Why You Won’t Want To Miss The Blue Hole: Jamaica’s Hidden Gem

I recently spent a perfect week in Jamaica soaking up the sun, swimming in the salt water, and exploring the island. While there are many things to do in Jamaica, with just 1 week to explore, I definitely had to pick and choose.

One of the first places I knew I would be visiting were Jamaica’s famous Dunn’s River Falls. I totally enjoyed having the opportunity to actually climb 600 feet of falls, however, there were so many tourists at this popular spot that I found it to be a little too crowded and commercialized. That being said, climbing the falls is still an amazing experience, you can read all about it here.

For those looking to get away from the crowds and head a little bit off the beaten path, then I highly recommend taking a trip to the Blue Hole, a waterfall and series of natural pools which are a brilliant blue color due to the minerals inside. 

While the Blue Hole isn’t entirely off of tourist’s radar, you’ll find that it is far less busy and commercial than Dunn’s River Falls (at least for now!).

Getting There

With a rental car: The Blue Hole is about a 25-30 minute drive from Ocho Rios and Dunn’s River Falls. It was about a 2-hour drive from Montego Bay, where I was staying.

A note about renting a car: Jamaicans drive on the left side of the road, and are also known to be pretty crazy drivers! You’ll also have to off road it a bit to get to the Blue Hole, so keep these in mind before considering renting! 

With a tour: There are several tour companies that stop at Jamaica’s resorts and drop you off at the Blue Hole. Many times these companies combine a trip to the Blue Hole with river tubing, a stop at the beach, etc.

When booking with a tour, keep in mind that many companies stop at several resorts along the way. From Montego Bay, it took us over 3 hours to arrive when the drive should only take two. If you are staying further away from Ocho Rios, then I recommend combining the Blue Hole and Dunn’s River Falls to avoid another long trip. 

With a private tour: You can also consider hiring a private driver or taxi. You’ll want to get a quote for the trip before you go to see if an excursion would cost more or less, as gas is rather expensive in Jamaica.

Cost

It costs $15 to enter the Blue Hole, however, with a tour company this entrance fee should already be included.

What To Bring:

Swimsuit and Towel: Ladies, if you plan on jumping in, then you’ll want a swimsuit that will stay on!

Water shoes: You will definitely need water shoes when heading to the Blue Hole. Water shoes will make exploring the rocky area of the Blue Hole much easier. The Blue Hole isn’t just a swimming spot. You’ll be getting in and out of the water, jumping off ledges, or even climbing down the waterfall.

Waterproof Camera: If you want to get any photos while you are at the Blue Hole, then you will want to bring a waterproof camera.

Money: While you can explore the Blue Hole on your own, most people choose to hire a guide. I would recommend doing this as they can help you use the rope swings, climb down the waterfall, and explore the rocky areas above the falls. You’ll want cash to tip the guides.

Exploring the Blue Hole

I really enjoyed exploring the Blue Hole and loved that I never felt rushed or overcrowded during our tour. We started off by walking over the waterfall and to an area with several pools and ledges perfect for jumping off of and grabbing photos.

The best part about the Blue Hole is that it is a gorgeous natural spot surrounded by jungle-like trees and vegetation set against the brilliant turquoise water.

After exploring the area above the falls, we trekked back to the waterfall, where those who wanted to could actually use a rope to climb down the falls! This part was really cool, and the guides helped to make sure that everyone climbing down was safe.

For those who don’t want to climb down the falls, or simply love jumping into the water from up high, there is a diving platform perfect for jumping in.

I, unfortunately, have no diving skills, so I gave it my best cannonball. Many of the guides were showing off with dives or backflips into the water. Even my dad did some pretty cool flips, which definitely made me feel totally lame! (Note to self: practice flipping this summer!)

After the group had a chance to jump, we headed to a zipline-like swing area just past the falls. This part was another fun way to hop in, and the water was the perfect temperature!

By this last pool they also have “The Blue Hole Shack” a small gift shop/area where they sell photographs from the tour.

Overall Thoughts

I really enjoyed my time at the Blue Hole, and would definitely consider it to be a highlight of my visit to Jamaica. I really enjoyed how there were far fewer tourists than Dunn’s River Falls, although I suspect this will change once the Blue Hole really gets “discovered.”

The tour was relaxed and laid back, with more than enough time to enjoy the waterfall, various swimming and jumping areas, and take in the beautiful natural surroundings. I also have never seen such a gorgeous shade of blue water before!

As there are a variety of different jumping off areas, it felt like there was always something new to try, and I think this tour is definitely fun for people who like adventure or families looking for fun for everyone. While I think some level of fitness is required, and wouldn’t recommend bringing young children (unless someone is willing to sit out and watch them), the tour really did have something for everyone. Even my mom (who is a little afraid of heights) was able to jump off the highest platform and had a blast!

Overall, I would definitely recommend adding the Blue Hole to your Jamaica itinerary-but get there fast, before the rest of the tourists discover it! 😉

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Does the Blue Hole sound like something you’d love to see in Jamaica, or have you been? Tell me in the comments!

You might also like:

• Climbing Jamaica’s Dunn’s River Falls: Tips For Visiting This Epic Attraction
• What To Pack For An All Inclusive Beach Vacation
• 15 Essential Tips For An Awesome Stay At An All Inclusive Resort
• Why I Didn’t Love Jamaica’s Luminous Lagoon (But You Still Might)

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