8 Best Beaches in Jamaica: The Hidden Gem Guide

We spent a month searching for the best beaches in Jamaica and along the vibrant coastline, we discovered plenty of hidden gems that showcase the island’s natural beauty. It’s one of the most beautiful of the Caribbean Islands, with photo opportunities unlike anywhere else. If you’re looking for the best beaches in Jamaica, this guide will give you travel tips and photo inspiration to satisfy your wanderlust. 

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As a side note, we had no issues with our travels (a month-long road trip around the island), despite the country being in a “state of emergency”. Even though many travel websites suggested to “stay in your resort”, we had no problem driving around the island’s rugged coastline.

1. Frenchman’s Cove, Portland parish

We rate Frenchman’s Cove as one of the best beaches in Jamaica. It’s a small, white sand bay beach tucked into a green, leafy paradise. The creek flows gently into the sea along the jungled edged of the beach. Frenchman’s Cove is truly stunning. It’s apparently connected to a resort, but hard to tell if that part is actually open. You enter through a gate and pay a fee (USD$10 which sounds like a lot, but trust me it’s worth it) then park in a jungle wrapped area and walk through beautiful gardens to the bay. So you don’t even see any resort anyway.

The grounds themselves are worth the drive. It is lush. Heavenly lush. It’s the nicest greenery we saw on the island. And there’s a crystal clear creek running through it. It’s so clear you can make out the details on fish scales as they swim past.

With so much crystal clear water it’s hard to know where to look. We found this place to be much more beautiful than the famous James Bond beach on the North Coast (and way less crowded!).

Where Is Frenchman’s Cove Beach Located?

Located in Portland Parish, Frenchman’s Cove Beach is about a 4-hour drive (205km) from Montego Bay.

The Frenchman’s Cove Experience

You don’t see as many locals here as at Boston Bay beach. We went a couple of times and it never really felt busy at all. The one thing Frenchman’s had that other beaches didn’t, was service. We decided to splurge and get deck chairs each for USD$2 per day. Then we really went all out and got a beer and some food. Which again was pretty reasonable and tasty.

It was the most holiday-like beach we went to. If you want to get those amazing Caribbean beach photos for your trip. This is the place to do it. There were some villas along the cliff face (next to the bay) which we walked by (presumably connected to the resort – but were all empty). A grassy spot next on the cliff point has some magnificent views. It is worth checking out the rest of the grounds while you are there.

It was not only one of the best beaches in Jamaica but maybe the whole Caribbean. 

Please note – that this is not Frenchmen’s Bay at Treasure Beach. 

Our Frenchman’s Cove Beach Rating:

• Aesthetic       10/10
• Cleanliness    10/10
• Uniqueness    10/10
•  Safety             10/10
• Activities          7/10

2. Seven Mile Beach, Negril

It’s one of the most popular beaches in Jamaica. And for good reason. Seven miles of white sand make this one of the beaches in Jamaica. Located only an hour and a half away from Montego Bay, you’ll find many all-inclusive resorts spanning the stretch, pumping their music, and offering food and drinks to you by the water. Just beware if you want to walk along the beach, there are many locals offering to sell you various trinkets, and they can be quite forcible. 

This beach is perfect for couples or a family who want water activities (windsurfing, parasailing, kayak hire, etc.).

Where Is Seven Mile Beach Located

Located on Negril’s coastline, Seven Mile Beach is approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Montego Bay (77km).

The Seven Mile Beach Experience

You can easily spend the day relaxing on Seven Mile Beach, and with various beach bars and resorts scattered along the coastline, you aren’t short of choice. If you want to dodge the crowds, go early in the morning.

Our Seven Mile Beach Rating

• Aesthetic       8/10
• Cleanliness    8/10
• Uniqueness    4/10
•  Safety             7/10
• Activities          9/10

3. Lime Cay, Kingston

I’d have to say, we were a little spooked about going to Kingston originally. It does have a bad wrap. But, like any big city, there are good parts and bad parts. Places you should visit and places you just shouldn’t go. But Lime Cay is a must-visit destination if you are in the area.

We were lucky enough to have a local friend show us around Kingston and let us stay in his family home. He took us to Lime Cay for the day, which is a little off the beaten path! As with all things in Jamaica it took time to get there. We were staying at his place up in the Stony Hill (lush green mountains at the top of Kingston) and it took us a good four hours by the time we stopped for a flat tire, some ice cream, some marijuana, some patties (Jamaican version of empanadas) and finally some beer and overproof rum, to get to Port Royal.

