Family Adventure in Port Antonio: Discovering Jamaica's Hidden Gem

Sunday Funday in Port Antonio

Today was all about soaking up the sun, enjoying the laid-back Jamaican vibes, and indulging in some seriously delicious food. Port Antonio truly knows how to do Sundays right, and I'm excited to share our experiences with you. From pristine beaches to savory jerk, it was a day of pure bliss.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Glen's Good Grub. Aisha had been raving about their Jamaican breakfast, so I had to try it. I went for the ackee and saltfish, a national dish that I've grown to love. Ethan, of course, opted for something a bit more familiar – pancakes with a generous helping of local honey. Aisha chose the callaloo and festival, a vegetarian delight that she said was the perfect way to start the day. The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. It felt like a true taste of Jamaica, and it set the perfect tone for the day ahead.


Discover authentic Jamaican cuisine at Glen's Good Grub in Port Antonio—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we headed to Boston Beach. I’d heard so much about this place, known as the birthplace of jerk seasoning. The drive itself was scenic, with lush greenery on either side of the road. As we arrived, I could already smell the tantalizing aroma of jerk chicken wafting through the air. Boston Beach is a small cove nestled between cliffs, giving it a secluded and intimate feel. The beach is known for being one of the few places in Jamaica where you can surf. While I'm no surfer, it was fun watching the locals catch some waves. Ethan was immediately drawn to the water, eager to test the waves himself. Aisha and I found a spot under a seaside mahoe tree, providing ample shade from the warm sun.


Discover the beauty of Boston Beach, Jamaica, with its pristine sands, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant local culture perfect for relaxation and adventure.

The beach was lively, with music playing and locals mingling with tourists. It had a vibrant, authentic feel that I really appreciated. I took a stroll along the shore, camera in hand, capturing the beauty of the coastline. The sand was fine and cream-colored, and the water was crystal clear. It was the perfect spot to relax and soak in the Jamaican sunshine. Of course, a visit to Boston Beach wouldn't be complete without trying the jerk. We grabbed lunch from one of the many jerk pits lining the beach. I opted for the classic jerk chicken, while Aisha tried the jerk pork. Ethan, being a bit more adventurous today, decided to try a little bit of both. The jerk was incredible – spicy, smoky, and full of flavor. It was served with festival, a slightly sweet fried dough that perfectly complemented the heat of the jerk. This was the real deal, a taste of Jamaica that I won't soon forget. As we ate, we listened to a local musician start an impromptu jam session, adding to the laid-back vibe of the beach. It was one of those moments where everything just felt right.

Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones where you simply let go and immerse yourself in the local culture.

After spending a few hours at Boston Beach, we packed up and headed to our next destination: Winnifred Beach. This beach is known for being one of the last truly public beaches in Jamaica, and I was eager to experience its unique charm. The drive to Winnifred Beach was a bit more adventurous, with a slightly bumpy road leading down to the shore. But it was well worth it. As we arrived, we were greeted by a stunning view of a secluded, golden-sand crescent cradled by peninsulas. The water was a mesmerizing turquoise blue, and the atmosphere was incredibly relaxed.


Explore the serene beauty of Winnifred Beach, Jamaica's hidden gem known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant local culture.

Winnifred Beach had a different vibe than Boston Beach. It felt more secluded and less touristy, with a strong sense of community. Local residents were playing cricket on the grass, and there were several small shops and stands selling drinks, food, and handmade crafts. It felt like a true slice of Jamaican life. Ethan was thrilled to find some other kids to play with, and they quickly started a game of beach football. Aisha and I took a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear water. The water was so refreshing, and the views were simply breathtaking. After our swim, we explored the beach a bit more. I chatted with some of the locals, learning about the history of the area and the community's efforts to preserve the beach. It was inspiring to see their dedication and passion.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to grab a late lunch at Piggy's Jerk Centre. I had heard so much about this place and its authentic Jamaican cuisine. The aroma of jerk spices filled the air as we approached, and I knew we were in for a treat. Piggy's Jerk Centre has a lively and inviting atmosphere, with colorful decor and friendly staff. We ordered a variety of dishes, including jerk chicken, rice and peas, and festival. The jerk chicken was perfectly charred and bursting with flavor, the rice and peas were fluffy and delicious, and the festival was the perfect sweet complement. It was a true feast, and we savored every bite. I learned that Daniel Craig, who plays James Bond, frequented Piggy's during the filming of 'No Time to Die'. It's easy to see why it's a favorite among locals and celebrities alike.


Experience the authentic taste of Jamaica at Piggy's Jerk Centre in Port Antonio - where every bite tells a story.

With the sun beginning to set, we decided to unwind at Roots 21 Bar & Kitchen. This place had a great vibe, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying drinks and music. The bar had a rustic, Caribbean feel, with wooden furniture and colorful decor. We ordered some local beers and settled in to enjoy the sunset. The music was lively, with a DJ playing a mix of reggae and dancehall. It was the perfect way to end our day, soaking in the Jamaican atmosphere and enjoying each other's company. Ethan, of course, was wide awake and dancing to the music. Aisha and I enjoyed watching him, laughing and reminiscing about our day. Roots 21 Bar & Kitchen is known for its authentic Jamaican meals and festive atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax and reflect on our amazing Sunday in Port Antonio.


Savor the flavors of Jamaica at Roots 21 Bar & Kitchen, where local cuisine meets a vibrant dining atmosphere.

As we drove back to our Airbnb, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Port Antonio had exceeded all of my expectations. It was a place of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From the pristine beaches to the savory jerk, it was a day of pure bliss. I'm already looking forward to exploring more of this hidden gem.

Tomorrow, we're planning a hiking adventure in the Blue Mountains. I’m looking forward to seeing the lush landscapes and experiencing the natural beauty that Jamaica has to offer. Aisha is particularly excited about visiting the Blue Mountain Peak, as she's heard the views are simply breathtaking. Ethan is a bit less enthusiastic about the hiking, but I'm sure he'll enjoy the adventure once we get started. We'll be having breakfast at Chillstop restaurant & bar, lunch at Sea Breeze, and dinner at Di Honeycomb Restaurant & Bar. I’m also hoping to squeeze in a visit to Lees Maxi Mart for some local souvenirs. It promises to be another exciting day, and I can't wait to share it with you all.

Until then, stay tuned for more adventures from Port Antonio!

One thing I did forget to pack was insect repellent. The mosquitoes can be quite persistent, especially in the evenings. I'll definitely be making a stop at a local store to pick some up before our hike tomorrow. I also realized that my portable phone charger is missing. I'll need to find a replacement, as I don't want to run out of battery while exploring the Blue Mountains. These little things can make a big difference in your travel experience, so it's always good to be prepared.