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

Underwater Wonders and Island Escapes

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the thrill of underwater exploration with the simple pleasures of island life and a touch of retail therapy. Port Antonio continues to surprise and delight, offering a unique mix of adventure and relaxation. I was particularly excited to explore the marine life, something I've always been passionate about since my childhood days in Speightstown.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Devon House Bakery. Aisha and Ethan were particularly excited about the patties, a Jamaican staple. I opted for a classic ackee and saltfish, wanting to start the day with a true taste of Jamaica. Fuelled up, we headed to Lady G'Diver Diving Facility 5 Star, a highly recommended spot for scuba diving. The drive there was scenic, with glimpses of the turquoise waters that promised an exciting underwater adventure.


Experience the vibrant underwater world of Jamaica at Lady G'Diver Diving Facility, a top-rated scuba tour agency in Port Antonio offering unforgettable diving adventures.
At Lady G'Diver, we were greeted by a team of friendly and professional divers. The facility was well-equipped, and I felt immediately at ease. Ethan, while too young to dive, was fascinated by all the gear and the pre-dive preparations. He peppered the instructors with questions, his curiosity mirroring my own enthusiasm from my early days tinkering with tech back in Barbados. Aisha, who is always up for an adventure, was eager to get into the water.

The dive itself was incredible. The underwater terrain around Port Antonio is truly something special. The fish life is vibrant, and the coral formations are fascinating. I was particularly impressed by the efforts to preserve the East Portland Fish Sanctuary. It’s heartening to see such dedication to marine conservation. We spotted a turtle and several rays, making the dive even more memorable. Aisha was in her element, gracefully navigating the underwater world. It was a reminder of the simple joys of exploring nature together as a family.

The best kind of therapy is beach therapy.

After our diving adventure, we decided to visit Pellew Island, also known as Monkey Island. We drove towards Fairy Hill and found a local boat operator near the marina to take us across. The short boat ride offered stunning views of the coastline, and the anticipation of exploring a small, uninhabited island added to the excitement. Ethan was thrilled at the prospect of seeing monkeys, though we knew they were no longer on the island.


Explore the serene beauty of Pellew Island in Jamaica, where crystal-clear waters and untouched beaches await your discovery.
Pellew Island is a true gem. The waters are crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. We spent a couple of hours exploring the island, relaxing on the small beach, and soaking in the sun. Ethan enjoyed collecting seashells, while Aisha and I took turns snorkeling, marveling at the colorful fish and coral. The island's tranquility was a welcome contrast to the bustling activity of the mainland. It felt like a private escape, a chance to disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.

For lunch, we headed to Coastline Bliss, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Jamaican cuisine and stunning ocean views. Located in Bayshore Plazas, it was a convenient stop after our island adventure. The restaurant lived up to its reputation. The jerk chicken was flavorful, and the seafood platter was fresh and delicious. Aisha particularly enjoyed the tropical fruit cocktails, while Ethan devoured a plate of fried plantains. The panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea added to the dining experience, making it a truly blissful lunch.


Experience exquisite Jamaican cuisine at Coastline Bliss in Port Antonio - where every meal comes with stunning ocean views.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we decided to explore Bayshore Plazas. It’s a bustling shopping center that combines local flair with international influences. I must admit, I’m not usually one for shopping, but Aisha and Ethan were keen to explore. We browsed through the various stores, from fashion boutiques to artisan shops. Ethan was on the lookout for souvenirs for his friends back in Toronto, while Aisha was interested in finding unique Jamaican crafts. I found myself drawn to a photography shop, where I picked up a new lens for my camera, hoping to capture more of Jamaica's beauty.


Discover the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences at Bayshore Plazas in Port Antonio, Jamaica.
We also stopped by Bashco Trading Co Ltd, where I was impressed by the range of household appliances and electronics. It reminded me of my early days tinkering with gadgets and sparked a nostalgic conversation with Aisha about our first apartment in Toronto. It’s funny how a simple shopping trip can bring back so many memories. We ended up buying a few small items, including a portable phone charger, remembering our forgotten trip essential. It was a practical purchase, ensuring we wouldn't run out of battery while capturing our Jamaican adventures.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Bentley's Island Grill for dinner. Located by Bryan's Bay, the restaurant offered a relaxed atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Jamaican dishes. We started with some appetizers, including callaloo fritters and jerk chicken wings. For the main course, I opted for the grilled fish, while Aisha chose the seafood platter. Ethan, always a fan of burgers, ordered a jerk burger. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and attentive. The sunset views over the bay were breathtaking, creating a perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Jamaican cuisine at Bentley's Island Grill in Port Antonio – where delicious food meets stunning bay views.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore Boston Bay, known for its authentic jerk cuisine, and visit the Folly Ruins, a historic landmark with a fascinating story. We might even check out Cristal Nightclub for a taste of Port Antonio's nightlife, though I suspect Aisha and I might prefer a quiet evening after another day of adventures.

“To travel is to live.” Hans Christian Andersen's quote really encapsulates the spirit of our family adventure in Port Antonio. Each day brings new experiences, new discoveries, and new memories. It’s a reminder of the importance of taking time to explore the world and connect with each other. Jamaica has a way of capturing your heart, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.

Until tomorrow,
David