10 Awesome Things to Do in Negril, Jamaica

Jamaica’s West End is the very center of Caribbean paradise. White sand beaches, fabulous food, waterfalls, warm faces, and lyrical voices await the visitors that arrive in Negril in droves every day. Whether you’re a party seeker looking for wild nights or a family with kids needing a fun, safe itinerary, there is no shortage of things to do in Negril, Jamaica. Here are the top ten adventures that Negril has to offer.

1. Enjoy the Seven Mile Beach

Jamaica’s longest beach is also touted to be one of the best beaches in the Caribbean and the top contender for the best things to do in Negril, Jamaica. It’s famous for its soft white sand that stretches across a glorious swath of tropical paradise.

The beach is free to visit and offers an assortment of diversions for everybody. Water sport activities abound, and you can rent kayaks and sailboats to spend some time on the ocean. Local food vendors and tradesmen also stake a regular post on the beach.

2. Scuba diving

Scuba diving is a top bucket list item for many. Veteran cubbies know that the Caribbean is the hottest scuba destination in the world, and Jamaica is no exception. The island’s edge houses a spectacular undersea of coral reefs, underwater caves, sea life, and various sunken antiquities. Don’t forget to bring an underwater camera! If you’re new to diving, a quick online search will net you a number of local companies that will train and certify you before heading out to open water.

3. 3 Dives Jerk Centre

Third, on the list for best things to do in Negril, Jamaica is eaten at the 3 Dives Restaurant. Reviewers point to this little shack as the number one place to eat Jamaican jerk chicken, along with any other local savories. It is accompanied by two bars and lots of local cultures.

A mom and pop establishment, it’s not upscale and not fast but is tremendously popular. Bring a little cash and a little patience, and be rewarded with some of the island’s best grub. You can also jump off their cliff into the water afterward if you’re so inclined.

4. Deep-Sea Fishing

Enjoy a fantastic catch from the ocean’s depths, such as Tuna, Wahoo, Marlin, and Mahi. Big fish can be more than a handful to land but are worth the effort and the experienced crews of Negril’s deep sea fishing charter companies are there to help you make it a reality.

There is the ultimate maritime experience. Several companies rent their services, ranging from daytime excursions of a few hours to overnight boat rentals with amenities. In addition, many tours have inclusive packages that include gear, crew, food, and beverages.

5. Horseback Riding

If you enjoy horses and would like to see Negril from a different perspective, why not take a horseback riding tour? There are a handful of local stables that give horseback tours in the two to the three-hour range and often include some beach excursions as well. Riding is a novel way for couples or families to spend time together, see the sights, and learn about Jamaica’s history and culture from the native trail guides.

6. Jamaica Dunn’s River Falls Party Cruise

The party cruise is easily one of the best things to do in Negril, Jamaica. The Dunn’s River Party much-touted, all-inclusive catamaran cruise is a three-hour tour.

It is guaranteed to end better than the American long-running sitcom Gilligan’s Island! The party begins with a beachside Jamaican buffet. This buffet includes some authentic Jamaican food and fruits. After the buffet, then it’s time to set sail on the blue sea.

During sailing out on the blue sea, there you will glimpse the beautiful scenery as you gaze shore side. The breathtaking sights will leave you in ah as you wonder, “Where have I been; and what took me so long?” Next, you will discover the wonderful -world of snorkeling. As you snorkel in the sea and experience the reefs, you will surely enjoy the world beneath the sea.

This world is filled with incredible and colorful amazing underwater adventure. The guided tour continues up the North Coast passing by the Parish of Trelawny.  It’s Historic Capital Falmouth known for the Gregorian architecture style homes.

Parish of Trelawny and Historic Capital Falmouth

Trelawny is also home to most notable Olympic Multi-Gold Medal winners and the world’s fastest man Usain Bolt and Veronica Campbell-Brown (VCB). While there are hosts of other Olympians coming out of that Parish, their stars have shined the brightest.

Interestingly enough, those Olympians could have easily been born in the two neighboring Parishes of St. Ann and St. James. As written in the history books, in 1770 sections of those two Parishes were partition off and named Trelawney. Sir William Trelawny was the Governor-General of Jamaica at that time.

The tour continues up the coast until it gets to the Parish of St. Ann.  There in St. Ann is the World-Famous Dunn’s River Falls. At Dunn’s River, you will enjoy a guided climb up the famous falls. The climb includes several slants, slopes, and slides. As your ascent toward the top, you continue to be amazed that this is a natural waterfall and not manmade.  When you finally reach the top and conquer the climb, now it’s time to celebrate as if “Yes”, I/we did it. Now you have triumphed over the World Famous Dunn’s River Falls you have heard so much about. Seeing that I got the better of the fall, yippee we can carry on with the tour.

Tranquility on the Sea

It’s time to resume the tour so now the tour guides are back on the boat, and we are heading back to the Southwest Coat. The weather is perfect, the cool breeze blowing off the crystal-clear water and music is blasting. Aboard the Catamaran for the return trip is a DJ-hosted party. The party is pumping, the people are jumping in harmony singing Jamaican anthem by Bob Marley, “One Love”.

