There's a lot of buzz about vacations in Jamaica and if you're new to the island or maybe have only previously stayed here briefly, you might be wondering, what's the big deal?

Jamaica is home to one-of-a-kind natural and man-made attractions that will take you on a journey into the island's past as well as deepen your interest in preserving the natural life here.

So, there's no question why it is the most popular vacation destination in the Caribbean.

Whether you're visiting Jamaica for two weeks, a month or temporarily relocating to this island paradise, here are 12 Jamaican tourist attractions to visit before you die. 



Lover's Leap, Saint Elizabeth

If you're roaming the parish of Saint Elizabeth, a must-see attraction is Lover's Leap - a cliff standing 1,600 feet above sea level that offers a majestic view of the Caribbean Sea.

The legend associated with this tourist attraction is that a couple who were former slaves on the adjoining Yardley Chase Plantation plunged to their death, hand in hand, to escape the cruel plot of their master to separate them. 

Dunn's River Falls and Park, Ocho Rios

With water hike shoes fitted on your feet, create a human chain with your friends and climb the 600-foot Dunn's River waterfall. 

Or get a complimentary back massage at the foot of the fall from the water gushing off the limestone rocks.

Also, you can check out the bird aviary and Jamaican souvenir shops on the property.



Rose Hall Great House. Montego Bay

Take a tour of this 18th-century English-designed mansion in Montego Bay. It is the site of the mysterious tales of the White Witch of Rose Hall, Annie Palmer, the former owner.

Legend has it that her spirit still roams the property where she took the lives of her three husbands. She was subsequently murdered by a slave who she was infatuated with.


Blue Mountain Peak, Kingston

A hike to the summit of the Blue Mountain in Saint Andrew is very rewarding. The hike takes approximately four hours in length and is best done in the wee hours of the morning. 

It's a bucket list activity for most tourists to the island who want to experience the cool atmosphere in the mountain while sipping on the finest coffee in Jamaica, Blue Mountain Peak coffee. 



Blue Lagoon, Portland 

The untouched, natural beauty that you'll discover in the entire parish of Portland will convince you to make multiple visits.

Your trip to this parish should always include a stop at the Blue Lagoon to enjoy a brief raft tour along the cobalt-colored water.

It's the go-to chill spot for celebrities like Beyonce and Dua Lipa when they vacation in Jamaica. 


Devon House, Kingston

This 19th-century mansion is the former home of Jamaica's first black millionaire.

If you make the trip to Kingston, take a tour of the house and visit the bakery, ice cream parlor, and other novelty stores on the property.


Nanny Falls, Portland

Although it takes about an hour by foot to get to this off-the-beaten-path attraction, the sheer beauty of Nanny Falls will make it worth it.

Nanny Falls is surrounded by the beautiful, lush vegetation of the region and a swim in the water will rejuvenate your skin and bones.

It is named after Jamaica’s only national heroine. 

Bob Marley Museum, Kingston

You can't say that you're a true Bob Marley fan until you've done the Bob Marley Museum tour. Take a few minutes to explore the former home of Jamaica's iconic Reggae superstar.

You'll be invited to watch brief videos and documentaries about his life and take a peek at his bedroom and other living quarters. 

Mystic Mountain, Ocho Rios

At this manmade rainforest attraction, the fun starts at the entrance with a grand chair lift to the main site. Hold your phones steady to capture short videos and images of the breathtaking view of Ocho Rios Bay from above.

When you get to the main site, try the rides, especially ziplining and bobsledding through the trees, shaking every part of your body on the Ragga Muffin ride, and climbing the Anancy maze course. 


Luminous Lagoon, Falmouth

The luminous lagoon tour at Glistening Waters is best done at night.

You'll be exposed to one of Jamaica's hidden water gems. The site of the glowing water used to be a wharf for the offloading of imported goods to the island.

When the commercial activity ceased, the property owners discovered the glowing feature of the water. 

Port Royal, Kingston

The land mass which was once said to be the home for some of the wickedest people in the Western Hemisphere was destroyed by an earthquake in 1692.

Two-thirds of the lawless city was plunged deep underwater. The ruins that remain are a popular visitor attraction.

If you decide to visit Port Royal, be sure to check out the Giddy House - a slanted building with one side sunken 10 feet deep underground.

You'll feel fine browsing inside but the minute you exit, it may be difficult for you to stand up straight.

Don't leave Port Royal without a viist to Gloria's for some fresh fish - but just be prepared to wait.

Trench Town Culture Yaad, Kingston

Bob Marley's music legacy dates back to his days as a young boy growing up in Trench Town.

Take a deep dive into the early music work of the Reggae legend and his music colleagues that are still preserved in this music and culture museum. It is also the site of cultural artifacts.


When you've toured these 12 tourist attractions in Jamaica, visit Jamaica Experiences for more things to do in Jamaica.