Jamaica Attractions

Once a sleepy fishing village, Negril is now one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the Caribbean. Its claim to fame is its seven-mile stretch of soft sand that gently slopes into the translucent waters. Hippies once roamed this section of the island, forming communes. Now the coastline is available to families who prefer swimsuits to nudity. The beaches of Montego Bay, or MoBay as the locals call it, are only minutes away from the international airport. Walter Fletcher and Doctor's Cave Beaches have been attracting visitors since the 1940's, when the affluent went there to bathe in the warm water that's fed by mineral springs. Today, these beaches border Gloucester Avenue, the main tourist strip in MoBay.

Another fun jaunt is a taxi trip to the birthplace and final resting spot of Bob Marley in the small rural village of Nine Mile. As you cruise higher and higher into the mountains, you'll pass kids dressed in navy and sky blue uniforms as they walk to school. Soon, you'll at the Bob Marley Mausoleum, lighting a candle and walking around the tomb of Jamaica's greatest spokesperson, who died far too young at the age of 36.

Upon entering, you'll no doubt feel like a small fish in shark-infested waters. Every store owner seems to be saying "Sir, come visit me. Over here. Maximum respect, mon." Don't try to go to every hut. Find refuge with someone who has a friendly smile. Then proceed to purchase most of your souvenirs from him, including carvings, paintings, dolls and a bag of Jamaica's richly flavored Blue Mountain Coffee.

The highlight of any trip to Ocho Rios is the hour climb up Dunn's River Falls. You'll hike 600 feet up the rock steps as the waters come barreling down. Strolling hand-in-hand and helped by a guide up the slippery steps, guests will find it to be an exhilarating and memorable way to spend a morning. There's no need to take a guided tour of the falls since there are employees at the site ready to help.

Chukka also takes guest on horseback rides to Papillion Bay, a pristine cove with no other people. Ride at a casual pace along the coast, and stop for a cool drink of pineapple juice. The next thing you know, you'll be following the guide into the ocean waters on horseback!

Named for the British merchant family that owned this estate in the 18th century, Rhodes Hall Plantation has been operating since the 1700s, when its main harvest was sugar cane and rum. Now it's a nature-lover's paradise offering a wide range of activities for kids and adults alike. Families can explore the land by horseback or take an eco-tour and check out the mangrove swamps, home to the largest crocodile reserve and dozens of unique birds and animal species. Snorkel in the warm shallow waters, explore the reef on a glass-bottom boat or take a leisurely cruise and enjoy fishing in the bay. Those daring enough can also try out the Cousin's Cove Cave Tour, which is especially fun at sunset when you can watch more than 15,000 bats emerge from the caves.

Almost every day in winter, around 6 p.m., folks head to Rick's Cafe to watch the sun set. People often dive off the cliffs near this sprawling bar and restaurant into the ocean below, but I would advise the kids not to follow their lead. Instead, plant yourselves down in a row of chairs, and get ready for the nightly light show.

Another favorite way to spend a morning or afternoon in the Ocho Rios region is inside large tubes, floating down the mountainous White River. High in the hills above Ocho Rios, the water is cool and is as clear as gin. Guides sing Bob Marley songs as you flow with the slow-moving current. Listen to the high-pitched call of the yellow banana quit bird, and peer out at the green mosaic of ferns, banana trees and thickets of bamboo that climb the banks of this sinuous waterway like ivy climbs a wall. The River Tubing Safari is one of the many adventures offered by Chukka Caribbean Adventures, a reputable Jamaican outfitter.