Jamaica is a vibrant Caribbean island nation renowned for its reggae music, stunning beaches, and lush mountain landscapes. From the crystal-clear waters of Negril to the cultural heartbeat of Kingston, Jamaica offers visitors an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Dunn's River Falls Climb
Climb the famous 600-foot terraced waterfalls holding hands in a human chain with experienced guides ensuring safety. Children 4 and up can manage the climb with guides' assistance. Water shoes provided by most operators.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Dolphin Cove
Interactive marine park in Ocho Rios where families can swim with dolphins, handle stingrays, snorkel with tropical fish, and encounter various marine animals. Multiple experience levels for different age groups and comfort levels.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Mystic Mountain Bobsled & Chairlift
Ride the Sky Explorer chairlift to a rainforest peak then descend on a mountain bobsled through the jungle. Children control the speed on the bobsled. Zip-lining available for older children and adults.
Duration: 3-4 hours
YS Falls Swimming
Seven-tiered waterfalls with natural swimming pools, rope swings, and natural water slides on Jamaica's south coast. Less crowded than Dunn's River with a more natural setting. Zip line over the falls for adventurous older children.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Kool Runnings Water Park
Full-service water park in Negril with multiple slides, lazy river, wave pool, and kids splash zone. The only dedicated water park in Jamaica. Snack bars and changing facilities on-site.
Duration: Half-4 hours
Bamboo Beach Club
Well-organized beach club in Ocho Rios with calm waters safe for young children, beach volleyball, water sports, and a restaurant. Beach chairs, umbrellas, and showers included in the entry fee for a full family beach day.
Duration: Full day
Martha Brae River Bamboo Rafting
Gently float down the 3-mile Martha Brae River on a 30-foot bamboo raft poled by an expert captain. Tranquil and safe, older children love the novelty. Stop at Miss Martha's Herb Garden for a botanical lesson.
Duration: 2 hours
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Moon Palace Jamaica
Luxury all-inclusive in Ocho Rios with Jamaica's most comprehensive family program. The FlowRider surf simulator, extensive kids club (ages 4-12), teen lounge, 9 restaurants, and multiple pools create a complete family resort experience.
Family features: Kids club, teen lounge, FlowRider, connecting rooms, kids eat free
Beaches Ocho Rios (Sandals Family Brand)
Jamaica's premier family all-inclusive resort with Sesame Street characters, dedicated family pool complex, water park, and unlimited dining. The Vacation Nanny service is included for personalized child supervision.
Family features: Sesame Street characters, water park, nanny service, kids club ages 0-12
Half Moon Resort
Legendary 400-acre Montego Bay resort with family villas featuring private pools and gardens. Kids Club, equestrian center offering riding lessons, and comprehensive children's activities program.
Family features: Kids Club, equestrian center, family villas with pools, multiple pools
Skylark Negril Beach Resort
Mid-range beachfront resort on Seven Mile Beach offering excellent value for families. Two pools, beach volleyball, and multiple dining options create a comfortable family environment without all-inclusive pricing.
Family features: Beachfront, 2 pools, kids activities, family rooms, beach volleyball
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
All-inclusive resort restaurants are most convenient for families with young children - no worrying about menus, prices, or wait times
Devon House I Scream serves world-class ice cream in 20+ flavors and the beautiful colonial grounds are excellent for a family afternoon
Most Jamaican restaurants warmly welcome children and will modify dishes on request to reduce heat or adjust portions
Scotchies jerk restaurants are excellent for families - casual outdoor seating, children love watching the jerk pits, and the food is eat-with-hands fun
Pack snacks for day trips as it's not always easy to find appropriate food when traveling between attractions
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Water shoes are essential for all family members - waterfall visits, rocky beaches, and reef snorkeling all require them
Reef-safe sunscreen is critical - Caribbean UV is intense and the island's marine ecosystems benefit from chemical-free sun protection
Most major resorts have pharmacies or shops with common children's medications, but bring any specific prescriptions from home
Book kids clubs in advance at major resorts during peak season December-April to guarantee spots for popular time slots