Montego Bay: Blue Hole, Secret Falls & Dunn's River Day Trip

Summary

Swim, climb & laugh through Jamaica’s wild waterfalls

You’ll meet friendly locals from the start as you ride from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios with stories along the way. Jump into Blue Hole’s cool waters, hike to Secret Falls through lush forest, and climb up Dunn’s River Falls holding hands with your group. With hotel pickup and lunch stops included, you’ll feel Jamaica’s warmth every step.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget how our driver, Devon, greeted us at the curb in Montego Bay — with this big grin and a “Ya ready for adventure?” I laughed because I wasn’t sure if I was. The van smelled faintly of coconut sunscreen and new upholstery. As we wound out of the city toward Ocho Rios, Devon pointed out little things — school kids in bright uniforms, a roadside stand selling jerk chicken (the smoke made my stomach growl), even a dog napping under a mango tree. It was three hours but didn’t feel long with his stories filling the time.

The Blue Hole was louder than I’d pictured — you hear it before you see it. Our guide, Shanna, showed us where to leave our stuff (lockers were handy) and then led us along slippery rocks to the edge. There’s this first jump that looked higher from above — maybe ten feet? My knees shook but Shanna just grinned and counted down for me. Hitting that cold water snapped me awake like nothing else. After that it was all laughter and splashing; some people tried the rope swing (I chickened out). We followed a path through dripping greenery to Secret Falls — the air smelled green somehow, mossy and cool. Someone ahead of us tried to say something in patois and everyone cracked up.

Dunn’s River Falls is different energy — more people, more buzz. Our group held hands in a chain as we climbed up the rocks with water rushing around our ankles. The guide kept shouting encouragement (“You got this!”) and at one point he pointed out a tiny crab scuttling past my foot (didn’t expect wildlife). By the top my legs were jelly but I felt weirdly proud of myself. We grabbed some food at a local spot after (jerk chicken again — can’t help myself), then wandered through stalls where women sold hand-carved bowls and bracelets. The smell of wood smoke stuck to my shirt all afternoon.

I still think about that first jump into the Blue Hole sometimes — how scared I was until I did it anyway. If you’re looking for a day trip from Montego Bay with waterfalls and real Jamaican energy (plus pickup so you don’t have to stress), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls tour

• Depart from Montego Bay
• Stop 30 minutes at Rainbow Shops
• Arrive at Blue Hole
• Jump from 10-foot rock
• Use rope swings
• Take nature walk to Secret Falls
• Attempt 30-foot jump
• Drive to Dunn's River Falls
• Climb 600ft Dunn's River Falls
• Shop at local craft market
• Have lunch at local restaurant
• Return to Montego Bay

Top questions

How long is the drive from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios?

The total drive time each way is about 1.5 hours, so around 3 hours round-trip.

Are there rest stops during the day trip?

Yes, there’s a 30-minute rest stop at Rainbow Shops where you can stretch your legs or buy snacks.

What activities are included at Blue Hole?

You can jump from rocks or decks into deep water, try rope swings, swim or just relax by the river.

Is climbing Dunn’s River Falls difficult?

The climb is moderate; guides assist groups by forming human chains for safety up the 600ft falls.

Are facilities available at Blue Hole?

Yes, there are restrooms, locker rooms for your belongings, parking areas and picnic spaces on site.

Is lunch included on this tour?

You’ll have time to grab lunch at a local restaurant after visiting Dunn’s River Falls; food cost isn’t included.

Can infants join this tour?

Infants can join but must sit on an adult’s lap; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Are there health restrictions for this trip?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health or pregnant travelers due to activity level.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Montego Bay by air-conditioned vehicle with experienced drivers who share local insights along the way; entry fees for Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls; use of facilities like lockers and restrooms; plus time set aside for lunch at a local restaurant before heading back in the afternoon.