VERY few waterfalls in the world can speak to having their water flow directly into the sea, and to go to an even greater length, very few can boast to being in a scene of a James Bond film (Dr No, look it up). Also of note, the Dunn’s River Falls was also featured in the 1988 film Cocktail, featuring Tom Cruise.

Located metres away from Ocho Rios, St Ann, Dunn’s River Falls’ rise to fame began from as early as 1657 as it is believed to be the site of the famous “Las Chorreras” battle between the Spanish and the English for control of the territory; a battle subsequently won by the English.

In 1972, the landscape was a part of the 276-acre Belmont property acquired by the government of Jamaica for recreational and park facilities, but it is being handled directly by the St Ann Development Company, a branch of the Urban Development Corporation.

Now a tourist-crazy destination, the Dunn’s River Falls is considered to be one of Jamaica’s greatest national treasures. It is regarded as a natural masterpiece and ‘living phenomenon’ as it constantly redefines itself with the sodium and calcium carbonate that the clean and soothing river deposits.

The Dunn’s River Falls attracts thousands of tourists annually, providing a perfect ambiance of relaxation and fun for families, in particular.

The Falls is revered for naturally consisting of a giant stair-like pattern, which creates the buzz for the park’s greatest attraction.

The much-loved feature of the recreational park is the climbing of the falls, usually in groups, an adventure that can run for as long as an hour. This time facilitates the taking of pictures and the making of videos by all who embark on the exciting journey.

— Devaro Bolton