You're Going to Love Ocho Rios
Ocho Rios, on the northeastern coast of Jamaica, is the ultimate Caribbean beach vacation. Along with the soft, white sands of its beaches, Ochi, as the locals call it offers sophisticated resorts and tourist facilities, and shopping from luxury malls to locals markets full of artisan work and other souvenirs.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Ocho Rios
1. Beautiful Beaches
There are many beach areas to explore both along Ocho Rios Bay Beach and beyond to Mahogany Beach and many others nearby, including James Bond Beach, set against the picturesque St. Mary mountain range.
2. Watersports
From sailing to kayaking, canoeing, snorkeling, and much more, you can have as active and adventurous a vacation as you like in an area called the "land of rivers and springs."
3. The Music
You won't be able to escape the tropical vibes of Jamaican music, including reggae and other genres that have taken the world by storm, and sampling at least one live performance at a nightclub is a must on any trip.
4. Delicious Food
Even if you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, it's worth your while to explore beyond its gates to the vibrant restaurant scene in Ocho Rios, including an emphasis on delectable fresh seafood.
5. Dunn's River Falls
This spectacular waterfall near Ocho Rios is a major tourist attraction, a gorgeous spot in the forest where the waters cascade down a mountainside. It includes a park and private beach.
When to Visit Ocho Rios
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With its tropical climate, Ocho Rios is a year-round destination, with temperatures that hover between 80 and 90. Many travelers opt to visit during the drier months between May and September.
How to Get to Ocho Rios
Plane
The nearest international airports are located at Montego Bay and Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. Transfers are available from a number of private companies, including many resort shuttles.
Car
There are good road connections between Ocho Rios and Kingston, along with many other areas along the north coast.
Bus
There are bus connections available to Kingston and Montego Bay, along with some of the smaller towns in the area.
Airlines serving Ocho Rios
Where to stay in popular areas of Ocho Rios
Most booked hotels in Ocho Rios
How to Get Around Ocho Rios
Public Transportation
There is limited public and private bus service available in Ocho Rios and throughout the nearby region. Many of the routes offer minibus service that you flag down from the street side, with fares starting at about J$130.
Taxi
A route taxi can get you around the area in a shared ride. A trip from Ocho Rios to nearby Oracabessa, a small beach town, costs about J$120.
Car
A car is a good option for exploring Ocho Rios and the area. Rentals are available in town, with more options via Kingston or Montego Bay airports, starting at about J$5,650.
The Cost of Living in Ocho Rios
Shopping Streets
Island Village is one of the biggest shopping centers in town, including a pool and other entertainment options. You can find locally produced souvenirs and artisan goods near the entrance to Dunn's River Falls.
Groceries and Other
Progressive Foods and L & C Supermarket are two of the grocery stores you'll find in Ocho Rios. A quart of milk should cost about J$260, while a dozen eggs should come in at about J$310.
Where to Eat in Ocho Rios
For a wide-ranging menu of Italian, Caribbean, and European specialties, including fresh seafood, try Toscanini Restaurant, with mains starting at J$5,160.