Coyaba River Garden and Museum sits on Shaw Park Ridge in Ocho Rios, on the north coast of Jamaica, in the parish of St. Ann. It combines a cultural museum with a botanical garden, and it is also known as Coyaba Gardens.
What you will find
The museum focuses on Jamaica's indigenous heritage, with a collection of Arawak Indian artifacts and exhibits that trace the island's earliest inhabitants. For many visitors, it offers a useful counterpoint to the beaches and resorts that define much of the north coast.
The gardens and the setting
The museum is set within landscaped gardens, and the grounds are known for their river views. Walking through them gives you a slower pace than a typical museum visit, with plants and water as much a part of the experience as the exhibits.
A visit suits several kinds of traveller:
- Those interested in the history and culture of the Caribbean's first peoples
- Gardeners and anyone who enjoys walking among carefully planted grounds
- Visitors who want a quieter outing from the coast while staying in Ocho Rios
Because it is located in Ocho Rios, it is easy to combine with other days out in the town and surrounding parish. If you plan to go, call ahead on +1-876-974-6235 to check current arrangements before you set out.
