Jamaica is widely regarded as an island paradise and optimal Caribbean vacation location, which it is. But the clear turquoise water and white sandy beaches that are usually called to mind are only a small part of what the island has to offer. Like most islands in the Caribbean, there is also lush vegetation, mountain ranges for hiking, and rare and interesting natural phenomena. Days could be spent exploring the island, though if a relaxing week on the beach is more your speed, there is abundant opportunity for that too.

The Blue Mountains, which include the highest point on the island – Blue Mountain Peak at an elevation of 7402 feet – are a major attraction in their own right, made even more attractive by all that the rest of the island has to offer. There are plenty of excellent places to hike in the world, but few in such close proximity to such world class beaches. Hiking on the Blue Mountains is notable for the wonderful views and scenery, and if you are driven enough to wake up at 2 in the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to see one of the most beautiful sunsets at the peak anywhere in the world. Then you can make your way down the mountain and rest your tired bones on the Jamaican beach. Few days of your life could rival that one.

Dunn’s River Falls is another excellent attraction, both because it is a unique geological formation and because you can have a lot of fun visiting. There is a guided trek up the Falls, and you need to stay very focused during it, but it is really fun and you might find that you have a certain sense of accomplishment afterwards.

Jamaica is an often mentioned, almost cliche Caribbean destination, and there are definitely islands that are a bit less touristy, but a trip here once is well worth it, and you might find that you have so much fun that you’ll want to return.