London, UK, 30 September 2024: Why settle for a one-size-fits-all holiday when you can find the Jamaican paradise that matches your vibe? For those seeking a more personalised experience, finding a destination that truly aligns with your interests makes all the difference. Jamaica offers a holiday to suit everyone, with so many hidden gems beyond the beaches perfect for culture, adventure and everything in between. With so much on offer in this vibrant island destination, it can be hard to know where to start to curate the trip of your dreams.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a luxury lounger, or a foodie explorer, we’ve got the spot for you. To save you the research, we’ve paired some of the island’s hidden gem destinations, activities and properties with the perfect personality type to match. Discover where your vibe meets Jamaican paradise!
Outdoor Adventurer
Personality: You’re outgoing, thrive on excitement, trying new things and discovering new places. You might enjoy outdoor, under and overwater activities, adventurous excursions, and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
The area for you: Port Antonio, Portland
Why: A favourite among Jamaicans and fast becoming one of the island’s worst-kept secrets, Port Antonio offers stunning natural beauty with access to hidden waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon, and unspoiled beaches from its location on the Northeast coast. Adventurers can hike the Blue Mountains, raft down the Rio Grande, or explore the Nonsuch Caves. It’s the perfect spot for those who love nature and adventure in a more secluded setting.
What to do: The nearby Blue Lagoon offers opportunities for snorkelling and boat tours. After working up an appetite at the lagoon, be sure to stop off for lunch at Belinda’s Riverside Restaurant, a charming eatery along the river serving delicious Jamaican food in a picturesque setting.
Where to stay: For travellers seeking unique Jamaican experiences, Geejam Hotel offers a prime location with access to diverse natural attractions like waterfalls, rainforests, and pristine beaches. The exclusive property steeped in musical heritage offers a selection of luxury suites, cabins and private villas, perfect for a retreat after a day of exploring. Rooms start from £309 per night.
Connected to Culture
Personality: You thrive on discovering local traditions, engaging with vibrant communities, and experiencing authentic cultural activities and immersing yourself in the everyday life of new areas.
The area for you: Negril
Why: Ideal for cultural explorers, Negril offers a genuine connection to Jamaican life. Known for its energetic local culture, opportunities to interact with friendly residents, local art galleries, and traditional Jamaican cuisine, the community-focused atmosphere and events provide a rich, immersive experience, making it perfect for travellers eager to delve into the island’s authentic cultural heritage.
What to do: Take a stroll through Barney’s Flower & Hummingbird Garden, where you’ll find diverse flora and fauna and a variety of captivating hummingbirds. No trip to Negril is complete without witnessing the stunning sunset views and daring cliff-diving displays at the iconic Rick’s Cafe.
Where to stay: Rockhouse Hotel & Spa has a vibrant atmosphere and deep ties to Jamaican heritage, embracing the island’s vibrant culture through locally made crafts and sustainable practices. Its West End cliffside location, surrounded by lush tropical gardens and incredible sunset views, provides guests with opportunities to engage in community initiatives and explore nearby landmarks, such as the Negril Lighthouse and art galleries. For a sandier alternative, Rockhouse’s beachfront sister resort, Skylark, offers a similar experience nearby, with direct access to a seven-mile white sand beach. Rooms start at £105 per night.
Green Globetrotter
Personality: You value sustainability, love nature, and seek eco-friendly accommodations and experiences that align with and strengthen these values.
The area for you: Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth.
Why: Treasure Beach is a hub for eco-tourism in Jamaica. With its focus on community-based tourism, sustainable practices, and small-scale accommodations, it’s perfect for eco-conscious travellers. Visitors can engage with local farming communities, enjoy unspoiled beaches, and participate in responsible travel activities that give back to the environment and local people.
What to Do: Enjoy an eco-tour and catch a glimpse of Jamaica’s natural wonders on the Black River Safari. Navigate the serene mangrove-lined waterways in search of elusive crocodiles and abundant bird life. For the ultimate beach bar experience, look no further than Floyd’s Pelican Bar, a one-of-a-kind floating hut built by a local fisherman named Floyd, accessible only by boat!
Where to Stay: Jakes Hotel combines sustainability with a unique experience, making this much-loved, South Coast Jamaican gem an excellent choice for eco-conscious travellers. The property is committed to eco-friendly operations, waste reduction and water conservation. Its original boho-chic villas, oceanfront bungalows and rooms are designed using natural materials and local craftsmanship, giving an authentic look. Eateries emphasise farm-to-table dining, sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and fishermen to support the local economy and reduce carbon footprint. Villas start at £132 per night (Bookable from late 2024).
Runaway Romantic
Personality: As a true romantic, you see the world through rose-tinted glasses – maybe you enjoy intimate settings, beautiful sunsets, and experiences that are perfect for sharing with a loved one. You look for locations that feel private and are perfect for creating special memories.
