Falmouth, Jamaica, was one of those cruise ports where we didn’t have a big plan the first time we visited, and honestly, we wish we had.
If you’ve ever stepped off a ship with zero expectations and wandered around hoping for magic, you’ll know the vibe.
That said, we have since returned and experienced the beaches and will let you know the fabulous beaches to visit while at the Falmouth cruise port.
Beaches in Falmouth, Jamaica
Let’s be real: the best beaches near Falmouth aren’t directly outside the port gates. But if you’re willing to hop in a cab or join a short excursion, you’ve got options.
Burwood Beach
One of the closest beaches to the port (about 10 minutes by car), Burwood is a public beach with calm, swimmable water.
There’s a small entry fee, and you can rent beach chairs or grab a snack from a vendor. Nothing fancy, but solid if you want a real beach day without a full tour.
Red Stripe Beach
This one’s often offered as an official cruise excursion. It’s a private and low-key venue, featuring chairs, drinks, and a bar on-site.
If you’re looking for something easy, it’s a decent choice, but don’t expect a wild adventure. It’s a beautiful beach break.
Bamboo Beach Club (slightly further)
This one leans into the full-service beach club vibe, often paired with food, music, and rum punch.
It’s not in Falmouth proper, but rather a day trip, and worth considering if you’re looking for a more curated experience.
Shore Excursions in Falmouth: What We Learned
Here’s the truth: we didn’t plan the first round, and we regretted it. There’s plenty to do if you know what you’re looking for.
What You Could Do:
- Martha Brae River Rafting: This is one of the most popular excursions in the area. You float down a jungle-lined river on a bamboo raft with a local guide. Peaceful, beautiful, and something we’ll do next time.
- Good Hope Estate Adventure Park: A mix of ziplining, ATV tours, and river tubing. It’s perfect if you want to squeeze in some adventure.
- Glistening Waters (Luminous Lagoon): A nighttime excursion, but some lines time it right. The bioluminescence is real and magical.
- Historic Falmouth Walking Tour: For a slower-paced and culturally rich experience, consider taking a guided tour of the town, which features numerous Georgian buildings and fascinating stories.
Also Cool, But Laid Back:
Wander a bit. Take photos. Sip something fruity. Don’t stress, it’s still Jamaica, and even a chill port day is a good one.
It’s just important to get off the cruise ship.
Our Take: Is Falmouth Worth Exploring?
Yes, but go in with a plan. Falmouth is safe, scenic, and has that authentic Jamaican energy, but it’s not as cruise-polished as some ports.
If you’re looking for the kind of stop where you can wing it and land on an epic beach, this might not be it.
But with a bit of intention (and a short cab ride), you can make the most of it.
Road Trip to Ocho Rios
If you are making your way around Jamaica, consider the history of other areas. There are lots of things to do in Ocho Rios.
Even though it’s a bit of a drive from Falmouth, a trip to Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios might be worth carving out time for, especially if you’re craving more of an adventure. It is one of the highlights for adventurers in the Caribbean.
The climb up the falls is iconic for a reason, and it offers a totally different vibe than a beach day. If you’re up for a little road time, the payoff is big.
If you are cruising, look at what you can book in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay as both are great Jamaica cruise ports.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
The port area is gated and tourist-friendly, but beyond that, it’s not designed for long scenic walks. You’ll likely want a ride or excursion.
Falmouth is safe, but as always, be smart. We noticed that pedestrians do not have the right of way, or at least it is not respected. Keep your valuables on the ship, and carry your cash and phone with you. This is the same anywhere you visit.
Yes, the Martha Brae River is a short drive away and can be accessed through most cruise lines or local operators.
