Top 7 Reasons To Visit Jamaica
There are plenty of reasons to visit Jamaica! From beaches to waterfalls, there is no shortage of beautiful places in Jamaica. But there’s also great food and rich history. Read on to see our top reasons for visiting this incredible Caribbean island.
Reasons To Visit Jamaica
This Caribbean island nation, which is only slightly smaller than the US state of Connecticut, has a lot to offer it’s visitors. So if you need some convincing, here are our top seven reasons for why you should start planning your trip to the island of “All Right.”
Jamaican Beaches
One of the top reasons to visit Jamaica is to enjoy its beaches. Jamaica has approximately 635 miles (1,022 km) of coastline so it isn’t difficult to find a beach to lay out on. And with warm tropical weather year round, you’re guaranteed to have some amazing beach days.


Jamaican Waterfalls
Do you like chasing waterfalls? I mean, who doesn’t right? Then Jamaica is the place for you. There are tons of waterfalls! Some of them are really well known and easy to get to. We think one of the best waterfalls in Jamaica is Dunn’s River Falls. Yes, it is one of the more popular places in Jamaica, but it’s for good reason.
There are also waterfalls that are a little more hush hush, and barely have any tourists. We recommend making friends with some of the locals, as they’ll be able to lead you towards some Jamaican hidden gems.


Sunsets and Sunrises
Seriously, the sunrises and sunsets in Jamaica are just gorgeous. So find a good spot on one of the beaches we mentioned and take it all in.


History and Culture
Jamaica has a very rich and complex history. The island was originally inhabited by native Taino Indians, but they were eventually killed off and replaced by African slaves when the Spanish settled there in the early 16th century. In 1655, England took control of the island and established plantations that grew sugar, cocoa, and coffee.
Then, in 1834, over 300,000 enslaved Africans gained their freedom when slavery was finally abolished. Jamaica was then the first Caribbean nation to gain independence from the British on August 6, 1962. To learn more about the history and culture of Jamaica, make sure to visit some of it’s museums, former plantations, or other historic sites. One of the top historical places of interest in Jamaica is Rose Hall, because the plantation is said to be haunted by a former owner.


Jamaican Food
The food in Jamaica is delicious and full of flavor. Jamaicans use an array of different spices and dry rubs that will leave your taste buds craving more. Eating jerk chicken with rice and peas is a must, but make sure to also try ackee and saltfish (typically eaten at breakfast).


Jamaican Rum
Did you know Jamaica was the first island in the Caribbean to produce rum on a commercial basis? Most people are familiar with Appleton Estate rum and we hear taking a tour of the distillery is pretty amazing. There are a lot of other local brands as well though. Either way, rum is everywhere. Enjoy it straight, or mixed. Or in your morning coffee. No one will judge you here!


Relaxation
And the best reason to visit Jamaica? To be able to experience that relaxed Jamaican attitude. Remember, Jamaicans run on island time and they know how to chill and enjoy every moment…

Final Thoughts On Visiting Jamaica
With so many beautiful places in Jamaica, as well as great food and drinks, there’s no reason for you NOT to go to. We’d go back to Jamaica in a heart beat because we feel we’ve only scratched the surface. Like we said earlier, for such a small island, there’s plenty to do.
And if you’d like to travel to any other islands in the Caribbean, check out this Quick Guide to the Amazing Caribbean Islands by our friend Simon of Travelwith2ofus.
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Haven’t been to Jamaica yet, but it is on my radar for the coming years. I’d love to visit Jamaica for all the reasons you mentioned, but especially for the food! I’ve heard from many people that Dunn’s River Falls is pretty crammed with tourists and am happy to know that there are other beautiful waterfalls nearby that are more untouched.
Dunn’s River Falls can be, but it depends what day of the week and the season too. You mainly want to avoid when the cruise ships are unloading. When we went it was actually pretty empty. But yes, definitely venture out and try to find some other waterfalls as well.
I have been to Jamaica and loved it ! The food, cocktails and sunsets are amazing. Stayed in Negril.
Oh nice! We stayed in Montego Bay.
What a fantastic overview, Jamaica hasn’t been on my radar, but now I want to go and soak in all that rich culture and rum while enjoying some of those amazing sunsets!
Thanks Noel! Yes, definitely get some rum! 😉
Jamaica has a unique quality and charm which draws people like a magnet. Your post spells out the top reasons to visit Jamaica, but I feel even one is enough.
Oh that is very well said Vyjay! 🙂
Yes, you’ve convinced me! Jamaica looks beautiful and more than the party scene that I imagined.
I think the great thing about Jamaica is that it can be both, depending on what you’re looking for.
Beautiful! We’ve never been to Jamaica, but I’ve always wanted to. I could totally see doing a great beach getaway there kids free!
It would be a lot of fun!
What a great post about Jamaica. It has never been on my list, but glad to learn that next to white beaches there are beautiful waterfalls and more attractions. Food looks good too and the rum of course, probably the first thing which people associate the country with!
They are definitely famous for their rum!
Sounds good to me! Especially that bit about the rum 😉 Those beautiful sunsets are pretty convincing too.
I know right? lol
Your trip looks fabulous but this is one place that I do not personally care for. I’ve been 3 times, all on a cruise and 2 different places, and could not find one thing I enjoyed about it. Maybe I need to go with you next time. 😉
Oh no! That’s too bad Melody. But I’m always up for another trip! lol
Jamaica sounds like a great destination, but what sold it for me was the sunsets and rum. What a combo! ?
It’s hard to beat! 😉
Yes! Jamaica is an amazing place! I have been lucky enough to visit a couple of times and I totally agree with your list. The beaches, the waterfalls, and yes island time! And can’t forget the rum!!
That’s so awesome that you’ve been more than once Bryanna! I can’t wait to go back!
I’ve tried a recipe for jerk chicken at home, but I can only imagine how much better it tastes in Jamaica! Although I would go to try some Jamaican rum too 🙂
Yeah, definitely try the rum! 😉
I’ve only been to Jamaica on cruises, but I would love to go back a really spend some time there. Your photos are gorgeous.
Thank you!! 🙂
My top reasons to go back would be the food, the coffee, and the natural scenery. Other than that, I did not care for Jamaica. Sucha shame, though, but there you have it.
Thanks Vicky. Always refreshing to read posts written by visitors who have enjoyed our island home.