THINGS TO DO
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Family Fun Excursions
Mystic Mountain Park -
A full day adventure. Take the chair lift up the mountains above Ocho Rios, review the history, sports, and natural history of the island, float down-hill on the zip-line through the forest canopy, commandeer a Jamaican bobsled and ride up again a the end of your ride, have lunch overlooking Ocho Rios harbour, use the pool and waterslide. Really fun!
Dolphin Cove -
Swim with the dolphins! A premier Ocho Rios attraction, participants may choose from several encounters with dolphins. Children under 8 years of age may pet the dolphins. Take a jungle walk and meet tropical birds and animals. Visit the pirate village. Enjoy lunch. Easily an all day affair. If booking for an afternoon dolphin adventure, go early.
Canopy Tours with Chukka Cove -
More adrenalin venture than garden walk, this excursion is offered through Chukka Cove Adventure Tours. Participants travel on cable lines above the ground through the middle canopy of Cranbook Forest, choosing their own rate of speed as they swing from tree to tree. Orchids and bromeliads reside at this height, and birds nest in the upper branches. Go as fast or as slow as you choose. Afternoon or morning adventure.
Black River Tours -
Take a boat up Black River on the south side of the island, to see a large variety of wildlife, including crocodiles and an array of birds, as well as island flora, large river ferns (third largest in the world), water lilies, water hyacinth, and mangrove cathedrals. A full day. Combine this with a visit to YS Falls.
YS Falls -
A green park of waterfalls and jungle on the south side of the island. Ride into the falls on a small tractor-pulled train. Climb and swim in the various pools or float on inner tubes that are provided at the fresh water swimming pool. Chairs are available for lounging in the sun. Picnic or buy lunch. Kids can use the play structure, or run across large lawns meant for frisbee, football, or soccer. A nice gift shop is on premises. A day's adventure.
Dunn’s River Falls -
An Ocho Rios must! Climb the magnificent falls, visit the crafts market, eat and drink in the tropical gardens.
River Rafting -
River raft on the White River, Martha Brea, or Rio Grande, comfortably seated on bamboo rafts and poled by a guide along gentle rivers and some small rapids. Swim in the green river pools on your way through tropical jungle. Enjoy great Jamaican food on isolated beaches. Each of these river trips is different. Our staff will guide you to the one that best suits you. An all-day activity.
Prospect Plantation - Tractor Rides through a working plantation. Visit a Great House. Horseback and camel rides! A morning or afternoon excursion.
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Gardens, Tropical Flowers & Birding
Stone Harbour is located in St. Ann's Parish, also known as the Garden Parish. There are several beautiful gardens if you are interested in tropical plants. Each of the sites will provide a guide for touring.
Shaw Park Gardens - Shaw Park is one of the oldest gardens in the area. If you love waterfalls, this is the garden for you. Waterfalls abound as well as a great variety of flowers and trees. This tour consists of a good hike through descending landscape along the falls. A morning or afternoon excursion.
Coyaba Gardens -
Smaller, beautiful, and with a fairly complete range of unique tropical flowers, Coyaba is worth the visit. Graceful bridges and a flowing stream make for perfect photographic opportunities. This garden also has a small, interesting museum, and musicians will sometimes play Jamaican music. A shorter excursion than Shaw Park, perfect for combining with another day trip.
Cranbrook Flower Forrest -
First Place award in private gardens from the Royal Botanical Society, England, at the 2002 Cariflora Festival, this large garden and tropical jungle can take some time to see, particularly if you take the mile walk along a beautiful tropical river to the waterfall and pool at the trailhead (fullness depending on rain). Wear a bathing suit if you wish to swim in the river head pool. Birds abound here. It is not unusual to see the national bird of Jamaica at all times of day, a hummingbird with a long tail known as the Dr. Bird, at all times of day. Plenty of benches for picnics, large lawns for Frisbee or football, so pack a lunch! A good morning trip, or longer, depending on your level of activities.
Orchid Farm -
Visit an orchid farm where thousands of orchids grow in a variety of styles and color. Perhaps a two-hour trip.
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History
Green Grotto Caves - Well worth the visit, the caves are remarkable for their stalagmite and stalactite formations, as well as being important in the history of Jamaica. The miles of caves were once a home to the Spanish governor hiding from the invading English, and later to runaway slaves seeking freedom. Bats are common, as well as fish that inhabit deep, dark pools, and flowers that grow in the absence of sunlight. Morning or afternoon excursion.
Rose Hall -
A premier Great House on the island, Rose Hall is designed and restored with period pieces. The tour tells the story of the ‘White Witch of Rosehall’ and the legends surrounding the deaths of her husbands. Some claim to have seen the specters of her husbands's ghosts. What is real is the dark, comfortable rum bar in the cellar. Combine this trip with shopping in Montego Bay. An all day activity.
