Hidden Gems in Jamaica: 11+ Unique Things to Do & Places to Go
Looking for unique things to do in Jamaica that are off-the-beaten-path?
If you’re anything like us, we’re always searching for hidden gems tucked away from the tourist crowds.
When someone says Jamaica, all-inclusive resorts and beaches may be the first to come to mind.
But we’re here to tell you that it’s SO much more than that!
Jamaica is full of hidden gems and unique things to do — you just have to find them!
From visiting the Blue Mountains for some of the world’s best coffee to hiking to beautiful waterfalls — Jamaica has plenty of off-the-beaten-path activities waiting to be explored (by YOU!).
We’ll list some of the best unique activities you can find in Jamaica, some we’ve visited recently, and others are on our list for next time!
Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities in Jamaica
1. Stay in the Blue Mountains
There is nothing more off-the-beaten-path in Jamaica than staying in the beautiful Blue Mountains.
In fact, only 1% of tourists visit the Blue Mountains!
Why Stay in the Blue Mountains? The Blue and John Crow Mountains are approximately 4,000ft above sea level, providing a peaceful escape from the tourist crowds and the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure.
Some fun activities in the Blue Mountains include:
- Bird watching – Jamaica is home to over 28 endemic bird species.
- Hiking to Blue Mountain Peak – Conquer Jamaica’s highest peak at 7,402 feet.
- Going on a Coffee Plantation Tour – Some of the best coffee in the world is grown in the Blue Mountains!
- Waterfall Exploration – Perfect for a swim in a cool mountain pool.
Where to Stay: We stayed at Lime Tree Farms for three days. This eco-friendly homestead offers gorgeous views of Jamaica and an opportunity to ‘unplug.’ Note that you will need a 4×4 vehicle!
You can read more about staying at the Blue Mountains with our Blue Mountains Guide!
2. Raft along a Scenic River
Black River Safari
- Location: South Coast (about 1 1/2 hours from Negril)
The Black River is one of the longest rivers in Jamaica. Thanks to the surrounding mangrove forest, it is known for its calm waters.
During this guided Safari Tour, prepare to see crocodiles, multiple species of birds, iguanas, manatees, tropical plants, and more! Note that this tour also includes a trip to popular YS Falls.
Most tours provide transportation, as the Black River Safari is about 1 1/2 hours from Negril.
Tip: Combine this tour with other activities on the South Coast, including Treasure Beach and Appleton Estates (both discussed below).
Rio Grande Bamboo River Rafting
- Location: Port Antonio (about 2 hours from Kingston)
The Rio Grande River flows through the Blue Mountains before reaching the ocean, offering scenic views of the jungle and surrounding mountains.
A Rio Grande River Tour will take you down the river on a traditional handcrafted bamboo raft, increasing the chances of spotting wildlife as it’s a quiet alternative to a boat with a motor.
Rafting down the Rio Grande takes approximately 2-3 hours.
White River tubing
- Location: Ocho Rios
The White River isn’t as relaxing as the Black River or the Rio Grande, as it has fast-moving water and is known for its gentle rapids.
Floating down the White River is best on a tube!
Here are a few White River and tubing tours on Viator, some combined with popular tourist attractions such as Dunn’s River.
Martha Brae River Rafting
- Location: Trelawny (about 1 hour from Montego Bay)
Like the Rio Grande, tours along the Martha Brae River are usually on handcrafted bamboo rafts.
This river is known for its gentle, slow-moving water surrounded by lush jungle landscapes.
Again, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife, including birds, iguanas, and fish.
Here are a few bamboo rafting tours on the Martha Brae River near Montego Bay.
3. Learn How Rum is Made at Appleton Estates
- Location: Saint Elizabeth (approximately 2 hours from Montego Bay, Negril, and Kingston)
- Directions: Appleton Estate
- Admission Fee: $39 USD per person
Appleton Estates is one of Jamaica’s most famous and historic rum distillers.
Although popular, it’s not as touristy as expected due to its distance from popular tourist locations.
