Ruth & Danny
Intro & Things To Do
Blue Lagoon
Equally beautiful is Jamaica’s Blue Lagoon, where you can hire a local to sail you around the bay. The Blue Lagoon is owned by local billionaire Michael Lee Chin and is free to the public. Rumor says the Blue Lagoon is bottomless and a dragon lives in its depths! In reality, the azure blue watering hole is fed by underground springs and is about 200 feet (60 meters) deep. Don’t miss swimming here, as the magical water is a unique mix of fresh and salt water. The temperature fluctuates between warm and cold and the teal shades vary throughout the day. In the back of the lagoon, a pond nicknamed the fountain of youth is said to have magical healing powers that will keep you forever young. That was enough for us to want to visit! You can tour the lagoon by boat, kayak, raft or just grab a tree vine and jump in!
Frenchman´s Cove
World Famous Private Beach in Frenchman’s Cove, Port Antonio, Jamaica. During the 1960’s, Port Antonio became the mecca of the jet set. Billionaire Garfield Weston (whose empire included Fortnum and Mason and Selfridges in London) built a sumptuous hotel, rumoured to be the most expensive in the world. It was comprised of 18 luxury villas shrouded by discreet shrubbery and scattered over the headlands on both sides of the river, beach and bay. This is a beautiful beach where the river flows right into the ocean. There are swings all along the river bank that look just like a postcard. The beach really is gorgeous, there are all amenities on site, a small restaurant as well and wild mango threes around the place. Access to the private beach at Frenchman’s Cove can be accessed for a small fee of $10 per day.
Blue Mountain
The eastern side of the lush green island of Jamaica is dominated by the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park. The park was designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 2015 due to its unique and diverse flora and fauna, much of it endemic to Jamaica. Magnificently undeveloped, this mountain paradise is best explored on foot. Hiking the Blue Mountains is one of the most rewarding experiences to be had in Jamaica.
Raft Rio Grande
Rafting down the Rio Grande river is one of the most fun things to do in Port Antonio. Today, this is one of the most popular activities on Jamaica and we loved it! The rafts are made out of actual bamboo, which was a unique surprise. Each long raft sits 2 people, while a third raft captain (licensed and experienced) steers the ride. Grab a friend, make liberal use of the floating raft bar that sells ice cold Red Cap beers and enjoy the afternoon! It’s a leisurely ride (no grand rapids) and a relaxing way to enjoy Jamaica’s lush beauty.
Reach Falls
Reach Falls is one of Portland’s local secrets. The majestic waterfalls has streams of water cascading over smooth limestone and the scenery is stunning. This is one of those places that has 2 prices for entry: the local rate and the tourist rate. If you’re adventurous, hire a local guide to show you some of Reach Falls’ secrets. There are lots of natural holes in the limestock rocks that have been carved out over time by the force of the water streams. One secret cave, Mandingo Cave, is about a half mile upstream and has a beautiful natural waterfall inside.
Relax at Winnifred Beach
Head to Winnifred Beach for a relaxing beach bum day. This secluded beach in Fairy Hill is great for swimming, sun bathing and just all around relaxation. Locals often blast the latest reggae tunes while food shops serve up great authentic Jamaica fare: fresh fish, jerk, lobster and more.
Kayak to Monkey Island
Take a boat out to Monkey Island! The island itself is tiny, but a visit here is all about getting off the beaten path. You can kayak or raft over, and then hike through the tree canopy. There are swings dangling from the branches and a small sandy beach to relax. It’s a great picture spots and the water is both warm and shallow. During certain parts of the day, the tide is low enough that you can just wade over in waist high water! Don’t linger too long or the tide will rise and you’ll have to swim back :)
Blue Hole
Hidden up in the mountains above bustlingly touristy Ocho Rios, Blue Hole really is a breath of fresh air. It’s not an official Jamaican Tourist Board attraction, but this is key to what makes Blue Hole so special. With no vendors to bother you, no queues to go through, and all at a reasonable price, you’re left to enjoy the simple magic of the waterfall and the cool swimming pools.
