If These 11 Unique Things to Do in Jamaica (Northern Coast) Aren’t on Your List, You’re Missing Out!

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Think Jamaica is all about sunbathing and sipping rum on the beach? But what if we told you the real magic is beyond its pretty shoreline? The northern coast, around Ocho Rios and Portland, offers unique things to do in Jamaica that go way beyond the usual tourist spots. Imagine hiking misty mountain trails, rafting through jungle rivers, and chasing waterfalls hidden deep in the rainforest. There’s so much more to this island than white sand and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. Forget the usual tourist traps, like swimming with dolphins in captivity, and learn about unusual experiences you cannot find anywhere else.

This is the site of the island tourists never see, but you can!

Why Trust Our Guide to Jamaica’s Hidden Gems?

We don’t just write about destinations—we live and breathe them. In 2018, we spent 14 days exploring Jamaica with a local driver from Ocho Rios. We visited the island’s best-kept secrets and hidden corners beyond the usual tourist hotspots. From secluded waterfalls deep in the rainforest to bioluminescent waters that glow in the dark, we’ve experienced it all firsthand.

This article isn’t just another travel guide—it’s a deep dive into one of Jamaica’s most extraordinary attractions, told from firsthand experiences, adventures, and encounters with locals. Every fact, tip, and recommendation comes from our personal journey through this vibrant Caribbean island. Whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, or hopeless romantic, our insider insights will help you experience Jamaica’s northern coast like a local. Forget the typical tourist traps—we’re here to show you the real Jamaica.

Unique and unusual things to do in Jamaica

1. Glistening waters

©ledvance.com

If someone told you there’s a place where water glows when you touch it, would you believe them? The Luminous Lagoon is one of the world’s rarest natural wonders, yet many tourists don’t even know it exists. As soon as the boat moves through the dark waters, the lagoon suddenly comes to life, glowing bright blue. Every splash, every ripple, creates a shimmering neon light show. The best part? The real magic happens when you jump in—every movement sets off a glowing explosion in the water. It’s an experience you’ll talk about for years!

DID YOU KNOW?

The bioluminescent bay near Ocho Rios is one of the brightest in the world. This once-in-a-lifetime experience barely feels real. Millions of microscopic organisms light up like magic and create a breathtaking bioluminescent effect. The lagoon is safe, shallow (about 3-8 ft), and warm, making it perfect for swimming in glowing waters.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Avoid full moon nights or rainy days—the glow won’t be as bright.
Sit at the back of the boat for the most stunning views.
Wear water shoes—the bottom is soft and muddy.
Photos and videos are hard to capture. Enjoy the moment and create memories – the experience is better than any picture.
Tours run from sunset to 9 PM and last 30–45 minutes.

If you miss this, you’re missing the most magical experience in Jamaica!

2. Frenchman Cove

Ever dreamed of finding a hidden tropical paradise? Frenchman’s Cove is an unusual attraction on the northern coast, tucked away from the crowds of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Surrounded by jungle and protected by cliffs, this small, secluded white sand beach is like a scene from a dream. That’s why it was featured in the movies No Time to Die, Cocktail, Lord of the Flies, Knight and Day, and others.

What makes it special? A freshwater river from the Blue Mountains meets the Caribbean Sea, creating an unusual mix of cool and warm waters. Frenchman’s Cove also made it a top pick for Forbes and Conde Nast Traveller as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

The soft sand, clear waters, and surrounding expansive tropical gardens make Frenchman’s Cove excellent for relaxation.

In the 1960s, the luxury resort was a private escape for the rich and famous, offering an exclusive retreat away from the public eye. Legend has it that the name comes from a historic battle between the British and French. When the British won, the wounded soldiers took refuge here – hence the name, Frenchman’s Cove.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Frenchman’s Cove lies on the eastern side of the island in Portland parish. The walk to the beach takes about 5 minutes.
The beach is open to the public from 9 AM to 5 PM.
As of March 2025, you must pay an entrance fee to the beach, if you are not staying at Frenchman’s Cove Resort. A beach pass for an adult (over 12 yrs) costs JMD 2,500 (USD 16), and kids (4-12yrs) pay JMD 1,500 (USD 9.60), free for under 4s.
FACILITIES: Freshwater showers, restrooms, lounge chairs (USD 3 per chair)
FOOD: Locally operated Beach Bar & Grill (outside food/drinks not allowed)

3. Blue Lagoon

Jamaica boasts many gorgeous beaches with turquoise waters, but the Blue Lagoon is nature’s changing masterpiece.

This lagoon on the northwest shore of the island in the parish of Portland is also one of the most unusual attractions on Jamaica’s northern coast. The Blue Lagoon is a one-of-a-kind natural wonder and is the island’s largest underground spring-fed lagoon.

If this place looks familiar, it’s because Hollywood fell in love with it too—Brooke Shields’ iconic movie The Blue Lagoon was filmed right here. But despite its fame, the lagoon remains a peaceful retreat hidden in a cove surrounded by lush vegetation. This isn’t a formal tourist attraction, making it an untouched slice of paradise.