The Area for You: Runaway Bay, St Ann Parish
Why: A lesser-known town on Jamaica’s breathtaking north coast, outside of Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay is known for its serene beaches, coral reefs, secluded coves, and charming resorts that are perfect for couples. The bay offers romance-infused activities, like beach horseback riding, private candlelit dinners, and sunset boat rides. The calm, peaceful environment is an ideal spot for honeymooners or couples looking to reconnect.
What to do: Descend into the Green Grotto Caves with your loved one and discover an extensive network of limestone caverns estimated to be over half a million years old. Runaway Bay’s beautiful beaches offer a wealth of water-based activities, allowing visitors to explore snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Where to Stay: Jewel Paradise Cove Adult Beach Resort & Spa is a perfectly packaged romantic getaway, offering an adults-only atmosphere that ensures a peaceful and intimate setting. The luxurious accommodation includes elegant ocean-view suites with private plunge pools. Couples can enjoy a range of memorable experiences from candlelit dinners to spa treatments. All-inclusive rooms start from £1,175 per week based on two adults sharing.
Foodies & Culinary Connoisseurs
Personality: A culinary pioneer, when it comes to cuisine, you’re adventurous. You love to explore new and local dishes, seek out authentic practices, and experience food as a major part of travel – it may even be the primary reason for your choice of holiday destination.
The Area for You: Falmouth, Trelawny Parish.
Why: Falmouth, while known for its rich history and well-preserved Georgian architecture, is also a culinary hub of the North Coast. This small port town is a treasure trove of street food, including jerk chicken, fresh seafood, and traditional Jamaican dishes. Foodies will love exploring local markets, food tours and farm-to-table dining experiences.
What to Do: Immerse yourself in Falmouth’s food scene with wood-smoked jerk at Peper’s Jerk Centre and freshly baked Jamaican patties from Juici, before embarking on thrilling adventures at Chukka Eco-Adventure Outpost at Good Hope where ziplines, river tubing, and historic tours await. Of course, the newly-opened Artisan Village at Falmouth – where local craftsmanship meets culinary artistry – is a must-do. Sample authentic Jamaican snacks and sweets from local food vendors while browsing handmade crafts and artwork. Don’t miss the opportunity to pick up some unique, locally-made kitchen tools or spice blends to take home.
Where to Stay: Half Moon Resort is a luxurious resort nestled on the northern coastline, offering over 400 acres of pristine beaches, golf, wellness and dining experiences. From elegant fine dining to casual beachside restaurants, Half Moon showcases unique dishes, including locally sourced Jamaican specialities and fresh seafood, crafted by world-class chefs. Personalised dining and exclusive gourmet experiences, such as themed dinners, cooking classes, and wine tastings, add an extra layer of enjoyment perfect for culinary voyagers expecting excellence. Prices start from £311 per night.
Wellness & Serenity Seekers
Personality: With a focus on health and wellbeing, you prefer destinations that offer activities and culinary choices that align with your day-to-day preferences. You seek serene environments to reconnect with yourself and nature and partake in retreats or activities that recharge your batteries.
The Area for You: Oracabessa, St Mary Parish
Why: Oracabessa is a peaceful small town on the North Coast of Jamaica, offering yoga retreats, organic food, and spa treatments in a beautiful setting. The tranquil environment is perfect for relaxation, with stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches and lush landscapes, perfect for rejuvenation. It’s also a great spot for fresh, organic ingredients, outdoor activities, hiking and kayaking, creating an ideal destination for rejuvenation of both body and mind.
What to do: The Sun Valley Plantation in Oracabessa offers the chance to engage all senses through an exploration of medicinal plants and herbs, and their profound wellness benefits deeply rooted in Jamaica’s practices. Located near Oracabessa, just a few minutes from GoldenEye, James Bond Beach offers a beautiful location for outdoor activities such as swimming, paddleboarding, and meditation by the sea. The beach is quiet and perfect for those seeking relaxation or a scenic place for yoga.
Where to Stay: GoldenEye, the birthplace of the James Bond novels and the private estate of Ian Fleming has been transformed into an exclusive getaway, offering private beach villas, cottages and suites surrounded by natural beauty. The backdrop of iconic Bond movie moments, GoldenEye offers wellness lovers serene settings on the island’s lush northern coast, with yoga, meditation, and fitness activities. Guests can enjoy the luxurious spa, secluded villas, healthy dining options, swimming, snorkelling and nature walks for a peaceful retreat. Prices start from £327 per night.
Ready to discover your perfect Jamaican getaway? Visit www.visitjamaica.com to explore our personality-matched destinations for an adventure that’s tailor-made for you!
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