The terraces
Limestone steps.
Don Ramey Logan — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Don Ramey Logan — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Thank You (23 Millions+) views — CC BY 2.0 · Thank You (23 Millions+) views — CC BY 2.0 · Dr. Thomas Liptak — CC BY-SA 4.0
Dunn's River Falls is one of Jamaica's best-known sights, near the town of Ocho Rios on the north coast. The falls are about 55 metres high and 180 metres long, stepping down natural terraces like a giant staircase until they empty into the Caribbean Sea at the end of a white-sand beach. Climbing the falls from bottom to top is the thing to do here. It takes about an hour to an hour and a half, often led by park guides with visitors holding hands in a chain. Stairs beside the falls serve those who would rather stay dry. In 1657 a battle was fought here between the English and a Spanish force from Cuba. You see white water pouring over smooth, honey-coloured limestone, and small clear pools between the terraces. Thick tropical trees shade the falls and keep them cool, and at the foot a sandy beach faces turquoise water, with a wooden deck looking over the bay. It is about 3.4 km from central Ocho Rios in a straight line. The rocks are slippery, so wear water shoes. It gets crowded when cruise ships are in, and early morning is quieter.
Limestone steps.
Clear.
At the foot.
Near Ocho Rios, Saint Ann, Jamaica
Yes, there are stairs beside the falls.
Early in the morning, before cruise visitors arrive.