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Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios travel guide

Town on north coast of Jamaica

Things to do28 experiences
Best time to visitOctober to July
Nearest airportKTP · 35 mi from centre
Time zoneUTC−5
Population16,671

About Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios is a town in the parish of Saint Ann on the north coast of Jamaica, and is more widely referred to as Ochi by locals. Beginning as a sleepy fishing village, Ocho Rios has seen explosive growth in recent decades to become a popular tourist destination featuring duty-free shopping, a cruise-ship terminal, tourist attractions and several beaches and acclaimed resorts. In addition to being a port of call for cruise ships, Ocho Rios also hosts cargo ships at the Reynolds Pier for the exportation of sugar, limestone, and in the past, bauxite. The estimated population of the town in 2011 was 16,671, which is nearly 10% of the total population of St. Ann. The town is served by both Sangster International Airport and Ian Fleming International Airport. Scuba diving and other water sports are offered in the town's vicinity.

Things to do in Ocho Rios by type

28 tours, tickets and experiences across 2 categories. Pick a type to see what is available for your dates.

How long
  • 3-6 hours 6
  • Over 6 hours 3
  • 1-3 hours 1
Good for
  • Senior 1
  • Youth 1
  • Families 1
  • Couples 1
Browse all things to do in Ocho Rios

Top experiences in Ocho Rios

Tours, tickets and experiences you can book with Destina Holidays, from 28 available.

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Where to stay in Ocho Rios

Popular hotels in Ocho Rios, out of 66 properties you can book.

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Best time to visit Ocho Rios

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Ocho Rios is October to July, when average daytime highs are around 82–90°F and rain falls on about 21 days a month.

MonthTemperature (°F)Rain days
Jan 73° – 82° 19
Feb 72° – 83° 17
Mar 73° – 85° 18
Apr 74° – 85° 27
May 76° – 88° 19
Jun 78° – 89° 18
Jul 78° – 90° 21
Aug 78° – 91° 19
Sep 78° – 91° 20
Oct 77° – 88° 28
Nov 75° – 84° 23
Dec 74° – 83° 22

Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.

Know before you go

Currency
Jamaican dollar (JMD)1 US dollar ≈ $159
Language
English
Calling code
+1
Driving
On the left
Time zone
America/JamaicaUTC−5
Capital
Kingston

Upcoming public holidays in Jamaica

  • Christmas Day
  • St. Stephen's DayBoxing Day
  • New Year's Day
  • Ash Wednesday
  • Good Friday
  • Easter Monday

Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.

Getting to Ocho Rios

These are the airports closest to central Ocho Rios. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.

  • KTP Tinson Pen Aerodrome35 mi (57 km) from the city centre
  • KIN Norman Manley International Airport40 mi (64 km) from the city centre
  • MBJ Sangster International Airport53 mi (85 km) from the city centre
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Getting around Ocho Rios

Route taxis are everywhere. To give you an idea of the local cost 120 JMD$ is the cost of a shared route taxis between Ocho Rios and Oracabessa! ( $1 USD is equal to $86 JMD

Ocho Rios travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Ocho Rios?

Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Ocho Rios is October to July, when average daytime highs are around 82–90°F and rain falls on about 21 days a month.

What is the weather like in Ocho Rios?

August is usually the warmest month in Ocho Rios, with average highs of 91°F (33°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 73°F (23°C). The wettest month is typically October, with about 271 mm of rain.

Which airport is closest to Ocho Rios?

Tinson Pen Aerodrome (KTP) is the closest airport, about 35 miles (57 km) from the centre of Ocho Rios. Other nearby airports include Norman Manley International Airport (KIN, 40 mi) and Sangster International Airport (MBJ, 53 mi).

What currency is used in Ocho Rios?

Ocho Rios uses the Jamaican dollar (JMD). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ $159.

What time zone is Ocho Rios in?

Ocho Rios uses the America/Jamaica time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.

How do I get around Ocho Rios?

Route taxis are everywhere. To give you an idea of the local cost 120 JMD$ is the cost of a shared route taxis between Ocho Rios and Oracabessa! ( $1 USD is equal to $86 JMD

What are the top things to do in Ocho Rios?

Popular experiences you can book in Ocho Rios include Negril Beach and Ricks Café, Chukka Seville Horseback Ride 'N' Swim with Dunn's River Climb and Zipline and Chukka Seville Quad Safari, Horseback Ride'N'Swim with Party Catamaran Cruise and Green Grotto Cave. Destina Holidays offers 28 tours and activities here.

What kinds of tours and activities can I book in Ocho Rios?

The most popular types of experiences in Ocho Rios are outdoor activities & adventure (9), cruise & water tours (3), amusement parks (1) and day trips & excursions (1). Filter by type when you search to compare prices and availability for your dates.

Where should I stay in Ocho Rios?

Popular areas for hotels in Ocho Rios include Ocho Rios. Well-reviewed options include Moon Palace Jamaica and Jamaica Inn.

How many hotels can I book in Ocho Rios?

Destina Holidays currently lists 66 properties in and around Ocho Rios, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.