Jamaica is known for its pristine Caribbean beaches and laid-back vibes. But what if I told you there is so much more to Jamaica than relaxing on a beautiful beach with some reggae playing in the background? The natural beauty of the island extends far behind its pristine sands. In fact, it has some of the most spectacular waterfalls and lush destinations I’ve ever seen, like the Cool Blue Hole Jamaica.
What is the Blue Hole in Jamaica?
The Ochos Rios Blue Hole in Jamaica, also known as simply the Cool Blue Hole, is a huge sinkhole where limestone and other minerals have created water that’s a brilliant shade of teal blue. The surreal water extends deep into the Ochos Rios jungle flowing into a waterfall known as Secret Falls or Gully Island Falls, a few miles in.
What to Do at the Blue Hole
Just seeing the Cool Blue Hole and the surrounding tropical scenery is worth the visit alone, but there is a lot you can do here. The area is set up in a way that makes it fun to spend an entire day.
Hike
The road to the Blue Hole will bring you right to the edge of the water, but there are some hiking trails in the area that lead to other areas. One of the best is the hike to Secret Falls. It’s a short 10-minute hike, but it is relatively steep and requires a river crossing to get there. However, these things are no big deal for most, especially when you’re planning to swim anyway.
Explore the Waters
You could just lounge in the waters around the edge, but I highly recommend a swim, it’s truly unforgettable. It’s possible to swim to the falls where you’ll see some small caves behind the cascades. You can even swim through and rest on the rock walls. The caves are difficult to see from land, providing a hidden surprise.
Cliff Jump and Rope Swing
All along the river, from the first sinkhole to Secret Falls above, there are rope swings and platforms for leaping into the enticing water. Locals often do some crazy dives, but it’s something that’s just about anyone can do with the platforms only about 15 to 20 feet high.
Lounge in Small Pools
If you hike up to Secret Falls, you can hike above the waterfall too where there are small pools to sit in. They even have little cascades flowing into them, with the feeling as if you’re soaking in a Jacuzzi when positioned right. Plus, it’s a nice spot to end your visit to the Blue Hole with some blissful relaxation once you’ve seen everything.
What to Expect Upon Arrival
In order to properly prepare for your trip to Blue Hole Jamaica, you’ll need to know what’s available on-site. This attraction isn’t super popular or touristy yet as it’s not as well known as compared to places like Dunn’s River Falls, so it’s not as built up as some other attractions.
Admission
If you are not visiting the Blue Hole with a tour, you will need to make online reservations prior to visiting or visit the office in Ocho Rios to purchase tickets. Your online reservations will require a $40 deposit to book, and the rest can be paid with cash at the entrance when you arrive. The cost of admission is as follows:
- Adult admission: $25
- Child admission: $15
Be sure you bring some extra cash to tip any guides that might show you around the area, for drinks, and for lockers.
Vendors
There are few vendors in the vicinity, with the closest location to get food Dunn’s River Falls. Locals sell coconuts and Jamaican Red Stripe beer around the falls, but you will have to pack your own food or wait to eat after your visit. If you arrive on a tour, the excursion might include food or a visit to a restaurant nearby for a meal.
Facilities
Although the Cool Blue Hole is lesser known, it does have some amenities built in. That includes bathrooms, changing rooms, and lockers. If you don’t have a tour bus to keep your belongings on, I recommend renting a locker for $2 to keep your belongings safe while you’re enjoying a dip.
Things to Bring to the Blue Hole
Since the Blue Hole hasn’t been significantly developed for tourism, it doesn’t include all that you’ll need. Pack a few things to bring with you. I recommend the following:
Snacks
Between hiking, swimming, and swinging from ropes, you’re bound to work up an appetite. There are no food vendors on the property, so if you plan to stay for more than a few hours, you should bring some snacks. Chips, granola bars, trail mix, and fresh fruit are all great foods to easily pack and snack on during your visit.
Swimwear and Water Shoes
You can either show up with your swimwear on or change once you arrive if you have other tours or visits you want to make along the way. Water shoes are a good idea for exploring the Blue Hole as you will have to do some river crossing and climb out of the water onto sharp rocks. Some vendors may have water shoes available for purchase on-site.