While the Blue Lagoon movie put this hidden gem on the map, locals still call it the Blue Hole.

LEGEND:

Locals once believed this lagoon was bottomless and home to a legendary dragon. However, divers later measured it and now know it’s around 180–200 ft (54–60 m) deep, making it an incredible spot for deep-water swimming.

WHY VISIT THE BLUE LAGOON?

It’s not just the legend and mystery that make this place special—it’s the water itself. The lagoon has a mix of fresh mineral spring water and warm Caribbean seawater. The result? A surreal swimming experience where you’ll feel warm one second and cool the next. Whether you swim, snorkel, or take a bamboo raft ride, the views here will steal your breath away. Depending on the sunlight, the lagoon shifts between brilliant shades of blue and green, making every moment look like a perfect postcard.

Swimming here is unlike any other experience, and boat rides allow you to see its incredible colour shifts throughout the day. The shifting blues, the hidden paradise feel, and the refreshing water make the Blue Lagoon a must-visit destination.

GOOD TO KNOW:

LOCATION: 8 km (5 mi) east of Port Antonio
DISTANCES FROM: Ocho Rios (2.5 hours), Montego Bay (4+ hours), Kingston (2 hours 15 mins), Negril (5+ hours)
As of March 2025, there is still no entrance fee to the Blue Lagoon.
WHAT TO BRING: Camera, towel, insect repellent, sunscreen, and some cash
FACILITIES: No restaurants nearby, so pack food or grab snacks from local vendors
If you want to see that vibrant blue colour, visit when the sun is bright. After heavy rain, the water may turn murky green from hillside runoff, so plan accordingly.

No time to read now? Don’t forget to bookmark this post about the unique things to do in Jamaica, so you can quickly find it.

4. Rafting at the Blue Lagoon

See where Tom Cruise filmed Cocktail.

Imagine floating on crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush greenery, while a local guide tells you fascinating stories about the Blue Lagoon and its Hollywood fame. Bamboo rafting is not just for fun—it has deep roots in Jamaica’s history. Originally, farmers used these rafts to transport bananas from Portland to the coast. Today, you can enjoy a slow, peaceful ride on one of the most beautiful lagoons on earth. A bamboo raft ride at the Blue Lagoon is one of the most unique things to do in Jamaica—relaxing, scenic, and unforgettable.

5. Monkey Island

This little gem got its name from a colony of monkeys that belonged to Hiram Bingham, the explorer famous for rediscovering Machu Picchu. Now, Monkey Island is a peaceful escape, with a small white sand beach and shallow, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Some locals say that at low tide, you can walk from the mainland to the island. The island is covered in dense vegetation, giving it a wild, untouched feel. Many refer to it as Pellew Island.

Kayak over, snorkel in the clear waters, relax on the beach, and watch out for sea urchins on the seabed. The visibility underwater is incredible, making it one of the best snorkelling spots in the area.

6. Marta Brae River

Marta Brae River © Visit Jamaica

Long before Jamaica’s highways, the Martha Brae River was the main route for transporting sugar cane. Today, it’s an unforgettable bamboo rafting experience, offering a peaceful escape into the heart of nature.

Only one hour from Ocho Rios, this 3-mile bamboo rafting adventure lets you glide through dense tropical greenery, guided by a local expert who knows every twist of the river. A one-hour rafting experience on a handcrafted bamboo raft takes you along a peaceful river. The only sounds you’ll hear are birds singing and water gently moving beneath your raft.

TIP:

If you crave more excitement, try river tubing, where you’ll ride the currents through gentle twists and turns.

7. Reach Falls

If you’re a waterfall lover and hate crowded attractions, visit Reach Falls. Tucked deep in the Montane Forest of the John Crow Mountains, this breathtaking waterfall is truly special. Once a secret hideaway for runaway slaves, this waterfall now offers a peaceful escape, with cascading waters tumbling into an emerald-green pool. Swim under the falls, explore a hidden underwater cave, or take a guided river tour upstream, and hike through jungle trails – the area is also home to rare parrots and over 23 species of ferns. Hollywood loves Reach Falls, too—it was featured in Tom Cruise’s ‘Cocktail’ and ‘Lord of the Flies’. But unlike other famous waterfalls, this one isn’t packed with tourists—giving you more space to fully enjoy it.

GOOD TO KNOW:

LOCATION: 6 miles (9 km) from Long Bay
ENTRY FEES (as of March 2025): USD 10 per adult, USD 5 per child (11 and under)
FACILITIES: Visitor’s centre with changing facilities

8. Bob Marley Mausoleum

Ever wondered where Bob Marley’s story truly began? Not in a grand city or a luxurious home, but in a tiny village high in the hills of Jamaica. If you love reggae, culture, and off-the-beaten-path adventures, visiting Nine Mile is one of the most unique things to do in Jamaica.

Hidden in the lush, misty St. Ann Hills, just over an hour from Ocho Rios, Nine Mile is Bob Marley’s birthplace and a final resting place. The drive there is an experience—expect narrow roads, steep climbs, and beautiful mountain views. Then, suddenly, you arrive in a quiet village where time seems to have stopped.

