Located in the Northern region of Jamaica, Ocho Rios is one of the busiest locations for cruise ship passengers and visitors to the Caribbean region.
Ocho Rios is home to several amazing beaches and in this article we will cover five locations that are easily accessible from the cruise ship terminal.
In addition to visiting beaches, there are other exciting things to do such as seeing the iconic Konoko Falls and exploring tropical rainforests.
Ocho Rios Bay Beach is located a short five minutes walking distance from the cruise port. Its calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginner swimmers and children. There are restaurants, bars and shops in the vicinity. Water sporting gears such are jet skis are available for rent.
1. Ocho Rios Bay Beach
Ocho Rios Bay Beach is the major coast in this region and is located in the heart of the city.
It is literally 450m from Ocho Rios cruise terminal which is about a short five minutes walk.
Savor white sands, gorgeous calm waters, and many Ocho Rios Bay Beach activities.
There is a small entry fee to the site but there are amenities to house the family for a delightful day at the coast.
Furthermore, there are various small shops and restaurants nearby to eat if you don’t want to carry your own meals.
You will discover the waters to be of perfect snorkeling quality, so bring your equipment if you desire to witness the aquatic world.
The shore is secure, and contains silky smooth white sand and water so clear and pristine that you will see hordes of little fishes wandering around the beach.
The water remains knee height for a while, so you will need to walk for a bit for it to reach shoulder level.
Nonetheless, the shallow water makes it ideal if you have children and persons who are novice swimmers.
2. Dunn’s River Falls Beach
Dunn’s River Falls Beach is among the most explored landmarks in Jamaica, located 4.5 km from Ocho Rios Cruise Terminal and within Dunn’s River Falls and Park.
Experience something extraordinary and special by bringing your friends and family to Dunn’s River Falls Park and Beach.
At this coast, located at the bottom of the falls, you can discover sparkling, clean water perfect for swimming and a sandy coastline where you can rest and bask under the sun.
This lifeguard-secured shoreline provides lots of enjoyable things for you to do like sailing catamarans, kayaking, scuba diving and snorkeling.
Activities to do at the park include climbing slippery rocks, riding a bamboo raft down a river, and much more.
Access to the seaside is covered with the park’s entry fee. So head back down and grab a dip after you have conquered the ascending falls.
This beach tends to be crowded especially if there is a cruise ship in harbor.
3. Mammee Bay Beach
Mammee Bay Beach is a highly desirable location due to its spacious coastline, fresh sky-blue water, and entertainment opportunities.
It is found only 7.5 km away from Ocho Rios Cruise Terminal.
One of the most memorable things to do in Jamaica is to drive to Mammee Bay Beach with your buddies and partner for a much needed stress-relieving holiday time.
During the day, you can lounge on the soft sand and relax under the sun.
You can also have a thrill by exploring the ocean in a glass-bottom boat, heading for a leisurely swim, windsurfing and wakeboarding
And in the evening, there are usually lively parties. You and your friends can drink tropical beverages, dance to reggae music, and relax by the heat of a seafront bonfire while looking at the starry sky.
The Bamboo Blu Restaurant is an appealing option for you to eat in. You can savor delicious dishes, like juicy steaks, grilled lobsters, and savory chicken wings. This restaurant also has a vegan friendly meal options.
4. James Bond Beach
The James Bond beach is about 20 km from Ocho Rios Cruise Terminal and around 20 minutes’ drive outside Ocho Rios in Oracabessa.
The James Bond Beach received its name due to its closeness to the opulence Goldeneye site where Ian Fleming composed the well-known 007 books.
It is said that this was his private hideaway where he wrote 14 of his notable “007” nail-biters.
The turquoise blue waters settled in the hills over Ocho Rios are the coast’s main highlight. This small cove has incredibly calm water with few waves.
It’s a fairly small beach with a rural vibe. You can expect to discover some residents playing dominoes or football (soccer) nearby, so this is your place if you are searching to have a genuine Jamaican experience.
If you wish for tourist friendly amenities, this coast may not suit you. Nevertheless, you get pleasure from hanging with the natives and hearing a few incredible stories about the experiences of local fishermen.
There is a bar on the site that makes an excellent cocktail and snacks. Furthermore, you can engage in the fresh fish and lobster offered every day by local fishermen and prepared at the beachside.
5. Bamboo Beach Club
The Bamboo Beach Club is a private, safe coast, located about 40 km from Ocho Rios Cruise Terminal.
The water is crystal blue, calm and rejuvenating. It’s extremely quiet and not too wavy, but you can tell there’s no reef stopping the sea current.
Upon arrival, you are assigned a server who will provide you with a lounge chair.
There are all-inclusive drink and food packages, reggae drummers, Jamaican dancers, singers and acrobats outfitted in costumes at this location.
They will keep you well engaged and entertained throughout the day.
Additionally, there is a small craft market but the vendors are not aggressive and will not be constantly asking you to make a purchase.
Nevertheless, the beach is a little rocky at the shoreline so be sure to bring your water shoes for a comfortable experience.
Final Thoughts
We trust that you found the information above valuable as you enjoy the beach while on a Caribbean cruise in Ocho Rios.
Due to its location, Jamaica can experience tropical hurricanes during the season which commences in June and ends in November annually.
Therefore, if you are planning a trip to the island, travel insurance is recommended.
The last hurricane to affect Jamaica was Hurricane Fiona in 2022. This system however did not make landfall.
Need More Information?
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