Port Royal is the old pirate capital of the Caribbean, mostly due to Captain Morgan. Yes, like the drink. He made his own rum among other things (like running the Jamaican state for a while).

Perched on the end of a peninsula, beyond the international airport, this old buccaneer town is not exactly thriving. Like a lot of Jamaican towns, it looks rundown and mismanaged. Though that did add to the eerie, mysterious feel. Part of the town has actually fallen into the sea and is now buried under the ocean, holding with it the secrets of pirate’s treasure.

An old wooden dock with a worn “Lime Cay” sign housed a couple of open-top runabout boats. For about USD$6-10 per person, you will get a return trip to Lime Cay island.

Where Is Lime Cay Located

Located off the coast of Port Royal (Kingston Harbour), this island is approximately a 20-minute boat ride away.

The Lime Cay Experience

We arrived at the island to find that it was empty. Our own private beach! After we unloaded the cooler box and made ourselves some drinks we ventured the small, sandy oasis (you can walk around the whole island in about 25 minutes). I couldn’t help but think about all the pirates that had stood there before me as I looked back towards the dusty, bustling city of Kingston. I’m sure they never envisioned that monstrosity.

You can walk around this whole island in 25 minutes. There’s something special about having your own little island for the day. And as the rum and pirate stories continued we laughed into the sunset.

There are some dedicated rubbish bins, however, not surprisingly they don’t appear to get cleaned out very often and there was some litter washing around. We actually spent a good hour just picking up trash. I bet the pirates never envisaged plastic either.

Overall, the experience was fantastic and the little island was well worth the visit.

Our Lime Cay Beach Rating

• Aesthetic       7/10
• Cleanliness     6/10
•  Uniqueness     10/10
•   Safety               10/10
•   Activities           10/10

4. Boston Bay Beach, Portland Parish

Another local favourite is Boston Bay, infamous for the development of the jerk chicken recipe (Gurley Aston, the big place with a deck looking over the road, is a favourite). The beach is another interesting blend of all things Jamaican. The beach itself beautiful, white sand with clear, turquoise water. One day there was even surf. Real surf. So we hired some boards and spent a couple of hours cruising the bay with a few of the local riders.

If you arrive in the morning it’s quiet. But by about 11 am, the music starts and it’s a low-key party. The crowd (there were never more than 20 people while we were there) is mostly local, but on occasion, another foreigner would appear. If you want to spend the afternoon somewhere quieter, Blue Lagoon is located a 20-minute drive away.

Where Is Boston Bay Beach?

Situated closeby to Frenchman’s Cove Beach, Boston bay is in the Portland Parish (approx. 40 minutes West of Port Antonio).

The Boston Bay Experience

Everyone is in a good mood at Boston Beach. They were probably the happiest people we met in Jamaica. The young local surf community has really turned it into their own and they take care of the beach and water (cleaning it of rubbish) and also don’t allow any bad things to happen to anyone on the beach (which they strongly made clear a few times).

You can’t go to Boston Beach without being offered local marijuana. Everyone is smoking, regardless if there is surf or not, or what time of day it is. The locals will hand you a joint no doubt about it. It is up to you if you smoke it, but they will most likely ask for some money at the end.

Boston Bay is an exciting spot and for the $2 entry fee (with a car), it’s definitely worth checking out. You will see some real Jamaican beach life, which is both beautiful and bizarre.

Nearby Attractions:

• Winnifred beach

Our Boston Bay Beach Rating:

• Aesthetic       7/10
• Cleanliness     9/10
• Uniqueness     10/10
• Safety             9/10
• Activities          10/10

5. Negril Cliffs – West End

Dotted along the Negril cliffs, are various restaurants and bars with stunning views. Bring your snorkels, grab a drink and some food, and spend time exploring the caves. 

The fish life was not amazing, however, it’s still one of the best places to snorkel in Jamaica that you can access by land. There are some cool little caves and inlets that you can snorkel through which makes it a fun snorkelling destination. 

Where are the Negril Cliffs?

There are a couple of restaurants and bars around the Negril Cliffs that allow access to the water. Xtabi and The Rockhouse are great spots to visit for stunning views and underwater caves.

The Negril Cliff Experience

We were lucky enough to stay a few nights at The Rockhouse Negril. Though it is not a classic beach resort (it sits along rocky cliffs), you can access the water from various points. Swimming between the rocky inlets will take you to a series of small coves, perfect for some unique snorkeling and exploring! This beautiful eco resort is one of the nicest places to swim on the island.

