During my most recent trip to Jamaica, we made Negril our home base (after all, Jamaica is where my family is from). I loved the vibrant atmosphere, delicious restaurants, and the accessibility to so many fun things to do! From the white sand beaches to the adventurous day trips, the options were truly endless. So, without further ado, here are the top things to do in Negril, Jamaica!
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Free Things to Do in Negril
Did somebody say free?! Although I love splurging on cool experiences while traveling, I like to sprinkle in some free activities throughout the vacation. Let’s dive into the best free things to do in Negril!
Have a Beach Day
The Seven Mile Beach is the most popular and beautiful beach in Negril. It’s the perfect place to relax on the soft white sands, sip refreshing coconut water, swim in crystal-clear waters, or enjoy breathtaking sunsets.
It’s just 3 km from the city’s center and even though it’s busy, you’ll find plenty of room to spread out.
If you have additional time during your trip to Negril and are willing to travel far, you could check out the less popular beaches of Bloody Bay, Half Moon Beach, or Long Bay Beach (private, but you can pay an entrance fee).
Visit Negril Cliffs
The Negril Cliffs are located on the west side of Negril and are the perfect free thing to do. You can watch the daredevil divers, have a picnic, or bring your own snorkel gear to check out the marine life up close!
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Stroll Local Markets
If you want to fully immerse yourself in the Jamaican culture, spend some time strolling through Negril’s markets. The Negril Craft Market is open daily and the perfect spot to window shop, chat with locals or find handmade gifts and souvenirs.
Adventurous Things to Do in Negril
I love a good adventure. Negril was home to so many adventurous things to do. Here are some of my favorites!
Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
No matter where I travel, I love checking out the underwater world. The crystal-clear waters of Negril make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving!
There are plenty of guided scuba and snorkel tours to choose from, or you can rent snorkel gear from a local dive shop and discover the vibrant marine life at your own pace at any of Negril’s beaches. The tour I took served a delicious lunch pictured below. I have to say this was one of the best meals I had in Jamaica! It was so fresh and well seasoned. You definitely want to try this one out!
In addition to the scuba tour, I especially enjoyed this catamaran tour off of Seven Mile Beach. It included live music, an open bar, and the chance to snorkel.
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Combine adventure and relaxation with a scenic ride along the beautiful shoreline. I feel like this is a quintessential Jamaica experience that everyone needs to try!
The guided tours include transportation from Negril, safety briefings, and then an adventurous horseback ride on trails AND in the water! The tour we took was about a 1.5-hour ride to the Chukka Ocean Post.
Photo by Sheenamahsheensphotography
Take a Glass Bottom Boat to Booby Cay Island
A glass-bottom boat tour to Booby Cay Island is the perfect way to spend a day in Negril! Booby Cay is located just a short boat ride from Negril. In addition to enjoying views from the glass bottom boat, you’ll also get to snorkel and enjoy fresh fish (from local vendors) once arriving at Booby Cay.
Day Trips From Negril
Although there were plenty of things to do right in Negril, the day trips are out of this world!
YS Falls
YS Falls are located just under 2 hours from Negril and make for a wonderful day trip. After arriving you’ll be met by the 7-tiered waterfall, beautiful gardens, a relaxing natural pool, and even a zipline!
The falls are open Tuesday-Sunday from 9:30-3:00. Entry fees start at 22 dollars for adults with the zipline being extra. I would recommend arriving early as they close the falls once capacity is reached.
If you do not have your own car, there are some guided tours that will take you to YS Falls!
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Adventure Along the Martha Brae River
Adventuring along the Martha Brae River is another excellent way to spend a day during your Jamaican vacation. Traveling to Martha Brae can take anywhere from 75-90 minutes and is best done through a guided tour.
The most popular activity along the river is a bamboo raft ride which is truly an authentic Jamaican experience! You’ll hop on a 30-ft bamboo raft and enjoy a relaxing float along the sparkling turquoise Martha Brae River! If you’re interested, you can also opt-in for a massage right on the bamboo raft with limestone. Your tour guide will also take photos to commemorate the experience.
Hike to Dunn’s River Falls
Perhaps the most popular attraction in all of Jamaica, a trip to Dunn’s River Falls is a must while you are in Negril. It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Negril so be sure to set aside an entire day.
This particular tour includes transfers from Negril, and of course, time to explore at Dunn’s River Falls.
