In elementary school I was mesmerized by a new, young teacher with a thick Caribbean accent. She was a beautiful and proud woman who, in addition to teaching our regular subjects, taught us about her homeland of Jamaica. She spoke of its beauty, its heritage, its people and its history. I have been determined to visit ever since. I’ll visit for the first-time next year. 

As much as I look forward to enjoying its great beaches and tropical sunsets, I’m thinking of the other treasures I should explore while I’m there. Afterall, my teacher from long ago mentioned so many other exciting things. 

If you are like me and are looking to do more than sit on the beach and catch sunrays, check out this list of some of the most amazing things to do in Jamaica. 

Water Other Than The Beach

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 is said to have such high levels of sulfur that the surface of the water can catch fire. For decades, locals have talked about the rejuvenating and healing potential that this small body of water has. 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 some snorkeling, swimming, and many people love to jump in from the vines in the trees that surround the Blue Hole.

Black River– This 33-mile-long river is the perfect place to see one of Jamaica’s most rare creatures, the crocodile. These animals are a rare sight in Jamaica, but they can be seen in the Black River 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. 

Pirate City Under the Sea– 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 killed hundreds of people, and what it didn’t destroy was laid to rest underwater. It is a great place to go diving to tour the pirate city that was cast into the sea. 

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 three 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.

Swimming With Horses– This is an attraction that is offered at some of the resorts across Jamaica, such as Half Moon Resort. These resort train thoroughbred horses to swim with visitors on their backs. Many people say that riding a horse is a spiritual experience, imagine getting into the water with these majestic creatures who, by the way, are great swimmers.

Into The 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 rollercoaster or zip line, visitors can explore the 700-foot-high peak of Mystic Mountain. It is splendid fun that is a great way to see Jamaica in a way that most people don’t consider.

The Blue Mountains– The Blue Mountain range is the longest mountain range on the island of Jamaica. Who considers camping when they are in Jamaica? Well, these mountains are lush with tropical forests, and they are the perfect setting for camping, hiking, and biking. 

Great Places To Eat

Rick’s Café– Rick’s Café in Negril, Jamaica, sits atop beautiful 35-foot tall cliffs overlooking the ocean. Aside from the great food and drinks, visitors can go cliff jumping off these cliffs. Some daredevils even jump from the trees and other buildings that line these cliffs. Then some want to enjoy the Jamaican sunset from these cliffs.

Floyd’s Pelican Bar– This bar and restaurant is built from driftwood and sits atop stilts on a sandbar that is 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 landscape that is just as diverse as anywhere else. There are great people, tropical wildlife, and things to do inland and on the coast. Just expand your horizons and see all the things that Jamaica has to offer.

Start planning your trip now!