The 10 Best Bars of Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios, a town located in the northern coast of Jamaica, has been attracting tourists for decades now. The town is named after the Spanish words for “eight rivers” due to the number of rivers that flow through it. This Jamaican town has so much to offer, from its stunning beaches to its rich history, but today we will be focusing on its bustling nightlife.

Nightlife in Ocho Rios offers a mix of cool, calm, and laid-back spots, to loud, vibrant and thrilling places. The town has something for everyone, from the hardcore party goers to the social drinkers. Here are the ten best bars in Ocho Rios.

1. Margaritaville

It’s a chain of bars famous for its lively atmosphere and the perfect location on the beach. Margaritaville is known for its excellent food, drinks, music, and entertainment. It also attracts a younger crowd as it is one of the most popular bars in Ocho Rios.

2. Blue Beat Ultra Lounge

The Blue Beat Ultra Lounge is a trendy spot that boasts a luxurious atmosphere. Its lounge/club hybrid design is perfect for those looking for a relaxing but fun time with friends. It’s known for hosting some of the best live music performances in the city.

3. The Deck

Situated at Mammee Bay Estate, The Deck overlooks the breathtaking Mammee Bay beach. It provides a serene and relaxed environment, with excellent offerings of Jamaican specialties and exotic cocktails. It’s famous for its spectacular ocean views and affordable prices.

4. Amnesia Night Club

Amnesia Night Club is one of the newer clubs in Ocho Rios, but it definitely has been making its mark on the party scene. It’s known for hosting some of the greatest DJs, a fantastic sound system, and an amazing light show.

5. Bamboo Beach Club

Situated on a picturesque beach, the Bamboo Beach Club is both a cocktail lounge and a restaurant. It’s known for its phenomenal food, unparalleled service, and majestic ocean views. It’s the perfect place for a romantic dinner, a relaxed time with friends or even a family outing.

6. John Crow’s Tavern

John Crow’s Tavern is a local hangout spot in Ocho Rios, where both locals and tourists enjoy a casual, relaxing time. Its location between the city center and Fern Gully makes it an ideal pit stop for anyone on a long drive. It’s famous for its extensive rum selection and its traditional Jamaican dishes.

7. The Jazz Garden

The Jazz Garden is a cozy and intimate bar located near the Columbus Park Museum. It’s known for its sultry jazz music, signature cocktails, and its fascinating ambiance. It’s a perfect spot for a date night or even a solo night cap.

8. Pier 1

Pier 1 has been an iconic landmark for more than four decades now, located on the Ocho Rios harbor. It’s known for its spectacular sunsets, great food, and the best live entertainment in town. Also, it’s open seven days a week, and the cover charge is worth it.

9. Ocean’s Eleven

Ocean’s Eleven bar is a laid back, neighborhood style bar based on the outskirts of the town. It’s famous for its friendly staff, homemade Jamaican cuisine, and intoxicating music. Also, it’s open until late, making it perfect for insomniac party-goers.

10. The Point Bar and Grill

The Point Bar and Grill offers an extensive menu of both local and international cuisine, including delectable seafood. Its bar is situated beside the Ocho Rios Marina, providing a unique outdoor dining and drinking experience. The Point is famous for its signature rum punch, which is highly recommended.

In conclusion, Ocho Rios offers a vibrant nightlife with an extensive range of bars to choose from, each with its unique features and ambience. However, whether you are planning a quiet, relaxed night, a night full of live music, or even an all-nighter, the bars listed above guarantee a memorable experience.

The Insider’s Guide to Ocho Rios, Jamaica

Ocho Rios is a charming town located in the northern coast of Jamaica. Often seen as a tourist destination, Ocho Rios is also a great place to explore some of Jamaica’s vibrant culture and history. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a look at some of the hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that you need to know before your visit.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems in Ocho Rios

Ocho Rios is full of must-visit tourist destinations such as the Dunn’s River Falls, Shaw Park Gardens, and Dolphin Cove, but hidden gems exist in this town. One of the lesser-known attractions is Firefly Estate, a historic site located southeast of Ocho Rios considered a must-visit for fans of the late playwright Noel Coward. James Bond Beach is also a hidden gem known only to the locals and perfect for a relaxing day while chilling with some beer and Jamaican cuisine.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine and Where to Get It

Jamaican cuisine is a melting pot of flavors having been influenced by the local produce and by the cuisines of the island’s diverse population, making it a foodie’s paradise. Some of the must-try dishes include Jerk chicken, Ackee and Saltfish, and Plantain. Local spots like Scotchies Jerk Centre and Miss T’s Kitchen serve some of the best Jerk chicken and Jamaican dishes, respectively. And of course, don’t forget to taste Jamaican rum at Appleton Estate Rum Tour.

Cultural Experiences: The Vibrant Jamaican Culture

Ocho Rios is home to a rich cultural heritage, sporting vibrant celebrations of music, dance, painting, and many more. The yearly staging of Carnival in Ocho Rios is a once-in-a-lifetime experience as its dance and colorful costumes reflect the festive spirit of Jamaica. If you’re a music enthusiast, visit the resort town in July for the Reggae Sumfest, where you will find the best of reggae music. And lastly, visit Harmony Hall, an art gallery and a must-visit spot for art lovers in Jamaica.

Local History: Captivating Stories from the Past

Ocho Rios was once an agricultural hub in Jamaica, giving rise to the local lore about the agricultural history of the town. You can learn about the local history of Ocho Rios by visiting the Seville Great House and Heritage Park, which offers an interactive experience to learn about the history, culture, and art of Jamaica. Also, visit Columbus Park, located on the western outskirts of Ocho Rios and considered the place where Columbus landed in Jamaica in 1494.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

Jamaica is full of breathtaking spots, and you don’t want to leave without exploring a few. Head over to the Blue Hole, a hidden gem tucked away in the mountains of Ocho Rios. This attraction features intense, natural blue water and a cascading waterfall, making for a perfect Instagrammable spot. If you are up for a more ambitious adventure, hike the Irie Blue Hole, located on a former coffee plantation and known for its breathtaking scenery.

In conclusion, Ocho Rios, Jamaica, offers more than just its famous tourist spots. By visiting the hidden gems, trying the local cuisine, experiencing the Jamaican culture and history, and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots, you will truly get a feel for this vibrant town, its people, traditions, and history.