Dunn´s River Falls
Dunn's River Falls Reach Falls is one of Portland’s local secrets. The majestic waterfalls has streams of water cascading over smooth limestone and the scenery is stunning. This is one of those places that has 2 prices for entry: the local rate and the tourist rate. If you’re adventurous, hire a local guide to show you some of Reach Falls’ secrets. There are lots of natural holes in the limestock rocks that have been carved out over time by the force of the water streams. One secret cave, Mandingo Cave, is about a half mile upstream and has a beautiful natural waterfall inside. There are other underwater caves too, that just the locals know about!
River Tubing on White River
Get up close and personal with the Chukka White River Valley location, offering stunning natural beauty and historic landmarks. The clarity of the water at White River Valley and the consistency of the river flow make it stand out above other locations on the island. The limestone bedrock filters the river’s water so it remains crystal clear even when there’s flooding. Located in St. Mary, Jamaica, this location is home to beautiful wildlife and an extensive history. With the exciting zipline adventure and thrilling river tubing journey this location is the perfect piece of paradise when paired with the Blue Hole experience!
Green Grotto Cave
A journey into underworld charm… a speologist’s dream, a green cavern of mystery and adventure, a slice of Jamaica’s history… part of your vacation with a difference… such are the accolades that can be ascribed to the largely unexplored labyrinth of mystical underground caverns called Green Grotto Caves which is surrounded by thick vegetation and supplied with pristine waters flowing from its secret depths.
Bob Marley Museum
The Bob Marley Museum is the former home of the reggae legend. Bob’s home is filled with rich memories and treasured mementos, which seek to preserve the life and accomplishment of this great Jamaican and outstanding musician. Enter the Museum and allow us to envelop you with the sights and sounds of Bob, as you take a guided tour of this Jamaican Heritage site. Our friendly, charming and knowledgeable guides will escort you through the grounds, which include the Main House, Exhibition Hall, Theatre, Gift Shop and Café. All the original rooms have been kept as they were when Bob lived here to ensure authenticity. The displays include a life size 3-dimensional hologram of Bob from the One Love Peace Concert in 1978, his Grammy Lifetime Achievement award, his personal recording studio, his bedroom, favourite clothing, a vast array of gold and platinum records received from all around the world, as well as the costumes of his back-up singers, the I-Threes.
YS Falls
YS Falls opened in 1992. It is a nature-based attraction offering the opportunity to experience the beauty of the waterfalls surrounded by lush gardens and magnificent trees. There are seven waterfalls, several which cascade into natural pools. Some areas are fairly rocky and do not allow swimming. Lifeguards on site, indicate which areas are for swimming, however, being able to swim is a requirement. There is a natural pool, fed by underground and above ground springs, which is more suitable for children and others unable to swim. More recent additions to the attractions at YS Falls, include exhilarating canopy rides, which glide from the top of the falls to its base. These adventures are accompanied by experienced guides to take care of you along the way.
Devon House
One of Jamaica’s most celebrated historic landmarks, the Devon House Mansion is the architectural dream of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. The Devon House mansion is a beautiful blend of Caribbean and Georgian architecture, furnished with an expertly curated collection of Jamaican, English and French antique pieces and reproductions. The Mansion overlooks a vast expanse of perfectly manicured and lush, green lawns. Devon House has since evolved from being home of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel, to being synonymous with fun, family entertainment and recreation in Kingston, where guests can tour, shop, dine and relax. It's a must to try the ice cream!
Appleton Estate
The Joy Spence Appleton Estate Rum Experience TOUR INFORMATION Immerse yourself in an authentic, multi-sensory rum experience that includes: Complementary welcome cocktails An overview of the world of rum in our state-of-the-art cinema An interactive, guided tour through the history of the Estate and our cane-to-cup rum making process A guided tasting led by our professionally trained rum experts Later, enjoy cocktails and authentic Jamaican dishes at our Black River Lounge, with indoor and outdoor seating, a bar and a jerk pit. Finish the experience with a visit to our gift shop and take home special Appleton Estate products and souvenirs.