Ocho Rios, in North Jamaica, is well known for its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery.  But no trip to Ocho Rios is complete without stopping off at Dunn’s Rivers Falls.  This majestic waterfall is one of Jamaica’s best loved tourist attractions and is considered a national treasure, offering a climb of 600 ft and attracting thousands of visitors every year.  Where else can you bask in crystal clear waters as it flows over stone steps and out into the Caribbean Sea? Surrounded by lush fauna, a beautiful beach and offering an un-paralleled view of the bay, is it clear why Dunn’s River Falls was voted The Best Tourist Attraction in Jamaica in 2009 and 2010. 
 
The falls are fed by spring water, which is rich with calcium carbonate.  Such waterfalls are described by geologists as "a living phenomenon" because they are continuously rebuilt by the sediments in spring water, and Dunn’s River Falls is the only one of its kind in the Caribbean. 
 
Of course, the main attraction is the climb itself; all you need is appropriate swim wear and beach shoes.  Friendly guides are on hand to organise you into a human chain and lead your group up the fall, sharing local information and stories on the way.  They will also take photographs (make sure you pack a waterproof camera!) and help you over the slippery bits.  On the way to the top, you can stop off to catch your breath and admire the view from a cool pool, or lounge on a terrace.  It is a relatively easy climb, taking no more than a few hours, but if it gets a little too much for you there are three exit points on the way up which will lead you back down to the beach. 
 
And if you’d rather stick to the beach, don’t worry; there is still plenty to do to make your trip to the Falls worthwhile.  The Visitor’s Compound offers a live music stage, jerk chicken huts and restaurants, a craft market, parkland, a glorious white sand beach and picnic facilities.  There is also a gazebo which can be hired for special occasions and weddings. 
 
However long you plan to stay in Jamaica, make sure you find the time to visit Dunn’s River Falls, for a truly mesmerising and unrivalled experience.  The Falls are open between the hours of 8.30 am- 4.pm, and costs US$20 for persons aged 11 +.  

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