Firefly -
Noel Coward lived and wrote many of his fabulous plays at Firefly. The drive to St. Mary’s Parish is not far from Ocho Rios and is quite beautiful as it travels along the coast. An interesting tour consists of house tour, viewing many of his original photos from the rich and famous of his time, his music collection, a video of his life, a visit to his gravesite, and the obligatory rum punch in the old bar that was once a pirate’s lookout point. Nearby lies Golden Eye, the home of Noel Coward’s close friend, Ian Fleming. It was here that Fleming created the character of James Bond in the “delicious vacuum” that he considered Jamaica. Unfortunately, Golden Eye is not open to the public.
Seville Heritage Park -
A great way to get an overview of Jamaican history--Taino Indians, Spanish, English, East Indian, Chinese, and other immigrant cultures are featured. Perfect to start your tour of the island, particularly if you are looking for something close to Stone Harbour and are still tired from travel. Total travel and tour time, about an hour and a half.
Bob Marley House at Nine Mile -
A visit to Bob Marley’s mountain home, now a museum. An all day activity.
Port Royal and Captain Morgan Harbour -
Port Royal, the pirate capital of the Caribbean, was destroyed in an earthquake in 1605. What remains is part of the old fort and stories galore about the days of pirates and Captain Morgan who was given a pardon to become Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. Underwater excavation of the sunken city still continues. Wonderful lunch at Captain Morgan’s Harbour. This excursion entails a trip to Kingston, Jamaica’s capital. An all day excursion.
Reggae Explosion -
A nicely done museum that traces the history of music in Jamaica. Located in Ocho Rios at Island Village. Combine with shopping and a trip to Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville.
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Water Sports
Swimming and Snorkeling - Swimming in the Caribbean Sea and snorkeling is a great way to learn about fish and reef life, particularly for children. The reefs just off the beach at Old Fort Bay are perfect for any level of experience and a great place to introduce children to the sport. Books and waterproof cards are available at Stone Harbour for fish identification.
Scuba dives -
Dives can be arranged through the villa.
Day Trip—Private Boat -
Let us arrange a day trip by private boat to different reefs and beaches for snorkeling, picnics, and swimming. Glass bottom boats can also be arranged.
Fishing -
Morning or evening fishing by private boat can be booked through the villa with experienced fishermen.
Sunset and night cruises -
These romantic cruises are also available. Gently cruise the coastline observing Jamaica from the sea, swim in warm tropical waters under the stars, listen to Ray Charles while enjoying a rum punch. Or . . . choose your music—live musician or CD, wild or mellow! Your choice!
Water Play -
Jet skies, parasailing, waterskiing, and river tubing are also available and can be arranged through Stone Harbour. On windy days try boogie boarding on the long waves that roll into the bay (boards available at Stone Harbour).
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Island Economy
Plantation Tours -
Tours of banana, pineapple, and coffee plantations can be arranged. Coffee grown in the Blue Mountains is world famous! All day activity.
Appleton Estate -
One of the oldest distilleries in the world, the Appleton estate features tours as well as tasting, from new-made rum to old rum with the smoothness of a fine cognac. The estate still has one of the world’s last cooperages, making oaken barrels on the island. An all day activity, or combine with a special overnight stay in Negril, a resort on the far western side of the island.
Walker Wood Food Tours - Interested in food and how different cultures contributed to Caribbean cuisine? Take the Walker Woods Tour near Ocho Rios. Stay for a lunch of jerk chicken. Shop for spices in the gift shop. If you enjoy cooking and experimenting with new foods, this is the excursion for you. A half-day's trip.
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Shopping
Crafts -
Jamaica is an island of many crafts markets, from small roadside stands where you may find wonderful carvings or basketwork, to large Straw Markets in the major population centers. In Ocho Rios the main Straw Market is located in the center of town and offers beautiful wooden carvings, as well as wooden trays and other household items. Hand-woven baskets, dinner place mats, and trivets are also particularly beautiful. Be sure to look for true Jamaican crafts—some objects are manufactured in China with “Jamaica” printed on them.
Fine Art
Wassi Art -
Of all the fine art produced on the north side of the island, Wassi Art Pottery is well worth the visit. A tour guide takes visitors through the factory explaining all the steps of pottery, from raw clay through the finished product. The pieces are exquisite, some of the larger pieces fairly expensive for they are works of art rather than crafts, but there is still a price range for everyone.
Fine art in the form of oils and watercolors can be located at the framing shop at Pineapple Plantation, a business plaza.
Harmony Hall -
A traditional Jamaican gingerbread house, also sports an upstairs gallery. Looking for paintings here is hit or miss, but the architecture of the house makes for a good visit, as well as lunch at Toscanini’s, a very good restaurant downstairs from the gallery.
Jamaican Foods -
The best price for coffee, rum, and Jamaican spices is at General Foods in Ocho Rios, a full-service supermarket, which is close to Stone Harbour.
