Family Adventure in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Nature's Embrace in Ocho Rios

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Ocho Rios. It's days like these that remind me why Aisha and I love to travel with Ethan, creating memories that will last a lifetime. From cascading waterfalls to lush rainforests, and ending with the flavors of Jamaica, today was a feast for the senses.

Our day began, as usual, with a hearty breakfast at Moon Palace Jamaica. The buffet is extensive, and Ethan always makes a beeline for the omelet station. Aisha and I enjoyed some fresh fruit and Jamaican coffee, fueling up for our adventures. Today, we were venturing into the heart of Jamaica's natural beauty, and I was eager to capture it all through my lens.


Experience luxury at Moon Palace Jamaica, a stunning beachfront resort in Ocho Rios with all-inclusive amenities and endless activities for the perfect getaway.

Our first stop was The Turtle River Falls & Gardens. I had read about it before, of course, but nothing truly prepares you for the experience of being there. As we entered, we were greeted by a vibrant array of tropical plants and flowers, meticulously arranged to create a picturesque setting. The sound of cascading water filled the air, a soothing soundtrack to our exploration. Ethan was immediately captivated, his eyes wide with wonder as he spotted the first of the 14 waterfalls.


Experience the tranquility of Turtle River Falls & Gardens, where lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls await in beautiful Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

The gardens were formerly known as The Enchanted Gardens, and I can certainly see why. The well-maintained trails led us through bamboo groves, past ferns, and flowering plants, creating a haven for nature lovers. Aisha was in her element, pointing out various plants and explaining their significance. It's moments like these that I cherish, seeing my family connect with nature and each other.

The earth has music for those who listen.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the gardens, taking our time to soak in the beauty. Ethan loved the aviary, where he got to interact with colorful tropical birds. He was thrilled when a guide filled his hand with seeds, and the birds flocked to him. I managed to capture some great photos, the vibrant colors of the birds against the lush greenery creating stunning compositions. I even managed to get a shot of Aisha with a parrot perched on her shoulder, a memory I know she'll treasure.

After the falls, we ventured towards Fern Gully. I had read that it was formed after an earthquake in 1907, which rerouted the river and created the lush gorge. As we drove through the winding road, I was immediately struck by the coolness of the air and the dense canopy of ferns overhead. It felt like entering another world, a serene escape from the tropical heat.


Explore the enchanting Fern Gully in Ocho Rios, Jamaica - a lush rainforest filled with vibrant flora and captivating wildlife experiences.

The history of Fern Gully is fascinating. Once a riverbed, it transformed into a lush forest after the earthquake. Today, over 300 species of ferns thrive here, creating a unique and breathtaking landscape. We took our time driving through, stopping occasionally to admire the scenery and take photos. Ethan was particularly intrigued by the towering ferns, some of which were as tall as him.

As we drove, we passed local artisans selling hand-carved wooden sculptures and other crafts. I picked up a small, intricately carved bird for Aisha, a memento of our day in nature. It's these little things that make travel so special, the chance to connect with local culture and bring a piece of it home with us.

For lunch, we stopped at Reggae Pot Rastarant, a local eatery known for its authentic Jamaican cuisine. The restaurant had a vibrant, colorful atmosphere, with reggae music playing softly in the background. It was exactly the kind of place I love to discover on our travels, a place that feels authentic and welcoming.


Savor authentic Jamaican dishes in a vibrant atmosphere at Reggae Pot Rastarant in Ocho Rios.

We ordered a variety of dishes to share: jerk chicken, curried goat, and some vegetarian options for Aisha. The food was bursting with flavor, each dish showcasing the unique spices and herbs of Jamaican cuisine. Ethan, surprisingly, loved the jerk chicken, though he did find it a bit spicy. Aisha and I enjoyed some refreshing local fruit juices, the perfect complement to the meal.

One love, one heart, let's get together and feel alright. That's what Bob Marley said, and that's how I felt sitting there with my family, enjoying the flavors of Jamaica.

After lunch, we decided to do some shopping at The Harbour Shops. Located near the waterfront, the shops offered a mix of local boutiques and international brands. Aisha was on the hunt for some Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee to bring back home, while Ethan was more interested in finding a new toy. I enjoyed browsing the local craft stores, admiring the intricate woodwork and colorful textiles.


Explore diverse shopping and dining experiences at The Harbour Shops in Ocho Rios, where Caribbean charm meets modern retail.

The Harbour Shops had a lively atmosphere, with friendly vendors and vibrant decorations. We took a break from shopping to enjoy some ice cream, sitting by the waterfront and watching the boats go by. It was a perfect way to relax and soak in the Caribbean vibe. As the day wound down, we headed back to Moon Palace Jamaica, tired but content. We had packed so much into one day, experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of Ocho Rios.

For dinner, we had reservations at Christopher’s at Hermosa Cove. The setting was beautiful, with stunning views of the sea. Chef Conroy's creations were a delight, blending traditional island dishes with a contemporary flair. The staff was courteous and professional, making our dining experience truly special.


Experience authentic Jamaican cuisine with breathtaking Caribbean views at Christopher's at Hermosa Cove in Ocho Rios.

I opted for the pimento-smoked beef tenderloin, while Aisha chose the freshly caught seafood. Ethan, ever the adventurous eater, tried the jerk chicken wings and loved them. We savored each bite, enjoying the ambiance and the company. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration and discovery.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning a trip with Island Routes Caribbean Tours at Sandals Grande Ocho Rios, followed by some beach time at Puerto Seco beach park. I'm particularly excited about the tour, as I've heard great things about their excursions. And of course, Ethan is already looking forward to building sandcastles on the beach.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Ocho Rios has truly captured my heart with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. It's a place that I know we'll be returning to in the future, a place where memories are made and cherished. And as a Bajan, I feel a special connection to this region of the Caribbean, a sense of belonging that makes the experience all the more meaningful. I even managed to avoid forgetting any of the essentials today, so that's a win in my book!

Good night from Jamaica!