Top 10 Best Beaches in Jamaica

Actually, the beach is about five miles long, but who cares about specifics when you have white sands and sunsets like these? Whatever the length, there are more beach activities than you can shake a flip flop at, with watersports companies, bars and restaurants galore. They’ve sectioned off swimming areas, where you can float about on gorgeously clear water. If you stay for the sunset – do! – slather on some insect repellent to ward off the sandflies.

Rumour has it the notorious pirate Calico Jack was captured here after a vicious battle back in the age of the buccaneers, which might explain the name… There’s no gore to be seen these days, just soft white sands, brilliant blue waters and sunsets that dye the skies rusty red. A popular spot with locals and tourists, the stretch is home to a handful of all-inclusive hotels, bars and restaurants.

Just off the ‘Hip Strip’ of Gloucester Avenue, Doctor’s Cave had quite the reputation in the twenties, when people would travel hundreds of miles to experience its healing waters. It’s also famously pretty, with pale golden sands, palms and clear, calm sea. You usually have to pay a small entry fee for access via the Bathing Club (around 6 US dollars per person) where you’ll find gift shops, shower facilities and umbrellas and deckchairs to rent.

Water that pours down the glorious Dunn’s River Falls flows into the Caribbean Sea on this beautiful stretch of beach. Just the spot to put your feet up after climbing the falls. 

Head east to Oracabessa, former home of Fleming, and spend the day on James Bond Beach. You don’t have to be a 007 superfan (though you soon might be), it just has a wonderfully secluded feel, with a nice balance of things to do. Get involved with the activities at the water sports centre or kick back and enjoy good food or cocktails at the restaurant and bar. The beach belongs to Chris Blackwell, founder of Island Records, who owns a few of the hotels in the area. 

This one’s fabulously easy to reach, just off Ocho Rio’s Main Street. Once you’re there, you’ll find white sand and a calm sea protected by an offshore reef, forming Ochi’s biggest beach. Paddle around the swimming area or try your hand at windsurfing, scuba diving or jet skiing. 

The aptly named Treasure Beach in St. Elizabeth is a real looker with its fine sand and glistening sea. It isn't one of those overly packed tourist hotspots where you have to fight for a spot on the sand.

Set on the edge of a fishing village, this beach lets you enjoy the beauty and real culture of Jamaica, as there is an abundance of restaurants for you to try fresh local seafood (with classics like jerk chicken). This isn't a beach for watersports, but it's perfect if you want a wonderfully chilled out day and to enjoy authentic Jamaican culture. 

Frenchman's Cove is one of those otherworldly magical beaches, almost like stepping into a tropical Narnia. Where else can you see a river and sea combine to make a tropical paradise. The golden sands are shaded by a canopy of emerald trees, leading to a sea as clear as glass.

There's even a wooden swing hanging from one of the trees over the river - it doesn’t get more photo-worthy than that. While this beach does charge a bit for entry, it's more than worth it for such a unique experience. 

Winifred Beach is one of the most beautiful and ethical beaches you could visit in Jamaica. Many of the island's most stunning beaches have been privatised by various resorts that now charge entrance fees - which most local people can't afford. However, the locals here fought the privatisation of this beach and now it’s a paradise where locals and tourists co-exist peacefully. Enjoy the pearly white sand and swim in the sea while knowing you're supporting the local community. 

This is one of the best beaches to experience Jamaican food and culture, especially against the picturesque background of the forest. The Jerk Centre is a highly rated food vendor that cooks up tasty jerk chicken and roast breadfruit right on the beachfront. Locals even love the food here, so you know it's authentic. Aside from the food, this is a top beach for surfing and you can rent a boards here.