Falmouth, Jamaica
What to do in Falmouth, Jamaica Cruise Port
Falmouth, Jamaica is known for its rich history and culture, as well as its stunning natural beauty. Visitors to the area can explore the many historical sites, such as old churches and forts, or take a tour of the local plantations. Nature lovers can enjoy the lush tropical forests, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking. Shopping and dining are also popular activities, with a variety of local markets, restaurants, and bars. Finally, visitors can take part in a variety of cultural events, such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions.
Rafting
This is totally our speed. Your rafting options while in Falmouth allow you to lay back and take in Jamaica’s natural scenery. A guide will narrate your trip down the river as you relax and take it all in. You’ll pass through lush, tropical landscapes and learn about Falmouth’s rich history from a small, sugar-town to thriving tourist destination.
Caves
Take “sunburn” off of your to-do list while in Jamaica. We may need to check the thesaurus, but pretty sure “caves” is the opposite of “beaches.” You’ll have plenty of options to explore these dark, mysterious cavernous wonders while in Falmouth. One of the most popular options is via inter-tube. Just hold on tight and make sure the flash on your camera is working. And feel free to title your image, “We came for the coconut oil and stayed for the stalagmites.”
Beach Activities
Falmouth, Jamaica is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Spend the day lounging on the white sand and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. There are also plenty of beach activities to enjoy, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a boat tour to explore the nearby cays and reefs.
Dunns River Falls
Also extremely popular is the Dunns River Falls excursion. From Falmouth, it takes roughly an hour to get to Dunns River, but well worth it. Spend the day climbing up waterfalls and splashing away in Jamaica’s natural waterpark. You’ll feel like Mowgli as you hop from rock to rock and hug wild animals. Wait, maybe don’t do that.
Montego Bay
From Falmouth, you’re roughly 45 minutes (22 miles) from Montego Bay. There, you’ll find a number of entertaining options including great bars, shopping, and historical attractions.
Get Cultured
Exploring Jamaica’s rich cultural history is encouraged while in Falmouth. You’ll have the option to do this “on foot” or through a number of guided shore excursions. Downtown, you’ll find St Peter’s Church (built in 1795), the Falmouth Court House, and Rose Hall. Take the historic journey from a time when “sugar was king” to today’s thriving tourist ecosystem.
Sugar Plantation
Jamaica once thrived off of its sugar production. You’ll be transported to the days when “sugar was king” at Good Hope Great House sugar plantation. The 2,000 acre site dates back to the 18th century, which is easier to picture while taking a horse & buggy tour offered on-site. If new-age attractions are more exciting to you, here you’ll also find zip-lining, dune buggies, and ATV rides. Take in a little of the old with a bit of the new.
Reggae, Mon
Yup, we used “mon” and it didn’t feel right. But, we wouldn’t be doing Jamaica justice without mentioning “reggae.” Many people associate “Jamaica” with the iconic “Bob Marley.” While in Falmouth, take a tour of the museum dedicated to this legend and learn all there is to know in the best setting possible for such.
Historic TownFalmouth is a historic town located in the parish of Trelawny in Jamaica. It was founded in 1769 by Thomas Reid, a British Loyalist from Virginia, and was one of the largest and most prosperous towns in Jamaica during the 18th and 19th centuries. It was the first town in Jamaica to have piped water, and the first to have a railway line. It is also home to the oldest Anglican Church in Jamaica, St. Peter's Anglican Church, which was built in 1795.Shopping near Falmouth, Jamaica Cruise Port
Falmouth, Jamaica is known for its duty-free shopping, with a variety of stores offering a wide range of items from jewelry and souvenirs to electronics and clothing. The town also has a vibrant street market, where locals and tourists alike can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other items.Downtown Montego Bay
Montego Bay is located roughly 30 minutes west of Falmouth and offers a more abundant shopping scene. The epicenter of this shipping mecca is Gloucester Street where you’ll find boutiques with everything from gold to leather goods. If looking to make a high end (duty free of course) purchase, we recommend making your way to Montego Bay.
The Craft Market
The Craft Market is a great place to find souvenirs near the Falmouth cruise port. It is located in the heart of the city and offers a wide variety of handmade items from local artisans. You can find everything from jewelry and clothing to pottery and wood carvings. The prices are very reasonable and the quality of the items is excellent. It's a great place to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip to Jamaica.
Historic Falmouth Cruise Port
The port area was completely re-developed in 2011 and includes all of the desired amenities and shopping options one could hope for in a cruise terminal. From local crafts to high-priced jewelry, an abundance of stores will serve your needs. You’ll also find numerous eating and drinking establishments within the retail development. We recommend visiting Margarittaville for a frozen cocktail while relaxing in the pool. Another cool venue to check out is the Bob Marley store paying tribute to the local legend.
Beaches in Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth, Jamaica is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The beaches near the cruise port are white sand beaches with crystal clear waters. The beaches are lined with palm trees and offer plenty of shade. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants to enjoy a meal or a drink. The beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The nearby Martha Brae River is also a great spot for kayaking and tubing.
Montego Bay Beach
Montego Bay Beach is a popular beach near Falmouth, Jamaica cruise port. It is a stunning white sand beach with crystal clear waters and a great view of the Caribbean Sea. The beach is well-maintained and offers plenty of amenities, including beach chairs, umbrellas, and a snack bar. It is also a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, and is known for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets.
