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Jamaica: More Than Just Beaches & Resorts

Lisa S.

Updated: Jun 14, 2024


A woman relaxing in a hammock on a beach. The hammock is strung between two palm trees and is suspended over calm, shallow water. The woman is wearing a swimsuit and sunglasses and has a straw hat resting on her lap.  In the background there is a beach with lush green palm trees and a blue sky with white clouds.  This image is from a Jamaican tourism campaign.

Jamaica is known for its great beaches and tropical sunsets, making it one of the top destinations for those seeking a sun-and-sand vacation. However, there is a lot more to do than lie on the beach. 


Although this is a great way to spend a vacation, some people want to do a little more, seeing Jamaica and all that it has to offer. 


Below are some of the fabulous things to do in Jamaica that don't involve sitting on the beach and catching some rays.


Water Beyond the Beaches


A person is captured mid-dive into clear turquoise water from rocky cliffs. The surrounding rock formations and the vibrant, transparent water create a stunning natural setting. The diver is wearing swim trunks and appears to be enjoying a thrilling moment in the beautiful aquatic landscape.

Fire-Water Pond


Windsor Mineral Spring is located at St. Ann's Bay. This pond gets its name because it really can catch on fire. It has such high levels of sulfur that the surface of the water can ignite. 


For decades, locals have spoken of the rejuvenating and healing potential of this small body of water. Residents are also known to cook on this water as well.


Blue Hole


This beautiful cenote-type body of water is rumored to be bottomless, according to locals. The turquoise blue water is surrounded by some of the tremendous tropical greenery that makes Jamaica beautiful.


It is the perfect place for snorkeling and swimming. 


In fact, many people love to jump in from the tree vines that surround the Blue Hole.


A small wooden boat anchored in the middle of a calm lake.  In the background, there is a house with a red roof and a dock.  The sky is clear and blue.

Black River


This 33-mile-long river is the perfect place to see one of Jamaica's rarest creatures, the crocodile. Located near the southern coast of the island, a tour of the Black River is a great way to get into the wilds of Jamaica and get in touch with its wildlife.




Port Royal was once known as the most wicked city in the world, and now it sits under about 40 feet of water. An earthquake destroyed much of the town, and what it didn't destroy was laid to rest underwater. 


It is a unique place to go diving to tour the pirate city that was cast into the sea.

A man swimming in the ocean. The water is clear and blue and there are whitecaps on the waves in the background. The man is wearing swim trunks and has his arms outstretched at his sides. He is smiling and appears to be enjoying himself.

Luminous Lagoon


This lagoon has a fantastic "glow in the dark" quality that comes from the microorganisms that call it home. 


The Luminous Lagoon is located in Falmouth, Trelawny, and there are only a few lagoons like it in the world. 


Tours offer visitors an unforgettable experience as they can swim and dive in such a rare body of water.


Into the Mountains


A wooden tray with a coffee pot and two mugs on it sits on a balcony. In the background, there are mountains.

Mystic Mountain Nature Park


There are vast mountainous areas to see in Jamaica as well, including the mountains of Ocho Rios. Whether it is on their "bobsled"-like roller coaster or on a zip line, visitors can explore the 700-foot-high peak of Mystic Mountain. 


It is splendid fun and a great way to see Jamaica in a way that many people don't consider.



The Blue Mountains of Jamaica


The Blue Mountain range is the longest mountain range on the island of Jamaica. These mountains are lush with tropical forests, and they are the perfect setting for camping, hiking, and biking.


Unique Dining Experiences


A colorful plate features three fried dumplings and a serving of ackee and saltfish, garnished with chopped green onions and diced tomatoes. In the background, there is a green bowl with more fried dumplings and an orange mug. A fork is placed beside the plate on the wooden table.

Rick's Café


Rick's Café in Negril sits atop beautiful 35-foot-tall cliffs overlooking the ocean. Aside from the great food and drinks, visitors can go cliff jumping off the cliffs.


Some daredevils even jump from the trees and other buildings lining the cliffs. It's also a spectacular location for watching the Jamaican sunset.


A bottle of Appleton Estate 12-year-old rum is placed on a reflective surface next to a glass filled with a cocktail garnished with a lemon wedge. A metal jigger is also positioned nearby. The background features a blurred greenery wall and an out-of-focus figure wearing a yellow apron.

Floyd's Pelican Bar


This bar and restaurant is built from driftwood and sits atop stilts on a sandbar about a quarter of a mile out to sea. It is just a 20-minute boat ride from the coast of Negril. 


It is the perfect place to spend an evening swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying some great food and a cold Red Stripe.


Most think of the beaches of Jamaica when they are looking for things to do but take the time to look into what is around, and you may find some memorable experiences. 


Jamaica has a beautiful culture and a diverse landscape beyond the beaches. Prepare to expand your horizons and see all the things that Jamaica has to offer.



Is Jamaica or another warm-weather destination on your mind? I’d love to help you get there! If you’re ready to start planning, contact me today. 


I can’t wait to chat!


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