Best Beaches in Jamaica

Beach Tomato soaks up the unique Jamaican spirit, trekking mountains and exploring tropical forests in search of the best beaches Jamaica has to offer.

If we were peddling clichés we would just be talking about relaxed vibes and chilling out when it comes to this beautiful island. And look, we’re not going to lie, it truly does deliver on that. But with that comes a lot more – there are mountains that need trekking, tropical forests to be explored, corals for snorkelling and bars to be danced in. And then when you’re all exercised out you can hit the beach to soak up some of that unique Jamaican coastal spirit and drift away. Check out some of our favourite stretches of sand on this very special island.

Boston Bay Beach, Portland

Now, it would be impossible not to highlight some of the wonderful food that Jamaica is known for, so we suggest you visit Boston Bay to chow down on some of the most sumptuous Jerk pork. But obviously it’s not just about the food. The rocks surrounding the bay churn up the water and make it a fantastic place to surf, too. However, we wouldn’t advise you to do both at the same time, and probably think it best to get the surfing in before you tuck into the Jerk. But whichever order you follow, you must head to Boston Bay for these two classic (and rather memorable) Jamaican experiences.

Doctor’s Cove, Montego Bay

This is one of the east coast’s highlights- and for good reason. Picture perfect sands and calm waters fed by crystal clear mineral springs make Doctor’s Cove our favourite beach in Jamaica. It has all the Jamaican ingredients that ensure that it keeps pole position – lively scene, golden sands, roasting sunshine (and a sprinkling of Jerk seasoning). Mo Bay is beloved by many but tranquil enough to have downtime in between reggae beats. Just how we like it.

Winnifred Beach, Portland

The favourite of many Jamaica aficionado and further off the beaten path than most, this is the true home to the archetypal laid back Jamaican atmosphere. Cradled by peninsulas, sparkling sands and calm, crystal waters, Winnifred Beach is the ultimate bathing and snorkelling spot. After some reef exploration, visitors refuel by grabbing a Red Stripe and some Jerk directly off the smoking pimento woods from the many stalls that punctuate this stretch of beach. Just remember the 30 minute rule before heading back into the waters. After one serving, many tend to return to the stalls for seconds. And thirds. Photograph; Mina-Mikh.

Lime Cay

Calling all buccaneers: For the perfect pirate hideaway, hop on a fishing boat at Port Royal and a few short minutes away awaits this tiny, uninhabited haven. Tropical forest dominates the centre of the island and left a neat ring of golden sandy beaches around the periphery (how thoughtful). For a true castaway atmosphere (occasionally stub your toe on 18th and 19th century pirate bounty) Lime Cay is just a couple of hectares of white sand paradise matey. On the weekends, however, locals flock here for pure party time so if you intend to stay and join the 48 hour festivities, pack your beach bag well– it’s not a quick swim back across the ‘high seas’.

Hellshire Beach

Heading southwards towards Hellshire Hills you can’t help but notice the glistening stretches of soft sands that make up Hellshire Beach. Famed for its seafood, festivals and fringes of palm trees – this is a popular fishing spot and the perfect place to pick up a crustacean of choice for dinner or unique souvenir. Oozing with personality, this is the number one stretch for those who would prefer a bit of activity at the beach without having to fight for a spot on the sand.

Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth

If you want to get away from it all, you’re sure to find a secluded corner here in one of the private coves, or along the six miles of sandy shoreline. With both fishing and farming communities that line this stretch of coast, Treasure Beach produces a genuinely authentic Jamaican experience that brings a laidback air to the coast and surrounding environment- ya mon. The gorgeous waters are perfect for a wee snorkel before wandering into one of the sleepy villages to enjoy some of the freshest seafood you will have ever had. Now that sounds like something we could be jammin’ about.

Long Bay, Negril

Boasting the longest beach in Jamaica, Long Bay has bounds of personality. Whether you’re a thrill seeker looking for that extreme 40 foot cliff-dive, the slightly more relaxed jet skier or a keen snapper looking for cracking views and blindingly white sands – it’s all neatly bundled into one gorgeous package, here. But at the far northern end, Long Bay is one of Jamaica’s most unpretentious and casual sandy stretches – so laid back it’s horizontal. This is where you lose sense of time – and (be warned) sometimes your swimwear.