Families Can Enjoy Wet, Wild Getaway at Jamaica’s Water Parks

Jamaica may be a destination known primarily for its abundance of natural beauty and flavorful culture, but the island’s water parks provide an exciting alternative for families looking for more than a day of lying on the beach or viewing the scenic landscape.

Kids of all ages, from 9 years old to 90, will have a splashing good time at any of the island’s three water parks.

“From children to adults, relaxation to adventure, wet to dry, Jamaica is a destination that prides itself on offering something for everyone,” said Basil Smith, Director of the Jamaica Tourist Board. “Jamaica’s water parks are perfect examples of the variety of family attractions that we continue to make available on the island.”

Sunset Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios recently opened its brand new Lighthouse Waterslide, an attraction destined to become a landmark on the Ocho Rios coastline. Designed to replicate a traditional lighthouse, guests climb an enclosed spiral staircase to a towering 60-foot observation deck that provides a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view over the Caribbean Sea.

Two water slides, one enclosed and one open, send adventure seekers twisting and turning down and around the lighthouse. The open slide ends in one of the resort’s swimming pool, while the closed slide empties out into the ocean. Those who prefer to stay dry can venture into the lower level of the Lighthouse, which features an air-conditioned arcade.

The recently opened Kool Runnings Water Park, spread over five acres in Negril, combines a watery world of fun with an authentically Jamaican experience. The park features ten exciting water slides, some of which tower up to 40 feet high, and each with a distinctive Jamaican name.

Sunset Beach Resort & Spa in Montego Bay opened its Pirate’s Paradise Water Park in 2006. While soaking up the warm Jamaican sun, visitors can drift along Blackbeard’s Lazy River, which winds a slow path through the park, or simply relax on Buccaneer Beach.

Sugar Mill Falls, located at Rose Hall Resort & Country Club in Montego Bay, is one of the largest man-made attractions in the Caribbean. Visitors can spend their day splashing through cascading waterfalls, a 280-foot thrill slide, relaxing lagoons, a lazy river and three terraced pools.