Music -
Island Village has a major music store, as well as Disc and Dat music, both located in Ocho Rios.
Clothing / Swimsuits - Probably the easiest place to purchase clothing is at Island Village, but a short walk around town will offer many choices.
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Golf
Runaway Bay -
Par 72, links-style course, nice greens, situated near the sea with prevailing ocean trade winds. Good staff of caddies available (caddies required by club). Modern clubhouse with bar and lunch menu. Twenty minute drive from Stone Harbour.
Upton Sandals Dunn’s River - Par 71, Country Club, set in beautiful tropical foothills. Nice greens, challenging layout. Bar and lunch menu. Good caddie staff (caddie required). Twenty minute drive from Stone Harbour.
White Witch/ Half Moon/ Cinnamon Hill - Three world-class golf courses located in the Montego Bay area. An hour's drive from Stone Harbour. All amenities.
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Horseback Riding
Available from several sources, most tours offer both mountain and beach rides. At the beach, you may swim your mount in the sea.
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Spa
Spa treatments can be had at Stone Harbour. A list of treatments and corresponding price list is available at the villa.
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Restaurants
All restaurants in Jamaica are fairly casual, although most Jamaican men wear long pants and collared shirts to dinner.
Fine Dining
Evita’s - Probably the most romantic restaurant in Ocho Rios, Evita’s sits at the top of a hill overlooking the town’s harbour. The menu includes a variety of fresh fish, meats, and pasta. Enjoy your meal while listening to a musician play old Jamaican reggae on guitar. You’re also in for a treat in meeting Evita, an icon of Ocho Rios society. Reservations recommended.
Toscanini’s at Harmony Hall - Toscanini sports an excellent chef, great drinks, and a creative menu featuring the best of fresh foods. Patio dining in the beautiful old Jamaican gingerbread house, Harmony Hall. Reservations recommended.
Almond Tree -
An old Jamaican restaurant with both indoor and patio dinning overlooking the sea. Lights in the water just off the patio bring rays, swimming to search for food in the luminescence. Almond Tree is also a good place to have appetizers and a drink at the bar at sunset. Dinner reservations recommended.
Jamaica Inn -
One of the oldest restaurants and inns in Jamaica, catering for years to discerning visitors. Reservations recommended.
Passage to India -
Outstanding Indian cuisine authentically prepared by members of Jamaica’s large East Indian community. Lovely atmosphere and great service, the restaurant sits on the patio roof of a building in Ocho Rios.
More Casual Dining
Michelle's Pizza - Good pizza, beer, and sodas. A great place to relax with kids. Outdoor eating and play structure. Pool table inside." Then place the pix next to text.
Coconuts -
Located on the Ocho Rios Marina, this is our personal favorite. Good food, friendly service, and great atmosphere. A good place to take children who can walk to look at the boats in the harbour while waiting for the meal.
John Crow - In downtown Ocho Rios on the main street, wonderful soups, sports on wide screen, bar, and music.
Bibi Bips -
Great place for a sunset drink and appetizers. Nightly food. A more casual environment, Bibi Bips rests on a cliff overlooking the sea and Mahogany Beach.
Scotchie's Jerk Center - Absolutely the best jerk chicken, fish, and pork in the Ocho Rios area and five minutes from Stone Harbour. The garden has amazing hibiscus flowers! Full bar.
Lunch
Try Coconuts, Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville (loud and filled with tourists from the cruise ships, but fun if you’re into contests and silliness), Blue Runnings Coffee Shop at Island Village. Bibi Bips (overlooking the sea), Toscanini’s (upscale), Scotchie's Jerk Center (great jerk!), World of Fish on James Avenue in Ocho Rios (great garlic lobster).
Ice Cream
Try the ice cream shop at Island Village. A nice walk in the evening.
Breakfast
All breakfasts are provided by Stone Harbour.
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Nightlife
Besides long, romantic dinners, Ocho Rios currently offers a variety of nightlife
Margaritaville -
Offers a different venue every night. Saturday night is Ladies’ Night and ladies are free. DJ music, karaoke, contests, and fun.
Watering Hole - A favorite of locals and tourists, great drinks and lots of singing!
Amnesia -
A local dance club catering to the younger crowd. Some comedy evenings.
Treasure Chest -
Although legalized gaming has been slated for Jamaica, the large casinos are in the process of being built. Some small gaming is allowed at the moment, and the Treasure Chest is one of those establishments. Located in downtown Ocho Rios.
Sports Bars -
There are several sports bars including Margaritaville and smaller establishments where customers can watch a game, play some pool, or have drinks with friends.
Live Concerts -
Live concerts are ongoing in Jamaica. Check to see if there are any concerts on the days of your stay.
Reggae Sunsplash - A major international festival, Sunsplash occurs once a year, usually the last week of July or the first week of August. Check online for specific dates.
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Churches
A list of local churches is provided in the guest book at Stone Harbour.
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