8 Unforgettable Things to Do in Negril, Jamaica in 2024
It’s one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island and when we tell you about the best things to do in Negril, Jamaica, you’ll understand why this dazzling destination is such a hit.
With more incredible views than you can shake a stick at, there’s certainly plenty to stare at. But what are the best things to do in Negril?
When you think about holidays in Jamaica, you probably start thinking about the stretches of sand in Montego Bay or the activity-laden streets of Ocho Rios. However, Negril has plenty to offer too!
In this blog, we’ll take you under the surface of one of Jamaica’s lesser-known tourist spots to demonstrate why it’s such a great option for your allotted hours of sunshine this year.
Where is Negril in Jamaica?
Negril is home to some of the best beaches on the island and is located in the western part of Jamaica, approximately 50 miles from Sangster International Airport.
Famous for its soft sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes, there are many things to do here, from relaxed to exciting activities. Seven-Mile beach is a popular location for tourists to visit while staying in Negril.
Time your trip to Jamaica right and you could be sunning it up on the beaches of Negril for hours. Or explore the Caribbean Sea waters as you paddleboard, canoe or snorkel in the bath-warm water.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Negril?
The range of things to do in Negril spans from daredevil cliff jumps to wellness activities like lounging in mineral waters. Here are 8 activities you definitely need on your island itinerary:
- Seven Mile Beach
- Visit Rick’s Cafe
- Explore Negril lighthouse
- Dance to some authentic reggae beats
- Try real jerk cuisine
- Swim the best snorkel and dive spots
- Hop on the One Love Bus Bar Crawl
- Relax at Blue Hole Mineral Spring
1. The Iconic Seven Mile Beach
Across a long stretch of beautiful white sand, full of exciting activities and lively beach bars (heaven knows where they got the name from). Known to be one of the top beaches in the world, it should be at the top of the list of spots to visit.
Sunbathing and Water Sports Galore
Explore the azure turquoise waters on a paddle board and let the calm waves drift you out as you get a unique view of the island’s landscape. Perfect for memory-making and splashing around in the warm water. Other watery activities include paddle boarding, kayaking, kiteboarding and more.
Although most of the best things to do in Negril are centred around being active, the first thing we will think about when booking a holiday is kicking back. When you’re not sailing the waters, take some time by yourself to chill and top up your tan on the beach.
Whether you prefer to relax with a book and a cocktail or participate in water sports, you’re guaranteed a tranquil or fun time at Seven-Mile Beach.
2. Dive Into the Beauty of Rick’s Cafe
Located on a beautiful cliff-top is the famous Rick’s Cafe. Dare to jump off rugged cliffs into the blue water below and watch the best sunsets in Jamaica, or enjoy the live music and performances.
Not only will you be entertained all night, but you also have the chance to indulge in some tasty Jamaican dishes and refreshing cocktails. Watching the brave few launch themselves from the cliff face while enjoying some top grub also makes Rick’s a great option for your Jamaica family holiday itinerary. The kid will love watching all those daredevils diving around.
Cliff jumping is a super popular activity among thrill seekers at Rick’s. Multiple dive heights are available, allowing you to progressively jump from higher and higher – but how far up do you dare go?
3. Exploring the Enchanting Negril Lighthouse
Take an interesting tour and listen to stories about the Negril Lighthouse. Towering 100 ft above sea level, take the chance to capture the amazing garden and sea views. Afterwards, you can always grab a bite to eat at the nearby inn where delicious local cuisine is served and made with quality.
4. Taste Authentic Jamaican Cuisine
With its bold and distinctive flavours, Jamaican cuisine is known for carrying its roots throughout the decades and not changing through outside influences, making it an important part of Jamaican culture.
Many restaurants are locally run, showcasing family recipes which have been passed down through the generations. Because these restaurants are such a huge part of the local community, purchasing delicious food not only immerses you into daily life but it also means you’re investing in the local area too.
Meanwhile, you’re enjoying new tastes and experiences. What could be better?!
Top 5 Jamaican Restaurants in Negril You Need to Try
Talking about Negril’s best restaurants, you’ll find foods you thought you didn’t like enjoyable, dishes that are full of flavour and new comfort foods. Whether you like fish dishes, vegetables, curries or jerk chicken, every meal is prepared and served with care.
Try some fiery jerk chicken and cleanse your palate with some tropical punch at some of the best-rated restaurants including:
- Bongos
- The Rockhouse
- Chances Restaurant
- Puchcart
- Miss Liley’s
Bongos restaurant serves local cuisine at affordable prices and overlooks the beautiful Seven Mile Beach. The Rockhouse, perched on the cliffside, provides vegetarian dishes and newly inspired Jamaican food. To change it up, try The Chances Restaurant for popular pizzas and enjoy them in a beachfront setting while listening to Jazz and Blues.
5. Catch Live Reggae Beats Around the Town
If you enjoy the Jazz and Blues at Chances, then you’ll sure love the reggae beats played by the live bands around the town.
Here’s where to catch the biggest reggae parties around town:
- Alfred’s Ocean Place: Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays
- Roots Bamboo: Wednesdays
- Bourbon Beach: Mondays
6. The Best Snorkelling and Diving Spots in Negril
Half Moon Beach is perfect for exploring the coral reefs with your snorkel. For stronger swimmers, there’s a small inhabited island 300m away where you can relax or use your snorkel to find different sea urchins and tropical fish.
Arguably the best place to snorkel in Negril is South of Booby Cay. Home to shallower waters, it’s the perfect place to start for beginners. Additionally, the Seven-Mile Beach Reef is perfect for spotting baby rays or kaleidoscopic exotic fish such as angelfish, squirrelfish and more.
King Fish Point is a popular diving site featuring a variety of overhangs for a super memorable experience. Catch turtle sightings, gorgonians, sponges and, at the right time of year, you can even spy whales or hammerhead sharks.
7. One Love Bus Bar Crawl: Party on Wheels
The One Love Bus Bar Crawl is a must-try in Jamaica. Socialise with locals in different bars along the One Love Drive in Negril. This party on wheels lets you try different Jamaican specialities like Red Stripe, Jamaican Rum and more. Of course, the whole tour is accompanied by reggae beats too… why wouldn’t it be?
8. Relaxing at the Blue Hole Mineral Spring
This naturally formed spring offers cooling crystal clear waters and, as it’s shrouded in greenery, it also delivers a super secluded vibe. But alongside being easy on the eye, taking a dip in the springs also offers a host of health benefits.
Get that spa feel from the Blue Hole Mineral Spring where you can use clay mud to refresh and nourish your skin. Let the clay soak in while you chill in the cool waters and spend some time kicking back.
This exfoliating activity will leave you feeling glowing and with a heightened mood.
Find Your Perfect Negril Resort
Does Negril sound like a piece of you? Of course, it does! Now all you need is a super spot to lay your head to ensure you’re as rested and ready to explore as possible.
We can help with that. Click the banner below to check out our latest raft of Negril holiday offers. Here you’ll be able to read up on the destination a little more and choose the perfect digs for your exploration.
