Arriving in Falmouth, Jamaica, below are the Bad and Best Things to do!
Falmouth, Jamaica port, is a popular cruise port that offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure. When your cruises Port Day is Falmouth Jamaica: here are the bad and best things to do! Whether you are interested in exploring cultural landmarks, experiencing outdoor excursions, or relaxing on a beach. This port has something for every cruiser or traveller. However, not all activities are worth your time or money. To help you make the most of your visit, here is a guide to the best and worst things to do in Falmouth. Especially if you arrive on one of the many cruise ships in port, you don’t have a lot of time to waste.
Best Things to Do in Falmouth, Jamaica
Visit Dunn’s River Falls
Famous Dunn’s River Falls is one of Jamaica’s most famous attractions and is located in nearby Ocho Rios. The cascading waterfalls are a breathtaking sight, and visitors can climb the limestone steps while cool, fresh water rushes around them. It is a thrilling experience that also offers the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the natural pools.
To make the most of this excursion, bring water shoes for better grip and wear a swimsuit. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit early in the day or book a guided tour that provides transportation to and from the falls.
Download your Falmouth, Jamaica Map and Shopping Coupons here.
Explore a Sugar Plantation
For a glimpse into Jamaica’s colonial history, consider visiting a sugar plantation. One of the best options is Good Hope Estate, which is a short drive from Falmouth. This historic plantation allows visitors to learn about Jamaica’s sugar production and its impact on the island’s culture.
In addition to a guided tour, Good Hope Estate offers various activities, including an ATV tour, zip-lining, and river tubing. Many visitors also enjoy sampling rum cakes made with locally produced rum. This excursion is a great choice for those who want to combine history with adventure.
Take a Relaxing Ride Through the Countryside
For a laid-back experience, take a scenic drive through Jamaica’s lush countryside. Many local tour operators offer excursions that pass through historic towns, sugar plantations, and scenic viewpoints. Some tours also include stops at local markets where visitors can purchase handmade crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
A guided tour provides a deeper understanding of Jamaica’s culture, and many tour guides share interesting stories about the island’s history and traditions. This is an excellent option for travelers who want to see more of Jamaica without participating in strenuous activities. Because we like to link Cruisers with Local experiences, Ryan has run tours in Jamaica for decades and offers a unique experience. See below for his number.
Visit the Blue Hole
For a more adventurous outing, visit the Blue Hole, a series of natural pools and waterfalls surrounded by tropical vegetation. The Blue Hole is known for its crystal-clear turquoise water, making it a popular spot for swimming, cliff jumping, and rope swinging.
Unlike Dunn’s River Falls, the Blue Hole is less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive nature experience. A tour guide is recommended, as they can show you the best spots for swimming and jumping.
Spend the Day at Burwood Beach
If you prefer to relax on the sand, Burwood Beach is a great choice. Located just a short drive from the cruise port, this public beach offers soft white sand and clear, calm water. It is an ideal location for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying authentic Jamaican cuisine from nearby vendors.
Compared to other popular beaches in Montego Bay, Burwood Beach is less crowded and provides a more authentic Jamaican experience. Many visitors enjoy trying local specialties such as beef patties and jerk chicken while lounging by the sea.
Explore Falmouth’s Historic Sites
Falmouth is one of the best-preserved Georgian towns in the Caribbean, making it a great place for history lovers. The Falmouth Courthouse, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks, is a prime example of colonial architecture. Other historic sites include St. Peter’s Anglican Church and the old wharves.
For a deeper dive into Falmouth’s history, consider joining a walking tour led by a local tour guide. These tours often include fascinating stories about the town’s past, including its role in the sugar trade and the impact of British colonialism.
Shop for Local Goods
Falmouth’s cruise port features a shopping village with a variety of duty-free stores, souvenir shops, and craft vendors. Stay within the Port Area as the stores are more regulated and sell authentic items. The Port Area is super convenient, and we have a Guaranteed and Recommended Shopping Map for Falmouth, Jamaica for great deals. Shopping coupons stick to these pre-vetted retailers
Some of the best items to buy include tax & duty-free jewelry, premium brand watches, and costume jewelry. Amazing souvenirs: check out Del Sol Color Change t-shirts, apparel, bags and hair accessories. Cariloha has Bamboo clothing that is highly eco-friendly, moisture wicking and oh so soft. Check out Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee, handmade jewelry, and locally crafted wood carvings. Rum cakes, a beloved Jamaican treat, also make a great souvenir or gift.
Bad Things to Do in Falmouth, Jamaica
Staying Inside the Port Area
While the cruise port area in Falmouth Jamaica Port is clean and well-maintained, it is primarily designed for tourists and does not offer an authentic Jamaican experience. Many of the shops and restaurants inside the port are owned by international chains, meaning prices are often higher than what you would find in local markets.
To experience the real Falmouth, venture beyond the port gates and explore the town or take an excursion to a nearby attraction.
Booking Last-Minute Tours from Street Vendors
As soon as you exit the cruise port, you will encounter numerous independent tour operators offering excursions to Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and other destinations. While some of these operators provide legitimate tours, others may overcharge or fail to deliver the experience they promise.
To avoid scams, it is best to book excursions through your cruise line or a reputable tour company. If you prefer to book locally, read reviews in advance and choose a provider with positive feedback. For example, take Ryan from Big Deal Tours.
Visiting Overcrowded Beaches
While Jamaica is home to some stunning beaches, not all of them offer a peaceful experience. Beaches near major resorts in Montego Bay are often packed with tourists, making it difficult to find a quiet spot to relax.
If you prefer a less crowded beach, Burwood Beach is a better option than some of the more commercialized locations. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere and is closer to the cruise port.
Ignoring Safety Precautions
As with any travel destination, it is important to stay aware of your surroundings in Falmouth, Jamaica Port. While most areas are safe, certain parts of town may not be suitable for tourists, especially after dark. Stick to well-traveled areas and use official taxis instead of accepting rides from unlicensed drivers.
It is also a good idea to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and to be mindful of your belongings. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or electronics.
This is why we recommend staying within the gated Falmouth cruise port terminal. Then you can relax and enjoy exploring and shopping.
Choosing the Wrong Food Vendors in Jamaica
Jamaica is known for its flavorful cuisine, but not all food vendors meet the same hygiene standards. While it is tempting to try street food, it is important to choose vendors that are busy and have a good reputation.
If you have a sensitive stomach, sometimes the Beef Pattys are past their sell-by date. You would never know until you have eaten them and felt the consequences. Stick to restaurants, food vendors and cafes with good reviews or ask your tour guide for recommendations. Popular local dishes to try include jerk chicken, beef patties, and fried plantains.
Final Thoughts on Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth, Jamaica, is a vibrant cruise port with plenty of exciting things to see and do. Whether you want to enjoy shopping and eating, climb waterfalls, relax on a beach, or explore historic sites, there are many ways to make the most of your time ashore.
By choosing the right activities and avoiding common tourist pitfalls, you can enjoy a memorable and hassle-free experience. For more travel tips and exclusive discounts, consider joining the Cruise Shop Save Facebook group, where you can access free port maps and shopping deals. Or look online at Facebook Pages that have a local message board.