Things To Do
in Falmouth
Falmouth is a historic town located on the northern coast of Jamaica, known for its well-preserved Georgian architecture. The town features colorful buildings, bustling markets, and a vibrant waterfront area where cruise ships dock. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Falmouth Court House and St. Peter's Anglican Church, or relax on the nearby beaches.
Falmouth is a popular port of call for cruise ships, attracting tourists with its rich history and lively atmosphere.
- "Wah Gwaan" - What's going on
- "Mi deh yah" - I am here
- "Nuh worry yuhself" - Don't worry yourself
- "Yuh done know" - You already know
- "Big up" - Respect or praise
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe with a beautiful ocean view. Spend time at the beach, soaking up the sun and swimming in the turquoise waters.
Visit the historic Falmouth Historic District and take a walking tour to learn about the city's rich heritage. Stop for lunch at a nearby Jamaican eatery to savor authentic local dishes.
Stroll along the waterfront and witness the sunset over the Caribbean. Wind down your day with a refreshing drink at a beach bar listening to live reggae music.
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Burwood Beach. Then, grab a hearty breakfast nearby to fuel up for your day of fun.
Head to the nearby waters for snorkeling at an amazing coral reef. Explore the colorful marine life and enjoy a packed lunch on the beach.
Return to Falmouth and indulge in a delicious dinner at an oceanfront restaurant. Join a local dance party or simply relax by the beach with a cocktail.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Friendly locals and welcoming community
- Vibrant local cuisine and markets
- Access to various water sports and activities
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities
- Potential issues with crime in certain areas
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in urban centers
- Hurricane risk during certain seasons
- Tourist influx can lead to crowded areas
Best Activities in Falmouth
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant marine life and coral reefs surrounding Falmouth by snorkeling in clear, crystal waters.
Enjoy a tranquil rafting experience down the Martha Brae River, surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic views.
Play a game of beach volleyball at one of Falmouth's beautiful beaches while soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze.
Experience the beauty of Jamaica on horseback by taking guided tours along sandy beaches and through tropical landscapes.
Take a short trip to Ocho Rios to hike up the famous Dunn's River Falls and enjoy the cool, cascading waters.
Get an adrenaline rush by ziplining through the Jamaican rainforest, offering breathtaking views of the scenery below.
Explore the lively atmosphere of the Falmouth Cruise Port, featuring shops, restaurants, and vibrant local culture.
Discover Falmouth's rich history and architecture on a walking tour that highlights its heritage sites and colonial buildings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Falmouth with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Falmouth
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning natural wonder, the Luminous Lagoon is famous for its bioluminescent waters. The best time to capture breathtaking photos is during a boat tour at night when the lagoon lights up with a blue glow.
The Cruise Terminal offers picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea and is a great spot to photograph the arrival and departure of cruise ships against a beautiful backdrop.
A tranquil beach with soft white sands and clear turquoise waters. This location is perfect for sunset photography and capturing the essence of a Caribbean beach.
This is another bioluminescent spot, providing opportunities for unique night photography as the water glows with every movement.
Filled with Georgian architecture and historical sites, this area is ideal for capturing the charm and history of Falmouth. Key spots include St. Peter's Anglican Church and the old Court House.
This restored plantation house offers an insight into Jamaica's history and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for both interior and exterior photography.
Although located a bit of a drive away, these cliffs are worth the travel for spectacular views of the sunset and the crashing waves, offering dramatic photo opportunities.
Food in Falmouth
Falmouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A marinated chicken dish with a robust blend of spices, traditionally cooked over open pimento wood flames. It's often served with festival (sweet cornbread fritters), rice and peas, and a side of spicy scotch bonnet sauce. Look for it at authentic jerk centers such as Scotchies or Pepper's Jerk Center.
Must-Try!
The national dish of Jamaica, consisting of salted codfish sautéed with ackee, a unique fruit native to West Africa. This savory and satisfying combination is typically served with fried dumplings or bammy (cassava flatbread), and is readily available at local eateries like Glistening Waters Restaurant.
Tender goat meat marinated in a blend of curry spices, slow-cooked until succulent. It's a beloved Jamaican specialty often accompanied by rice and beans. For an authentic experience, seek out roadside stalls or family-run restaurants like Gloria's Rendezvous.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Falmouth better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the lively Falmouth Food Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, local spices, and authentic Jamaican street food. Indulge in specialties like spicy jerk chicken, flavorful patties, and fried fish prepared with vibrant Caribbean seasonings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Falmouth, it is customary to greet them with a warm 'Hello' or 'Good morning/afternoon'. A handshake is common, and it’s polite to inquire about their well-being.
