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Jamaica is one of the most exciting islands to visit in the Caribbean, and even more so when you’re travelling with children, as there are just so many places to explore. If Jamaica is at the top of your list for vacation, chances are you’re looking to experience the culture and excitement of the island. Some of the must visit spots in Jamaica when traveling with kids include the Konoko Falls, Mystic Mountain, Ocho Rios Blue Hole, and the Pirates Island Waterpark.
Picture: Kids love the lazy river at the family-friendly all-inclusive resort Beaches Negril.
Ahead of your trip, we’ve put together a list of the most fun things to do in Jamaica with kids that will very likely come in handy once you arrive on the island!
The name Christopher Columbus is well known across the islands, and the Columbus Park Museum is named after him. This museum in Ocho Rios is located in the place where it is believed that Christopher Columbus first set foot on the island in the 16th century. As opposed to having discovered the island, there were indigenous people residing in Jamaica at the time, who were known as the Tainos and Arawaks. The open-air museum puts a lot of Jamaica’s history from that era into context, and can be an educational and fun experience for the whole family.
Best for: Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
The Aquasol Theme Park is located near Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay. Here you’ll find plenty of watersports and an upbeat atmosphere. Lots of families spend time there as kids can enjoy waterslides, go-kart racing, a bouncy house, banana boat rides, wave runners and more. Younger kids can play on the playground where there are swings and a mini golf course. There’s a restaurant on site, so you can either eat there or order your food to go and eat right on the beach. If you arrange a trip to the Park through your resort, you may even get a discount on entry.
Best for: Infants 0-2, Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
A great activity for tweens and teens is a paddle boarding experience. This will allow them to get out there and explore the open sea, while simultaneously getting some exercise. You can rent paddleboards and set off as a family, take lessons to get better at it, or sign up for a tour.
Best for: Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
The Negril Lighthouse offers spectacular views, and the entire experience will be loved by both you and the kids. Other than exploring the old lighthouse, some especially brave souls choose to engage in cliff diving over the moderate cliffs into the water. On the day you decide to go, you may run into some of these people, or even want to try yourself. Cliff jumping can be exhilarating, but it is not recommended for young or small children. The Lighthouse experience however, is great for the whole family.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Green Grotto Caves on the north coast of Jamaica is among the more notable highlights on the island, and a must if you’re travelling with children. It is said that the caves were once used as a place of refuge for runaway slaves, and also as a hiding place for Spanish soldiers during times of war. They were even used as a nightclub, and then later designated a National Landmark. Today you can tour the caves and find out more about their history and geology. You will trek 45-feet underground, see the lake within, and also the Fruit Bats which call the caves home. Take lots of pictures of the fascinating rock formations along the way.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
There isn’t anyone more famous in Jamaica, or the Caribbean for that matter, than Bob Marley. While on the island, make some time to visit Nine Mile Village, where the Reggae legend was born. This trip will take you into a rural village, and upwards into the mountains. Along the way you may spot school children in uniform on their way to school, and soon you’ll be at the Bob Marley Mausoleum, where you can light a candle, and see the tomb of Marley, a musical ambassador for his country who will not soon be forgotten. Try the Island Routes Nine Mile Village and Dunn’s River Falls Combo Tour.
Best for: Teens 13-17
Coyaba River Gardens and Mahoe Falls are best described as “fantastic family experiencesâ€. You’ll be able to take in the best of Ocho Rios Bay, even getting a closer look at the magnificent Jamaican-Spanish architecture that can be found here. In the vicinity are the Mahoe waterfalls which you can explore with a guide, and the Museum of Island History, where you can learn about the Arawak and Taino, the first settlers in Jamaica, who are no longer seen today.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
It may not seem like the best thing to do with kids, but the inner workings of the factory itself are fascinating, and children are sure to enjoy learning about the process that results in the creation of this award-winning rum. Leave the tastings to the adults, and let the kids take in the lesson of how things are made. Tweens and teens will be captivated by the whole experience, and they’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge on the origins of the Estate and Rum Factory, and so will you!
