YS Falls and The Pelican Bar Adventure Tour from Montego Bay

Planning a day out in Jamaica that balances natural beauty, laid-back island charm, and a touch of adventure? This tour promises just that—taking you from the lush greenery of YS Falls to the quirky, unforgettable experience of relaxing at Floyd’s Pelican Bar. While it’s a well-structured trip with many highlights, knowing what to expect can help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Jamaica itinerary.

We’re particularly drawn to this tour’s access to spectacular waterfalls and the unique floating bar experience, along with the chance to enjoy some local seafood and cold Red Stripe beers. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the location can feel a bit touristy, especially at YS Falls, and the full-day schedule requires some walking and boat rides. This tour will suit travelers eager to see some of Jamaica’s iconic sights without overloading their day, especially those who enjoy a mix of nature and relaxed seaside fun.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery at YS Falls, featuring seven cascading tiers and mineral pools.
• Unique experience with Floyd’s Pelican Bar, built on a shoal in the ocean.
• Convenient transportation with hotel pickup, private air-conditioned vehicle, and boat ride included.
• Worthwhile for those who enjoy nature, tropical views, and a relaxed vibe.
• Tour is tourist-friendly but still offers authentic moments, especially at the waterfalls.
• Price reflects a full-day experience with multiple stops, meal options at Pelican Bar not included.

An Overview of the Tour Experience

This tour offers a balanced glimpse into some of Jamaica’s most photogenic spots. We loved the way it combines adventure and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers who want a taste of everything without spending days on the road. The price of approximately $193.59 per person includes transportation, entrance fees, and the boat ride, which all contribute to making this a cost-effective way to see these highlights.

The tour begins with a morning pickup from your Montego Bay hotel, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free day. The private, well-equipped vehicle ensures comfort, especially after a long drive through scenic Jamaican countryside. The first stop is YS Falls, about an hour and a half away, where the lush surroundings and cascading waterfalls quickly steal the show.

Exploring YS Falls

YS Falls is a true gem—seven levels of waterfalls spilling into natural pools, surrounded by lush foliage. The setting feels almost untouched, yet it’s comfortably developed for visitors, with walkways and platforms allowing easy access to some stunning photo opportunities. You’ll find the water inviting for a quick swim or just a peaceful moment by the pools.

What makes YS Falls special? Its relatively untouched, tropical setting offers a serene escape from busier tourist spots. The underground springs feeding the pools keep the water cool and mineral-rich, perfect for a refreshing dip. The entry fee is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs, but be prepared to wear water shoes and a swimsuit underneath your clothes.

Authentic experiences are part of the charm; the tour guides are friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights into the flora and fauna. As one reviewer noted, “YS Falls was beautiful and a cool experience,” though they also observed that it can be “touristy,” which is typical for popular spots in the region.

The Journey to Floyd’s Pelican Bar

Post-falls, the journey continues along Jamaica’s scenic south coast, passing seaside villages, colorful guesthouses, and sun-drenched beaches. The 30-minute boat ride out to Floyd’s Pelican Bar is part of the adventure, providing stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and the chance to spot local boats, seabirds, and perhaps even some marine life.

The Pelican Bar itself is a quirky, iconic Jamaican landmark—an open-air hut built on stilts on a shoal about three-quarters of a mile offshore. It’s a perfect spot for a casual lunch, cold Red Stripe beers, or just soaking in the panoramic ocean views. The bar’s unique location makes it an Instagram-worthy highlight, and the experience of sitting on a floating bar is memorable in itself.

What should you expect here? The bar is simple but lively, often bustling with fellow travelers and locals. The seafood menu generally features local catches, and you might find the atmosphere laid-back and fun. Remember, food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so bring cash if you want a meal or additional beverages.

A reviewer mentioned, “Floyd’s Pelican Bar is the ultimate spot to hang with a cold Red Stripe Beer,” emphasizing the relaxing, social vibe. Snorkeling opportunities are available if you wish to explore the waters around the bar.

Practical Details and What to Bring

The entire day runs about eight hours, with the tour starting at 8:30 am. The itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxing, and travel time, but keep in mind that it involves some walking and boat rides. The tour is private, meaning you’ll have a group just from your booking, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Packing tips: Wear smart casual clothing, bring swimwear to change into at YS Falls, and pack water shoes and a towel for comfort. A bottle of water is provided, but it’s wise to stay hydrated. If you’re planning to eat at Pelican Bar, bring cash as meals aren’t included.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the price of about $193.59, the tour offers good value for a full day of activities, especially with hotel pickup and private transport. The included entrance fees and boat ride simplify logistics, and you won’t need to worry about directions or transportation arrangements.

However, it’s a fairly typical tourist experience, and the “touristy” feel at YS Falls might not appeal to travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Still, for most visitors, the scenic beauty and fun of the boat ride outweigh the crowds.

Authentic Experiences and Review Insights

One reviewer summed up the experience as “Overall we had a fun time! Our tour guides were fun, making the drive smooth.” This highlights the importance of friendly guides in making the day enjoyable. They also appreciated the photo service at YS Falls, even though they noted it might be nice to take some photos themselves.

The mention of the beauty of YS Falls and its “cool experience” shows how well this stop resonates with visitors. The appeal of Floyd’s Pelican Bar as the “ultimate spot” to unwind, enjoy seafood, and sip local beers adds a genuine, laid-back Jamaican vibe to the trip.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure suits travelers looking for a balanced day of nature, fun, and relaxation. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Jamaica’s iconic waterfalls and enjoy a laid-back seaside atmosphere without spending too much time on the road. The inclusion of hotel pickup and private transportation makes it convenient, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transport.

If you’re after stunning views coupled with authentic local flavor—particularly the chance to relax with a cold beer in a unique setting—this tour checks many boxes. It’s also great for families or small groups seeking a safe, guided day with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

However, if you prefer quieter, less touristy spots, or are seeking an entirely adventurous or off-the-beaten-path experience, you might find this tour a bit crowded or commercialized. Still, for most, the combination of waterfalls, ocean views, and relaxed island charm ensures a memorable day in Jamaica.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Montego Bay hotel, making the day hassle-free.

How long does the tour last? It runs approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am, giving enough time to enjoy all stops comfortably.

Are meals included? No, meals and drinks at Floyd’s Pelican Bar are not included, so plan to bring cash for food and additional beverages.

What should I wear? Dress smart casual, wear swimwear under your clothes, and bring water shoes and a towel for YS Falls.

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What is the condition of the boat ride? The boat ride to Pelican Bar is part of the experience and offers great views; it’s generally smooth but expect some sea spray and a light breeze.

What’s the main attraction? YS Falls is the star for its stunning seven-tiered waterfalls, while Floyd’s Pelican Bar offers a fun, relaxed seaside vibe.

Can I snorkel at Pelican Bar? Yes, snorkeling is available for those interested after enjoying the bar’s panoramic views.

What is the overall value? Considering transport, entrance fees, and the boat ride, it’s a good value for a full-day experience, especially for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Jamaica’s natural beauty and island fun.

This tour offers an engaging mix of natural splendor and relaxed seaside charm, perfect for those eager to see Jamaica’s highlights without missing the authentic laid-back island spirit.