Vacaay

Ocho Rios

About Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios is a port town on the north coast of Jamaica. A former fishing village, it’s now a resort with a cruise ship harbor and a busy bay beach that’s lined with hotels. The surrounding parish of Saint Ann is home to rainforest, rivers and waterfalls. Dunn’s River Falls is a terraced, 180m mountain waterfall with lagoon pools, surrounded by trees.

When to visit

The best time to visit Ocho Rios, Jamaica, is from mid-November to mid-December when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.

Most popular: November - December

Spring · Mar, Apr, May

Spring in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, offers pleasant weather with temperatures averaging between 75°F and 85°F. This season is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like Dunn’s River Falls and the lush greenery of Fern Gully. Visitors can also take advantage of fewer crowds and enjoy activities such as snorkeling in the clear waters or visiting the bustling Ocho Rios Craft Market. Spring is also a great time for river rafting on the White River, where you can experience the island's natural beauty in a tranquil setting.

Summer · Jun, Jul, Aug

Summer in Ocho Rios can be hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F. Despite the heat, it’s a lively time to visit, with numerous festivals and events, including Reggae Sumfest in nearby Montego Bay. The beaches, like James Bond Beach and Reggae Beach, are perfect for swimming and water sports. Summer is also the peak season for excursions to Dolphin Cove, where visitors can swim with dolphins, stingrays, and even sharks. Just be prepared for occasional afternoon showers, which are common during this time.

Autumn · Sep, Oct, Nov

Autumn in Ocho Rios is characterized by slightly cooler temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere as the tourist crowds thin out. This season is ideal for exploring the town’s cultural and historical sites, such as the Ocho Rios Fort and the nearby Bob Marley Museum in Nine Mile. The weather is still warm enough for beach days and exploring the stunning Blue Hole. Autumn is also the tail end of the hurricane season, so it’s wise to stay updated on weather forecasts and have flexible travel plans.

Winter · Dec, Jan, Feb

Winter in Ocho Rios is not what you'd traditionally expect. The region maintains warm temperatures, averaging between 77°F and 84°F, making it a popular escape from colder climates. This season is perfect for enjoying all the outdoor activities without the oppressive summer heat. Visitors can take boat tours to the bioluminescent Luminous Lagoon or hike in the nearby Blue Mountains. Winter is also a prime time for deep-sea fishing, with various charters available for those interested in catching marlin, tuna, and other big fish. Note that this period coincides with the high tourist season, so expect higher accommodation prices and busier attractions.

Weather Highlights

  • Summer high

    33°C / 91°F

  • Winter low

    21°C / 70°F

  • Rain

    120 days

  • Snow

    0 days

Location

Getting There

To reach Ocho Rios, Jamaica, from Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport, drive east along the A1 highway for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The scenic coastal route offers views of the Caribbean Sea.

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