Jamaica is one of the most sought after island destinations in the world, but to me it is home. Known for reggae music, beautiful beaches, amazing coffee and deeply rooted cultural values, yet this tiny island in the sun still has so much to discover and experience.
Jamaica is near and dear to my heart for obvious reasons (home/land of my birth) and it is still my favorite places to discover. When I was a child, Dunn’s River Falls was one of my favorite places to visit. Since then I have discovered several other amazing waterfalls, that I would like to share some with you. While I don’t go to Dunn’s River Falls anymore (it’s way too busy), it is on the list because it is the most popular waterfalls on the island. There are tons of waterfalls in Jamaica, some are easier to get to than others, but do not limit your holiday by only visiting Dunn’s River Falls. These are some of the easiest to get to, even with a few challenges —- bad roads, getting lost and unpredictable weather.
Shout to my hubby who did all the driving and is always down for an adventure. Y’all he drives like a true Jamaican, so I think it is time to get him a passport 🙂
Reach Falls, Portland
Nestled in the mountains of Portland, this is a gorgeous cascading beauty. Discovered by runaway slaves, Reach Falls is home to an underwater cave. Also, if you are a romantic like me, then you will love the heart shape pool. Reach Falls has the beautiful sound of nature as soon as you enter its gates. Birds chirping, trees tussling in the wind, water flow in the distance. Arrive early in the morning or by 3:30 pm to avoid large groups. Entrance Fee: $10 Amenities: Free Parking, restrooms and changing rooms.
Reggae Falls, St. Thomas
If you love an adventure, then this is the waterfall for you. This is one of the best waterfalls to visit in Jamaica because it is almost shocking. You will find this abandoned dam, turned waterfall after walking through the Jamaican jungle or driving across a river bed. The road to Reggae Waterfalls is a treacherous one, but oh so worth it. The river pattern tends to change each year, but the waterfall remains the same. Also, it is completely free, but if you get help from one of the guys there, it is lovely if you could tip them. You can cook in the river, have a picnic, pitch a tent and relax until your heart is content. Bring a bag to collect your trash at the end of your excursion because this isn’t a commercialized water fall. Entrance Fee: Free Amenities: Non
Blue Hole, St. Ann
While the word falls isn’t in its name, it certainly lives up to its name, Blue Hole. In the hills of St. Ann, not too far from Ocho Rios is this beautiful oasis. Upon arrival there were tons of people banging on our car because they wanted to offer their services as guides; however, it was a bit too much. My husband found a perfect parking spot near one of the entrances and we were way happier. Our guide was informative and took lots of amazing photographs, while guiding our steps, the whole way up the falls. At Blue Hole, you can rent a life jacket, if you cannot swim (me). You will love the walk through the small bamboo forrest. In addition to bamboo there were tons of lush green vegetation. If you are into diving, you can dive into one of turquoise pools. Entrance Fee: $20 Amenities: Free Parking, restrooms and changing rooms.
Mayfield Falls, Westmoreland
This one is off the beaten path. If you love adventure and lush greenery, then Mayfield falls is the waterfalls for you. With a total of 21 pools and several mini falls throughout is a must see, especially if you are staying in Negril. A brisk mini hike through the River with a guide, will lead you to one of the most serene places in Jamaica. The journey from Negril was an adventurous one because we got a little lost. The highlight of this experience was when it started to rain and my guide made a protective phone case from leave. My guide couldn’t take the best pictures for us because it was raining but we had the best time. He was very nice and caring, since many stones were little slippery. I left with a gifted turmeric plant, which made my day. Entrance Fee: $20 Amenities: changing rooms, restroom, restaurant and lockers.
Dunns River Falls, St. Ann
This is by far Jamaica’s most popular waterfall. Nestled in the lush oasis of Ocho Rios. This naturally flowing mystical waterfall has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike for many years. It is unique because the natural spring water flows from the hills, down the waterfalls and into the Atlantic Ocean. Once you are finished climbing the waterfall, which is cold, you can enjoy the warmth of the sea. It is undeniably one of the most stunning places in the world. Dunn’s River Falls is very commercialized and it gets SUPER busy. Tour buses arrive daily, so make sure to arrive when they first open or an hour before closing time. Entrance Fee: $20 Amenities: Beach, changing rooms, restrooms and lockers (do not us the lockers). Leave anything of value at home or at your hotel.
YS Waterfalls, St. Elizabeth
Located on the South-coast of the island, YS Waterfalls has changed in recent years to accommodate tourists. Though it is commercialized these days, it maintains its local charm. YS Waterfalls is well organized and caters for your every need. There are seven falls in total. The area it is located in is a little cooler than other parts of Jamaica, so brace yourself for an energizing rush after your first dip. The surroundings are well thought out, so there are other activities to part take in, besides the waterfalls. If you would like to make a day trip out of it, then you can zipping or have a picnic in the gardens. (no photo because the aren’t great). Google it!
Entrance Fee: $20 Amenities: changing rooms, restrooms, parking, garden, swimming pool.
Pro-tip: Arrive just before the waterfalls open or two hours before they close, to avoid massive tour groups. If you are on a tour, unfortunately you don’t have a choice in the time, but try to unsee the people 😉
Other Honorable mention includes, Somerset Falls in Portland, Cane River in Kingston, Scatter Falls, along the Rio Grande raft tour.
If you would like to check out other places to visit in Jamaica, then take a look at the Jamaica Tourism Boards website. If you have any other tips to add, I would love to read the comments below! Lastly, if you are Jamaican and would love to visit Europe, then read this post.