YS Falls & Pelican Bar Private Tour from Negril

Summary

Jamaica Waterfall Day Trip with Local Guide & Boat Ride

Swim beneath YS Falls’ cool cascades, then ride by boat to Jamaica’s famous Pelican Bar perched above Caribbean waters. With a local guide handling all transport and stories along the way, you’ll meet friendly faces and taste fresh fish in places most travelers only hear about — moments that linger long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed at YS Falls wasn’t the water — it was the way the air changed. You step out of Marlon’s van (he’s already laughing about something, probably my sunscreen face) and suddenly everything smells green, like wet leaves and river stones. There’s a kind of hush under the trees, except for the falls themselves, which sound louder than I expected — not roaring, but steady, like someone pouring a big bucket forever. Marlon pointed out a spot where locals sometimes jump in; I didn’t try it (maybe next time), but watching a couple of kids do it was almost as good.

After drying off — or trying to, because the mist just clings to you — we headed back to the van for the drive toward Parottee Bay. The road gets bumpy in places, and Marlon told us stories about his childhood here (he swears he once saw a crocodile near Black River). When we reached the dock for Pelican Bar, there was this salty breeze and a few fishermen mending nets nearby. The boat ride out is short but feels longer in that good way; you’re just watching the water turn all these weird colors under the sun.

I’ll admit: I thought Pelican Bar would be bigger. It’s really just this wooden shack on stilts out in the middle of nowhere, with reggae playing low and everyone moving slow. Someone handed me a Red Stripe before I could even ask. We sat with some locals who were playing dominoes — I lost badly — and ate grilled fish that tasted like it had gone straight from sea to grill. There’s nothing fancy about it but honestly, that’s what makes it stick in your head after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — YS Falls and Pelican Bar

• Visit YS Falls
• Boat to Pelican Bar

Top questions

How far is YS Falls from Negril?

YS Falls is approximately 2 hours by car from Negril.

Is transportation included in this tour?

Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included.

Can infants join this day trip?

Yes, infants can join and may sit on an adult’s lap or ride in a pram or stroller.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is there public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near both attractions.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Does the tour include entry fees or lunch?

The inclusions specify private transport; entry fees or lunch aren’t mentioned specifically.

Will there be a local guide during the trip?

A local guide will accompany you throughout the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle with your local guide at the wheel. All transportation between Negril, YS Falls, and Pelican Bar is covered so you can relax into each stop without worrying about logistics before heading back home again.