There is no denying that Portland is one of the most beautiful parishes in Jamaica. Blessed with lush green trees and other incredible flora, Portland is a natural paradise that can rival any other. Like the rest of Jamaica, the parish is blessed with beautiful beaches that will take your breath away.
If you’re looking for a picturesque beach that’s unlikely to be crowded and overrun by tourists, then Portland is the place to be. While some of these beaches charge a cover fee, it will be well worth it for the beautiful scenery alone.
In no particular order, here is a list of Portland’s finest beaches.
1. Frenchman’s Cove
This all inclusive beach has all you can imagine and more, but it comes at a price. Frenchman’s Cove is a private beach property that sits on more than 40 acres of prime land. It’s one of a handful of pure white sand beaches scattered across the island.
The beautiful and scenic cove features a river that flows into the pristine waters creating a sultry mix of fresh and salt water that is always refreshing and cool. The flora rich backdrop of Frenchman’s Cove is an ideal setting for photography and events alike. To top things off, the property has a restaurant on site that whips up Jamaican and international favorites. From the famous Jamaican jerk to burgers and fries, they have it all.
2. Boston Beach
Just mere meters from the world famous Boston Jerk Centre, Boston Beach is a pristine and family friendly beach that’s free of charge. Well the waves can get choppy and the sea can be rough, the beach is perfect for water sports and daredevils were into activities such as windsurfing, snorkeling and surfing.
The beach offers equipment rentals to facilitate these activities as well! And if you happen to get hungry, sumptuous cuisine is right next door. So grab a bite, pack a picnic and enjoy the sun, sand, sea and beauty that is the Boston Beach!
3. Blue Lagoon
So as the name suggests, this one is not really a beach in the typical sense of the word. The Blue Lagoon is actually an estuary fed by multiple fresh water springs, creating an oasis where fresh and salt water meet. The Blue Lagoon is famous for its beautiful waters which range from teal to almost clear in some areas.
It’s also said that the depth is around 180 feet in some areas, so it’s an ideal spot for diving and snorkeling. Surrounded by beautiful and breathtaking flora, the beach is Aesthetically pleasing and the perfect place for nature photography. In fact, the spot has been featured in movies and music videos.
The lagoon also offers boat tours at a cost to tourists and visitors for those looking for more than just a casual day at the beach.
4. San San Beach
A few miles outside of the capital, Port Antonio, San San Beach is the perfect beach for a family get away. With its calm and shallow waters, it’s ideal for swimmers and non swimmers alike. The beach is expansive and offers much space for roaming and setting up a little camp site away from other beach goers.
If you’re looking for activity, San San will not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for adventure in the form of scuba diving or windsurfing, or more relaxing activities such as fishing or snorkeling, your needs will be met.
There are several beautiful reefs off the cost of the beach which provide a beautiful underwater sight seeing adventure. In addition to all these activities, the beach is located in close proximity to Monkey Island which has the ruins of a colonial era mansion.
5. Long Bay Beach
Last on the list, but by no estimation the least, Long Bay Beach lives up to its name, being the longest stretch of beach in the parish. This beach is a perfect chill spot for someone who is looking for an authentic Jamaican experience. The soft sandy beach is a spot that’s frequented by locals and tourists alike.
It’s soft sandy shores are dotted with palm trees, making it ideal for picnics and other onshore activities. The beach also has multiple shops and vendors that whip up refreshments and snacks to serve hungry patrons. Long Bay Beach is also in close proximity to the Boston Jerk Centre which serves up Jamaican favorites.
N.B. It’s not to be confused with the other Long Bay Beach located in the tourism hub of Negril.