8 Best Things to do in Jamaica 2023: Itineraries for all travelers!

If you're looking to escape the cold weather up north, Jamaica is the place to be. As one of the largest islands in the Caribbean Sea, Jamaica offers a wide array of outdoor activities for you to encounter. Expect new adventures, unique experiences, and a relaxing getaway.

Jamaica is a tropical country boasting a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals. One of these areas is the black river, home to 300 different species of birds and the endangered American crocodile. There are numerous waterfalls, beaches, and many other outdoor activities to explore. A place for both the adventure seeker and relaxing vacationer. Keep reading to find our list of the best things to do in Jamaica!

Adventurous Things to do in Jamaica

These activities are ideal for the adventure seeker. Those looking to explore every inch of the Jamaican soil while having a blast. Whether it's something new or something you've tried before, you're bound to find something to do.

Adventures in Jamaican Rainforests

Visit mystic mountain to experience Ocho Rios from a new perspective! Go from platform to platform while ziplining through the dense canopy or hop on a signature Jamaican bobsled for a thrilling ride through the tropical rainforest. We recommend the bobsled if you're as much of a fan as we are of the movie, Cool Runnings. If you're not much of a thrill-seeker, then go for a ride on the Sky Explorer, a chairlift soaring high above the rainforest canopy. No matter which experience you choose, you'll get the best views of Jamaica's Rainforests. 

Exciting adventures in the Jamaican Rivers

Go snorkeling at Pirate's cave to explore a hidden cave where pirates once hid their treasures. A water activity that does not require getting wet is rafting down the Rio Grande river or Martha Brae river. Sit back and enjoy the ride while your guide paddles you down the scenic river routes. Dial it back by checking out the numerous waterfalls Jamaica has to offer. Visit Dunn's river falls, YS falls in Treasure Beach, Konoko Falls, Reach falls, and Mayfield falls. All of which allow you to take a dip at the bottom of the raging waterfall.

We also recommend the Black River safari and luminous lagoon for those looking for a different view of Jamaica's diverse ecosystem. Go for a 90-minute boat ride to spot endangered American crocodiles on the safari or experience bioluminescence at the lagoon. Both are experiences exclusive to Jamaica.

Other fun adventures to experience in Jamaica

If you're looking for an experience you'll never forget, try swimming with horses or dolphin spotting. Be prepared to get your feet wet while taking a dip in the Caribbean sea with a horse. Horses love to swim, so we hope you do too. 

While dolphin's cove may seem like the best way to experience dolphins in Jamaica, we instead suggest the more sustainable option of taking Captain Joseph's Boat Tours. This way, you can enjoy the spectacular view of dolphins swimming while remaining a safe distance away. For more information, contact Captain Joseph's Boat Tours by phone or email. 

Things to do in Jamaica When it Rains

Despite being an outdoor explorer's paradise, the Caribbean islands are prone to rainy weather. Jamaica is no exception. So what do you do when it rains in Jamaica? 

Visit a Jamaican Museum

Once one of the wealthiest English colonies, Jamaica is brimming with history. Visit a history museum to learn about the country's human history as well as animal and plant history. There is no doubt something new to learn in a country as ecologically diverse as Jamaica. Visit the house of the famous musician Bob Marley at the Bob Marley Museum or the Institute of Jamaica for more cultural history. 

Visit and Learn about the Plantations in Jamaica

Plantations in Jamaica also offer a plethora of information about the country's colonial history. Learn about colonial slavery that was closely connected to the success of these plantations and seek out the treasures left behind by the Victorian owners of the estates. 

We recommend the Bellefield Great House and Gardens, Greenwood Great House, and of course, Rose Hall Great House. We especially recommend going for a night tour at Rose Hall if you're a lover of spooky stories and scandalous histories. 

Hip Strip Neighborhood in Jamaica

Finally, if you're looking for some fun while away in the Caribbean, take a stroll through the hip strip in Montego Bay. Whether you're looking for some live jazz music or a nightclub to dance the night away, the hip strip offers something for you. Try out Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville to experience a seaside nightclub or Coral Cliff for some games and cocktails.

Things to do With the Family in Jamaica

If you're traveling with the family as most of us do, you'll want to pay close attention to the following activities. Although most activities we've mentioned before are family-friendly, there is one place where even the littlest of children shouldn't have trouble staying occupied; the beach. If that doesn't work, there are always water parks. 

Relax on the Caribbean beaches of Jamaica

Beaches are a great place to relax and enjoy the Caribbean sun. The Jamaican waters are calm and clear, with beaches lined with beautiful white sand. Visit Doctor's Cave Beach if you're in the Montego Bay area or Hellshire Beach if you're in Kingston. Also in Kingston is Fort Clarence Beach, another beautiful beach that draws smaller crowds than Hellshire beach. Treasure Beach and Frenchman's Cove are also quieter beaches to escape the crowd. 

Visit the water parks!

When it comes to water parks, go for Pirate's Island in Ocho Rios or Negril. We, of course, could not forget Kool Runnings Water Park, inspired by the famous movie. They offer some of the most unique experiences, including a custom 3D waterslide that allows you to create your own slide. 

Looking at other Caribbean Destinations?

Despite being an island nation, Jamaica is not short of unique activities for visitors to experience. Ranging from ziplining and bobsledding to beach hopping and cocktail drinking, Jamaica offers something fun for everyone.

If you're looking to visit a different Caribbean island, check out our post on things to do in Puerto Rico. For Central America, consider visiting Costa Rica. 

Plan your trip with Pilot

Regardless of which Caribbean island you visit, you're set to have a blast. Make sure you gather your itineraries and ideas for your next trip with Pilot.