Touring Appleton Estates is a fun and unique activity in Jamaica, as you’ll learn about the different stages of making rum, from collecting the sugar cane to making molasses and finally distilling the final product.
Purchase tickets to Appleton Estate in advance to guarantee a tour and tasting.
4. Go on a Bioluminescent Lagoon Tour
- Location: Falmouth, between Montego Bay & Ocho Rios
Experiencing the glowing waters of a bioluminescent lagoon should be on your bucket list of unique things to do in Jamaica.
Best time to Visit: After sunset, ideally when the full moon isn’t outshining the glowing water. The warmer months tend to produce the best results.
Kayaking or boating through the luminous lagoon is one of the best ways to view the water. The organisms that create the blueish-green glow only light up when disturbed by movement.
5. Explore a (lesser-traveled) Waterfall
YS Falls
- Location: St. Elizabeth, South Coast. About 2 hours from Negril, Montego Bay, or Kingston
- Directions: YS Falls
- Admission Fee: $21 USD per person
YS Falls is a popular waterfall near Negril. However, it’s far less crowded than the popular Dunn’s River Falls.
Getting to YS Falls: You can either book a tour, which includes transportation, or park your rental car in the designated lot. After arriving, you’ll pay and be transported to the falls via a provided bus.
These falls exceeded our expectations. There are multiple tiers, each providing a spot to swim and explore. A guide employed by YS Falls will help you navigate up the river and take pictures, too! (Tipping is highly recommended.)
There are also a few natural pools on the grounds if you’d prefer something more relaxing.
Blue Hole Secret Falls
- Location: About 10 minutes from Ocho Rios
- Directions: Blue Hole Secret Falls
- Admission Fee: $25 USD per person
The Blue Hole, or Secret Falls, is a natural swimming hole with crystal-clear blue water.
Plan to stay a few hours here; not only can you swim in the beautiful waters, but you can also rope swing or go cliff jumping, with cliffs ranging from 10-25 feet high.
Blue Hole Mineral Springs
- Location: Near Negril, about 30 minutes
- Directions: Blue Hole Mineral Springs
- Admission Fee: $20 USD per person
If you’ve never been to a cenote, then you should visit Blue Hole Mineral Springs, as that’s basically what it is!
The Blue Hole isn’t a waterfall but is a hole in the ground where you can jump from 15-20 feet into a cavern filled with crystal-clear water.
We’ve been to many cenotes, so unfortunately, Blue Hole Mineral Springs didn’t impress us very much. Luckily, we were the only people there, so we had it all to ourselves. However, we probably wouldn’t have stayed very long if it had been crowded.
Penfield River Falls
- Location: Near Kingston and the Blue Mountains
- Directions: Penfield River Falls
- Admission Fee: 150 Jamaican per person
Located in Gordon Town near Kingston, this waterfall is off-the-beaten-path, and you’ll likely be the only one there.
The falls are easy to find; cross two bridges and follow the gravel road for approximately 15 minutes.
These falls have three tiers, some of which make great swimming holes. However, the water was a bit chilly when we were there.
6. Go ATV-ing at Jamwest Motorsports & Adventure Park
- Location: About 25 minutes from Negril
- Directions: Jamwest Motorsports
Jamwest Motorsports & Adventure Park offers a variety of unique things to do in Jamaica for the whole family to enjoy, including riding ATVs, ziplining, horseback riding, and more.
You can also purchase the Driving Experience, where you can race THREE sports cars!
No rental car? No problem. Jamwest will pick you up from your hotel/accommodation in Negril!
7. Have a Relaxing Beach Day
You’ve probably heard of the famous Seven Mile Beach. Although overcrowded, you should visit this renowned beach at least once.
However, if you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path and less crowded, opt for these other options:
- Lime Kay (Kingston) – Great for snorkeling, this secluded beach in Jamaica can only be reached by boat and is relatively quiet. The boat ride is approximately 15 minutes from Port Royal and costs about $10 USD. As this beach is undeveloped, plan to pack a picnic or something to eat.