There is a cave beach within the cove areas so you can set up there, however, watch out for high tides as you might get wet. 

Our Beach Rating – negril west end cliffs: 

• Aesthetic       10/10
• Cleanliness     9/10
• Uniqueness     10/10
• Safety             9/10
• Activities          10/10

6. Opposite The Yacht club, Montego Bay

The Montego Bay Yacht Club is situated on the little peninsula in Montego Bay. While the Yacht Club faces inwards to the bay itself. On the outside of the peninsula (5-minute walk from the Yacht Club) there is a stretch of beach. There are a couple of hotels (Hard Rock Cafe is one) however there is a free, public beach which has nice sand and a grassy area to sit. 

Where Is The Beach Located?

The Montego Bay Yacht Club is approximately 10 minutes drive from the Montego Bay City Center.

Our Beach Rating – opposite the yacht club 

• Aesthetic       7/10
• Cleanliness     7/10
• Uniqueness     6/10
• Safety             7/10
• Activities          6/10

7. White River Entrance, Ocho Rios

Driving into Ocho Rios town wasn’t what we expected. There is a huge terminal for cruise ships and busy streets lined with reggae coloured hats, bags, and carved smoking pipes. Luckily, there are plenty of non-touristy and off the beaten path activities, you can do nearby.

One of our favorite places away from the crowds was beyond the town (approximately 20 minutes) at a local spot called Kaz Kreol Beach Lodge. The small beachfront walk-up has a very Jamaican feel. It’s slow, steady, and slightly weathered. But the beach has a unique blend of the unexpected.

A local hangout resides next to the lodge, which they use for functions. On the day we arrived, a wedding was taking place. Speakers blasted some kind of afro-beat into the air and a mired of dancing Jamaicans shook the sand.

Where Is The White River Entrance Beach?

Located 5-10 minutes away from Ocho Rios (and next To Kaz Kreol Beach Lodge) is The White River Entrance Beach.

The White River Entrance Experience

The river is literally whitish-blue. It comes straight from the mountains above (where you can find the beautiful “Blue Hole” – a must-see in Jamaica).

There is a large intertidal flat where sand ripples shine through the crystal clear water. And on the other side of the shallow river entrance, a nudist beach. Yes, it’s quite a contrasting blend, seeing naked white bodies in the distance while Jamaican’s dance with rum in plastic cups in the foreground.

Regardless of what goes on there, the setting is stunning and surprisingly clean. We found that if we got up early, we’d have the beach to ourselves up until about 10am (and by that time we were ready to head out and explore the surrounding area anyway).

We also borrowed the lodge’s kayak one day and made our own way up White River (there are bamboo boat guides that will take you up also, and these were very popular with the local tourists).

Attractions Nearby:

• Reggae beach
• Dunns River Falls
• Island Gully Falls.

Our Beach Rating – White River Entrance:

• Aesthetic       7/10
• Cleanliness     9/10
• Uniqueness     10/10
• Safety             9/10
• Activities         9/10

8. Parottee Bay – Floyd’s Pelican Bar

Although the beach itself is not the most impressive, you can catch a boat out to a driftwood bar situated on a sandbar 3/4 mile out to sea. Floyd’s pelican bar would have to be one of the most unique places to have a drink and a bite to eat. 

Where Is Floyd’s Pelican Bar Located?

Floyd’s Pelican Bar is situated off the coast of Parottee Bay, and approximately 90 minutes drive away from Negril. The boat ride from Parotte bay takes about 10 minutes and is approximately $10US.

The Floyd’s Pelican Bar Experience

Although not a “beach”, Floyd’s Pelican Bar is a unique experience. Surrounded by waist-deep water, you can have a swim and snorkel, sunbathe on the deck, and enjoy a red stripe to cool off. 

Our Floyd’s Pelican Bar Beach Rating

• Aesthetic       10/10
• Cleanliness     7/10
• Uniqueness     10/10
• Safety             9/10
• Activities         9/10

Our tip: Look Outside The All-Inclusive Resorts For The Best Beaches In Jamaica

A lot of tourists stay in all-inclusive, big resorts or hotels when they go to Jamaica. Unfortunately, staying in a big, beach resort with all the possible amenities you could ever want, reduces your need to leave the resort at all (which is the idea).

While many resorts themselves are built on nice beaches, they may not be the best beaches in Jamaica. If you only stay in the resort, you are forgoing the potential for some incredible experiences. Luckily, Jamaica has plenty of unique accommodation options scattered around the island, from budget-friendly to luxury.

