Exploring the Hidden Charms of Port Antonio, Jamaica

A Day of Gentle Currents and Lively Harbors

Today was all about embracing the slower pace of Jamaican life, trading the hustle of Toronto for the gentle sway of a bamboo raft and the colorful bustle of a marina. Olivia and I set out to explore Port Antonio from a different perspective, and it’s safe to say, we found it.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Chenels Pizza [i]. I know, pizza for breakfast sounds a bit odd, but I had read some reviews and I was intrigued by the specialty pizzas incorporating local ingredients. We shared a small pie with ackee and saltfish – a surprisingly delightful combination that gave us a real taste of Jamaica. Fuelled up, we were ready for our Rio Grande adventure.


Experience authentic Jamaican flavors at Chenels Pizza in Port Antonio – where every bite is a celebration of taste and culture.

The drive to the river was an experience in itself, winding through lush landscapes and vibrant communities. It reminded me of the winding roads back home in Spanish Town, each turn revealing a new vista of natural beauty. Once we arrived, we were greeted by our raft captain, a friendly local with a wealth of knowledge about the river and its surroundings.

The bamboo raft was surprisingly comfortable, and as we pushed off from the bank, the world seemed to slow down. The Rio Grande lived up to its name – a grand river indeed, flowing gently through a valley of green. The sun dappled through the trees, creating an ethereal light on the water. Olivia and I settled back, letting the tranquil rhythm of the river set the tone for the day.


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

The river whispered stories of Jamaica's past, a gentle reminder of the island's enduring spirit.

Our captain expertly poled us along, sharing stories about the local flora and fauna. He pointed out various birds, their calls echoing through the valley, and explained how the river had historically been used to transport bananas from the plantations inland. It was fascinating to learn that Errol Flynn, the famous actor, had popularized rafting on the Rio Grande as a recreational activity.

About halfway through our journey, we stopped at a small bank where a local vendor had set up shop. We bought some refreshing coconut water, chatting with her about life in Port Antonio. It’s these little interactions that make traveling so enriching, offering glimpses into different ways of life.

As we floated further downstream, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own connection to the Caribbean. Growing up in the British Virgin Islands, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the water. The Rio Grande, with its gentle currents and lush surroundings, felt like a comforting embrace, a reminder of the natural beauty that shaped my childhood.

After our relaxing rafting trip, we were ready for some lunch. We headed to The Hub, a restaurant known for its authentic Jamaican cuisine. Olivia opted for the jerk chicken, while I decided on the curried goat. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, a testament to the skill and passion of the chefs. The vibrant atmosphere of The Hub, filled with colorful decor and the sounds of lively conversation, made our meal even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Jamaican flavors at The Hub in Port Antonio - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full, we decided to explore the Errol Flynn Marina. Named after the actor who helped popularize Port Antonio as a tourist destination, the marina is a hub of activity, with boats of all sizes bobbing in the water. We strolled along the waterfront, admiring the yachts and soaking in the lively atmosphere.


Experience the beauty of Errol Flynn Marina in Port Antonio, Jamaica, where adventure meets serenity in a tropical paradise.

The marina was buzzing with activity. There were people preparing their boats for the next journey, others were enjoying refreshments at the Bikini Beach Bar AND Grill. I overheard snippets of conversations in different languages, a testament to the international appeal of this Jamaican gem. I imagined Errol Flynn himself enjoying the scene, perhaps with a rum punch in hand, as the sun dipped below the horizon.

Olivia, ever the art enthusiast, was keen to visit The Village, Port Antonio - A Fine Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Shopping Center. This shopping center is known for celebrating Jamaican creativity. We spent a pleasant hour browsing the various shops, admiring the intricate wood carvings, colorful textiles, and vibrant paintings. Olivia purchased a beautiful hand-woven basket, while I found a striking photograph of the Blue Mountains.


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

It reminded me of Musgrave Market, where you can find almost anything, especially on Friday and Saturday mornings. The market is the hub of downtown activity and the heartbeat of Port Antonio. You can find area farmers bringing their fresh harvests, clothing, jewelry, and local crafts. It is a bargainer's dream.

Before dinner, we took a stroll along the Folly Oval, enjoying the sea breeze and the stunning views of the coastline. We reflected on our day, marveling at the diversity of experiences Port Antonio had offered us. From the tranquility of the Rio Grande to the vibrant energy of the Errol Flynn Marina, it had been a day of contrasts, each moment adding to our appreciation of this beautiful corner of Jamaica.

For dinner, we chose Anna Banana Ocean House, drawn in by its reputation for delicious seafood and stunning ocean views. We were not disappointed. The restaurant lived up to its name, with the waves gently lapping against the shore just a few feet from our table. I opted for the coconut curry fish, while Olivia chose the garlic lobster. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, the flavors enhanced by the fresh sea air.


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

As we savored our meal, we watched the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. It was the perfect end to a perfect day, a moment of quiet reflection amidst the beauty of Jamaica. We chatted about our plans for tomorrow – a visit to Reach Falls and Boston Beach – excited to discover more of what Port Antonio had to offer.

“To move, to breathe, to fly, to float,
To gain all while you give,
To roam on roads of lands remote:
To travel is to live.”
― Hans Christian Andersen

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Reach Falls and relax on Boston Beach. I'm particularly looking forward to trying some authentic jerk chicken at Boston Beach, a must-do for any visitor to this part of Jamaica. Olivia is excited to photograph the cascading waters of Reach Falls, hoping to capture the magic of this natural wonder.

As I write this, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve had today. Port Antonio has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding you to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life. It’s a place where the natural beauty is matched only by the warmth and hospitality of its people. I’m eager to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I’m content to drift off to sleep with the sound of the ocean in my ears.

Good night from Port Antonio!