Planning a Caribbean beach vacation with your loved ones? Ocho Rios and Negril are two of the most popular tourist destinations for travelers looking for an exotic beach vacation in the Caribbean island nation of Jamaica.
Here are 30 quick facts about the beautiful coastal town of Ocho Rios, which is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches and luxury all-star beachfront resorts.
- Jamaica is the third-largest island in the Caribbean and is famous for its picturesque beach towns Ocho Rios and Negril.
- Ocho Rios is a Spanish phrase that translates to “eight rivers.”
- Climate: All of Jamaica, including Ocho Rios, has a tropical and humid climate throughout the year. The average annual temperature is a pleasant 26°C or 79°F.
- Local weather: Ocho Rios is the hottest in June (at 29°C/84°F) and the coolest in January (at 26°C/79°F). It sees maximum rain in October.
- Best time to visit: December, January, and May are when most tourists visit Ocho Rios. December to February, the winter season, is considered the best time to visit Ocho Rios if you don’t mind the crowds and the high prices. Else, go during fall (September to November) or spring (March to May).
- Population: Ocho Rios is a port town located on Jamaica’s north coast and has a population of about 10,000.
- Language: English is widely spoken and understood across Jamaica.
- Ocho Rios is known for its natural beauty of white sand beaches, waterfalls and, botanical gardens.
- Time zone: Ocho Rios follows EST (Eastern Standard Time).
- Economy: The economy of this quaint resort town survives and thrives on international tourism.
- Port town: The town of Ocho Rios serves as a port for cargo and cruise ships.
- Airport: The nearest airport is the Sangster International Airport. Other airports that accept international flights are located in Montego Bay and Kingston.
- Currency: Locals transact in Jamaican dollars but USD is readily accepted across Jamaica.
- Public library: Ocho Rios has its own town library, open all weekdays and also on Saturday.
- Emergency number: 119 is the number to call in case of emergencies such as fire or accident or theft.
- Jazz Festival: Ocho Rios is famous for its two-week annual Jazz Festival, held mid-June.
- Dunn’s: The stunning Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios’ most popular natural attraction, located about 2.5 miles from the cruise ship port.
- Post office: The local post office is located on Main Street and is open all weekdays.
- Courier: Use UPS for sending mail or packages faster and to avoid the crowds at the post office. The local office is located in Ocean Village.
- Hospital: Ocho Rios does have a clinic on Main Street but it does not have a hospital. The nearest hospital is located about 7 miles away in St. Ann’s Bay.
- Medication: There are several pharmacies in town and most are open all days of the week.
- ATMs: There are several banks and ATMs located throughout town.
- Things to do: Snorkeling, white water rafting, water and land sports, Bobsledding at Mystic Mountain, and exploring local markets and street-side cuisine.
- Places to see Sun Valley Plantation, Dunns’ River Falls, Fern Gully, Green Grotto Caves, Coyaba Museum and Gardens, Reggae Explosion Museum, Firefly Museum and Bar, Riverhead Adventure Trail, and more.
- Shopping: Shop at the local crafts market, shopping plazas, Ocho Rios Craft Park, and several duty-free shops. Be prepared to be pestered by street vendors to buy something and don’t forget to bargain.
- Getting around: The best way to get around Ocho Rios is by renting a taxicab through JUTA (Jamaica Union of Travelers Association).
- All-inclusive luxury vacations: Ocho Rios is home to some of the Caribbean’s best luxury beach resorts and hotels that offer attractive Jamaica all-inclusive travel deals for families, couples, as well as group travelers.
- Safety: Ocho Rios receives a large number of visitors each year and is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to not venture out alone in the dark and to avoid traveling with strangers. Check the US Government’s latest travel advisory on traveling to Jamaica.
- National Holidays: Independence Day, Good Friday, Easter, Christmas, New Year’s Day, Emancipation Day, Ash Wednesday, National Heroes Day, and Boxing Day.
- Water: While filtered tap water at your resort may be safe to drink, carry bottled water when going out and also if you’re prone to falling sick.
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