The journey up to the village is unforgettable with lush landscapes, and views that stretch for miles. This is what real Jamaica looks like. If you drive, make sure you honk your horn to let everyone know that you are coming.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Inside Bob’s humble childhood home, you’ll see his simple bedroom and childhood possessions. You can even spot the guitar he strummed as a young boy. This is where he wrote his first lyrics and dreamed of spreading peace through music. Then comes the mausoleum—a sacred white stone structure where Bob rests above ground in a marble tomb, alongside his mother. The energy is quiet yet powerful, with candles burning and visitors paying their respects.Unlike traditional burials, Bob’s marble tomb is placed above ground, in line with Ethiopian Rastafarian beliefs.

Near the tomb is the Rasta-coloured meditation rock. This is where Bob rested his head, mediated, and wrote lyrics that changed the world.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Smoking marijuana is legal inside Nine Mile—expect it everywhere. As a parent, you may reconsider taking this tour with kids (everyone expects to have some marijuana).
A vegetarian restaurant and souvenir shop are on-site.
ADMISSION FEE: As of March 2025, the entrance fee to the Bob Marley Mausoleum costs USD 30 for adults and USD 15 for children.

9. Blue Mountains

Would you like to hike through clouds, drink the world’s best coffee, and see both of Jamaica’s coastlines from one peak? If yes was your answer, then the Blue Mountains should be at the top of your list of best places to visit in Jamaica.

This iconic mountain range dominates the eastern third of the island. It stretches over 45 km. It’s the longest mountain range on the island. Named after the misty blue hue that surrounds them, the Blue Mountains offer adventure and unforgettable experiences. Their beauty isn’t just in their views—it’s in the rich history, diverse wildlife, and world-famous coffee.

A PARADISE FOR NATURE LOVERS:

The Blue Mountains’ remote and untouched forests make them a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They’re home to over 500 plant species, Jamaica’s only native land mammal (the Jamaican coney), and the largest butterfly in the Americas (the Homerus swallowtail). Birdwatchers will love spotting the island’s national bird, the doctor bird, and dozens of other species.

A COFFEE LOVER’S DREAM:

Did you know that Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is one of the most expensive and sought-after coffees in the world? It grows in the cool, misty slopes between 600m and 1,500m above sea level, creating a smooth, rich, and less acidic taste. You can tour the coffee farms in Hagley Gap and Mavis Bank. See the process from bean to cup, savor freshly brewed coffee straight from the source, and learn the secrets behind this luxury product.

Other Unusual things to do in Jamaica

10. Appleton Estate Rum Tour

Ever wondered how Jamaica’s most famous rum is made? The Appleton Estate Rum Tour takes you deep into the heart of the island’s rum-making tradition. Walk through Jamaica’s world-famous sugar estate where rum has been crafted for centuries. Inhale the sweet aroma of molasses and oak barrels and watch how molasses transforms into liquid gold. Expert guides take you through every step—from freshly cut sugarcane to the rich, golden rums loved worldwide. The best part? A guided rum tasting, where experts teach you to identify rich flavors and deep aromas.

11. Rick’s Café

Would you jump off a 35-foot (10.6 m) cliff into crystal-clear Caribbean waters? At Rick’s Café in Negril, thrill-seekers take the plunge daily—while a crowd watches, cheers, and captures the moment on camera. Some even climb trees and rooftops before taking the perfect plunge! Originally owned by a local doctor, the café was the first of its kind on Negril’s cliffs. It offered an exciting alternative to the famous Seven Mile Beach in Negril.

But Rick’s Café isn’t just about death-defying cliff jumps. This legendary bar and restaurant, perched on Negril’s rugged cliffs, has been the ultimate island hangout since 1974. Back then, Negril was a quiet fishing village with no electricity. Today, Rick’s is the place to be for strong cocktails, mouthwatering Jamaican food, and an unbeatable atmosphere. It’s a place where beats mix with the sound of waves, and where the most beautiful sunsets in the Caribbean paint the sky every night. Rick’s Café isn’t just a place – it’s a tradition, an experience, and a memory you will remember forever. So, if you’re hunting for unique things to do in Jamaica with gorgeous views, this is where you need to be.

Now you know what unique and unusual things to do in Jamaica are!

Driving in Jamaica

Jamaicans drive on the left. While the main highways on the north and northwest coasts, and around Kingston and Portmore are in good shape, many other roads are a different story. Expect potholes the size of craters, poor traffic control markings, and hair-raising bends with no guardrails. Without a GPS or map, getting lost is almost guaranteed. Nighttime driving is especially dangerous-avoid it whenever possible. Poor lighting, stray animals, and unexpected obstacles make it hazardous. In rural areas, roadside assistance is rare, so if you run into trouble, you might have to rely on the kindness of strangers.

AVOID STRESS – LET SOMEONE ELSE DRIVE

If you want to explore Jamaica without the stress of driving, there are plenty of reliable private drivers. If you’re in Ocho Rios, we highly recommend Glenroy Coleman—a safe, friendly, and experienced local driver who knows the island inside out.

Email: glentours@hotmail.com

TEL:(876) 350-5964

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