The Beaches of Jamaica

 

The beaches of Jamaica are so beautiful that even locals can't get enough of them.  Whether you prefer lying on the sand soaking up the sun, or crashing through the waves, the perfect beach is just waiting for you to find it.

Kingston Area

Just off the coast of Port Royal is Lime Cay, a small island perfect for both sun bathing and water sports.  There is no formal form of transportation to and from the island, so your best bet is to head to Port Royal and hire a local fisherman to transport you. 

Ocho Rios

Two of the most popular beaches in Jamaica are Turtle Beach and Mallard Beach. Both are tourist-oriented spots with plenty of food, fun activities, and fellow visitors. Several hotels are located along both of the beaches, so if you are looking for a place to stay on the water, these might be good locations to search for accommodations.

Additionally, travelers should be sure to check out the famous James Bond Beach, which is home to the Golden Eye Hotel. The hotel was the former residence of James Bond writer Ian Fleming. The waterfront is owned by the hotel, and for a small fee of $3(USD), non-guests can enjoy the sand and surf of this famous locale. Rentals for water sports equipment are available, which make for a perfect trip for those James Bond fans who dream of their own exciting ride at the site where the movie Dr. No was filmed.

Don't forget to visit Dunn's River Beach, located under the famous Dunn's River Waterfalls, where the Dunn's River meets the Caribbean Sea in amazing, visual splendor. Visitors can climb the falls, swim in small whirlpools or just admire the natural beauty from the beach not far down from the waterfall.

Negril

Seven Mile Beach, famous for being a favorite hot spot of the 1960's hippie movement, is home to a care-free, laid-back environment that includes nude bathing. Although it was once an idyllic retreat into natural Jamaica, now this area is more of a tourist attraction than a hippie retreat. If you are visiting this beach, expect to see many sun worshipers wearing nothing but their birthday suits. Many of the resorts also host nude beaches as well as bars, hot tubs and swimming pools.

Montego Bay

For the more clothing-conscious, or for visitors with children, Montego Bay offers several appropriate retreats. Cornwall Beach is lively and happening, offering a variety of concessions and water-sport activities. Another a great place to visit is Walter Fletcher Beach, which offers exceptional bathing and swimming opportunities that may not be found elsewhere. Because of it's calmer waters, this beach is recommended for visitors with children.

MoBay's most famous bathing spot, Doctor's Cave Beach, was founded in 1906 when a group of doctors banded together to bathe here. At the time, access to the small cave was limited, and it was later destroyed by a 1932 hurricane. Although the cave is no longer there, the popularity of the bathing spot lived on, especially when Sir Herbert Bake claimed in 1920 that the waters in this location had curative powers. The crystal clear water, almost always between 78 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit, is fed by mineral springs. Admission costs approximately $5(USD), and there are plenty of changing areas, showers, and dining options.

Port Antonio

Boston Bay Beach, an easily missed but beautiful bathing area is perfect for small fishing trips and surfing. Snack stands around the beach serve delicious jerk pork, a tradition in Jamaica. Formerly owned by author Roger Moore (The Happy Hooker and The Greek Berets), he donated this small beach to the Jamaican government.

Frenchman's Bay is said to be among the most beautiful beaches in the world. For the  small charge of $3(USD), visitors can sunbathe, swim, body surf, or simply relax in the shaded parts of this gorgeous Jamaican treasure.

Blue Lagoon Beach is famous for hosting Brooke Shields in the movie Blue Lagoon. The deep water is a gorgeous shade of cobalt blue and is excellent for swimming and enjoying the environment.

Of course, these fantastic beaches are just the tip of what the island has to offer along its shores. Jamaica is surrounded by beautiful beaches and the crystalline waters of the Caribbean. To learn more about specific beaches on the island, visit the links below.

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