Burwood Beach
In 2016, this public beach experienced a significant improvement effort costing $26 million. The developments consisted of amenities including changing rooms, fencing, gazebos, children’s area and a stage. It now offers all of the modern conveniences cruisers could hope for in their beach plans. Located just 4 miles from Falmouth cruise port, Burwood Beach is a quick and cheap 10 minute taxi ride from the port.
Bounty Beach
The is a dream-beach for kitesurfing enthusiasts. The public beach is free to access and you’ll enjoy watching (or participating in) the kitesurfing adventures.
Doctor's Cave Beach
Located in Montego Bay, this beach option is a bit of a trip from Falmouth. The drive will take approximately 30 minutes, but worth it if looking for a more “party vibe.” The beach was named after a prominent local doctor who one accessed the beach through a cave (now gone). He donated the land to the city and its become a hip, beach destination. Here you’ll find all the amenities you’d need (for a price). Also consider some organized shore excursions to Doctor’s Cave Beach including transportation and other stops if desired.
Jacob Taylor Beach
Named after a local civil servant, Jacob Taylor is a public beach option located just 9 miles from Falmouth Cruise Port. You’ll mix and mingle with Jamaican locals on this beach known primarily for fishing. You’ll find an abundance of small, local shops with entrepreneurs selling goods native to the island. While free it’s not known as the nicest option and quite a bit more “rustic” than Burwood Public Beach.
Festivals and EventsFalmouth is a vibrant town that hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year. The most popular event is the Falmouth Heritage Reggae Festival, which is held every year in February. The festival celebrates the town's rich cultural heritage and features live music, food, and art. The town also hosts the Falmouth Seafood Festival, which is held every year in June and features a variety of seafood dishes. The town also hosts the Falmouth International Sea Festival, which is held every year in August and features a variety of activities, including boat races, fishing competitions, and live music.Attractions in Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth, Jamaica is a popular cruise port destination. Visitors can explore the town's rich history and culture, or take part in a variety of excursions. Popular activities include exploring the lush rainforest, taking a relaxing boat ride along the coast, and visiting local beaches. There are also opportunities to go zip-lining, horseback riding, and river tubing. For those looking for a more cultural experience, there are guided tours of historical sites, museums, and plantations. Shopping and dining are also popular activities, with a variety of local markets and restaurants to choose from. No matter what type of experience you're looking for, Falmouth has something for everyone.
Good Hope Estate
Good Hope Estate is a historic plantation located in Falmouth, Jamaica. It was built in 1720 and is now a museum that showcases the history of the area. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the history of the plantation and the people who lived there. The estate is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
Greenwood Beach
Greenwood Beach is a popular beach located in Falmouth, Jamaica. It is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and the sound of the waves is soothing and calming. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the beach or take a dip in the crystal clear waters. The beach is a great place to spend a day and enjoy the beauty of Jamaica.
Dunns River Falls
Dunns River Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Falmouth, Jamaica. It is a beautiful waterfall that cascades down 600 feet of terraced rock. Visitors can climb up the falls, which is a great way to experience the beauty of the area. The falls are surrounded by lush vegetation and the sound of the water is soothing and calming.
Greenwood Great House
Greenwood Great House is a historic plantation house located in Falmouth, Jamaica. It was built in 1790 and is now a museum that showcases the history of the area. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the history of the plantation and the people who lived there. The house is surrounded by lush gardens and is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
Martha Brae River Rafting
Martha Brae River Rafting is a popular tourist activity in Falmouth, Jamaica. Visitors can take a leisurely raft ride down the Martha Brae River, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. The raft ride is a great way to experience the beauty of the area and learn about the local culture. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, and the experience is sure to be a memorable one.
Best cruise excursions in Falmouth, Jamaica
We've analyzed tens of thousands of cruise tours to find your ideal attraction while in port. Based on these reviews, here are the Best Cruise Excursions in Falmouth, Jamaica
Falmouth, Jamaica cruise port map
Cultural HeritageFalmouth is a town steeped in cultural heritage. It is home to the historic Water Square, which is a popular tourist attraction. It is also home to the historic Falmouth Great House, which was built in 1790 and is now a museum. The town is also home to the historic Falmouth Town Hall, which was built in 1815 and is now a museum. The town is also home to the historic Falmouth Post Office, which was built in 1820 and is now a museum.Falmouth, Jamaica Cruise Port Terminals
Cruise ships dock at the Falmouth Cruise Port in Falmouth, Jamaica.
Historic Falmouth Cruise Port
In 2011, Jamaica teamed up with Royal Caribbean to build out the beautiful cruise port facility known as the “Historic Falmouth Cruise Port.” Why is it called “historic” when it was constructed less than a decade ago? Good question. We don’t know. The triangular-shaped terminal structure can house the world’s largest cruise ships and is conveniently situated near the heart of Falmouth. While approaching, it’s exciting to watch massive cruise ships make the full, 180-degree turn and back up into its respective pier. Upon exiting your ship, there’s one major plaza area serving all ports. There, you’ll find plenty of options for shopping, drinking and eating (including Margaritaville with pool). Try not to get trapped with all of the conveniences offered in this plaza. Once exiting, downtown Falmouth is a very quick walk to the city center.