Step Into History And Beauty: Best Places To Visit In Falmouth

An image of a Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Allure of the Seas, sailing in a vast ocean, in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Falmouth, Jamaica, is a town shaped by history, culture, and natural surroundings. From former sugar plantations to glowing waters at night, there is no shortage of places to visit in Falmouth. It blends colonial architecture, local markets, and outdoor experiences highlighting the island’s past and present. Visitors can experience authentic Jamaican flavours, learn about the island’s rum-making traditions, and take in the sights along its rivers and beaches. In this blog, we will discover the ten best places to visit in Falmouth, each offering a glimpse into what makes this Jamaican place special.

Top 10 Places To Visit In Falmouth

Here are the top 10 places to visit in Falmouth, for your next trip to Jamaica:

1. Historic Falmouth Cruise Port

An image of a large cruise ship docked at the Falmouth Cruise Port, one of the best places to visit in Falmouth.

Photo: Sunnya343 / Wikimedia Commons

The Historic Falmouth Cruise Port is where many visitors get their first impression of the town, and well-preserved Georgian buildings that speak of Falmouth’s colonial past can be seen. The port area has a mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural exhibits that highlight local traditions, giving insights into Falmouth’s role in Caribbean history, including its connection to the sugar trade. Artisans sell handmade crafts, offering a chance to take home something representing the island’s culture.

Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

2. Good Hope Estate

An image of a large Estate with white and blue exterior, surrounded by trees, similar to the Good Hope Estate in Falmouth.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Good Hope Estate, once a major sugar plantation, provides a glimpse into Jamaica’s colonial history. The Great House is well-maintained, allowing visitors to see how plantation owners lived centuries ago. Beyond the house, the estate offers adventure activities like zip-lining, river tubing, and ATV rides, making it a place where history and outdoor exploration come together. The grounds include well-kept gardens and walking paths, creating a space to take in the surroundings while learning about the estate’s past.

Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

3. Hampden Estate

An image of a historic brick manor house with chimneys and a tower, resembling the Hampden Estate in Falmouth.

Photo: Patrick Nizan / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Hampden Estate has been producing rum for more than 250 years, making it one of the oldest distilleries in Jamaica. The tour takes visitors through the rum-making process, from fermentation to ageing, using traditional methods that have remained unchanged for generations. The estate itself is a piece of history, with old stone buildings and equipment that highlight Jamaica’s long-standing relationship with sugar and rum production. The tour ends with a rum tasting, where visitors can sample Hampden’s signature blends.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

4. Luminous Lagoon

An image of a massive school of fish swirling in a circular formation against a vivid blue backdrop, similar to the Luminous Lagoon in Falmouth.

Photo: Francesco Ungaro / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The Luminous Lagoon is one of the few places in the world where water lights up at night. This phenomenon is due to the activities of bioluminescent microorganisms that light up the water. The glow appears when the water is disturbed, creating a natural light show that specialises night tours. A boat ride takes the visitors to the best spots for viewing in Falmouth. It is a rare phenomenon, making this trip a highlight for many who visit Falmouth.

Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

5. Martha Brae River

An image of a bamboo raft, with a man standing on top, floating on the Martha Brae river, one of the great places to visit in Falmouth.

Photo: Donna-Kay Delahaye / Wikimedia Commons

Drifting down the Martha Brae River on a handmade bamboo raft is a peaceful way to experience Jamaica’s natural beauty. Skilled raft captains navigate the calm waters, pointing out native plants and wildlife while sharing a bit of local history. It’s a slow, relaxing journey that lets you soak in the lush surroundings, making the Martha Brae River one of the top places to visit in Falmouth.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

6. Blue Waters Beach Club

An image of the Blue Waters Beach Club, with sandy beach, sun loungers, modern buildings, and blue ocean.

Photo: Sean Oulashin / Unspalsh / Image For Representation Only

Blue Waters Beach Club offers a relaxed beach experience away from crowded tourist areas. The soft sand and clear water create an inviting space for swimming and sunbathing. The club provides amenities like beach loungers, a restaurant, and a bar serving Jamaican dishes and drinks. Live music and cultural performances sometimes add to the atmosphere, making it more than a beach visit.

Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

7. Falmouth Market

An image of a red "Transport for Cornwall" minibus parked on a cobblestone street in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Photo: Min An / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Falmouth Market gives visitors a taste of everyday life in the town. Vendors sell fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and handmade goods. It’s a great place to interact with locals and pick up souvenirs to take back home that reflect Jamaican culture. The market also has food stalls offering traditional Jamaican street food like patties, jerk chicken, and fried plantains, making this place one of the best places to visit in Falmouth.

Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

8. Glistening Waters Restaurant And Marina

An image of a restaurant with culinary creativity, similar to the Glistening Waters Restaurant and Marina.

Photo: Julia M Cameron / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Glistening Waters Restaurant and Marina sits next to the Luminous Lagoon, making it a great spot for dinner before or after a boat tour. The restaurant specialises in seafood, with dishes made from fresh local ingredients. Dining here offers a chance to enjoy traditional Jamaican flavours while watching boats set off into the glowing waters. The open-air seating allows guests to take in the surroundings while savouring their meals.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

9. Burwood Beach

An image of a scenic coastal landscape of the Burwood Beach, featuring a beach, ocean, green hills, and clear skies.

Photo: Blb789 / Wikimedia Commons

Burwood Beach is a public beach that offers a quieter alternative to more tourist-heavy spots. The clear, shallow water makes it ideal for wading and swimming. There are shaded areas for relaxing, as well as basic amenities like changing rooms and picnic tables. It is a great spot to spend time by the sea without the distractions of large crowds or commercial activity, making it one of the most relaxing places to visit in Falmouth.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

10. Rio Bueno

An image of a coastal view of the Rio Bueno, with a pier, vibrant sea, greenery, and yellow flowers.

Photo: rh43 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Rio Bueno, a village near Falmouth, is known for its river, where visitors can try rafting and kayaking through both gentle and faster-moving waters. The area also holds historical significance as one of the first landing sites of Christopher Columbus in Jamaica. With a mix of adventure and history, it is a spot that draws those looking to explore nature and Falmouth’s historic and cultural past.

Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

Falmouth, Jamaica, is packed with must-see destinations for every traveller. From historic landmarks to thrilling adventures and serene beaches, the places to visit in Falmouth showcase the island’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to its colonial past or its natural wonders, Falmouth offers unforgettable experiences for all. Book your trip with TripXL and enjoy your Jamaican trip, ensuring a memorable and well-planned adventure.

Cover Photo: Kate Joyce / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

Falmouth has a mix of beaches, rivers, and nature spots. You can take a bamboo raft down the Martha Brae River, go tubing at Rio Bueno, or visit the Blue Hole for swimming and cliff jumping.
Yes. The town itself is full of Georgian-era buildings. You can explore the Historic Falmouth Cruise Port, visit the Good Hope Estate for a glimpse into Jamaica’s plantation past, or take a walking tour to see 18th-century architecture.
Ziplining at Good Hope Estate gives you a view of the countryside from above, while river tubing on the Rio Bueno provides a mix of calm floating and mild rapids. ATV tours are also available for off-road exploration.
Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios is a popular spot for climbing waterfalls. The Luminous Lagoon near Falmouth is worth visiting at night to see the glowing waters caused by natural microorganisms.
Yes. Rafting on the Martha Brae River is a peaceful way to see local plants and wildlife. You can also visit reserves like Jamaica Swamp Safari Village to learn about native animals.

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