A laid-back town with a glamourous past, Port Antonio finds itself again on the luxury retreat radar. Once the location of choice for screen legends such as Errol Flynn, today the scenery is the star. Secluded beaches, jungle waterfalls and exclusive boutique hotels are all waiting to be discovered.
HISTORY
Port Antonio’s elegantly faded Georgian buildings evoke its origins as an important trading post. While landmarks like the Folly Mansion hark back to the early 1900s, when Port Antonio began to attract well-heeled holidaymakers. Today, the tangled streets are where you’ll find street stalls selling local arts and crafts. While the contemporary Errol Flynn Marina is lined with upscale bars and restaurants.
NATURE
The region surrounding Port Antonio is one of the lushest in Jamaica, stretching from the jungle-clad Blue Mountains to the sea. Go in search of waterfalls on rainforest hikes. Enjoy a lazy rafting trip down the Rio Grande. Or see if the legends about the Blue Lagoon are true – this spellbinding swimming spot is said to be home to a mystical water dragon.
BEACHES
Port Antonio and the wider Portland parish are blessed with some of Jamaica’s finest beaches. In town, you have tiny Bikini Beach beside the marina. Further along the coast is Frenchman’s Cove, with sheltered waters that make swimming irresistible.
Local beach Boston Bay is thought to be the birthplace of jerk cooking – so you’re in the right place for deliciously fiery chicken and pork.
