The Blue Hole is the place locals and visitors go when they want a swim that feels more like a discovery than a theme park. Tucked into the hills of Island Gully above Ocho Rios, it is a chain of small waterfalls and deep, impossibly blue pools carved out of limestone and fed by cool spring water. The colour comes from the minerals in the water and the depth of the pools, and in good light it glows from turquoise to deep sapphire. Paths and wooden steps lead down through the forest to ledges where you can jump into the water at heights to suit your nerve, from a gentle step off a low rock to a proper leap from a high cliff. A rope swing hangs over one of the pools, and bolder swimmers can leap off the upper ledges while the guides watch from below. For many visitors the Blue Hole is the highlight of a day in Ocho Rios, and it combines naturally with Dunn’s River Falls or river tubing, since the three are close together. The setting is lush, green and relaxed, with the sound of water everywhere and small fish nibbling at your toes. It suits strong swimmers and confident children, but anyone can enjoy the lower pools and the views from the edge.
How it works
The experience we link takes you to Island Gully, usually with transport from Ocho Rios, and gives you time at the pools with a local guide who points out the best jumping spots and shows you how to enter the water safely. Entry to the site is sometimes charged separately, and lunch, lockers and photos are typically extras, so check your version before you go. Most visits last two to three hours, which is enough to swim, jump and rest between pools.
What to expect
The water is cool, so it feels refreshing after a hot morning. The rocks around the pools are slippery, so wear water shoes with grip, and treat the higher jumps with respect, since depth and entry points vary. Guides will tell you which ledges are safe for your skill level, and you should follow their advice rather than copying other people. Bring a waterproof pouch, a towel, a change of clothes and cash for tips and small purchases. Photographers at the site take pictures you can buy afterwards.
Making the most of it
Arrive early, because by late morning cruise passengers fill the pools and the best jumping spots get busy. Weekday mornings in the dry season are the calmest and the colour of the water is at its best after a spell without rain. After heavy rain the water can turn cloudy and the site may restrict access, so keep your plans flexible. Combine the Blue Hole with the Dunn’s River climb for a classic Ocho Rios water day, or with the Reggae Hill lunch stop if you want a slower pace.
Practical notes
The site is managed by local operators and facilities are basic, with changing areas, a few vendors and steps that can be steep. Pack light, because you will be climbing between pools, and keep valuables with your guide or at the hotel. If the water looks high or brown, ask your guide whether the lower pools are safe before you swim, because the river rises quickly after rain upstream. Photographers wait at the best jumping points, and the images are a fun souvenir if you choose to buy them.
What to expect
The experience
A guided visit to a series of turquoise river pools with waterfalls, rope swings and cliff jumps, usually with transport from Ocho Rios.
Best time
Early morning on a weekday, and after a dry spell, when the water is clearest and the pools are quietest.
How long
Two to three hours at the pools, around four hours with transfers.
Tips
Wear water shoes, bring a waterproof pouch and a towel, and follow your guide’s advice on which jumps are safe.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Swimmers and thrill seekers who want jungle pools, cliff jumps and a rope swing.
- Families
- Confident older children love the jumps, while younger ones can paddle in the shallow pools.
- Couples
- A romantic swim in blue pools, with a rope swing for the brave.
- Pair with
- Dunn’s River Falls or river tubing on the same day.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Where is the Blue Hole in Ocho Rios?+
It is in the hills of Island Gully above Ocho Rios, about a 20 to 30 minute drive from the resort area. Most visitors go with a tour that includes transport.
Is the Blue Hole the same as Island Gully Falls?+
Yes. The site is also called Island Gully Falls or Secret Falls. Names vary between operators, but they all refer to the same chain of pools.
Can non-swimmers visit the Blue Hole?+
Yes, they can enjoy the shallow pools and the scenery, but the deeper pools and jumps are best left to confident swimmers.
How high are the jumps?+
There are ledges at several heights, from low rocks to high cliffs. Guides advise on which are suitable, and you should never jump unless you feel ready.
When is the best time to visit?+
Go early on a weekday in the drier months, when the water is clearest and the crowds are small. Heavy rain can muddy the pools.
