From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jamaica.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Portmore, Jamaica: The Sunshine City
Discover Portmore, Jamaica: A vibrant city with beaches, entertainment, and a unique cultural experience just outside of Kingston.
Portmore is a large coastal town in southern Jamaica, in the parish of St. Catherine. Originally developed as a dormitory town for Kingston, it has grown into a vibrant city with its own unique identity, offering a mix of beaches, entertainment, and commercial activities. With a population that commutes daily to Kingston, Portmore was granted municipality status in 2003 and is now on track to become Jamaica's 15th parish.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Jamaica
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
32 Miller Rd, Portmore, JM
Discover more about Jamaica
Portmore, often called the "Sunshine City," is a dynamic urban center on Jamaica's southeastern coast. Initially conceived to address Kingston's overpopulation issues, Portmore has evolved from a mere residential area into a thriving metropolis with a distinct character. Built largely on reclaimed swampland, the city features an intricate canal system to prevent flooding.Today, Portmore boasts numerous malls, restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options, making it a promising destination for both locals and visitors. Popular attractions include Hellshire Beach, known for its seafood and lively atmosphere, and Fort Clarence Beach, offering swimming and picnicking. For entertainment, there's Buzzers Gaming Arcade and Sunshine Palace Cinema.While not heavily marketed as a tourist destination, Portmore offers a taste of Jamaican life outside the main resort areas. Its proximity to Kingston allows easy access to cultural sites like the Bob Marley Museum and National Gallery. As Portmore continues to grow and develop, it's solidifying its place as a significant urban hub in Jamaica.
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Kingston, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) provides bus services to Portmore. Buses depart frequently from Halfway Tree in Kingston and arrive at various points in Portmore, such as the Portmore Mall. The bus fare is approximately $1 (USD) or 150-170 JMD. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the destination within Portmore.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kingston and can take you to Portmore. A taxi ride from Kingston to Portmore typically costs between $21 to $27 (USD), or approximately 2800 JMD for a 5km ride. It's advisable to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Several taxi services operate in Portmore, including Travelr Taxi and Nice & Easy Taxi.
Driving
If driving from Kingston, take the Portmore Toll Road, which connects Kingston and Portmore via the Hunts Bay Bridge. The toll fee is approximately 300 JMD. Parking is available at various locations in Portmore, including malls and beaches. Parking fees vary but typically range from 100-200 JMD per hour.
A brief summary to Jamaica
Use Jamaica as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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More about Portmore
Discover Portmore, Jamaica: A vibrant city where urban life meets coastal beauty, offering golden beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable local cuisine.
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