Ocho Rios sits roughly in the middle of Jamaica's north coast, putting it within easy reach of several worthwhile destinations. The road east toward Port Antonio passes through some of the most beautiful scenery on the island.
Firefly (30 km east) — Noël Coward's hilltop home above Port Maria, preserved as he left it and open to visitors. The views down the coast are exceptional and the house itself is fascinating. Allow a half-day.
James Bond Beach and GoldenEye (20 km east) — The beach at Oracabessa is named for nearby GoldenEye, Ian Fleming's estate where the Bond novels were written. The estate is now a private hotel, but the beach is public, and the stretch of coast here is calmer and more beautiful than Ocho Rios itself.
Port Antonio (90 km east) — Jamaica's quietest and most beautiful main town, with the Blue Lagoon, Boston Bay jerk, Rafters' Rest bamboo rafting, and a more relaxed atmosphere than anywhere on the tourist trail. Too far for a quick visit — plan a full day or consider staying overnight.
Runaway Bay (20 km west) — A small resort town quieter than Ocho Rios, with a good beach and the Green Grotto Caves nearby. Easy to combine with a day on the coast.
Montego Bay (105 km west) — Jamaica's main tourist hub is a two-hour drive, making it a long day trip. The combination with a stop at a north coast beach makes it manageable. Better as a point of arrival or departure than a day trip from Ocho Rios.
Blue Mountains — The coffee-growing mountains above Kingston are a three-hour drive and not practical as a day trip unless you have your own car and an early start. Better to base yourself in Kingston for that excursion.