Jamaica Overview

Where do I begin…

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I was eager to see the parts of Jamaica I only heard about. So this past summer it spearheaded my priority list and I spent 5 weeks driving around my country to explore. I’ve had some of the best experiences and have discovered places I’ve wanted to see since I was a child. After years of living on the island, here are 7 places in Jamaica that will make you want to visit.

1. Blue Lagoon

Let’s just say this side of Jamaica happens to be one of my favourites.

The Blue Lagoon is located on the eastern coast of the island in the parish of Portland, Port Antonio. Personally, I’ve nicknamed this area as the “Green Parish,” officially titled the Islands Flora and the Fauna. It feels like the Island has gifted you a piece of her secret, like the beautiful spread of this blueish green reflection of The Blue Lagoon.

Hint: Rafting The Blue Lagoon is a must.

2. West-End Negril

On the opposite tip of the Island sits Negril infamous for its cliffs and its miraculous Sunsets.

A country of only 10,990 square kilometres (4,240 sq mi) makes it easy to meander from one end to the next. And with my best-friend living in this area, I have a perfect excuse to visit every time and the views and activities never gets old.

3. Frenchman’s Cove, Portland, Jamaica

I have to admit it. This has got to be one of my favourite places and I have only recently discovered it! Here’s why:

4. 7-Mile Beach, Negril

If you have ever had that ‘white-sand beach, relaxing, chill-kind of thought’ then you will love this beach. Every time I visit this side of the island, I am here. It is simply beautiful. Low tides if any at all and not usually crowded. In fact, the last time I visited, it was just my friends and I.

I really do appreciate beaches like these.

5. Dunn’s River Falls

Rated as Jamaica’s number 1 tourist destination, Dunn’s River Falls never disappoints.

Not complete until you climb the falls with a with a small beach at its base. The Falls has been slightly updated recently, making easier for climbers to enjoy going up without any injury. These guys are big on making sure fun shows up for you!

6. Boston Bay Beach

I will be honest with you. If you are looking to find the typical ‘Caribbean island beach,’ this one might not be the one for you, this one more of a hang out spot. Another interesting fact; You can surf here! Not a typical thing you are usually able to do in Jamaica.

During the summer of this year I visited the Boston Bay Beach whilst I was on the East Coast. Great food and a nice vibe!

Apart from the surfing fact, my personal recommendation: give the seafood a try!

7. Reach Falls, Portland

If you are traveling within Portland, Port Antonio area then Reach falls is a good spot to visit. Quiet off-the-beat, relaxing and refreshing. You can do a small tour of the falls and enjoy swimming in little “mermaid pools”, so fun!

Getting here is not the easiest though. You might want to hire a taxi to take you right to the entrance. On my visit here I actually hitched-hiked, nothing really fancy, but it sometimes feel better that way and Jamaica serves up the best type; that is a version of authenticity.

You can also view more photos from my Instagram account : The World Up Closer

Here is a bonus:

Whenever you are visiting Portland, do a small hike to see this island called Monkey/Princess Island; perfect for a lap swim.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Portland, Port Antonio:

Moon San Villa

Consider Eating Here:

Boston Bay Jerk Centre

Read Next: 10 Best Visa-Free Countries to Visit On A Jamaica Passport