A Towel and a Change of Clothes
The water inside the Blue Hole isn’t warm like the Caribbean. In fact, it’s rather chilly, so you’ll want to bring a towel to wrap up in. You can also change into dry clothes in the changing rooms before you leave. There’s nothing worse than sitting in a car for an hour or two with wet clothes on.
Cash
There is no way for the vendors or guides to collect money via a credit or debit card. You’ll want to bring a bit of cash with you if you plan on purchasing a few drinks, tipping your guide, or pay admission fees upon arrival. If your admission fee is paid for, I recommend bringing an extra $20 to $40 in smaller bills.
Sunscreen and Bug Spray
Like everywhere else in the Jamaican jungle, the sun and bugs are intense. In order to prevent itchy bites and a sunburn, don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray. You’ll want to reapply during your visit as it’s likely to wash off in the water.
A Waterproof Camera
Whether it’s a GoPro, a smartphone or a camera in a waterproof case, you’ll want to have a device for capturing photos. The scene is so incredible, sharing it with your friends and family back home who couldn’t be here is really a must. Plus, “Pics or it didn’t happen,” right?
How to Get to Cool Blue Hole
There are a few different options for getting to the Cool Blue Hole in Jamaica, whether you want to go at your own pace at any time you’d like, or enjoy multiple experiences in a day.
Drive Yourself
I like to rent a car when I travel because it gives me the freedom to go where I want when I want. Most tours start heading to the Blue Hole later in the morning or in the afternoon, so the best time to visit is in the morning before the crowds arrive.
The only downside to driving yourself to the Blue Hole is the road is a bit rough and steep. It’s best to drive only if you have a higher clearance vehicle so keep that in mind when renting. That said, many do drive standard vehicles so it can be done. You’ll just need to be extra-focused and ideally experienced at driving rougher roads.
Take the Shuttle
Taking the shuttle to the Blue Hole can be a more budget-friendly option. When you make an online reservation, you can book your admission plus the shuttle. You’ll just include your hotel or vacation rental information, and they’ll send you the details. The cost for the shuttle is:
- $30 roundtrip from Ochos Rios or Tower Isle
- $50 roundtrip from Montego Bay
- You’ll have to call +1-876-777-5226 for a quote from Negril
Join a Tour
Joining a tour is a fun way to fill your day with multiple adventures. Most tours include almost everything, like food, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide. There are also options to add other attractions and activities like tubing, horseback riding, a catamaran cruise, ziplining, Dunn’s River Falls, bamboo rafting, and much more.
Where to Stay Near Cool Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is located in Ocho Rios on the northern coast of Jamaica. Almost any accommodation you book in Ocho Rios will pu you within 30 minutes of the Blue Hole. Below are some places that are well worth considering for your stay in Ocho Rios:
Sandals Ochi
The Sandals brand has many resorts in Jamaica, with two in Ochos Rios. Sandals Ochi is the best if you’re looking for a fun vacation with tons to do. Everything is included in your stay, such as food, watersports, airport transfers, entertainment, green fees at the on-site golf course, and more. This resort is so big that it’s easy to enjoy tranquility and lively seetins with everything from a huge, serene garden to a speakeasy and day clubs.
Moon Palace Jamaica Ocho Rios
If you’re looking to return to relaxing luxury after a day of adventure consider Moon Palace. This resort boasts the largest spa on the island, and everything is included. It also offers an ideal location, centrally located in Ocho Rios off Ocho Rios Bay Beach, so you can visit many attractions quickly.
Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn is located a little further on the outskirts of Ocho Rios but gives you all the island vibes you would expect in Jamaica. It’s a smaller family-owned resort that feels as if you’re in your own little slice of island paradise. With private verandas in every room and attentive staff catering to your every need, you’ll totally forget about the few extra minutes of travel you’ll need to reach the Blue Hole.
Is Blue Hole Jamaica Worth It?
The Blue Hole in Jamaica is definitely worth a visit. It has a somewhat central location making it easy to access from nearly any area of the island The price for visiting makes it a high-value attraction that’s hard to beat compared to other Jamaican attractions.
Even though it is cheaper, the price doesn’t represent its striking natural beauty. I would be willing to pay double the entrance fee to see this blue oasis. I also love that it is less busy than other Ocho Rios attractions, making it even more worth the visit.
