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

Day 2: Rivers of Wonder and Rhythms of the Night

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the natural beauty and vibrant culture that Port Antonio has to offer. It was a day filled with cascading waterfalls, delicious food, and the laid-back vibes that Jamaica is famous for. Join me as I recount our adventures, from the refreshing waters of Reach Falls to the savory flavors of local cuisine and the spirited atmosphere of a Jamaican sports bar.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Wilkes Cuisine Seafood Restaurant. I had heard great things about Chef Nigel, and I was eager to try his cooking. The restaurant was easy to find, and we were immediately greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. Aisha and Ethan were particularly excited, as they had read reviews praising the restaurant’s seafood dishes. Being a Bajan, I am always critical of seafood outside of Barbados, but I was optimistic. The view of the sea was stunning, adding to the charm of the place. I opted for the steamed fish with veggies, while Aisha chose the garlic shrimp. Ethan, ever the adventurous one, went for the curried goat.

The food was absolutely amazing. My steamed fish was flavorful and perfectly cooked, and Aisha raved about her garlic shrimp. Even Ethan, who can be a picky eater, loved his curried goat. Chef Nigel truly knows how to prepare authentic Jamaican dishes with love and care. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable. I would highly recommend Wilkes Cuisine to anyone visiting Port Antonio. It’s a must-visit spot for a delicious meal with a stunning view. I even managed to get a few photography shots of the coastline from the restaurant, adding to my collection of Jamaican landscapes.

After breakfast, we set off for Reach Falls. The drive was scenic, taking us through winding roads and lush greenery. I must admit, I did miss insect repellent, as the mosquitos were quite persistent. We finally arrived at Reach Falls and were immediately struck by its natural beauty. The waterfalls cascade down a rock face into an emerald river pool, creating a truly magical setting. The entrance fee was reasonable, and we quickly changed into our swimwear. Ethan was particularly excited to explore the falls and swim in the natural pools.

We spent several hours exploring Reach Falls. We walked, waded, and swam our way up to the edge of the falls, marveling at the jade-colored pools and the surrounding rainforest. Ethan was thrilled to discover a hidden underwater cave, and Aisha enjoyed spotting different species of ferns and birds. The water was refreshing, and the scenery was breathtaking. It was a truly exhilarating experience. I even managed to capture some stunning photos of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. Reach Falls is definitely a hidden gem that beckons adventurous souls.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Reach Falls, a serene ecological park in Jamaica offering stunning waterfalls and lush landscapes for nature lovers.

The best views come after the hardest climbs.

Next on our itinerary was Somerset Falls. After the invigorating experience at Reach Falls, we were eager to see what Somerset Falls had to offer. The drive to Somerset Falls was relatively short, and we soon arrived at the entrance. Somerset Falls is located in Hope Bay and is known for its cascading waterfalls and natural pools surrounded by lush greenery.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by a picturesque scene. The falls were once part of an indigo and spice plantation, and the original mill house and other structures from the 1800s still stand. We took a short boat tour along the narrow river to get up close to the 32-foot cascade. The power of the thundering falls was amazing, and we took a swim in the deep rock pools below. Aisha and Ethan enjoyed the swimming pool and waterslide onsite, while I appreciated the history and significance of the falls.

One of the highlights of Somerset Falls was the Hidden Falls. We boarded a small boat that took us past the main falls into a narrow gorge, where we discovered a hidden waterfall cascading into a cave-like grotto. It was a truly magical experience. The boat tour was definitely worth it, and we enjoyed taking photos of the falls and the surrounding scenery. Somerset Falls is an ideal spot for families to enjoy a day of fun together.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Somerset Falls, a natural oasis in Jamaica, perfect for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

After a day of exploring waterfalls, we were ready for a late lunch. We decided to try Soldier Camp Bar & Grill, a local restaurant known for its authentic Jamaican cuisine. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with bamboo benches and tables creating an outdoor ambiance. The owner, Everold, a former US Army serviceman, was friendly and welcoming.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including the crayfish, curried shrimp, and jerk chicken. The food was delicious, with deep flavors and healthy ingredients. Aisha particularly enjoyed the curried shrimp, while Ethan devoured the jerk chicken. I was impressed by the quality of the seafood and the authentic Jamaican flavors. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable. Soldier Camp Bar & Grill is definitely a hidden gem that is worth a visit. I even chatted with Everold about his time in the US Army and his passion for cooking. It was a great cultural exchange.


Experience authentic Jamaican flavors at Soldier Camp Bar & Grill in Port Antonio – where every meal is a taste of paradise.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to unwind at Irie Vibes Sports Bar. The bar had a relaxed atmosphere, with a full bar and gaming options. We enjoyed a few drinks while watching a cricket match on TV. Ethan even tried his hand at a game of pool. The bar was a great place to relax and soak up the local vibes. It was a perfect way to end a day filled with adventure and discovery. I made a mental note to bring my cricket bat next time, as I am always up for a friendly match.


Experience the vibrant sports culture of Jamaica at Irie Vibes Sports Bar in Port Antonio, where every game is a celebration filled with local flavors.

For dinner, we headed to Dickie's Best Kept Secret. Finding it was an adventure in itself, tucked away on a seaside bluff. The ramshackle hut had a quirky charm, and we were greeted warmly. There's no menu; you eat what they serve. We started with a savory crepe-like omelette filled with vegetables, followed by vegetable soup. The main course was a delicious grilled spiny lobster, served with stuffed peppers. For dessert, a garishly decorated marble cake turned out to be surprisingly yummy. It was a unique and memorable dining experience. The lack of pretension made Dickie's feel unintentionally cool.


Discover authentic Jamaican flavors at Dickie's Best Kept Secret – a culinary haven tucked away in Jamaica's vibrant landscape.

Reflecting on the day, I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Port Antonio with my family. From the refreshing waters of Reach Falls to the savory flavors of local cuisine and the spirited atmosphere of Irie Vibes Sports Bar, it was a day filled with adventure and discovery. I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventure, which includes Rio Grande River rafting and a visit to the Errol Flynn Marina. It promises to be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. And perhaps a bit of shopping at Glitz and Glamour Jewelers!

The vibrant culture of Port Antonio is truly captivating. The people, the music, the food, and the scenery all come together to create a unique and unforgettable experience. I am so glad that I chose to explore this hidden gem with my family. It is a destination that I will cherish for years to come.