Negril

The 22 mini-cascades and numerous swimming holes that make up the Mayfield Falls in the low-lying Dolphin Head Mountains make a memorable day trip from Negril. Tours offer guided walks through bamboo-shaded cool water holes and splashing falls. Swimwear and mosquito repellent are highly recommended, as are waterproof shoes.Some parts of the walk through the area involve natural whirlpools; in others, blasts of water hit you from the rocks. There is an underwater cave to swim through, smooth rockslide areas and mini cliffs to dive from for the adventurous. This natural water park is edged and overhung with bamboo, flowers, vines, trees and shrubbery.Jamaican dishes are available at the eatery at the entry point, where tourists can order meals before setting off. There are also a number of stalls selling souvenirs and crafts at the end of the trail.

The beautiful estate of Rhodes Hall Plantation lies a short distance east of Negril. Here guided horseback excursions give a glimpse of the magic and mystery of the Jamaican countryside. Guides give some basic horsemanship tips and then take tourists off through the foothills, pointing out botanical wonders and regaling riders with stories and legends about local landmarks.Visitors are taken through forests of banana and coconut palms, and along a beach to the Crocodile River, where hopefully groups can 'meet' one of the resident crocodiles. Swimming gear is a must, as the horses like to head into the surf. The riding tours last from half an hour to two hours, and are inclusive in the round-trip transportation from any hotel in the Negril area.There is a restaurant and a gift shop on the plantation. Children are welcome and will love this excursion, but only children over six can ride.

Website : www.rhodeshallplantation.net

The reason for Negril's recent boom as a tourist destination is centred on this seven-mile (11km) stretch of beautiful shoreline, dotted with palm trees and carpeted with pristine white sand. Development has been restricted to palm-tree height, and despite the proliferation of guesthouses and hotels along the strip the natural beauty of the beach has not been compromised.There are lots of restaurants, resorts and shops along the beachfront but thankfully the length of the beach usually prevents it from becoming too crowded. There are myriad activities and watersports available at the beach and the snorkelling is wonderful. Although obviously not suited to those who like remote and secluded beaches, Seven Mile beach is a fun, vibrant and exceptionally pretty place to spend the day. Walking the length of the shore is a good way to enjoy everything it has to offer.