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

A River Runs Through It

Today was all about embracing the slow, serene pace of Jamaican life. We traded the hustle of Toronto for the gentle sway of a bamboo raft on the Rio Grande, and it was exactly the reset our family needed. It’s amazing how disconnecting from technology and connecting with nature can rejuvenate the soul.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Sea View Chill Spot bar & Sea Food Restaurant. The name says it all – a chill spot with a stunning sea view. I opted for the traditional Jamaican breakfast of ackee and saltfish, while Aisha enjoyed some callaloo and Ethan devoured a stack of fluffy pancakes. The strong Blue Mountain coffee was the perfect start to fuel our day. The restaurant lived up to its name; the view was indeed spectacular and the food delicious. It’s a spot I’d recommend to anyone visiting Port Antonio.


Experience coastal dining like never before at Sea View Chill Spot bar & Seafood Restaurant in Port Antonio - where fresh seafood meets stunning ocean views.

After breakfast, we headed towards the Rio Grande. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering breathtaking views of the lush Jamaican countryside. We passed vibrant villages, each with its own unique character and charm. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of homecoming, reminiscent of my childhood days in Speightstown, Barbados. The air was thick with the scent of tropical flowers and the promise of adventure.

Arriving at the Rio Grande, we were greeted by our raft captain, a friendly local with a wealth of knowledge about the river and its surroundings. The bamboo raft looked sturdy enough, and after a quick safety briefing, we hopped on. Ethan was especially excited, his eyes wide with anticipation. As we pushed off from the riverbank, the world seemed to slow down. The gentle current carried us along, and the only sounds were the rhythmic splash of the captain’s pole and the chirping of birds in the trees.

The Rio Grande is aptly named; it’s a grand river that snakes its way through the heart of Portland. The scenery was simply stunning. Lush greenery lined the riverbanks, with towering trees forming a canopy overhead. Sunlight dappled through the leaves, creating an ethereal glow. We spotted colorful birds flitting among the branches and the occasional lizard sunning itself on a rock. It was a nature lover’s paradise.

The best view comes after the hardest climb, and sometimes, the most profound peace is found in the gentlest of flows.

Our captain regaled us with stories about the river’s history and its importance to the local community. He explained how the Rio Grande was once used to transport bananas from the interior to the coast, and how Errol Flynn, the famous Hollywood actor, popularized rafting as a recreational activity. It was fascinating to learn about the river’s cultural significance.


Explore the tranquil beauty of the Rio Grande River in Jamaica, an idyllic rafting experience through lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife.

About halfway through our rafting adventure, we stopped at a small clearing on the riverbank. Our captain had brought along some fresh fruit – mangoes, pineapples, and bananas – which we devoured with gusto. There’s something about eating fresh fruit in the heart of nature that makes it taste even better. Ethan particularly enjoyed the mangoes, his face smeared with juice and a wide grin on his face.

As we continued our journey down the Rio Grande, I couldn’t help but reflect on the simple pleasures of life. Here we were, miles away from the stresses of work and the demands of modern living, simply enjoying each other’s company in a beautiful natural setting. It was a reminder of what truly matters – family, connection, and appreciation for the world around us.

After our relaxing rafting trip, we decided to explore the Errol Flynn Marina. Named after the legendary actor who once called Port Antonio home, the marina is a hub of activity, with yachts of all sizes bobbing in the water. We strolled along the docks, admiring the boats and soaking in the atmosphere. Ethan was particularly impressed by the mega-yachts, dreaming of one day owning his own.


Explore Errol Flynn Marina in Port Antonio, Jamaica: A vibrant hub for adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights by the sea.

The Errol Flynn Marina is more than just a place to dock boats; it’s a vibrant center with shops, restaurants, and a palpable sense of history. We learned that Errol Flynn had a deep connection to Port Antonio, and the marina stands as a testament to his legacy. It’s a place where you can feel the spirit of adventure and the allure of the sea.

Before lunch, Aisha was keen to do some shopping, and I was happy to oblige. Glitz and Glamour Jewelers was our destination, a store known for its unique and exquisite pieces. Aisha has a keen eye for jewelry, much more than I do, and she spent a good amount of time browsing the collections. I was fascinated by the intricate designs and the craftsmanship of the pieces. We ended up buying a beautiful necklace for Aisha, a memento of our trip to Port Antonio.


Explore exquisite jewelry at Glitz and Glamour Jewelers in Port Antonio, a must-visit for unique designs and exceptional craftsmanship.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Becky’s Divine Delight. Located in Bay Shore Plaza, this restaurant had rave reviews and we were keen to try it out. I ordered the jerk chicken, a Jamaican staple, while Aisha went for the curried goat. Ethan, ever the adventurous eater, opted for the oxtail stew. The food was indeed divine, bursting with flavor and spice. It was a true taste of Jamaica, and we savored every bite.


Discover authentic Jamaican flavors at Becky's Divine Delight in Port Antonio's Bay Shore Plaza - where every meal is a celebration.

After lunch, we took a leisurely stroll through Port Antonio, soaking in the sights and sounds of this charming town. We visited the local market, where vendors were selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The vibrant colors and the lively atmosphere were a feast for the senses. I picked up some spices to bring back home, eager to try my hand at cooking some Jamaican dishes in my own kitchen.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Fusion Bites for dinner. This upscale eatery is known for its Asian Jamaican fusion meals, and we were excited to try something different. I opted for the seafood pasta, while Aisha went for the crab legs. Ethan, surprisingly, chose the sushi. The food was exquisite, a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The ambiance was elegant and sophisticated, making it a perfect end to our day.


Discover exquisite flavors at Fusion Bites, where Jamaican ingredients meet international culinary artistry in Port Antonio.

During dinner, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We’re heading to Boston Beach, famous for its jerk cuisine, and Winnifred Beach, known for its natural beauty. I’m particularly excited to try the jerk pork at Boston Beach, while Aisha is looking forward to relaxing on the sand at Winnifred Beach. Ethan, of course, is eager to swim in the crystal-clear waters.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible day. We’ve experienced the beauty of the Rio Grande, savored the flavors of Jamaican cuisine, and discovered the gems of Port Antonio. It’s been a day of serenity, connection, and appreciation. And as I look forward to tomorrow’s adventures, I know that our family adventure in Jamaica is only just beginning.

I am glad that my family and I were able to spend time together away from our busy lives and enjoy the simple things in life. I am also happy that we were able to experience the culture and cuisine of Jamaica. As a Bajan, I feel a special connection to the Caribbean and its people. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to soak up the sun at Boston Beach and Winnifred Beach, and maybe even sneak in a visit to Roots 21 Bar & Kitchen for some evening relaxation. Until then, I'm signing off, ready to dream of bamboo rafts and jerk flavors.