Dunn’s River Falls – Past and Present

Dunn’s River Falls – Past and Present

I recently went to Dunn’s River falls, one of Jamaica’s most popular attractions for tourists and locals alike.  Visitors to the falls arrive at a well-designed location with ample parking, gardens, changing and storage facilities, special shoes for sale or rent and guides to help with climbing the falls. Approximately 55 meters high and 180 meters long, Dunn’s River flows directly to the sea.  Along the sides are lush green vegetation that shade the area from the sun. For those who are unable to climb, there are stairs along the side of the falls.

  I remember as a youngster scampering up the falls, bare feet with friends and on the descent making ‘pit stops’ in the shallow pools of the falls. Many of the facilities that are here today did not exist then.  In those days there were a few craft vendors and man covered in flowers with his donkey for anyone who wanted to take exotic photos at a fee.

When you visit Dunn’s River give yourself at least three hours to climb the falls, have a swim in the sea and rest on the beach.  Pack a snack and take along a pair of shoes for climbing rocks to avoid the extra expense of buying or renting shoes. Have cash, preferably Jamaican Dollars.  On your way out of the park you will pass through a craft market with the usual range of items found elsewhere. The wood carvings are 100% local.

While a lot have changed over the years Dunn’s River falls remain a delightful place to visit.  

For more information go to these website links:

https://www.visitjamaica.com/listing/dunns-river-falls-and-park/30/

https://www.sandals.com/blog/dunns-river-falls-guide/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SaeeaA8UmMU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcVY7bsrH-E

Also visit our art gallery:  https://www.experiencejamaique.com/product_gallery

Edited May 2020