Port Antonio
Port Antonio is a town in Jamaica. Tucked away on the eastern point of the island, Port Antonio is still relatively unknown by most tourists, but it has for years been the hideaway of royalty and stars alike. It is easy to see why. Its seclusion is what gives this town its charm. The beaches are beautiful, albeit a bit rocky. However the seclusion from throngs of other tourists is a huge payoff. The people are extremely friendly, and the whole city rings with a unique character all its own.
Get in
Port Antonio is northeast of Kingston and east of Ocho Rios. From Kingston to Port Antonio, you would have to fly into Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and from there possibly take a cab; or take the cheaper route and rent a car from Island Car Rental Ltd Company located in Kingston. If you’re coming from Ocho Rios you can either take a cab, drive east on Highway A4/A3 or take a flight from Ocho Rios private airport.
Get around
Port Antonio is considered to be one of most accessible towns in Jamaica. To get around one could take a local taxi. However, if you want to take in the sights a little more (and most sights are in walking distance) you could either walk or ride a bicycle.
See
There are many interesting things to see in Port Antonio. A “must see” is the Blue Lagoon. At this attraction, the blue lagoon is described to be a land-lock cove where different shades of blue, color the lagoon. At this spot tourists are welcome to swim in the lagoon if they wish. This spot is also known for its romantic feel, so it’s great for couples. Another hotspot is the Navy Island. This is located off the island, but a short boat ride away. Here one can enjoy its beautiful golden-sand beaches and its own tropical rainforest. Other sights to behold are classic buildings that are still much intact, such as Portland Parish Church and Portland Parish court house. Go to Frenchmans cove for a nice beach environment or even Boston Bay to catch some surf with the locals!
Do
Besides sight seeing, there are many things to do in Port Antonio. Of course, you can go to the beaches and just lay out in the sun or you can surf, the beaches have good waves. In Rio Grande Valley of Antonio, one can either go hiking or rafting on the Rio Grande River. Finally, like most paces, you can go fishing.
Buy
The St. George Shopping Center is located in the village near the center of town. There you can shop in the markets for crafts and some juicy fruits.
Eat
- Blue Lagoon Restaurant serves Caribbean cuisine
- Mille Fleurs serves Caribbean cuisine
- San San Tropez serves Italian cuisine
- Trident Hotel Restaurant serves international cuisine
- Dickies Best Kept Secret serves vegetarian and seafood 5 course meal
- Anna Bananas serves Jamaican and international cuisine
Drink
You must try the rum punch or rum and ting! There are many bars in Port Antonio including a pool side bar at the Errol Flynn Marina.
Sleep
Port Antonio lodging consists of guest houses, hotels, and villas. Top lodging in Port Antonio:
- Blue Lagoon Villas
- Chateau En Exotica
- Trident Villas & Hotel
- Villa San Cove
Eco Friendly Resorts:
- Great Huts in Boston Bay
- Bay View Villas