Things to do in Kingston & St. Andrew

Kingston the capital city of Jamaica, an island paradise in the Caribbean. As with most cities around the world, Kingston is known for its fast-paced busy life and buzzing nightlife. Kingston is often paired with her sister parish, St. Andrew and the two parishes offer a unique set of experiences to enjoy in Jamaica. From nightlife (a bar is never far away), to having dinner with that special someone or even chilling on a beach (yes a beach). Here’s Showcase Jamaica’s list of things to do Kingston & St. Andrew. Hope you enjoy our selections below.

Devon House

Kingston, Jamaica is home to the island’s premier i-scream (not ice-cream) location; Devon House. Devon House ice-cream was voted the 4th Best Place to enjoy ice cream in the world by National Geographic in 2011. 

Devon House is also a national monument and was once home to Jamaica’s first black millionaire. Guests can enjoy a guided tour of the Mansion and there are also restaurants, a bakery and other shops on the property for visitors to enjoy.  

Bowden Falls / Falling Edge Falls

Falling Edge Waterfalls or Bowden Hill Falls is located off the beaten path in Stony Hill, St. Andrew. This small and tranquil waterfall is approximately 40ft high and cascades into a natural pool. There’s a 15 – 20 min hike involved to get to the falls, but it is totally worth the escape it provides from the busy city below. For more information on this amazing waterfall, check out our Hiking to Falling Edge Waterfalls article.

Bob Marley Museum

The Bob Marley Museum is the former home of the reggae legend, The Honourable Robert Nesta Marley. The museum is filled with memories and mementos of the late reggae icon to help preserve the memory of his life and accomplishments. The museum is also a Jamaican Heritage Site. 

Bob Marley Beach

Bob Marley Beach in Bull Bay, St. Andrew is named after reggae icon Bob Marley. This black sand beach is a great spot to chill out with friends and hold a vibe. One of the many water based activities to do in Kingston & St. Andrew.

Hope Gardens

The Hope Botanical Gardens, also known as the Royal Botanical Gardens, was established in 1873 and occupies 200 acres of land. Hope Garden is the largest public green space in Kingston and is home to Jamaica’s most popular collection of endemic and exotic botanical collections.

Cane River Falls 

Cane River Falls located in Bull Bay is another hidden gem in Kingston & St. Andrew. The secluded falls was once frequented by reggae icon Bob Marley who made reference to the falls in his song “Trench Town” – “Up a Cane river to wash my dread.”

Port Royal

Port Royal which was once “the richest and wickedest city in the world”, has become a quiet fishing village, filled with historical landmarks and some interesting things to do. Below are just a few of the things to enjoy;

Gloria’s – The best spot for seafood this side of the city. 

Fort Charles – is the oldest fort in Jamaica and it was built in 1656. It was one of six forts located in Port Royal, served to guard the entrance to Kingston Harbour. It was the only fort to survive the 1692 earthquake. 

The Giddy House – Built in 1888, the Earthquake of 1907 shifted it to its present 45’ angle. The name came about from the strange sensation of being giddy or off balance when you enter the building. It’s almost impossible to stand up straight while inside! 

Lime Cay

Lime Cay is the largest cay off the coast of Port Royal, in Kingston, Jamaica. The Cay is only accessible by boat and is the most beautiful beach in Kingston. We recommend going mid-week for the strong likelihood of having the beach all to yourself. Also be sure to bring your lunch and refreshments as there are no facilities on the island.

Irishtown

Take a trip into the hills of Irishtown, the gateway between Kingston and the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park. Irishtown is home to several cafes such as Cafe Blue and Eits Cafe. It’s also home to Strawberry Hill Hotel and Raf-Jam Bed & Breakfast which has a beautiful waterfall on property.  

Blue Mountain Coffee Tour

Blue Mountain Coffee, one of the world’s richest and most expensive coffees is grown right here in Jamaica. Standing at 7,402 ft, the Blue Mountains is the highest peak in Jamaica. A Blue Mountain Coffee tour takes you on a fascinating coffee journey ,from how coffee is grown and harvested, to that tasty brew in your cup. 

Wall Murals

Visit Jamaica’s first Art District in Downtown, Kingston; the Wall Murals at Water Lane. Launched in 2018 by Kingston Creative. The vibrant and stunning colours of the murals were created by Jamaican artists. 

Nightlife

The most popular attraction on offer in the capital city. With covid restrictions lifted earlier this year, Kingston is abuzz with nightlife once more. Whether it’s meeting up with friends for drinks or a late dinner. Weekly parties series are also back. Here are just a few options to consider below; 

Bar & Grill	Restaurants	Party Series
Janga’s Soundbar & Grill	Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records	Triple Thursday
Ribbiz UltraLounge	Broken Plate Restaurant	Fridays After Dark
CRU	CHILLIN’ Restaurant and Bar	OSA
100 Kingston	Cellar8

There you have it, Showcase Jamaica’s pick of things to do in Kingston & St. Andrew. Did you like our selections or did we leave out your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.

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