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
The Rose Hall Great House has quite an intriguing story, albeit a little scary. Nevertheless, it is still a super popular place to go for families with visitors who want to learn all they can about the ghostly history of the house, which was once a plantation home, built in 1770. The mistress of the house is said to have killed her husbands and lovers, but much of this tale has been lost over the years. It makes for great promotion though, and many people make a point of going here to visit the house in the nighttime, for possible encounters with the White Witch of Rose Hall.
Best for: Teens 13-17
Bob Marley is without a doubt one of the most inspirational singers the world has known. While in Jamaica, share some of his impact and love for music with the kids by taking them on a tour of the Bob Marley Museum. Your children may or may not be familiar with the name Bob Marley, but if they love music, or finding out more about celebrities past and present, they’ll appreciate the museum experience which offers a chance to see how Bob Marley lived, and learn about his musical inspiration. The Bob Marley Museum is located in the former home of the Reggae legend in Kingston, Jamaica.
Best for: Teens 13-17
The Luminous Lagoon is one of the only tours done at nighttime on the island, and that has a lot to do with the nature of this attraction. This tour is done by boat, and you and a group of 30 people will get out on the water where you will witness firsthand the lagoon, which lights up at night due to microorganisms in the water that give out a flash of light when touched. Jamaica is known to have the brightest luminous water in the world, and the children for sure will be awestruck by this experience. Book your Luminous Lagoon tour with Island Routes, preferably on a day with a new or crescent moon for an enhanced experience.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Jamaica is rich in history, and you can find out about how the island has transitioned into the present time by exploring historic locations like the Greenwood Great House. This was once the home of Hersey Barrett, the richest landowner on the island in the 18th century. You can explore the house and an on-site museum, and the tours usually take about 45 minutes. There’s a pub to get cold drinks once you’re done exploring and learning about the history of the Greenwood Great House.
Best for: Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
If you want to check out the popular spots in Jamaica, but want to skip the places that are overly crowded, Shaw Park Gardens & Waterfalls is a good option. Located in the hills above Ocho Rios, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of this 25-acre botanical garden. There are about 600 species of flowers which you can learn about from the knowledgeable and friendly guide. Bring along bug spray and a hat for this tour.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Once a resort, much of the ambiance of this spot in Jamaica remains, particularly its gardens which have since been restored, and feature a river flowing right through it. Locals and visitors love this location for the peace and solitude that can be found here, not to mention the beauty of the space.
The Turtle River Gardens is perfect for a quieter day in paradise, but there is no short supply of things to do there; you and the kids can play in the waterfalls (14 in all) and steams, and visit the walk-in aviary. In the aviary the kids will be able to feed the magnificent cobalt blue peacocks, and see rainbow macaws and other species of birds.
There is no restaurant on site however, so you’ll have to pack your own picnic lunch. End the day with a hike or hunt for turtles, and other interesting wildlife.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Mayfield Falls is made up of two waterfalls and 21 natural pools. It is located in an area where you can also go hiking with your family either on your own, or with a guide. The pools and falls are shaded, so you can spend the afternoon there in complete comfort. There’s a café located in the vicinity where you can pick up some Jamaican cuisine if you get hungry. Island Routes offers a neat Mayfield Falls and Jeep Safari Combo tour. Get water shoes for yourself and the kids.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Considering the history of the region, you’ll find quite a few islands offering plantation tours, much like what obtains at Rhodes Hill. The Rhodes family was the British merchant family which owned the Estate in the 18th century, and the property still bears their name. It had been in operation since the 1700s and was primarily a sugar cane plantation which also produced rum.
Today you’ll find loads of activities that are sure to keep the children engrossed, including horseback riding explorations, eco-tours, a crocodile reserve, and lots of birds and other animals to interact with. There’s an area for snorkeling, and you can even check out the reef from the comfort of a glass bottom boat or go fishing. The Cousin’s Cove Tour is also very popular, especially the part where you get to watch thousands of bats fly out of the caves in synchronized fashion at sunset.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
There are a lot of different elements that come together which result in the spectacular beauty of the Caribbean, and the variety of flora and fauna found on the islands definitely ranks high on the list. Discover more of this beautiful aspect of nature, as well as a bird sanctuary at Barney’s Hummingbird Garden.