Or, if you have a rental car, you could drive yourself!
Note! Be sure to bring water shoes with good traction as the way up the falls is VERY slippery!
Fun Restaurants in Negril
After you’ve worked up an appetite, here are my favorite restaurants in Negril!
Rick’s Cafe
Rick’s Cafe might be the coolest restaurant I’ve ever been to. It’s definitely one of the most popular things to do in Negril!
In addition to eating and drinking (try the whole lobster…you won’t regret it!), you can also enjoy live entertainment, weekly pool parties, and of course the famous cliff diving! My family and I had a blast turning up and making memories here. I highly recommend going! (Make sure to wear or bring your bathing suit if you plan on diving into the water).
Kenny’s Cafe
If you are looking for a more laid-back meal, head to Kenny’s Cafe. I absolutely loved the inviting atmosphere. There’s a large patio, live music, and delicious Italian food.
Aunties and Allan’s Beachside Grill
This beachside grill is the perfect place to grab a delicious lunch during your beach day at Seven Mile Beach. The jerk chicken, beef and chicken patties are a must!
Chill-Pops
If you’re looking for a delicious treat after dining at one of these fine establishments, make sure to check out Chill-Pops. They offer a variety of pops that are either fruit based, alcohol infused or ice cream flavored.
Additional Fun
Looking to have a drink, listen to live music or play some games off of the beaten path? Check out Day’ One Lounge in Beeston Spring where you’ll encounter locals, good vibes and the culture firsthand. As always, make sure to be aware of your surroundings. Do not travel anywhere without doing your own due diligence first.
Negril Jamaica FAQs
Before taking a trip to Negril, be sure to check out some of these most commonly asked questions. They will help to ensure your vacation is perfect!
What’s the Best Time to Visit Negril?
The peak season is December to April, offering warm weather and dry conditions. I visited in June and the weather was phenomenal (albeit hot). I also didn’t find it to be too crowded since it was outside of peak season which is something I look for when traveling.
Are There Family-Friendly Activities?
Yes! Beaches, snorkeling, and many of the tours on this list are very family-friendly. I saw many people in Negril with children in tow!
Is Negril Safe for Tourists?
Negril is generally safe, but standard travel precautions apply. I did feel safe for my entire trip, but I was cautious of traveling late at night alone. I made sure to always travel with someone and to share my location at all times.
Do I Need a Visa for Jamaica?
U.S. travelers don’t need a Visa for stays under 90 days. You do, however, need a passport that is valid for six months after the stay.
Things to Do in Negril Recap
As you can see, there are so many fun things to do in Negril! Here’s my leaderboard:
- Best Tour: Catamaran Tour
- Best Adventure: Horseback Riding or Martha Brae River
- Best Restaurant: Aunties and Allan’s Beachside Grill or Rick’s Cafe
- Best Beach: Seven Mile Beach
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Final Thoughts
Jamaica is the best island to travel to. This beautiful country offers so much, you HAVE to visit for yourself. Would you go to Jamaica? Any ideas on this list you’d like to try? Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.
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Photo Credit
Thank you to Lakeisha Bennett for the photo on Dunn’s River Falls Andrzj Brown for the market in Jamaica photo, Jainam Sheth for the house on the cliff photo, Angel Loria for the cliffside photo and Paul Mathew for the beachside photo. I discovered their work from Unsplash.com. Please check them out!
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This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.
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Negril (and Jamaica) look amazing. What beautiful clear water, and some really good tips on fun things to do there. I’d absolutely want to do the horseback riding on the beach, and the glass bottom boat tour. Visiting the local markets would also be high on my list
It’s so awesome! The water is so clear and inviting, you just can’t help but spend all day on the beach. You’d definitely have fun on the tours and exploring the markets.
Such a picturesque place with a beautiful beach and lovely caffe bars, always happy to visit the local markets…
I love visiting and supporting the locals too. The beauty is truly unmatched on this amazing island!
It’s so refreshing to see a Jamaica post that isn’t just resorts. PS – love your sunglasses! 🙂
I know! I had to give the real scoop on this beautiful country. Thank you so much, sunglasses are my thing 🙂
With all the places we’ve explored in the Caribbean, wr still haven’t made it to Jamaica. Negril seems to have plenty of fun things to do–we always enjoy snorkeling.
There’s so many things to do, everyone can find something that they enjoy. I hope you’re able to make it there soon!