Things To Do
in Port Maria
Port Maria sits on Jamaica's northeast coast as the parish capital of Saint Mary, where the sea meets a working town with a laid-back vibe. The harbor, market stalls, and colonial-era buildings give the area a distinct, authentic Caribbean character. Surrounded by rolling green hills and lush scenery, it serves as a practical base for day trips to beaches, rivers, and nearby attractions.
Visitors can sample fresh seafood, enjoy reggae rhythms, and experience the friendly pace of life along Jamaica's coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up to the lively sounds of fishermen unloading their catch at Port Maria Harbour as you drive in from the airport. Enjoy a ginger tea and freshly baked festival bun at a waterfront café. Feel the gentle sea breeze as you settle into your seaside guesthouse.
Stroll through the colorful streets of Port Maria, popping into local craft shops and meeting artisans. Visit the parish church built in 1840 and admire its colonial architecture. Sample Jamaican patties and fresh fruit from street vendors as you wander.
Enjoy a sunset dinner of grilled snapper at a beachside restaurant overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Listen to live mento rhythms drifting from nearby bars. End the night with a quiet walk along the moonlit shore.
Explore the 18th-century ruins of Fort Haldane perched atop a hill overlooking Port Maria. Wander among cannon emplacements and hear tales of colonial battles and pirate lore. Capture panoramic views of the coastline from this historic vantage point.
Descend into town for a visit to the Port Maria Historical Museum housed in an old courthouse. Examine exhibits on sugar plantations, local folklore, and the town’s role in Jamaica’s independence movement. Chat with a friendly guide to uncover hidden anecdotes.
Sample artisanal rum cocktails at a heritage bar frequented by locals. Watch the sunset paint the fort’s stones golden as you sip. Mingle with residents and learn about their family histories tied to these very walls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a cafe | $20-30 |
| 🏨One night in mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for two | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic small-town Caribbean vibe with easy access to beaches
- Friendly locals, flavorful cuisine, and affordable prices
- Relaxed pace and strong connection to natural scenery
- Good base for day trips to nearby rivers, coastlines, and markets
- Limited nightlife compared to larger tourist hubs
- Fewer high-end dining and luxury options
- Public transportation can be irregular; plan ahead
- Some areas may have limited English-language services in very rural pockets
- "Wah gwaan?" - What's up? / Hello
- "Mi deh yah." - I'm here / I'm good.
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
- "Sorry" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "How much is this?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Port Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful fishing boats, wooden piers, and golden hour light along the harbor create classic seascapes.
Bustling stalls, baskets of vibrant tropical fruit, and candid portrait opportunities with locals at work.
Colonial-era architecture and quiet squares ideal for architectural detail shots and street photography.
Panoramic coastal views at sunset, with dramatic skies and the Caribbean horizon.
Food in Port Maria
Port Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoky, spicy chicken served with coconut-flavored rice and beans, a staple at casual eateries and roadside jerk shacks.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish grilled with herbs, lime, and local spices, often served with bammy or festival.
Jamaica's national dish, featuring salted cod and creamy ackee served with dumplings or fried plantains.
Rich goat curry slow-cooked with a blend of spices and served with white rice or roti.
Sautéed leafy greens with salted cod, a common side or breakfast option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling daily market where you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, spices, and quick street bites from local vendors.
Street-side patties, coco bread, bammy, and jerk wraps near the harbor—great for a quick, flavorful bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are appreciated—say good morning/afternoon when entering shops or homes.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites or rural communities; avoid flashy outfits in small villages.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; be mindful of private property and cultural sensitivities.
Safety
Tipping in Port Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, leave 10–15% if service is not included; tip taxi drivers modestly, and consider small amounts for hotel staff.
Cash is widely accepted; Jamaican dollars (JMD) and US dollars are common; many places also take cards, especially in larger establishments, but carry cash for street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with steady trade winds; brief afternoon showers are common. Great for swimming, beach time, and outdoor markets.
Typically warm with occasional rain; crowds ease slightly, making it a good time for cultural events and relaxed coastal exploration.
Pleasantly warm days and cooler evenings; ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing with comfortable temperatures.
Dry, sunny days with calm seas; good conditions for snorkeling, hikes, and urban strolls before the rainy season resumes.
Port Maria at Night
Hiking in Port Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short coastal hikes with scenic sea views and breezes; suitable for most fitness levels.
Day trips to nearby cascades and river trails offering refreshing swims.
Hike in nearby highland vantage points to catch panoramic views and lush coffee-region scenery.
Airports
How to reach Port Maria by plane.
A small airport serving the northeast coast near Ocho Rios; convenient for quick access from Kingston or Montego Bay.
Kingston-based international gateway offering broader flight options and connections.
Montego Bay’s international hub with extensive Caribbean and international connections.
Domestic airstrip near Port Antonio for short domestic hops and charters; useful for day trips to the northeast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community makeup with a strong fishing and market-based economy.
A growing segment oriented around markets, eateries, and coastal attractions.
Seasonal travelers exploring the northeast coast and nearby beaches.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple pastime and competitive sport across Jamaica, commonly played in parks and school grounds.
Very popular; watchlocal league games and street football in communities.
Traditional seaside activities tied to coastal livelihoods and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie patties, callaloo dishes, dumplings, and fruit plates; clearly communicate with cooks and ask about broths or sauces.
Ask about fried coatings and sauces; opt for grilled items and fresh salads, and confirm ingredients with staff.