Rainy days can feel like mood killers, especially when you've envisioned spending your day on a sandy beach, soaking up the warm Caribbean sunshine, and playing with your energetic little ones.

If you happen to be on vacation on Jamaica's north coast during the wet season (June to November), or an unexpected shower of rain forces you inside, rest assured that there's still plenty to do.

Get dressed in rain-appropriate attire, grab your umbrellas, and explore these seven things to do when it rains on the north coast. 



Tour the Rose Hall Great House, Montego Bay

You can book an indoor tour of this 18th-century haunted mansion in Montego Bay any day of the week except on a Sunday.

The tour costs $10 for each child 12 years or younger, and $25 for each adult. 

If you're traveling with brave teenagers, you could join them for the thrilling night tour. The sound of the pouring rain outside will definitely add more excitement to the experience.


Tour the Greenwood Great House, Montego Bay

This great house sits on the border of the parish of Saint James and the parish of Trelawny. It's the former home of the Barretts family who were famous sugar plantation owners.

Inside the lovely mansion, your children will be introduced to a collection of antique musical instruments, one-of-a-kind furniture, and the story of the wealthy Barretts family who owned several acres of land stretching from Montego Bay to Falmouth. 

You'll pay $10 for each child and $25 for each adult. 

Shopping at Island Village, Ocho Rios

When the rain catches you and the kids in the streets of Ocho Rios, head to Island Village Shopping Centre.

Rainy weather is the perfect excuse to embark on a shopping adventure.

Inside the shopping village, you'll find Jamaican novelty stores, duty-free shops, and cafes.

There's also a movie theatre on the property, just in case your kids prefer some screen time. 


Taste Jerk at Scotchies, Drax Hall and Montego Bay

Allow the kids to brave a few samplings of jerk chicken, pork, and sausage at the popular jerk center Scotchies in Drax Hall and Montego Bay.

It's a great opportunity for the children to taste authentic Jamaican jerk meat paired with festivals, bammy or fries. 

There are two locations in Montego Bay and one in Drax Hall, Saint Ann (a few kilometers from the town of Ocho Rios).

Learn to cook Jamaican food

If you happen to be staying at a villa on the north coast which grants you access to a kitchen, request a private Jamaican cooking lesson from the resident chef.

You'll be amazed how much the kids will indulge in this activity as they broaden their knowledge of Jamaican cuisine and how to prepare popular local dishes.

Start small and invite them to assist with the rolling of dumplings for a chicken broth.  

Tell ghost stories 

It's typical for Jamaicans to share ghost stories when there is a power cut or when they are stuck inside due to rainy weather.

Get in on the tradition by allowing your kids to use their imagination to create their own.

This activity offers a creative escape so they can release the disappointment of missing outdoor activities. 



Catch some much-needed sleep

If it rains for longer than you were anticipating, invite the children to take a nap after they drink a cup of hot chocolate.

If real Jamaican chocolate is available, ask the chef to include it in the hot beverage. 


Browse the Jamaica Experiences website for more things to do on Jamaica's north coast when it isn't raining.