made modern Jamaica great, from arts and music to a diverse culinary scene.
Reggae fans will want to start by exploring the life of one of Jamaica’s sons at the Bob Marley Museum (where the artist lived from 1975), while anyone wanting to cover more of Jamaican art and culture should carry on to the National Gallery of Jamaica – showcasing everything from indigenous carvings to 18th-century British works – before finishing at the Devon House estate, home to gardens and a collection of antiques once belonging to George Stiebel, the country’s first Black millionaire.
Other historical sites include the 17th-century Fort Charles and Liberty Halls, the headquarters of one of the founders of Pan-Africanism, Marcus Garvey.
Kingston has earned itself a reputation for high levels of crime, so make sure you plan any trip to the city carefully and avoid areas that are known to be dangerous.
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Visit Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios is often referred to as ‘Ochi’ by locals
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Ocho Rios is…
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