Expect to see bids like the Jamaican Mango Quit hummingbird and the Tropical Mockingbird. You can walk around the gardens and take in the beautiful flowers, taking photos to revisit the moment later. There’s an admission fee for this attraction, and the price includes transportation to and from your resort, a tour, and a fruit smoothie.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Ever been to a coffee and pineapple plantation? Well, let Croydon Plantation be your first! Here you’ll learn about the Caribbean plantation of today, sample sugarcane, pineapple, and Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee, and tour the Plantation. Croydon Plantation can be found at the base of the Catadupa Mountains. Tours are conducted on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, with a barbecued lunch featured daily.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
There’s so much to do at the Blue Mountains. You can embark on an all day tour which lasts about 10 hours, or you can opt for something shorter, which is probably best if you’re going with younger children. For families with older children, the all-day tour takes you from Negril, to Ocho Rios, to Kingston, and back. Along the way you’ll get to visit parks and other historic landmarks and monuments, plantations, with stops for lunch and drinks. Tours usually get underway on Mondays and Thursdays via Island Routes. Hiking tours and camping are top activities for visitors to the Blue Mountains.
Best for: Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Bloody Bay was once a whaler’s port, and that is where its name came from. It was not the best of circumstances for the whales, but today things are a lot lighter though the name remains. Bloody Bay is a good beach location where you and your family can go for a stroll, and you can share with your kids some of the history of the location, and how much things have changed since the days of the whales being killed and towed in, which left the water of the bay blood red. There are local vendors on the beach, so you can spend a few hours here taking in the beautiful blue seas.
Best for: Infants 0-2, Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Off the coast of Negril, Booby Cay Island is just a short boat ride away. You can book a regular boat trip or hop on a glass-bottom boat to the island, but either way you’ll be treated to a tour that’s a little different, and includes a chance to enjoy delicious grilled food while you’re there, including lobster (seasonal) and fish. Many people go to Booby Cay to have beach picnics and for the snorkeling. If you and your family visit you will be treated to an authentic Jamaica experience before returning to Negril.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
The Caribbean is one of the best places to try this out if you haven’t already. Essentially, this is a horseback riding trip which also allows you and the horses to cool off in the water. The entire family can be part of the group riding through countryside roads surrounded by trees, to the beach, and then into the water. The horses enjoy this just as much as the riders, and you only go deep enough to get your legs wet. Bring along your camera (preferably waterproof) for photos! Contact Island Routes for a Horseback Ride and Swim tour.
Best for: Teens 18+
With a name as creative as that, it is definitely worth finding out what this location is all about. Ahhh… Ras Natango Gallery and Garden is an eco-tourism attraction located in Montego Bay. The owners of the site fully intend that everything you see will inspire lots of “oohs†and “ahhsâ€, something the children will have a field day with. Luckily, there are lots of interesting sights to behold here, and you can go on tours of fantasy gardens, fairy villages, and see exotic animals, a koi pond and more. You can opt to do a self-guided, or a guided tour of the hillside gardens. To get there, you can take a free shuttle from Montego Bay, or arrange a tour through your resort.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Try something authentically Jamaican at Devon House in Kingston. The ice cream here was once voted one of the top 10 in the world by National Geographic. While you’re there, sample exotic flavors like Jamaican guava and mango that even your picky toddlers may want to try. More adventurous children will enjoy flavors like soursop, while adults can try the Devon Stout flavor with hints of beer, or rum and raisin. You can relax and eat your ice cream in the gardens around Devon House. On the weekends, you’re likely to bump into local families also indulging in this family friendly treat.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
One of the most popular beaches in Jamaica, Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay made its name long ago, being named after a doctor who speculated that there might be healing properties in its waters. Whether or not this ever proved to be true, this caused the beach’s popularity to sky-rocket, and today it is the best rated beach for families in Montego Bay. The beach itself is clean and shallow, there are trampolines for kids, fishes that swim close to the shore which kids love, and a restaurant on the beach. There’s also a changing area (good for diaper changes) and a shower. Note that there is an entry fee to this beach.
