History of Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Located on the parish of Saint Ann, on the north of Jamaica, Ocho Rios is believed by many to be the place where Christopher Columbus first set foot. Immediately outside the city a park has been created in the place where Columbus was said to have landed. The park is filled with many Spanish colonial buildings as well as maritime artifacts. Ocho Rios means eight rivers in Spanish. The name is believed to have been a distortion created by the British of the original name of ‘Las Chorreras’, as there are no eight rivers in the city. Las Chorreras on the other hand means ‘the waterfall’. Initially a fishing village, the town has been turned into a tourist attraction. It is also a port for cruise and cargo ships.

A Cruise Trip

Have you been thinking of taking a cruise trip around the islands of Jamaica? Make sure that the serene town of Ocho River is part of your trip. The beauty and exotic nature that you experience here will leave you with lasting memories. If you are among those who are avid James Bond fans, then you would be delighted to know that Ocho Rios featured in the movie Dr. No!

What to Do When in Ocho Rios

There is an abundance of activities in Ocho Rios. Be it land or water, you will be able to indulge in all sorts of fun activities.

Here are a few of them to get you hooked:

Dolphin Cove

 Entrance to Dolphin Cove at Treasure Reef – $49.49
Love Dolphins? Well then you have come to the right place. You don’t just get to see the friendly creatures from a far, you get to jump in and play with them! The time you and your family spend with the dolphins is something you will always cherish. But that’s not all; you can even swim with the stingrays. The beautiful place is surrounded by lush green forest and is a haven for nature lovers. If you are brave enough, you can also hold, feed and learn all about the Caribbean sharks.

Bob Marley Museum

Bob Marley Reggae Explosion
If you are a Bob Marley fan, then the museum is worth a visit. This was the place that Bob Marley grew up in. Take a guided tour that will let you learn all there is to know about the famous singer. The place may be a little far from Ocho Rios, but if you love the man, then you will definitely make the efforts.

Shaw Park Garden & Waterfall

You should definitely visit the garden if you want to view 25 acres of botanical magnificence. There are so many exotic plants that they will give you a sense of wonder about the miracles of nature. You will also be able to see many birds that either nest there or just fly around. Be sure to take your camera along if you want to always keep the beauty refreshed.

Dunn’s River Fall

Dunns River Falls and Ocho Rios Shopping Tour
If you are in Ocho Rios, you simply cannot leave without seeing this exalting place. It is one of the most sought out places in Jamaica. The falling water will take your breath away. You can climb the falls, enjoy dancing to live music, shop at the crafts market or snack at the restaurant.

Eateries and Shops

There are hundreds of shops and many restaurants, bars and snack shops in Ocho Rios. Try all the local special cuisines, the great variety of sea food and Mexican delicacies. You will also be able to find all other foods that you wish to eat.

Shopping at the town will simply make you happy. Buy everything from clothes to jewelry, art relics to assorted items of personal use. You can easily buy inexpensive gifts for your friends and family back home!

Ready to Book some Ocho Rios Jamaica Shore Excursions, click here!

Learn about how to get these and other Shore Excursions on the Cheap in Ocho Rios, Jamaica here.

photo credit: Ricymar Photography (Thanks to all the fans!!!!) via photopin cc