"Mystic Mountain is one of the most fun and relatively new attractions in Jamaica for both adults and adventurous kids. It’s hard to say what’s more exhilarating: the gorgeous rain-forest backdrop and mountain views, or the roller coaster–like bobsled ride that takes you along winding tracks while you scream your lungs out. If that’s still not enough, hop on the Sky Explorer—a chairlift that will carry you slowly above the canopy, at 700 feethigh, for breathtaking views of the entire Ocho Rios area and even adjacent Dunn’s River Falls. Or get your bathing suit on and hop inside the steel waterslide that willdump you into an infinity-edge pool overlooking Ocho Rios’s stunning bay below."

"Spot a Crocodile If you've ever longed fora ride downa river to spot crocodiles—and who among us hasn't? [editor's note: me!]—you can do just that on the Black River in southern Jamaica . The river cruises are a popular tourist attraction, but they never feel overrun. Enjoyanhour-long cruise past tall mangroves and ferns, spotting tropical birds and stopping when the guides greet crocodiles. The enormous reptiles swim right up and evenopen their jaws whilepassengers cringe and wonder if the guide’s hand is about to disappear.Don't miss this fun chance tosee some of Jamaica’s wildest interior."

"Steven’s Aqua Nature Park Aqua Nature Park, a well-maintained and verdant retreat 40 miles east of Negril,offersvisitorsa chanceto take a dip and cool off in the Venture River. The river, which flows througha swimming hole on the property, has small, colorful fish and a cascade. Owner Steven delights inconductingwalking tours of his family's property, and canteach you quite a bit about the Jamaican plants and fruits he grows. (Don'tmiss seeing theenormouscotton tree.) A casual restaurant and bar,withsome reggaeplaying in the background, rounds this experience out intoa lovely, low-keyafternoon escape for couples, families, or anyone looking for a taste of real Jamaica."

"White River Go tubing on the White River with Ocho Rios Jamaica Tours and cool off in one of Jamaica’s most picturesque bodies of water. The jade colors of White River, dotted with fishing boats along its banks, rocks, and leafy banks, make it an idealchoice for shutterbugs and nature lovers. Combineyour tube floatwith a stop at Irie Blue Hole, for a fun leap into the river-fed sinkhole."

"Water and Jungle Encounters Jamaica has mastered the art of family entertainment, particularly with its water parks. One of the most popular attractions with kids, away from the beach, is Dolphin Cove. Set across five acres, facing a lagoon, the Ocho Rios location is beautiful and allows kids to have a myriad of fun encounters and swims with dolphins, stingrays, and nurse sharks. There are also glass-bottom kayaks, jungle trails, and a beach, among other activities."

"Splash and Slide Negril’s Kool Runnings Water Park is a nice addition to a town where the beach is otherwise the main attraction. Ten varied theme slides of up to 40 feet in height—try the “Bolt lightning”—keep everyone having fun in the water. There’s even a lazy river, ideal for the smaller kids, and three restaurants. It's a fun place for everyone. Check their website and social media pages for group specials."

"Shaw Park Botanical Gardens Jamaica's interior beauty includes several botanical gardens. Shaw Park, located in Ocho Rios' surrounding hillside at up to 800 feet above sea level, is a great stop for families, with a large waterfall cascading through, gorgeous flower gardens and plenty of picnic space. When you want to get away from the heat and chaos of downtown Ocho Rios, head up to the hills and relax here. It's a US$10 entrance fee and the park is open during regular business hours."

"Bird and nature lovers will fall for the gorgeous gardens of the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary. Home to hundreds of endemic as well a migrant species of birds, you can spot Jamaica’s national bird–the Doctorbird or Red-billed Streamertail hummingbird–as well as the Mango hummingbird and Caribbean doves, among others. The highlight of visiting the sanctuary is feeding hummingbirds right out of your hand, with seeds or with a bottle filled with sugary water. (Photo by Alex Massengale)"

"Doctor's Cave Beach A Google search of beaches in Montego Bay will undoubtedly turn up Jamaica 's most well-known beach: the often-crowded, white sand Doctor's Cave Beach Club ($6 pp. entry fee). Although a small stretch, it is indeed hard to resist, with its multicolor umbrellas, clean water, and passing jumbo jets on their way to or from the nearby airport. Come here to mix and mingle or sit back and enjoy some people watching."

"Jamming on Reggae Beach The north coast is home to a handful of beaches that are accessible for a fee and attract cruise ship day-trippers. One of these is the laidback Reggae Beach (US$6 pp.)–a spacious blond stretch that's worth the short taxi ride. There are restroom facilities, along with a lively bar and grill. While it's popular, it doesn't feel cramped and makes for a fun day at the beach. (Image courtesy of Dub Dem Sound System)"