Portland is one of those places in Jamaica that is blessed with natural beauty and attractions. When the famous actor and playboy Errol Flynn was washed ashore by a hurricane on his disabled yacht, he was blown away by the natural beauty of this seaside town.
Portland is where tourism all started in Jamaica and is also the birthplace of jerk cooking. Unlike other towns such as Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and Negril where you will find large all-inclusive resort, Portland prospers on seclusion and offers visitors eco-inns surrounded by jungle, seaside cottages and glamorous villas.
There are many attractions around to keep any one busy. There are many dramatic waterfalls around, such as Somerset falls, Scatter Falls in the Rio Grande Valley and Nanny Falls among others. They are relatively unknown but amazingly beautiful. However, the most dramatic of them all and arguable the best in Jamaica is the Reach Falls. Many visitors like to hop on a water-taxi and spend quality time at the Navy Island which is only a couple minutes of the main land.
Between the Blue and John Crow Mountains is the Rio Grande Valley, home of Jamaica’s rafting. The best way to see and enjoy it is by a 30ft bamboo raft on a guided tour. Take a boat ride on the Blue Lagoon or go for a swim at Frenchman’s Cove. Both spots are famous for film making. Would it surprise you to know that Keith Richards, Gwen Stefani, India Arie, Lily Allen, Denzel Washington all stayed here, Sharon Stone also celebrated her 50th birthday here making Portland Jamaica’s best kept secret.
Cost $150 per person
Minimum 3 persons
Take with you:
Water shoes/swimsuit/towel/camera/change of clothing