Cruise and Beach Destinations
in the Caribbean, Mexico & Beyond

Caribeez.com
Jamaica

Family Vacations

Dunn’s River Falls; © Caribeez.com

Cruise visitors to Jamaica will find up to four major ports where they might land – Ochos Rios, Falmouth, Montego Bay or Port Antonio.

Each of these ports will provide a different family vacation experience.

Must See Family Attractions

Dunn’s River Falls
These spectacular waterfalls near Ocho Rios are the road more traveled and a great choice for where families can explore and climb. There are a lot of great look outs and one can get some of the most beautiful pictures on the island.

Blue Hole Mineral Springs
If the family has never experienced a true mineral spring before then this one near Ocho Rios is the place to visit. It is a giant cavern in the ground where visitors can heat up and swim in a truly unique setting unlike any other. Plus those who have visited have said it is healthy for the skin, hair, and nails.

Child Friendly Dining

The Ruins
If a restaurant with a great view from the dining table is appealing to families, then this is a good choice. It is located next to Dunn’s River Falls so that families can enjoy some beautiful sites while they are dining.

A Ruined Romance
The site of the restaurant offers one to consider an interesting history lesson of a romance gone wrong.  It is said that the owner of the sugar plan that is now in ruins chained his wife and her lover to a wall inside a cave before sealing the cave shut and leaving them there.  The legends are aplenty while dining at this unique establishment.

Favorite Family Beaches

Doctor’s Cave Beach
This beach is a beautiful choice that is fed by the mineral springs, so the temperatures are moderate all year long.  The turquoise-colored waters are some of the most breathtaking in the world.

Seven Mile Beach
The longest stretch of beach on the island provides enough space that families can enjoy packing the golden sand into the most elaborate castles or splashing around in the waves while swimming.  No matter what one wants out of a beach this is a great choice for families because there is a little bit of everything.

Best Family Shopping

Musgrave Market
This outdoor market on the island is a popular option at Port Antonio.  It is a perfect choice for families because they have a lot of different choices here with locally crafted goods and fun t-shirts alike.

Starfish Oils
This unique shop is going to allow families to be able to find a variety of bath products and perfumes.  There are even choices that allow families to create their own fragrances that are customized to their liking.

Adventures and Excursions

Barrett Adventures
No matter what type of excursion or adventure that a family is looking for with Barrett Adventures they can find it.  This is the best excursion/adventure company on the island and a great choice for a family looking to create the perfect exciting memories.

Dolphin Cove
Swimming with dolphins is a family favorite around the globe. Dolphin Cove features dolphins that are allowed to swim in natural settings, which keeps them happy and cuts down any risk of being with dolphins that have not been treated ethically.

Jamaica is a beautiful island where any family can get caught up in the breathtaking beauty and rich history.  Families will never tire of finding new adventures or places to explore while visiting. 

Scott S. Bateman is a professional journalist who has traveled widely throughout the Caribbean and the Americas. He is the author of four books about cruising in the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera.
February 17, 2020

Falmouth Cruise Port Guide

Falmouth cruise terminal
Historic Falmouth Cruise Port is a 32-acre terminal and historical park on Jamaica's northern coast.

Montego Bay Cruise Port Guide

Montego Bay
Montego Bay, Jamaica, is a western Caribbean cruise port and the tourism capital of Jamaica.

Ocho Rios Cruise Port Guide

Ocho Rios harbor
Ocho Rios cruise port visitors will find one of the best destinations for things to do in Jamaica.

4 Best Jamaican Beaches for Cruise and Resort Visitors

Best and Worst Times to Visit Jamaica

12 Best Jamaica Tourist Attractions

Jamaica Travel Tips: Hotels, Attractions, Weather

Jamaica Monthly Weather Averages: Rain, Temperatures