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

Welcome to Port Antonio!

After months of anticipation, our family adventure in Port Antonio, Jamaica, has officially begun! Leaving the hustle of Toronto behind, we've traded skyscrapers for swaying palm trees and the cool Canadian breeze for the warm, fragrant air of the Caribbean. It's a sensory overload in the best way possible, and I can already tell this is going to be a trip filled with unforgettable moments.

Our journey from Kingston to Port Antonio was an experience in itself. Renting a car gave us the freedom to soak in the vibrant Jamaican countryside. Aisha, ever the navigator, kept us on track while Ethan gazed wide-eyed at the passing scenery, a mix of lush greenery and colorful roadside stalls. The drive was a vivid reminder of Aisha's childhood in Jamaica, and she regaled us with stories of her own family trips, making the journey even more special.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Our first stop was the famed Blue Lagoon Tour Portland. I'd seen countless photos, but nothing prepared me for the sheer beauty of this place. The water shimmered with an otherworldly glow, a mesmerizing blend of turquoise and sapphire that changed with every shift of the sun. Ethan was immediately captivated, eager to dive into the inviting waters. We opted for a boat tour, which allowed us to fully appreciate the lagoon's depth and the surrounding lush rainforest. Our guide shared intriguing facts about the lagoon, including its connection to the movie of the same name and the local legend of a dragon residing in its depths. Ethan, of course, was thrilled by the dragon story, his imagination running wild.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Blue Lagoon in Fairy Hill, Jamaica, a tropical paradise with stunning waters and rich history.

After our enchanting time at the Blue Lagoon Tour Portland, we headed to Frenchman's Cove beach, a place I'd heard whispers about for years. And it truly lived up to the hype! The beach is nestled between two cliffs, creating a sense of secluded paradise. The sand was unbelievably soft, and the water was crystal clear and cool. Ethan spent hours building sandcastles, while Aisha and I relaxed under the shade of a sprawling tree, soaking in the tranquility. It was the perfect spot to unwind and let the stresses of everyday life melt away.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Frenchman's Cove Beach, a hidden gem in Jamaica with soft sands and crystal-clear waters.

For breakfast, we decided to try Roots 21 Bar & Kitchen, a local spot known for its authentic Jamaican cuisine. The food was incredible. Aisha went for the curry coconut snapper, while I chose the jerk chicken. Ethan, surprisingly adventurous, devoured a plate of fried plantains. The atmosphere was laid-back and friendly, and we felt immediately welcomed by the staff. It was the perfect introduction to Jamaican flavors.


Discover authentic Jamaican flavors at Roots 21 Bar & Kitchen in Port Antonio – where culinary tradition meets vibrant atmosphere.

Lunch was at Anna Banana Ocean House, a restaurant with a reputation for its seafood and ocean views. We were not disappointed. The ambiance was lovely, and we even spotted dolphins while eating. Aisha and I shared the coconut curry fish and garlic lobster, both were delicious. Ethan was thrilled with his fish meal. The service was outstanding, with Lindsay and his daughters making us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Jamaican cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Anna Banana Ocean House in Port Antonio.

Before dinner, we made a stop at The Village, Port Antonio - A Fine Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Shopping Center. It was a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs and immerse ourselves in the local culture. Ethan was fascinated by the intricate wood carvings, while Aisha admired the colorful textiles. I was drawn to the artwork of a local painter, whose vibrant depictions of Jamaican life captured the essence of the island. We ended up buying a few small gifts for family back home and a beautiful hand-carved bird for our living room.


Explore unique arts, crafts, and gifts at The Village in Port Antonio, a vibrant shopping center celebrating Jamaican creativity.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Portland Jerk Centre for dinner. The aroma of jerk spices filled the air, and our stomachs rumbled in anticipation. We ordered jerk chicken, of course, along with rice and peas and some spicy coleslaw. The food was absolutely amazing, the perfect combination of smoky, spicy, and savory. Ethan, despite his initial hesitation, couldn't get enough of the jerk chicken. It was a true taste of Jamaica, and a fitting end to our first day.


Savor authentic Jamaican jerk chicken at Portland Jerk Centre – a must-visit culinary hotspot in Port Antonio for food lovers!

I also managed to forget the insect repellent and portable phone charger at home. It is going to be interesting without them. I'll need to buy these tomorrow.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Reach Falls and Somerset Falls. I've heard Reach Falls is particularly stunning, with cascading waterfalls and natural pools perfect for swimming. We’re all looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery. Aisha is especially excited about visiting Reach Falls, as it's a place she remembers fondly from her childhood. Ethan is already dreaming of swimming under the waterfalls, and I'm eager to capture the beauty of the falls through my lens.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was a day of connection, discovery, and immersion into the vibrant culture of Jamaica. As I sit here writing this, with the sounds of crickets chirping outside our Airbnb, I feel a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to share this experience with my family. Port Antonio, you have already captured our hearts. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

I'm already anticipating trying Wilkes Cuisine Seafood Restaurant for breakfast, Soldier Camp Bar & Grill for lunch, and Dickie's Best Kept Secret for dinner tomorrow. Hopefully, they live up to their names. To cap off the day, we may visit Irie Vibes Sports Bar for a drink or two. I'm looking forward to it.

The warmth of the Jamaican people, the stunning natural beauty, and the delicious food have all combined to create an unforgettable first day. I feel incredibly fortunate to be here with Aisha and Ethan, experiencing this together. It's moments like these that remind me of the importance of family, adventure, and embracing new cultures. I can't wait to share more of our journey with you all. Stay tuned for tomorrow's adventures!

Here's to more sun-soaked days and unforgettable experiences in Port Antonio!

Safe travels,
David.