The Route: MBJ Airport to Ocho Rios
The drive from Montego Bay to Ocho Rios takes you east along Jamaica's stunning north coast on the A3 highway. You'll pass through Falmouth, Duncans, and Discovery Bay before arriving in Ocho Rios — home to Dunn's River Falls, one of Jamaica's most famous attractions.
This is a well-maintained coastal road with beautiful ocean views. The drive is straightforward with gentle curves following the coastline. Traffic is typically light once you pass Falmouth.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Exit Sangster International Airport and turn left onto the A1 heading east through Ironshore
- Follow signs for Falmouth/Ocho Rios — the road becomes the A3 as you pass Rose Hall
- Pass through Falmouth (30 minutes from MBJ). Historic town with colonial architecture and the cruise ship port
- Continue through Duncans and Rio Bueno — scenic coastal stretches with cliffs and bays
- Pass Discovery Bay — the spot where Columbus first landed in Jamaica in 1494
- Enter Ocho Rios via the main road. Dunn's River Falls is signposted on the left, just before the town centre
Arrive at Dunn's River Falls early (opens 8:30 AM). It gets crowded from cruise ship passengers after 10 AM. Water shoes are essential!
Best Stops Along the Way
🏛️ Falmouth Historic Town (30 min from MBJ)
One of the best-preserved Georgian towns in the Caribbean. Walk the main street, see the courthouse, and grab authentic jerk from a roadside vendor.
🏝️ Glistening Waters / Luminous Lagoon (35 min from MBJ)
Just past Falmouth. Book an evening boat tour to see the bioluminescent water glow — one of only four places in the world where this occurs.
⛽ Discovery Bay (1 hr from MBJ)
Named for Columbus's landing spot. Good fuel stop and you can see the Columbus Park open-air museum right by the road (free).
💦 Dunn's River Falls (at destination)
Jamaica's most iconic waterfall — a 180-foot cascading waterfall you can climb. Guided climbs run every 15-20 minutes. Entry: ~$30 USD for adults.
🐬 Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios (at destination)
Swim with dolphins, stingrays, and sharks. Right next to Dunn's River Falls — easy to combine both in one visit.
What Type of Car Do You Need?
The north coast road is fully paved, so any car works. If you plan to explore beyond Ocho Rios (Fern Gully, Blue Hole), an SUV gives more confidence on steeper roads.
- Day trip: Toyota Corolla or Camry — comfortable, great A/C, fuel-efficient
- Families: Toyota RAV4 — space for strollers, beach gear, water shoes
- Adventure: Nissan X-Trail — higher clearance for mountain roads
All our vehicles are automatic, fully insured, and come with A/C — essential for Jamaica's tropical heat.
Tips for This Drive
- Arrive at Dunn's River Falls early (before 10 AM) to avoid cruise ship crowds
- Bring water shoes — you'll need them for the waterfall climb
- The road has winding sections between Discovery Bay and Ocho Rios — take it easy
- No tolls on this route. Cell coverage good entire way (Digicel and Flow)
- Check Falmouth cruise ship schedule — port days mean heavier traffic through town
- Return before dark — the road is less well-lit between towns
Other Popular Drives from Montego Bay
- Montego Bay to Negril — 1.5 hours, Seven Mile Beach, Rick's Café
- Complete Driving in Jamaica Guide — tips, rules, and distances
Heading to Ocho Rios?
We deliver free to MBJ Airport. Rent a car, drive to Dunn's River Falls, and explore the north coast your way.
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