A family's guide to exploring the wonders of Jamaica

As a first-generation American with Jamaican roots, I spent countless summers in Jamaica. Now, as a mother of two, I cherish bringing my kids to visit their grandmother and experience this vital piece of their heritage.

While many travelers flock to Ocho Rios, Montego Bay, and Negril, Jamaica has so much more to discover. Here are some of our top recommendations for family-friendly activities on the island.

Check out TPG's Caribbean destination hub for additional insights on traveling the region with points and miles, including accommodation and activities.

Portland Parish

Portland is Jamaica's most overlooked parish. Situated on the northeast coast, three hours from Kingston, it lacks all-inclusive resorts but boasts some of the island's most stunning scenery.

Rafting on the Rio Grande

A trip to Portland isn’t complete without rafting down the Rio Grande. My daughters enjoyed sitting on the raft's edge, their feet splashing in the refreshing water as we floated along. You can easily take a dip in the river, and life jackets are available for all. Rates begin at $80 per raft for a 90-minute round trip.

Frenchman's Cove

Frenchman's Cove is a hidden paradise. This private beach at Frenchman's Cove Resort can be accessed for a small fee of $12 for adults and $6 for children. My kids loved playing in the river, enjoying the swings and the gentle, shallow water. There’s a beachfront restaurant offering meals, snacks, and drinks, but you're welcome to bring your own food to save some money since outside food is permitted.

Reach Falls

Reach Falls is the ideal waterfall in Jamaica for families, allowing you to enjoy it without any rock climbing. Younger kids can wade in the shallow water below the falls and observe the little fish swimming around. For those with older children or if you're comfortable carrying younger ones, you can explore above the main fall, where you'll find natural pools with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming. Reach Falls is closed on Mondays but open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. the rest of the week. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids aged 4 to 11, and free for kids 3 and under.

Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios is located about two hours from both Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Konoko Falls and Park

While Dunn's River Falls is the most famous waterfall in Ocho Rios and Jamaica, it’s not the only one worth visiting. Discover the lesser-known Konoko Falls for a delightful experience. With fewer visitors and a gentler cascade, it’s a perfect choice for families, especially those with younger children. In addition to the falls, Konoko Park features a botanical garden and mini zoo, where kids can encounter exotic birds, snakes, iguanas, and more. The entrance fee is $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 3 to 12, and free for kids under 3.

Mystic Mountain

Feel the beat, embrace the thrill; it's time for bobsledding! If you and your kids enjoyed the movie "Cool Runnings," you’ll have a blast at Mystic Mountain. Experience your own Cool Runnings adventure as you zip down the bobsled track. Kids need to be at least 46 inches tall to join in, but those who meet the height requirement will have an unforgettable ride, twisting and turning down Jamaica’s scenic mountains.

After the excitement, unwind in the infinity pool with stunning ocean views or amp up the fun by sliding down the waterslide into the pool. There are also nature walks and zip-lining available. Bobsled prices start at $52 and include the Sky Lift Tour. You can also purchase packages that combine zip-lining, bobsledding, and even a trip to Dunn's River Falls.

Blue Hole/Island Gully Falls

Another favorite waterfall for families is Island Gully Falls, commonly known as Blue Hole. Here, you can climb the falls, leap into the water from a platform, or swing into the stunning blue pool. It operates Sunday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission fees are $15 for adults and $10 for kids aged 12 and under. Make sure to bring cash, as they often do not accept credit cards.

Negril

Kool Runnings Adventure Park

Kool Runnings Adventure Park is Jamaica's largest waterpark. Featuring seven waterslides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a designated area for little ones, it’s an essential destination. Beyond water fun, the park offers go-karts and paintball for those who prefer to stay dry. You can also enjoy a relaxing family rafting experience down the canal in a raft that accommodates up to six people. General admission costs $40 for guests over 48 inches, $28 for those under 48 inches, and is free for kids aged 2 and under. Additional charges apply for go-karts, paintball, kayaking, and other activities. A comprehensive pass that includes all attractions and a meal is available for $80. The park operates Tuesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on the last Saturday of each month at 6 p.m., they host a dive-in movie included with your admission.

7 Mile Beach

Negril is renowned for its stunning beaches, and what child doesn't love the beach? 7 Mile Beach in Negril is an ideal spot for families, featuring shallow, calm, and warm waters. For those seeking adventure, vendors stroll along the beach offering glass-bottom boat rides, snorkeling excursions, parasailing, and even horseback riding. If you're staying at a resort along 7 Mile Beach, you’ll have free access. Otherwise, you can enjoy the beach from the public entrance at Long Bay Beach Park.

Rick's Cafe

Rick's Cafe is the most iconic bar in Jamaica. So why is it on my list of family-friendly activities? Older kids can try cliff-jumping from three platforms of varying heights, while younger ones can simply enjoy watching the jumps, as my kids did. There’s also a pool where kids can splash around while enjoying live music. Additionally, Rick's Cafe offers one of the best sunset views in Negril, a spectacle that delights children of all ages. Admission is free; you only pay for food or drinks from the restaurant/bar.

St. Elizabeth Parish

Located on the South Coast of the island, St. Elizabeth is two and a half hours from Negril, Ocho Rios, and Kingston. Here are some family-friendly activities you won’t want to miss.

YS Falls

YS Falls is one of Jamaica's most stunning waterfalls. You can walk across the falls or take a thrilling leap from a platform into the pools below. Many visitors come for the inviting pools, including a warm water one and another filled with refreshing natural water from the falls. YS Falls offers a serene experience, but for those seeking a bit of excitement, you can try the five zip-line lines. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with admission priced at $20 for adults, $12 for children aged 3 to 15, and free for kids under 3. They also have some of the most affordable zip-lining rates on the island at $49 for adults and $39 for children.

Black River Safari/J. Charles Swaby

The Black River Safari offers an exciting boat ride along Jamaica's longest river. As you glide down the river, keep an eye out for crocodiles, cranes, and various other birds. The tour lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. Upon returning to J. Charles Swaby, you can visit the crocodile nursery, where injured crocodiles are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. The Black River Safari can easily be combined with a visit to YS Falls, as the two attractions are just 25 minutes apart. The boat ride costs $20 for adults and $12 for children, with tours available every hour.

Treasure Beach

If you’re heading to St. Elizabeth and want to enjoy the beach, Treasure Beach is the top choice in the parish. It's family-friendly and rarely crowded, allowing your kids to have the entire stretch of sand to themselves. You can park in the lot for Jack Sprat and access the beach from there.

Testing

All U.S. citizens aged 12 and older are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR or Antigen test result when checking in for a flight to Jamaica. The accepted types of tests include:

• Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Test (RT-PCR)
• Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAA)
• RNA or Molecular Test
• Antigen Test

At-home test kits like the Pixel by LabCorp will not be accepted, nor will antibody tests.

Keep in mind that you will need to present a negative COVID-19 test result taken within three days prior to your return flight to the U.S. Regardless of your vaccination status, a negative test is required before you board the plane.

If you need a test for your return to the U.S., it's a good idea to check testing availability at your hotel or resort first. The Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara properties provide COVID-19 testing, and the Visit Jamaica site offers a list of resorts that have on-site coronavirus testing.

Bottom Line

Jamaica is a stunning island with a wide array of activities for families. Make an effort to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions, and you’ll find rewarding experiences.

Story images courtesy of the author. Featured photo by Getty Images