Dressing modestly is important, especially when visiting churches or formal events. Beach attire is acceptable in resort areas, but it's advisable to cover up when venturing into town.
Elders are highly regarded in Jamaican culture. Showing respect towards older individuals by using appropriate titles and addressing them politely is essential.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Falmouth with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Falmouth
Ensure a smooth experience
In Falmouth, Jamaica, tipping is a common practice in the service industry. It is generally expected to tip service staff such as waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. A standard tip is usually around 10% to 15% of the total bill. In some cases, particularly in more upscale establishments, a service charge may already be included, so it's advisable to check the bill before adding an additional tip.
Payments in Falmouth can be made in cash, primarily in Jamaican Dollars (JMD). Some establishments accept US Dollars, especially in tourist areas, but it is common for transactions to be completed in local currency. Credit and debit cards are also accepted at many restaurants, shops, and hotels, but it's wise to carry cash for smaller vendors and rural areas where card payment may not be available.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Falmouth.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is peak tourist season in Falmouth, Jamaica, known for its comfortable temperatures and low humidity. Expect plenty of sunshine and outdoor activities, with an average temperature of around 75-85°F (24-29°C). This is also the best time for beach goers and those looking to explore the local attractions.
Spring offers warm temperatures and less tourist crowds than winter. Average temperatures range from 80-90°F (27-32°C). This season is ideal for enjoying local festivals, outdoor excursions, and the vibrant flora. Rainfall begins to increase towards late May.
Summer brings hotter temperatures averaging 85-95°F (29-35°C) and a higher chance of rain, particularly in June and July. This is also hurricane season, so visitors should stay informed about weather updates. Despite possible rain, summer offers lively local events and a vibrant atmosphere.
Fall experiences warm temperatures with averages around 80-90°F (27-32°C) but also sees increased rainfall and hurricane activity, especially in September. It’s a quieter time for tourism, which could be advantageous for those seeking a more laid-back experience. October and November are generally drier with pleasant weather.
Falmouth at Night
Hiking in Falmouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest point in Jamaica, offering breathtaking views and a challenging hike through lush, tropical forests.
A popular attraction with a series of terraced waterfalls, providing a unique hiking experience that leads to beautifully cascading water.
A scenic viewpoint that features a steep trail leading to a spectacular lookout point over the Caribbean Sea.
While known for rafting, the surrounding trails provide opportunities for hiking along the riverbanks amidst rich vegetation.
A vast rugged terrain with numerous trails, caves, and stunning views, ideal for adventurous hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Falmouth through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Falmouth by plane.
Located in Montego Bay, approximately 16 miles from Falmouth, Sangster International is the busiest airport in Jamaica and offers numerous international flights.
Situated in Kingston, around 60 miles from Falmouth, Norman Manley International serves as a major hub for international travel in Jamaica.
Located near Ocho Rios, approximately 17 miles from Falmouth, Ian Fleming International is a smaller airport that services regional and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Falmouth, representing a rich cultural heritage and history.
Individuals of mixed backgrounds, combining African Jamaican heritage with other ancestries.
A smaller demographic that contributes to the multicultural fabric of the community.
Residents of European descent, including descendants of colonial settlers.
A minority group with a presence in Falmouth, contributing to local commerce and culture.
The Soul of Falmouth
Discover the essence of Falmouth through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a very popular sport in Falmouth, Jamaica, reflecting the broader enthusiasm for the game across the Caribbean. Local clubs and schools often participate in matches and tournaments.
Track and field events, particularly sprinting, are highly celebrated in Jamaica. Falmouth is no exception, with schools and communities nurturing young talent for regional and national competitions.
Football is widely played in Falmouth, with many local teams participating in various leagues. The sport brings communities together and is a favorite pastime for many residents.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Falmouth, with courts available in various neighborhoods and school teams competing in local leagues.
Netball is a popular sport among women in Falmouth, with many community leagues and schools actively participating in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Falmouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Jamaican cuisine is meat-centric, several restaurants and cafes in Falmouth offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes like callaloo (a leafy green vegetable) stew, veggie-filled patties, and plantain-based specialties.
Many local eateries accommodate gluten-free diets by offering dishes such as grilled fish or seafood, rice and peas, fresh fruit, and hearty stews made with yams, sweet potatoes, or cassava.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Falmouth with these cultural adventures.
