Things To Do
in Port Maria
Port Maria is a picturesque coastal town located in the parish of St. Mary, Jamaica. It is known for its stunning sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush green mountains surrounding the area. Visitors can enjoy exploring historic landmarks such as Fort Haldane and the St. Mary Parish Church.
The town also offers authentic Jamaican cuisine, vibrant local markets, and a laid-back atmosphere ideal for relaxation and exploration.
- "Wah Gwaan" - What's going on
- "Mi deh yah" - I am here
- "Nuh worry yuhself" - Don't worry yourself
- "Yuh done know" - You already know
- "Big up" - Respect or praise
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at a local café. Visit the nearby beaches and enjoy the sun and sea.
Take a guided tour of the historic sites around Port Maria, including the town square. Have lunch at a seaside restaurant with local cuisine.
Watch the sunset from James Bond Beach. Dine at a local eatery while enjoying live reggae music.
Hike the lush hills surrounding Port Maria for stunning views and fresh jungle air. Pack some snacks for a mid-morning picnic.
Explore the nearby Blue Hole for some swimming and cliff diving. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the natural beauty.
Return to Port Maria and visit the local market for souvenirs. Enjoy a beachfront dinner with freshly caught seafood.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Access to various water sports and outdoor activities
- Less commercialized than other tourist destinations in Jamaica
- Limited infrastructure and facilities compared to larger cities
- Potential for crime and safety concerns in certain areas
- Less variety in dining and entertainment options
- Vulnerable to hurricanes and severe weather conditions
- Economic challenges leading to fewer job opportunities
Best Activities in Port Maria
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning trails of the Blue Mountains, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Ideal for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Relax and unwind on the beautiful James Bond Beach, known for its clear waters and golden sands. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beachside refreshments.
Take a day trip to the iconic Dunn's River Falls, where you can climb the cascading waterfalls and swim in the natural pools.
Discover the vibrant marine life at the Blue Hole. This snorkeling spot is perfect for exploring coral reefs and enjoying a refreshing swim.
Experience the rich biodiversity of Jamaican bird species in the Blue Mahoe Nature Reserve. A perfect activity for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Take an ATV tour through the beautiful countryside, traversing trails and enjoying the scenic views of the rural landscape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Port Maria with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Port Maria
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its scenic beauty and turquoise waters, James Bond Beach offers stunning coastal views and opportunities for capturing the essence of Jamaica.
A picturesque location with crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life, Blue Harbour provides excellent photo opportunities of nature and the sunset.
Just a short drive from Port Maria, this beach features beautiful sand and clear waters, perfect for capturing moments of relaxation and beauty.
This serene spot along the river provides a unique vantage point for taking photos of the lush Jamaican landscape and tranquil waters.
The town itself has colorful buildings and local markets that provide a vibrant backdrop for street photography and capturing the local culture.
Food in Port Maria
Port Maria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Marinated in a blend of spices and slow-cooked over pimento wood, jerk chicken is a must-try local specialty. Visit Scotchies, a renowned jerk center, for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
The national dish of Jamaica, ackee and saltfish combines the delicate ackee fruit with seasoned cod. Savour this dish at local eateries like Miss T's Kitchen or Mama Marley's.
Tender goat meat stewed in curry spices, often served with rice and peas. Enjoy this flavorful dish at vendors in the town center or at Pelican Grill.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Port Maria better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Port Maria Market where vendors offer an array of fresh produce, spices, and local street food such as fried plantains, bammy, and fish fritters.
Take a stroll along Gloucester Avenue to sample an assortment of authentic Jamaican street food, including spicy jerk meats, festival, and coconut drops.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Port Maria, it's customary to greet people warmly with phrases like 'hello' or 'how yuh stay?'. A firm handshake and a smile are common and appreciated, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
When visiting communities or local events, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Wearing casual, but tidy clothing is advisable, particularly in religious settings.
Showing respect to elders is a significant cultural norm. Use titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' when addressing older individuals, and take time to listen to their wisdom and stories.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Port Maria with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Port Maria
Ensure a smooth experience
In Port Maria, Jamaica, tipping is customary in the service industry. It is common to tip around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants, and for other services like taxi drivers or tour guides, a tip of around $1 to $5 Jamaican dollars is appreciated. Tipping is seen as a way to acknowledge good service.
Payments in Port Maria can be made in cash, with Jamaican dollars being the primary currency. Some establishments may accept US dollars, but it is advisable to use local currency. Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to check beforehand as not all places may have card facilities. Mobile payment options are also becoming more common.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Port Maria.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the peak tourist season in Port Maria, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Visitors can expect dry conditions, ideal for beach activities and exploring local attractions.
Spring brings warmer temperatures and occasional rain showers. This is a great time to visit for those who prefer fewer crowds, and it's perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and touring the local landscape.
Summer is hot and humid, with higher chances of rainfall and tropical storms, especially in August. Despite the heat, many visitors enjoy the vibrant cultural festivals and beach events that take place during this season.
Fall is the hurricane season, with an increased risk of storms. However, this period also offers good deals on accommodations. Visitors can experience the local culture and enjoy quieter attractions post-summer.
Port Maria at Night
Hiking in Port Maria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest point in Jamaica, offering challenging trails and breathtaking views of the Blue Mountains and surrounding areas.
A scenic hiking area with lush foliage and panoramic views, located near the Blue Mountains National Park.
Offers guided hiking tours through the forests and mountains of the Blue Mountain region, suitable for various skill levels.
Features rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems, with trails that lead hikers through remote areas rich in wildlife.
A family-friendly area with easy hiking trails, picnic spots, and cool mountain air located in the Blue Mountains.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Port Maria through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Port Maria by plane.
Located in Montego Bay, approximately 75.5 km west of Port Maria, this is the busiest international airport in Jamaica.
Located in Kingston, approximately 64.3 km southwest of Port Maria, this airport serves the capital city and has various international flights.
Located in Ocho Rios, approximately 22.5 km west of Port Maria, this smaller airport serves charter and some scheduled flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Port Maria is of African descent, reflecting the historical legacy of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
Many residents in Port Maria identify as having mixed ancestry, which can include African, European, and Indigenous roots.
A smaller segment of the population is of European descent, mainly from colonial times and more recent immigrants.
There is a very small number of residents who identify as Indigenous or of Taino descent, reflecting the pre-colonial history of the region.
Port Maria also has a presence of other minority groups, though they constitute a small percentage of the population.
The Soul of Port Maria
Discover the essence of Port Maria through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is extremely popular in Port Maria and throughout Jamaica, with many local teams and matches played regularly.
Football is a widely played sport in Port Maria, with several leagues and community teams engaging in the sport.
Netball enjoys popularity, especially among women and girls, with many schools and clubs participating in local competitions.
Track and field events are highly recognized, with local athletes often competing in various meets and championships.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, with numerous courts available and local teams participating in tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Maria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional dishes feature meat or fish, several eateries in Port Maria offer delicious vegetarian and vegan alternatives such as roasted breadfruit, callaloo, and vegetable patties.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can relish dishes like grilled fish, rice and peas, and fresh fruit, widely available at local restaurants and food stalls.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Port Maria with these cultural adventures.