Jamaica Waterfalls Guide
Daniel Mode
Daniel Mode
Laura Schulthies
Laura SchulthiesJamaica is possibly best known for its beaches, but the island also offers some of the most famous waterfalls in the Caribbean. From towering cascades to gentle streams, there’s a waterfall for every taste. Jamaica’s lush tropical vegetation, in combination with these waterfalls, provides a scenic backdrop for your next stunning vacation photo. So whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or an adventure-filled day trip, be sure to check out our list of the best waterfalls Jamaica has to offer.
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The Best Jamaica Waterfalls
Dunns River Falls
One of the most stunning and definitely the most popular waterfall in Jamaica is Dunns River Falls. Standing at 180 feet tall, this unique natural beauty is located in Ocho Rios, on the North Coast of the island.
Dunns River Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into the sea at Dunn’s River Falls Beach. In fact, Dunn’s River Falls is one of the very few travertine waterfalls in the world that empties directly into the sea. Visitors can take a guided tour up the falls, or simply enjoy the view from below.
Licensed guides are included with admission and lead visitors up to the falls. You can also walk to the falls on a path with stairs, where you can wade in the small pools. Either way, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the beauty of Dunns River Falls! Entry to the falls is about $25 USD per person for ages 13+.
YS Falls
No list of the best waterfalls in Jamaica would be complete without a mention of YS Falls. This natural wonder is located in the parish of Saint Elizabeth, on Jamaica’s South Coast.
YS Falls is a series of seven waterfalls along the YS River, which feeds into the famous Black River, Jamaica’s longest navigable waterway. The fall cascade down around 120 feet into a large pool at the bottom. The lush tropical jungle surrounding the falls is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, making it the perfect spot for nature lovers or for a scenic day out.
There’s also a canopy zipline ride that takes you through the jungle and over the waterfalls, for an adrenaline-pumping experience! Admission to YS Falls costs around $22 USD for adults and $14 USD for children.
Reach Falls
Reach Falls is likely one of Jamaica’s most beautiful waterfalls. This hidden gem is located along the John Crow Mountain Range in Portland Parish, about 45 minutes east of Port Antonio.
Reach Falls is made up of a series of cascading waterfalls, which flow into the main waterfall before tumbling down about 30 feet into a refreshing pool at the bottom. The falls are surrounded by lush green vegetation, and there are several small caves and pools to explore, including the famous “Rabbit Hole,” an underwater cave accessed by jumping through a rock cavity.
This iconic waterfall has been seen on the big screen in movies like Tom Cruise’s Cocktail. Admission to Reach Falls is about $10 USD for adults and $5 USD for children.
The Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is one of the most popular swimming spots in Jamaica. It’s located in Ocho Rios, on the island’s North Coast, and goes by many other names – such as Island Gully and Cool Blue Falls.
The Blue Hole is a large, deep pool of crystal clear water surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation. There is a small waterfall that flows into the pool and even a rope that swings out over the water for those who want to take an adventurous plunge!
The Blue Hole is an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Many area hotels and resorts can arrange visits for you. The entrance fee for the Blue Hole is around $25 USD for adults and $15 USD for children under 12.
Somerset Falls
For those looking for a tranquil, serene waterfall experience, look no further than Somerset Falls. This hidden gem is located in the parish of Portland, on Jamaica’s beautiful north coast.
The falls can be accessed from highway A4 just east of the town of Hope Bay. Upon arrival, you can take a boat ride along the Daniels River to reach the Hidden Falls, a stunning 32-foot cascade tucked inside a grotto behind the main waterfall. The boat ride is included in the entrance fee of $25 USD for non-residents.
There are also several small caves and pools to explore, making Somerset Falls the perfect spot to spend a day in nature.
Turtle River Falls
One of the most picturesque waterfalls in Jamaica is Turtle River Falls. This hidden gem is in Ocho Rios in the parish of St. Ann.
The falls are situated within a 15-acre tropical nature reserve and can only be accessed by taking a short hike through the jungle. As the name suggests, Turtle River Falls is located on the Turtle River, which flows through the reserve and into 14 different cascades.
$20 USD per adult, $10 USD for children 11 and under, will get you admission to the falls. Please keep in mind that none of the facilities, paths, bridges are maintained any longer, making this a “go at your own risk” waterfall.
Reggae Falls
Located on the hillside of Saint Thomas, Reggae Falls is tucked away in the Jamaican jungle. Reggae Falls is an old water dam that was turned into a waterfall and swimming hole by the locals.
The best way to get to Reggae Falls is by taking a 4×4 vehicle up the dirt road to the falls and a short trek through the jungle to get there. Once you arrive, you’ll be treated to a stunning sight – a 70-foot waterfall cascading down into a large pool of water!
At Reggae Falls, you can take a dip in the refreshing pool below the waterfall, relax on the rocks in the sun, or explore the surrounding jungle. Be sure to bring your camera, as Reggae Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Jamaica! Parking at Reggae Falls is free, but you will need to pay an entrance fee of approximately $3.20 USD. Facilities are minimal, so bring all supplies including water and snacks.
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