- Treasure Beach (South Coast) – This beach has a laid-back vibe and is known for its peaceful, non-touristy environment. Nearby, visit the famous Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a floating bar in the middle of the ocean. There are four coves at Treasure Beach that are great for relaxing:
- Frenchman’s Bay
- Billy’s Bay
- Calabash Bay
- Great Bay
- Blue Lagoon (Fairy Hill, East Coast) – Known for its crystal-clear and vibrant blue water, it is the perfect spot to relax and swim, although it’s a profound 200ft deep! Renting a boat or kayak is also an option for approximately $30.
- Little Bay Beach (Negril) – A small beach about 5 miles east of Negril, this beach is uncrowded and will be perfect for those seeking a quiet beach to relax.
- James Bond Beach (Ocho Rios) – Famous due to the movie, this beach can be a little crowded on weekends. If you’d like a luxurious stay, GoldenEye Resort is right around the corner.
- Doctor’s Cave Beach (Montego Bay) – Although it can be crowded, it’s one of the best beaches in Montego Bay due to its calm and clear waters.
8. Visit one of Jamaica’s Maroon Villages
Escaped enslaved Africans created independent communities in Jamaica’s rugged mountains, now known as the Maroon Villages.
These villages are significant to Jamaica’s history and culture as the Maroons played a key role in resisting the colonial powers of the island.
You can visit the Maroon villages in different island parishes to experience and learn about their unique culture. They are known for their music, dance, and self-sufficiency.
Maroon villages you can visit:
- Accompong Town (St. Elizabeth) – One of the most famous Maroon Villages still inhabited by Maroon descendants. Renowned for its annual celebration on January 6th, commemorating the treaty with the British.
- Charles Town (Portland) – One of the largest Maroon Villages.
- Moore Town (Portland) – One of the oldest Maroon communities, founded by Queen Nanny, who is celebrated on Nanny Day on October 19th.
9. Take a Tour of Green Grotto Caves
- Location: Between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios
- Directions: Green Grotto Caves
Another unique thing to do in Jamaica is to take a guided tour of Green Grotto Caves to see the limestone formations and the distinctive green underground lake.
Tours last approximately 30 minutes to an hour, during which you’ll learn about the history and formation.
You’ll also have the chance to spot a few critters, including bats, snails, and snakes.
10. Go on a Haunted Tour of Rose Hall Great House
- Location: Near Montego Bay
- Directions: Rose Hall Great House
Okay, ghost hunters. You probably know about this one.
Rose Hall Great House is legendary for its stunning architecture and legendary tales of ghostly hauntings.
Rose Hall was originally a sugar plantation, relying on African slave labor. After the owner (John Palmer) died, his wife (Annie Palmer) took over the estate, who would later be referred to as the “White Witch of Rose Hall”.
Visitors can either take a day tour of the house and gardens or, if you’d prefer the spooky visit, opt for the haunted night tour instead.
11. Explore Downtown Kingston
Kingston is the capital of Jamaica and is also the largest city on the island.
This vibrant city is at the base of the Blue Mountains and is known for it’s rich history and culture.
If you’re a fan of Reggae music or Bob Marley in particular, Kingston has a couple of things worth visiting. The Bob Marley Museum, located in the former home of the famous singer, is a great place to start.
Another great option is to visit the Devon House. The 19th-century historic mansion is known for its beautiful architecture and grounds. Note that you’ll have to purchase a tour to see the house’s interior, which costs about $24 USD per adult.
While you’re here, you must visit the famous Devon House I-Scream, which National Geographic voted the fourth best place in the world to have ice cream. We had the pleasure of tasting it ourselves, and we have to say it was pretty good!
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path and unique things to do in Jamaica!
Staying in the Blue Mountains was one of the best experiences we’ve had in Jamaica. If you plan on staying here or just visiting, renting a 4×4 vehicle is essential.
And don’t be afraid to participate in a unique activity with little to no reviews. Off-the-beaten-path activities usually have fewer reviews for that reason.
We hope you have a fun and unique experience in Jamaica! Irie mon! 🇯🇲
