Jamaica Landmark Attractions

From the longest stretch of sand in Jamaica to its longest mountain range, we take a look at the landmark attractions in Jamaica.

Dunn’s River Falls

One of Jamaica’s national treasures, Dunn’s River Falls is a stone’s throw from Ocho Rios. A living and growing phenomenon, it continuously regenerates itself from deposits of travertine rock. The small, dome-shaped cataracts found on the falls are usually associated with thermal spring activity in limestone caves, which the area is known for. 

Blue Mountains

Jamaica’s longest mountain range includes the island’s highest point, Blue Mountain Peak, standing at an impressive 7,402 feet above sea level. Both the north and south coasts of Jamaica can be seen from the summit, which is accessible via a walking track. The mountains have been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) as they support significant populations of many Jamaican bird species. 

Port Royal

Once the enclave of pirates and other outlaws, there is still a strong seafaring tradition in Port Royal, which is commonly referred to as “the wickedest city on Earth”. It is the only authentic sunken city in the Western Hemisphere having been consumed by a large earthquake in June 1692, making Port Royal one of the most important archaeological sites in the Caribbean. 

Fort Charles

The greatest of Port Royal’s six fortresses and the first to be built in the ancient city. Famous historical figures such as Horatio Nelson strode proudly across the ramparts of this fearsome 17th-century fort, which boasted as many as 104 cannons and 500 men. Browse the fort’s small but informative museum and later retrace Nelson’s footsteps on the wooden quarterdeck overlooking the Caribbean Sea. 

Devon House

This celebrated historic landmark is the architectural dream of Jamaica’s first Black millionaire, George Stiebel. Having earned his riches from gold mining in South America, Stiebel was one of three wealthy Jamaicans who constructed elaborate homes during the late-19th century in what fittingly became known as Millionaire’s Corner. Devon House is a beautiful blend of Caribbean and Georgian architecture and furnished with an expertly curated collection of Jamaican, English, and French antique pieces and reproductions. 

Negril

Home to Jamaica’s longest natural stretch of sand – the erroneously-named Seven-Mile Beach – Negril became a hippie hotspot during its heyday of the early 1970s. Although now far more developed, this natural haven remains one of Jamaica’s best beaches, home to spectacular sunsets, icing-sugar sands and a strong local concern for preserving the area’s ecology. 

Bob Marley Museum

One of Jamaica’s most popular attractions, you can visit the well-preserved colonial-era house where Bob Marley lived and recorded between 1975 and his transition in 1981. The site was converted into a museum six years later by his wife, Mrs Rita Marley and houses a collection of memorabilia belonging to the reggae legend.