Planning your next trip to Jamaica and thinking about the All-Inclusive Catamaran tour which includes its curbside pickup remember reservations are required.

7. Rick’s Cafe Experience

Cliff diving is a big deal at Rick’s Café but that’s not all. The atmosphere is wonderful, and the scenery is breathtaking. Rick’s has claimed several “best bar” awards over the years. Needless to say, serving up some world-renowned drinks will be their pleasure. Then there are the food and presentation servings at Rick’s where they do serve authentic Jamaican food but also do a great job catering to the visitors. And while Jamaica is known as one of the friendliest islands, Rick’s price is anything but friendly.

When visiting the café expect to enjoy live Reggae band entertainment. Luckily, they have always had some good bands. So, as you take in the scenery and enjoy the good food get ready to be entertained and dance the evening away.

Famous Clif Dive

Whenever you ask anyone about Rick’s Café the first thing, they are ready to tell you about is the famous cliff dive. Jumping off the cliff is the main attraction and tourist comes in drove to get pleasure from the daredevil jump. Then there is the claim that Rick’s Café is the best location on the island to see the sunset. At least, these are the things that keep visitors returning to Ricks’ Cafe.  They have been hosting these activities since they were established in 1974.

The location is fantastic to watch the sunset. Being on the cliff and looking over into the ocean and watching the sailboats and people jumping and diving off the cliff has been referred to as paradise.  One thing for sure when you visit Rick’s Café the daredevils will be diving, the band will be playing, and the sun will set. It’s like the saying, “Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love you tomorrow, and you are always a day away.”

8. Mayfield Falls

More than just a beachside retreat, Jamaica is renowned for its beautiful rivers and waterfalls. If you’d like to escape off of the beaten path for a while, spend some time visiting Mayfield Falls. The site is comprised of two natural waterfalls and 21 soaking pools. You can wander through the area or take advantage of some of the relaxation and spa services arranged around some of the pools. Tours are available, or you can take a taxi on your own. Don’t forget the camera!

9. Barney’s Flower & Hummingbird Garden

Barney’s is Negril’s most picturesque attraction. The garden is a quarter acre of tropical heaven, an exhibition of Jamaica’s most prized flora, and everyone’s favorite little aviator, the hummingbird. You can also find other species there. Admission is reasonable, and reservations are required.

Barney himself escorts many of the tours, with the warm and welcoming demeanor that characterizes all of Jamaica’s residents. If you enjoy wildlife and nature photography or just need a serene space to rejuvenate, this is one of the best things to do in Negril, Jamaica.

10. The Jungle

Attention party seekers, this is it! The Jungle is Negril’s most popular night club, and the ultimate wild party experience. Voted the best bar in the Caribbean and sporting seven bars over two floors, The Jungle is guaranteed to give you an unforgettable night.

Different nights have different themes, like “Ladies Night”, “Reggae Bar”, etc., and the club also hosts private parties and special events. Be aware that this place is packed at peak times, and security is tight. If you’re a party animal, the Jungle is undoubtedly one of the things to do in Negril, Jamaica.

Summing Up

This list, of course, is just a taste of what Jamaica has to offer for travelers. Adventure and entertainment are Jamaica’s bread and butter. Tourist serves are the highest source of income to the island. Therefore, a thriving Tourist business means a thriving economy. Starting with street vendors, restaurant owners, and storekeepers. Then there are the hotels that provide accommodation at various levels.

In addition to the hotels and guest houses, now there are AirBnB private houses. These lodgings are offering somewhere to stay at a competitive rate. Introducing Airbnb as another option in housing, have resulted in private homeowner, cooperative owner and condominium owners are attracting more visitors to take advantage of their housing. Together all the accommodating spaces all put their best effort forward to ensure that all visitors to the island have the best time ever.

Lifestyle and Living

You can always search for more things to do in Negril, Jamaica, and you’ll surely find something to fit your way of traveling. Whether it’s quiet relaxation on the white soft sandy beaches with clear as crystal water or you seek a more interactive party lifestyle this is the place to be. Negril is situated on the Western tip of the island. They boast a pristine beach that stretches over five miles of magnificent surroundings of tranquil living.

In many ways, Negril is seen as the resort town that’s situated in the perfect location. They cater to an alternative lifestyle, all lifestyle is treated with high admiration and appreciation for choosing their resort. Some resorts are more extravagant and luxurious while others will fit any and all budgets. The key is choosing a resort of your likeness and head there for vacation. When you are ready to go on your vacation be sure to leave your trouble behind.

Vacations are about getting away for your magical moments to have some fun in the sun. Once you go, you will know that you have arrived at the destination. Now it’s time to get ready to have fun and explore. Negril is a beautiful section of Jamaica. Great for the adventurous at heart but equally great for those looking for peace and tranquility. So get ready and consider visiting Negril on your next visit to Jamaica or your returning visit. As Jamaica famous Comedian Ms. Louise Bennett would say, “Walk Good” but maybe in the case of Negril, swim well could be more appropriate.