Things to do in  Negril

Perched on the coastal cliffs outside Negril, Rick’s Café is one of Jamaica’s most enduring establishments. The bar and restaurant put the island’s West End on the map when it opened in 1974 and has since survived two devastating hurricanes, rebuilding to serve tropical cocktails and Caribbean specialties to visitors from around the world. With famed sunset views and prime cliff-jumping spots, Rick’s is one of the top destinations in Jamaica.

True to its name, the Blue Hole is a turquoise-hued natural swimming pool, surrounded by waterfalls and lush forest trails that are scenic enough to lure travelers away from Jamaica's Caribbean beaches. Go rope-swinging or cliff-jumping into the limestone pools, or simply take in the views from the base of a "secret" waterfall, the comfort of a mud bath, or nearby hiking paths in Ocho Rios.

Swaying palm trees, gentle azure waves, and dazzling white sands make Negril’s Seven Mile Beach a postcard-pretty classic. With a nearly permanent spot on myriad “best beaches in the world” lists, you won’t be alone in paradise—but with miles of beach and nearly every water sport available, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

The highest peak, the longest range, the best coffee—Jamaica’s Blue Mountains rightfully claim a handful of superlatives. The mountain range spans 28 miles (45 kilometers) across the rugged eastern portion of Jamaica and offers views of the island’s north and south coasts, and on a clear day, even all the way across the Caribbean Sea to Cuba.

The Black River is one of the longest rivers in Jamaica, flowing west for 33 miles (53 kilometers) until emptying into the Caribbean Sea near Negril. Travelers explore the river and its energetic YS Falls on inflatable tubes, canoes, or kayaks surrounded by lush green jungle and mangroves.

Rising above the turquoise Caribbean Sea just outside Negril, these gorgeous craggy cliffs define the beauty of Jamaica’s western coast. Away from the large resorts in the north, the cliffs are a base for snorkeling and partying at bars as well as the spot’s most famous activity—diving 40 feet (12 meters) into the deep, clear water below.

Reportedly the place where Christopher Columbus first set foot on Jamaican soil, Rio Bueno is a small village east of Montego Bay. People come to the area to take part in water sports on the river.

Located in Westmoreland parish, Mayfield Falls is a series of 21 mostly small cascades and natural pools along the Mayfield River. Surrounded by lush jungle, the falls are an ideal outdoor water playground and include underwater caves, natural jacuzzis, and two waterfalls large enough for visitors to go behind.

Lighting up the westernmost point of Jamaica, Negril Lighthouse has been guiding ships away from the craggy promontory below since 1894. The landmark stands sentinel at 65 feet (20 meters), and is a popular attraction for travelers yearning for a panoramic bird’s-eye view of Negril’s gorgeous coastline and the endless sea.

A small, uninhabited island off the northern coast of Jamaica near Negril, Booby Cay Island is named after the booby birds that live and nest there. Known for its white sand beach and clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving, the island is a popular day-trip destination.

As Jamaica’s largest water park, family-friendly Kool Runnings in Negril offers 5 acres (2 hectares) of wet and wild fun for all ages. Separated into two areas, the Water Park features every kind of aquatic activity from multiple waterslides to kayaking, while the Adventure Zone offers go-kart racing, paintball, laser combat, and more.

Along the west coast of Jamaica, where the crystal azure Caribbean Sea is gentle and warm, this beautiful white sand beach vibrates with the laid-back party buzz of nearby Negril. Locals and travelers alike come to this beach for water sports and a friendly social scene.

Located just inland from the more remote southwest coast of Jamaica, the 100-year-old Bubbling Spring Mineral Bath is a perfect destination for travelers seeking intimate, local places off the tourist trail. Even if you don’t have sore muscles to soothe, soaking in these warm healing waters are sure to get you into the proper island rhythm.