Rick's Cafe
Westmoreland
Rick's Cafe, established in April 1974 by Richard Hershman, is a renowned cliffside bar and restaurant located on the West End Cliffs of Negril, Jamaica. Originally a sleepy fishing village, Negril has transformed around this venue, which offers breathtaking views of the sunset over the Caribbean Sea. The cafe has become a cultural and social hub, attracting both locals and tourists who come to enjoy its unique ambiance and spectacular natural setting. Despite being severely damaged by Hurricanes Gilbert in 1988 and Ivan in 2004, Rick's Cafe was rebuilt each time, emerging larger and more vibrant. It maintains a family-oriented atmosphere with a dedicated staff, many of whom have worked there for decades. Beyond dining and drinks, Rick's Cafe hosts weddings, corporate retreats, and other special events, making it a versatile destination. Its combination of natural beauty, resilience, and community spirit makes Rick's Cafe a must-visit spot in Jamaica.
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Tip: Visit Rick's Cafe in the late afternoon to catch the famous Jamaican sunset from the cliffs. Booking in advance is recommended for special events like weddings or corporate retreats. While tickets are not required for entry, planning your visit around sunset hours maximizes the experience. The cafe offers a relaxed atmosphere with live music and cliff diving performances, so arriving early is advised to secure a good viewing spot. Discounts or group packages may be available for larger bookings; contact the cafe directly for details.
Interesting facts
- •Rick's Cafe is famous for its cliff diving shows, where brave divers leap into the Caribbean Sea from heights up to 35 feet.
- •The cafe has survived two major hurricanes-Gilbert in 1988 and Ivan in 2004-both of which caused total destruction, yet it was rebuilt each time.
- •Rick's Cafe was the first public bar and restaurant on Negril's West End Cliffs, offering a unique alternative to the beach experience.
- •Many staff members have worked at Rick's Cafe for over 30 years, reflecting strong community ties and a family atmosphere.
History
Rick's Cafe was opened in April 1974 by founder Richard Hershman in Negril, then a quiet fishing village with minimal modern amenities.
The cafe was the first public bar and restaurant on the West End Cliffs, quickly becoming a popular gathering spot for its stunning sunset views.
In 1988, Hurricane Gilbert caused extensive destruction, completely demolishing the cafe.
It was rebuilt and reopened, only to be struck again by Hurricane Ivan in 2004, which caused even more severe damage.
Each time, Rick's Cafe was restored and expanded, maintaining its status as a premier destination in Jamaica.
Over the decades, it has grown from a small local establishment to a world-famous landmark known for its vibrant atmosphere and natural beauty.
Contact
Phone: (876) 957-0380