Navy Island

There are plenty of advantages to visiting a beach that isn't surrounded by thousands of hotel rooms , like not having to struggle through a crowd every time you want to take a dip and Navy Island fits the bill nicely.

The white sand beaches on Navy Island don't get too crowded when they are open to the public, making this spot a great place to enjoy Jamaica's shores. Temporarily, the beach is closed to the public due to additional renovations and development. However, Navy Island used to boast tranquil beaches and prime underwater viewing for the adventurous type.

Those searching to find a secluded spot in Jamaica could find that Navy Island suits them perfectly . Not too far from any cities , but you won't be too far from the beaten path , you'll discover a great middle ground.

Jamaica's beaches are hardly known for their seclusion , however, this beach is a little more secluded than many , but is not the most urbanized beach . You won't have far to go to reach Navy Island.

For some visitors the level of activity at a beach and its amenities can be the most important attributes . Others feel that getting the chance to spend a day in the sun and experience seclusion is extremely important . There are plenty of beaches in Jamaica , and you may decide that Navy Island is precisely the type of beach you most enjoy.

Location

This delightful beach is located on Jamaica's eastern coast , 0.8 miles from Lighthouse in Port Antonio. Navy Island is close to Berridale , so you can explore the town after your visit to the beach.

Nearby Hotels

The number of other vacationers sharing the beach can vary widely -- it depends on when you visit. The beach is not located next door to any large hotels but it is often visited by visitors from smaller hotels in the area. Those hoping to stay close to this beach can certainly find a spot.

The following table provides additional hotel options near this beach.

Nearest Hotels to Navy Island

Hotel Name Distance No. of Rooms Jamaica Palace Hotel 2.5 mi. 80 Goblin Hill Villas at San San 3.5 mi. 28 Strawberry Hill 19.3 mi. 14 Christar Villas 24.0 mi. 42 Hilton Kingston 25.4 mi. 300 Jamaica Pegasus 25.6 mi. 310 Courtleigh Hotel and Suites 25.6 mi. 132

Amenities and Ambience

Prime attractions on Navy Island are the beaches and accompanying waters, where one can swim and explore the beautiful clear waters, play on the white sand beaches, or indulge in watersport activities. Guests can also choose to stay in the African cottages on the island or dine in some of the casual restaurants, notably the Jamaican dishes at the Admiralty restaurant.

The number of people at the beach is affected by a few things, including the season and time of day. Some of Jamaica's beaches may rarely be crowded, while others are often crowded particularly when tourism season is as its peak. An important thing to remember when considering a day at the beach might be, at least for some vacationers, the crowds you'll meet. While some like a crowded beach with plenty of people and activity, some prefer to just hear the sounds of the surf.

Like many places in Jamaica this beach has a distinctive personality which will attract certain visitors. The special qualities of this beach are rather different from what you'll experience at other beach locations in Jamaica. With a good mix of secluded spots and local entertainment, restaurants, and lodging, Navy Island attracts a healthy size crowd even though it can only be reached by boat.

Attractions

Visiting the beach can be a wonderful way to get close to some of nature's most beautiful works, but there are also other natural sites and attractions worth visiting. Rio Grande Rafting, located 3.2 miles to the southwest of Navy Island, for example, can provide a nice addition to your day at the seaside.

If you're interested in finding out more about the history of Jamaica there are opportunities nearby. For example Lighthouse in Port Antonio is located 0.8 miles to the northeast of Navy Island.

There are plenty of close-by activities so you won't run out of things to do. The attractions closest to this beach are listed in the following table.

Attractions Near Navy Island

Attraction Name Distance Direction Type Lighthouse in Port Antonio 0.8 mi. NE Historical Site Rio Grande Rafting 3.2 mi. SW Natural Attraction Athenry Gardens 4.0 mi. SE Natural Attraction Somerset Falls 5.9 mi. W Natural Attraction Blue Mountain-John Crow National Park 12.7 mi. SW Natural Attraction

Food

Although this beach isn't close to many restaurants you can still satiate your hunger , particularly if you are willing to drive a bit.

The following table provides some nearby restaurants.

Restaurants Near Navy Island

Restaurant Name Cuisine Type Meals Served Distance Direction Blue Mountain Inn French varies 20.9 mi. SW

Every location in the world has its own style of cuisine, and Jamaica is no different . A wonderful place to enjoy local fare is directly on the beach . Many hotels will prepare a picnic lunch for you , or you can pick up food from local vendors en route to the beach.

You will also find a restaurant at this beach.

Other Beaches

Vacationers looking for a great beach can choose from more than Navy Island when they visit Jamaica. You might also enjoy Boston Bay ; it's situated 8.4 miles to the east . The jerk chicken and pork stands lining the shore are just as popular as the beaches at Boston Bay. Here, the waters are unprotected, offering some of the finest waves for windsurfing and playing in the water. This public beach is a popular spot for socializing and many different entertainment activities like concerts and contests occur along its shores.

Still, if you're searching for something a little more active , Naggo Head may be just what you're looking for. It's found 22.2 miles to the southwest.

You might also want to visit Fairy Hill Beach , which you'll find 5.0 miles from Navy Island. Fairy Hill Beach attracts locals and visitors alike to its energetic shores. During the week crowds are at a minimum and snorkeling is fantastic at the small off shore reef, but bring your own equipment. A small eatery serves vegetarian and Jamaican jerk dishes for a nice afternoon snack.

You might not find Navy Island to be the best choice for you , but if you don't want to visit this beach, you'll find plenty of other choices in Jamaica.