What Is The Best Beach In Jamaica?

We drove around the whole island of Jamaica discovering hidden gem beaches, and beautiful waterfalls. But, there was one beach that stood out as the best beach in Jamaica, and that was Frenchman’s Cove in Portland.

With its lush jungle setting, crystal clear creek, facilities and more, this is the perfect place to spend a day.

Frequently asked questions about the best beaches in Jamaica

With so many beautiful beaches in Jamaica, it can be hard to choose which ones to visit. Here are some common questions about Jamaican beaches.

Which part of Jamaica has the best beaches?

Westmoreland Parish, where Negril is situated, is home to the best beaches in Jamaica. The popular seven mile beach is located here, with a beautiful long stretch of powder white sand, and calm clear water. Around the corner are the negril cliffs, where there are beautiful rocky outcrops, and underwater caves.

Where is the clearest water in Jamaica?

Negril’s Pristine Cove has the most beautiful, turquoise, crystal clear water in Jamaica. The Rockhouse eco resort is perched upon the cliffs above this cove, overlooking the glistening gin waters.

What Are The Best Beaches In Jamaica For Swimming?

If you’re looking for a great place to swim in Jamaica, there are a couple of great beaches to choose from. Seven Mile Beach on Negril’s coast has some of the calmest and crystal clear water on Jamaica, or if you are staying by Montego Bay, Doctors Cave Beach is a great place to swim (if you don’t mind sharing the space with other tourists).

What Are The Best Beaches In Jamaica For Surfing?

There’s not a lot of choice in Jamaica for surfing, but if you’re hoping to catch a wave, Boston Bay in Portland Parish is the place to be. You can hire surfboards from the locals at the beach for a decent price, just make sure you negotiate before the surf.

What Are The Best Beaches In Jamaica For Snorkelling?

Situated 15-20 minutes off Seven Mile Beach is a 2-mile coral reef. There are lots of boats willing to take you out for a price, but one of our favourite spots to snorkel was around the Negril Cliffs with plenty of caves to explore.

What Are The Best Beaches In Jamaica, Montego Bay?

Although not a hidden gem beach, Doctors Cave Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. With coral reefs situated off the shore, and calm, crystal clear water, this beach is popular with tourists. There are plenty of beach umbrellas and deck chairs available for rent, and entrance is approximately $6US.

The Best Hidden Gem Beach In Jamaica

If you’re looking for a beautiful beach off the beaten path, White River Entrance Beach next to Kaz Kreol is a unique experience. With shallow calm water and a river entrance that you can go bamboo rafting up, this is the perfect spot to spend a quiet afternoon.

What Resorts Have The Best Beaches In Jamaica

There are a couple of unique resorts in Jamaica with beautiful beaches, but our favourite ones are Round Hill Resort and The Rockhouse Negril.

Round hill resort

This classic hotel was built in the 1950s and hasn’t really changed its style since. Which makes it a beautiful time warp. The resort has a couple of its own beaches, so it’s easy to avoid the crowds and even have your own beach for the day. 

With great service, classic charm and a stunning property layout, this resort is a great place to relax and even rub shoulders with celebrities.

The Rockhouse Negril

Though it is not a classic beach resort (it sits along rocky cliffs), you can access the water from various points at the Rockhouse Hotel. Swimming between the rocky inlets will take you to a series of small coves, perfect for some unique snorkeling and exploring! This beautiful eco resort is one of the nicest places to swim on the island.

There is a cave beach within the cove areas so you can set up there, however watch out for high tides as you might get wet. 

Jamaica Eco Travel Ideas

Eco travel is becoming more and more popular (and for good reason). Being more conscious about the environment and local culture when traveling can not only improve your experience but ensure the longevity of the destination.

1. Rubbish bins are nonexistent. Be prepared to take out what you took in. IF you can take more than you brought, even better. 
2. Be firm, not rude. You may be approached by locals, trying to sell something or offer something. Have respect, but be firm. At the same time, realize that many of the locals really are poor, so they’re just trying their luck. There’s no need to be rude. 
3. Eco sunscreen. There are some coral reefs just off the beaches. Using eco friendly sunscreen (natural) will help prevent further damage.

For more eco or sustainable products check out the eco store. 

Where to stay in Jamaica

There are plenty of unique accommodation options in Jamaica. We’ve stayed in eco resorts, Airbnbs, and homestays throughout the island and loved the experience.

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