Runaway Bay is certainly one of the most scenic areas in Jamaica, Since the early 1960s, when the old Cardiff Hall Estate was converted to a combination of luxury hotels, golf courses and private villas, the town has developed its own character and persona as an elegant yet lively getaway. Over the years, there has been much debate about the name of this small coastal town. Some believe it got the name as the fleeing point of the last batch of Spanish soldiers retreating from English troops under the directive of Governor Ysassi in the 1600s. Others argue that it once was the point of departure of African slaves from inland sugar plantations who ran away to Cuba. Whichever story is true, according to one resident, “nobody nah try (to) ’run way” from Runaway Bay today; in fact, in the hills outside the resort town, many foreigners have run away from their former selves and made Jamaica home
Runaway Bay offers a very different vacation experience from that available at larger resorts such as Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. The resort of Runaway Bay comprises of a string of hotels along the seafront. Whilst providing a tranquil setting to kick back and relax, Runaway Bay is a short journey to some of the north coast's main attractions. There is no real "town" to speak of but there are several small bars, restaurants, supermarkets and ATMs scattered along the coast road providing everything the visitor might need.
These are our top picks to see and to do when visiting Runaway Bay
One of the most sought-after traveler hotspot, the exotic Blue Hole & Island Gully Falls. Located amidst tropical nature, the Blue Hole is an intriguing natural wonder made up of deep natural pools connected by streams and waterfalls. It is a fun-packed natural attraction with lots of thrilling activities like swinging Tarzan ropes, cliff-jumping, as well as exploring hidden caves. The Blue Hole offers several places where you can jump from, and natural, crystal clear pools to swim in. Nature-lovers and thrill-seekers are in for a treat at this enchanting location.
So, just immerse yourself in charm of the turquoise water & exhale all your stress in the rushing waves of the continuously flowing natural blue hole waterfall.
With its 183 metres or 600 feet flowing falls, Dunns River Falls is undoubtedly ranked number one on Jamaica’s most visited travel destinations. Once featured in the James Bond film “Dr. No”, Dunns River Falls offers a surreal environment of cascading waterfalls, natural pools, tiny caves and tropical nature.
Begin your adventurous climb up the falls and make your way to the top or cool down out in one of the lagoons along the way as the water cascades past you and splashes into the Caribbean Sea. After your climb, explore the lush rainforest surrounding Dunns River Falls and browse through the Falls Craft Market for souvenirs and other goodies.
On the backdrop of busy Kingston, we find the majestic the Blue Mountains, Jamaica’s longest and highest mountain range. The Blue Mountains is also where some of the finest coffee in the world is being produced – the Blue Mountain Coffee. As we make our way into the mountains we stop at Eits café for a tasty traditional meal before reaching our next destination, Craighton Coffee Estate. Here you’ll enjoy a coffee sampling and learn all about how the coffee beans are picked, grounded and roasted for export as you tour the coffee plantation. Do not forget to purchase some freshly ground coffee for your friends and family!
The Bob Marley Museum, the former home of the reggae legend. This wooden, creaky building is a shrine that tells the story and success of the reggae legend, through pictures, clips from his last tour, gold and platinum records on the wall, and so much more. In contrast with his enormous success, Marley’s bedroom is a tiny, simple room – and yet it managed to inspire one of the most important men of Jamaica.
All the original rooms have been kept as they were when Bob lived there. The Bob Marley Museum is a truly inspiring place!
Make your way to Kingston, Jamaica’s vibrant capital backed by the majestic Blue Mountains. Upon arrival we kick off the day with a panoramic tour along Kingston’s most iconic places. Drive along the National Heroes Park, see the National Stadium, pass Emancipation Park and stop by the famous life-size Bob Marley statue to take pictures.
Nine Miles is a Jamaican village, located in the parish of Saint Ann high in the mountains. Even though it is a small village, it is visited by thousands of travelers every year as it is also the place in Jamaica where Bob Marley was born and grew up as a child. Today, this is where the Reggae Legend rests in peace.
A small chapel has been built on the top of Mount Zion. In it is Bob Marley’s Mausoleum, decorated with flowers and portraits of Haile Selassie. Marley’s brother Anthony Marley, who was killed during a gang war in Miami, lies below him. That spot was originally reserved for Cedella Marley Booker, Bob Marley’s mother, but she relinquished the spot to Anthony.
Embark on a tour of the property with local Rastafarians. Get as close as you can ever get to Bob Marley’s legacy and gain insights into his life as a child and as a teenager. Ultimately, hike up the hill of Mount Zion towards Bob Marley’s Mausoleum to pay tribute to the musical icon’s final resting place. Mount Zion is also known for the ”Rock pillow” – a stone where Bob Marley rested his head for musical inspiration.
Get ready for a relaxing afternoon and make your way to the Martha Brae River for an authentic Jamaican rafting experience. Climb aboard a 35 foot bamboo raft and let an experienced raft captain navigate the cool waters of Martha Brae River using a bamboo pole, as you sit back and relax. The exotic river offers travelers a great opportunity for getting personal with nature at a chilled pace. Trail your hands in the shimmering jade-green waters as soak in tropical landscapes listening to the fascinating sounds coming from the nesting birds.
Take a short boat ride to the world-renowned Pelican Bar. Made of driftwood, and stilted on a huge sandbar so it appears to float in the middle of the Caribbean Sea, Pelican Bar is one of the most unique bars you’ll ever encounter. The décor is one of a kind and decorated with relics from visitors from many parts of the world. Don’t forget to bring something personal to leave behind for the memorabilia collection! Take a refreshing swim in the shallow turquoise waters, or sunbathe and relax while you have an ice-cold Red Stripe beer.
Here you can experience a truly local atmosphere. While a number of pelicans are seen perched on the reefs, if you’re lucky you can even catch sight of stingrays and dolphins frolic nearby.
The YS Falls are one of Jamaica’s finest natural attractions. YS Falls features seven waterfalls, which cascade into natural pools. The surrounding gardens and tropical foliage make picture-perfect backdrops for your travel photos, so keep your cameras ready! Make your way to the top of the falls along a wooden walkway, and have a refreshing dip into the cool water pools. You can also climb the challenging rock formations or even zip-line through the trees if you’re feeling adventurous.
Located in the Black River Morass, the Black River lends its name to the darkness of the river bed caused by decomposing vegetation. A popular activity to do here is a six miles long boat cruise on the Black River, one of the longest rivers in Jamaica. The trill of the events here is you get to spot free-living crocodiles. Keep your eyes open as crocodiles aren’t the only animals to be spotted here. The Black River Morass and it’s large network of mangrove is a vital preserve for over a hundred of different bird species and marine wildlife.
Discover all the experiences we offer from Runaway Bay, which are run in small groups of maximum 16 people.
Guided Tour
More than 8 hours
Guided Tour
More than 8 hours
Guided Tour
More than 8 hours
Guided Tour
Up to 4 hours
Guided Tour
More than 8 hours
Discover all the experiences we offer from Runaway Bay, which are run in private groups.
Private Tour
More than 8 hours
Private Tour
More than 8 hours
Private Tour
More than 8 hours
Private Tour
More than 8 hours
Private Tour
More than 8 hours
Private Tour
More than 8 hours
Travel to Jamaica for an all inclusive vacation. In this top destination spot, diversity is key!
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