Best for: Infants 0-2, Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
River rafting and the Martha Brae River go hand in hand in Jamaica. The Martha Brae is about 3-miles long, and it is mostly quiet and calm. The river rafting tour on the Martha Brae will require that you get aboard a bamboo raft, and then set off downstream. The experience is quite literally the Caribbean version of the gondolas of Venice. Whether you go with the kids, or just with a significant other, you set the pace for this tour, which is bound to be fun for all.
Best for: Big Kids 6-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Jamaica is great for nature-oriented excursions, and in this regard, a visit to the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary is one of the more interesting things to do on the island. This Sanctuary has received numerous certificates of excellence (2011-2019), and nature lovers who’ve been here would all agree that these are well deserved. To get up close and personal with the birds (including hummingbirds), you’ll need to be super still, so speak with the kids about this beforehand so you can all appreciate the magic that can be found here, together.
Best for: Big Kids 8-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Once you get to Swamp Safari Village, tour guides will likely share with you that this attraction was featured in the 1972 James Bond movie ‘Live and Let Die’, with Bond making a great escape skipping over the crocodile banks. Apart from crocodiles, a visit to Swamp Safari Village also comes with opportunities to see the gray fox, tayra, agouti, spotted paca, snakes (including a 18ft. green Anaconda!) and Caribbean raccoons. At the end of this exciting tour, have some authentic Jamaican jerk chicken or pork at “Scotchesâ€.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
The best thing about the Kool Runnings Water Park is the ambiance â€' there’s always good music playing making it feel like a party that never ends. Then there’s the waterslides, the lazy river, go-cart racing, and a toddler water play area. With lifeguards on hand, you’ll feel at ease as your children play around or take part in fun competitions which often get underway on the weekends. Weekends are usually more crowded though, so aim for mid-week (early morning) to have more room to move about.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
River tubing is always good fun, and the White River in Ocho Rios is a great place to try this activity in Jamaica. For this excursion, you’ll step into a large tube and float down the White River, which is high in the hills of Ocho Rios. You’ll glide along cool, clear water as the charismatic guides sing Bob Marley tunes, and share the history of the area. If you listen carefully, you’ll hear the call of the yellow bananaquit bird piercing through the atmosphere. You’ll also see many species of plants and wildlife. Island Routes Jungle River Tubing excursion is good fun.
Best for: Big Kids 6-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Rick’s Café has been made famous over the years for the cliff diving opportunities that can be found here, but the kids will have to take a backseat on this adventure, as young or small children are advised not to venture into the diving area. Instead, you can sit in the restaurant, eat, have some cold drinks, and wait for the amazing sunset. To find out more about cliff diving in Jamaica, read Sandals’ blog on Cliff Jumping in Jamaica: Tips & Insights To Know Before You Leap.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
What better place to try as many watersports as you possibly can than in Jamaica? Perhaps you’ve tried one or two activities before, or maybe you’ve never gotten an opportunity, but there are plenty of options in Jamaica that you and your family are sure to love, including snorkeling tours, water tubing, waterskiing, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and more. Often available right from the beach!
Looking for an amazing beach with plenty of water sports options available for young and old? Seven Mile Beach in Negril is the place to be! Stay at all-inclusive resort Beaches Negril and all water sports are included in your stay.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
A trip to the Dunn’s River Falls is a must when in Jamaica, especially if the kiddos are along for the ride. At this 180 feet high waterfall, you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities, and lots of adventure.
Take the kids along on a guided hike of the area. You can even hold hands and take older kids into the waterfall. There are wading pools along the way, some in front of the falls which are fun to splash around and take family photos.
Younger kids who can’t go on the hike will appreciate the view from the top of the falls. There are guardrails, but parents should always keep younger kids close as an added precaution. There’s a beach at the bottom of the falls that everyone is sure to enjoy afterwards. Discover Dunn's River Falls with this cool tour offered by Island Routes.
Insider tip: Planning on visiting Dunn's River Falls? Check out Sandals’ Dunn's River Falls: The Complete Guide.
