Runaway Bay: Blue Hole, Secret Falls & Dunn's River Combo

The Climb That Starts at the Beach: Dunn's River Falls & Two Hidden Pools

You get hotel pickup, a guided swim and hike at Blue Hole and Secret Falls, then a 600-foot terraced waterfall climb at Dunn's River with a guide leading the chain. Entry to both parks, transport, and line-skip access are included. Confirm your pickup location 24 hours before, and wear water-friendly shoes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls tour

• Drive along north coast to Blue Hole
• Swim and jump in Blue Hole pool
• Hike to Secret Falls
• Enjoy cascading waters at Secret Falls
• Travel to Dunn's River Falls
• Climb Dunn's River Falls with guide
• Stop at pools for photos and rest
• Experience water massage at falls
• Finish climb and relax at beach

The Experience

The moment you step out of the air-conditioned bus at Dunn's River Falls, you realize the photos don't prepare you for the scale. The limestone terraces rise 600 feet from the beach itself, and you're about to climb them in a human chain with strangers who'll become your climbing partners for the next hour and a half. But before that — before the climb — your day starts quieter, at the Blue Hole near Ocho Rios, where the water is so blue it looks photoshopped.

The drive from your Runaway Bay hotel takes you along the north coast, and the guide points out the turquoise water below as you wind into the hills. At the Blue Hole, the pool sits in a pocket of rainforest, surrounded by dense green that muffles the world outside. You can jump off the rocks into the deep water, swing on Tarzan ropes if you're feeling it, or just float and let the mineral-rich water hold you. Five minutes into the woods from there is Secret Falls — a smaller cascade where the water actually does feel like it's hugging you as you stand under it, and the resident photographers (or your own waterproof camera, if you brought one) catch you mid-moment. The whole Blue Hole section takes a few hours, and it's the kind of place where you lose track of time.

Then you drive to Dunn's River Falls, and that's when the real work starts. An experienced guide leads you down to the beach and explains the route: you'll climb in a chain, stopping at pools along the way for photos and a breather. There's even a spot called the "massage parlour" where the water cascades hard enough to actually loosen your shoulders. If the climb gets too much, there are exit points — you can tap out and watch from the terrace instead, no judgment. Most people make it to the top, though, and the view back down the terraces is the kind of thing you'll still think about months later.

Hotel pickup is from most Runaway Bay properties, but you'll need to call at least 24 hours ahead to confirm your pickup point and time. The bus is air-conditioned, entry fees are already paid, and you skip the lines that form at both attractions — which, on a busy day, saves you an hour or more of standing around. Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet and bring a waterproof camera if you have one. The whole day runs roughly six to seven hours from pickup to drop-off.

What’s included

• Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Runaway Bay, transport by air-conditioned bus, a guide at both attractions, entry to Blue Hole and Secret Falls, entry to Dunn's River Falls Park, and the experienced guide who leads the waterfall climb.
• You skip the entry lines at both parks.
• Local taxes are covered.
• Professional photographers are available, though you're welcome to bring your own waterproof camera.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelStroller friendlyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by SNL Jamaican Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you want two of Jamaica's most famous waterfalls plus a natural pool in a single day without arranging transport or buying tickets separately — the hotel pickup and included entry mean you just show up and go.

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Top questions

How long is the Dunn's River Falls climb?

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes total, with stops at pools along the way. You climb in a human chain led by an experienced guide.

Is the Blue Hole swimming safe?

Yes. It's a natural mineral pool in the rainforest. You can jump, swim, or use the Tarzan ropes. A guide is present.

What if I can't do the full Dunn's River climb?

There are exit points along the way. You can stop at any pool and rejoin your group at the top, or watch from the terrace.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, from most Runaway Bay hotels. You must call to confirm your specific pickup point and time at least 24 hours before.

Are entry fees included?

Yes. Admission to both Blue Hole and Dunn's River Falls, plus transport and guide, are all included.

Do I need to bring a camera?

Professional photographers are on site at both locations. You can bring your own waterproof camera, and guides will help take photos of you.

What should I wear?

Casual dress and comfortable walking shoes that can get wet. Waterproof shoes or water sandals are ideal.

Is this suitable for children?

Yes, with a paying adult. Infants can use a pram or stroller. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.