Blue Hole Ocho Rios: What to Expect at Jamaica's Favourite Jungle Swimming Hole

Tucked into the hills of St. Ann above Ocho Rios, the Blue Hole (also known as Island Gully Falls) is a series of waterfalls and impossibly blue pools in the middle of the rainforest. It's less polished than Dunn's River Falls, and that's exactly why people love it. Here's what to expect before you go.

What the Blue Hole is like

A short walk from the entrance brings you to a chain of pools linked by small waterfalls. Local guides lead groups up through the falls, showing you where to climb, where to swim and where it's safe to jump. Expect:

• Rope swings over the deepest pools.
• Jumping spots at different heights, from an easy hop to a proper leap. Nobody has to jump; there's always a way around.
• Natural slides and small cascades to sit under.
• Cold, clear water that is a real relief on a hot day.

Most visitors spend one and a half to two hours there.

When to go

• Morning is best. The pools are calmer, the light is beautiful and you beat the tour groups.
• Avoid big cruise days if you can. Ocho Rios is a cruise port, and attractions get busier when ships are in.
• After heavy rain the water can turn cloudy and the falls get stronger. Your guide will tell you if any areas are closed.

What to bring

• Water shoes with good grip. The rocks are slippery.
• Swimwear under your clothes, a towel and a change of clothes for the ride back.
• A waterproof phone pouch, or leave the phone with someone who isn't swimming.
• Cash for the entrance fee, lockers, guide tips and a snack. Fees change, so check before you go.
• Reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent.

Tip: Leave jewellery and anything valuable at the hotel. Everything gets wet.

Is it safe?

The Blue Hole is a natural site, not a theme park, so follow the guides, don't jump anywhere they haven't shown you, and skip the high jumps if you're not a confident swimmer. Life jackets are usually available for anyone who wants one. Children love it, but keep them close.

Pairing it with other stops

The Blue Hole is about 20 minutes from the centre of Ocho Rios, so it pairs easily with:

• Dunn's River Falls, for a full waterfall day.
• Lunch in Ocho Rios, then shopping in town.
• A cruise shore day from Ocho Rios or Falmouth. See our Falmouth shore excursion guide.

Getting there from Montego Bay

From Montego Bay and the Rose Hall resorts it's roughly a 1 hour 45 minute drive along the north coast and up into the hills. The last stretch is on narrow country roads, so a local driver who knows the way makes it much easier. Leave early, and you'll have time for Dunn's River on the way back.