Best for: Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Take a trip down one of Jamaica’s largest rivers. This wild guided boat trip will find you and your group navigating along a river, surrounded by the richest greenery. On the way, see how many birds, iguanas, and other animals you spot… even crocodiles! Your kids will be in pure amazement during this safari where they will also learn about efforts of Jamaican authorities to protect the wildlife in the area.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
In the hills of St. Ann overlooking Ocho Rios, you’ll find the Konoko Falls & Park. It is considered one of Jamaica’s best kept secrets. At Konoko Falls you’ll be able to visit the botanical garden, a zoo, and the waterfall. There’s also a museum and a gift shop on property. While you’re there, you’ll see birds, snakes and even alligators at the zoo, then you’ll be able to dive into the MAJA swimming pool. Bring along swim shoes for the entire family; if you forget them, you’ll be able to purchase some. Try the Island Routes Konoko Falls and Rainforest tour.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
A visit to Mystic Mountain is definitely one of the fun things to do in Jamaica with kids â€' here you can get into things like zip lining (age five and up), bobsledding, and go on a rainforest adventure. Jamaica’s rainforests are said to be comparative in beauty to its beaches, and as part of this excursion you’ll be able to take a lift right up the mountain and over the forest. From the top you’ll be able to spot waterfalls, and amazing views of the ocean. Also at the summit, there’s a splash pool, a hummingbird garden, and a restaurant. From there you’ll be able to zoom down the mountain in a bobsled which will be a sure thrill. Try the Island Routes Bobsled, Sky Ride, Zipline Adventure Tour.
Best for: Little Kids 5-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Picture: Beaches Negril, the family friendly all-inclusive resort located on Seven Mile Beach.
Seven Mile Beach in Negril might as well be a legend in Jamaica. The beach is one of the longest on the island, and is absolutely beautiful. On these shores, the kids will be able to run wild and have the best beach day imaginable. Once you all are done sunbathing, dipping in the ocean, trying out the watersports, cartwheeling across the sand, and enjoying snacks and food on the seashore, you’ll be able to settle in for an amazing sunset that will be one of the highlights of your day.
Insider tip: If you stay at family friendly all-inclusive resort Beaches Negril you’ll have first dibs on prime beachfront real estate on Seven Mile Beach. In addition, this resort comes with a water park, located right next to the beach!
Best for: Infants 0-2, Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Children are sure to love the Blue Hole, which is pretty much summed up in the name. It is a magnificently blue swimming pool where people often jump off rocks into the water, or use rope swings to splash into the pool. A 10 minute walk from the Blue Hole will take you to a small waterfall, which is also a great find. Tours can be arranged via Island Routes.
Best for: Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Not many all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica offer waterparks and Kids Camps, and Beaches Resort is ahead of the game in this aspect. Considered the biggest and most exciting water parks in the Caribbean, the waterparks at Beaches Resorts keep children entertained for hours. In fact, they’re not going to want to leave.
At the Pirates Island Waterpark in Ocho Rios and Negril, you’ll find waterslides, kidâ€friendly pools and swimâ€up soda bars. There are also water cannons, whirlpools and a lazy river (only in Negril) that children can navigate as their imaginations run wild.
Best for: Infants 0-2, Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
If you’ve never swam with dolphins, Jamaica is a great place to try. This tour is loved by both children and adults, and this is much due to the friendly nature of the dolphins, and how playful and photogenic they are.
This is one of the most fun things to do with kids in Jamaica, and even if kids can’t swim, they can participate with assistance from parents or other adults in the group. There’s also the option of going on a glass bottom tour to see the dolphins, which is perfect for toddlers. Most children love petting and kissing the dolphins, and older children can feed and help take care of them as part of a Dolphin Care Program.
All in all, you’ll learn about the day to day life of dolphins, and if you’re feeling brave enough, you can also venture into the Swimming with Stingrays program also available at this location. Lastly, find out about the shark show and nature trail, the latter of which is filled with opportunities to see exotic animals. Island Routes offers an amazing Dolphin Encounter that’s perfect for the entire family.
Best for: Little Kids 3-6, Big Kids 7-9, Tweens 10-12, Teens 13-17
Get a FREE SandalsTip: Stay at Beaches Negril or Beaches Ocho Rios, which are both family-friendly all-inclusive resorts with amazing waterparks, certified nannies, non-stop activities for kids of all ages and Sesame Street characters. Both resorts are located on the beach.
To learn more about planning a Sandals Resort vacation, contact one of our Vincent Vacations Representatives directly, or call 1-888-976-0061
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