At the western end of Jamaica, laidback Negril maintains the sleepy tropical charm that first attracted tourists in the 1960s. One of the main draws is idyllic Negril Beach. Also known as Seven Mile Beach, this stunning stretch of soft, white sand and azure sea fronts many of Negril's hotels and resorts, which lie nestled in groves of coconut palms.
Clothing-optional sunbathing in designated areas is part of the relaxed attitude here. Those who manage to drag themselves off the beach can cruise out to Booby Cay for a picnic, dive or snorkel the coral reefs, soak in therapeutic mineral springs, or venture into the Great Morasswetlands where royal palms, birds, and crocodiles thrive. After a day of relaxation and adventure, head to the famous Negril Cliffs where tourists and locals alike gather to watch divers plunge from the limestone peaks as the sun slides into the sea.
1 Negril Beach
Stretching from Bloody Bay in the north to Long Bay and the Negril Cliffs in the south, Negril Beach, is one of Jamaica's finest stretches of shoreline. Also known as Seven Mile Beach, this idyllic stretch of soft sand and turquoise sea is great for strolling, swimming, and sunbathing. Hotels and restaurants line the shore tucked behind coconut palms and several areas are designated as clothing optional. Visitors will find plenty of watersports on offer as well as many hawkers wandering the beach selling souvenirs.
Address: Norman Manley Blvd, Negril
Official site: http://www.visitjamaica.com/explore-the-island/negril
Accomodation: Where to Stay in Negril - TripAdvisor.com
2 Negril Cliffs
Rising above the sea, south of Negril Beach, the picturesque Negril Cliffs were used as a backdrop for the James Bond film "Thunderball". At their highest points, these limestone outcrops rise up to 12 meters high. Rick's Café, perched above the ocean, is a popular spot to relax at sunset and watch locals and visitors leap from the cliffs into the calm sea below.
Location: West End, Westmoreland Parish
Official site: http://www.rickscafejamaica.com/
3 Negril Lighthouse
Built in 1894, this white lighthouse towers 30 meters above sea level and is the highest structure in Negril. Visitors can climb the narrow stairs to reach the top of the structure and enjoy spectacular views of the coast from the observation deck. This is also a beautiful spot to watch the sunset, and the attraction lies within walking distance from popular Rick's Café.
4 Great Morass
Stretching for 16 kilometers from the South Negril River to Orange Bay, the Great Morass is an area of protected wetlands, which harbor crocodiles, butterflies, turtles, and many species of birds. Most visitors to the Morass head to the 351-acre Royal Palm Preserve, about 20 minutes drive from Negril. The preserve protects the largest stand of Jamaican Royal Palms in the world and encompasses a small nature museum, boardwalks, and lookouts. Fishing, birding, nature walks, and picnics are popular things to do in the area.
5 Booby Cay
Just off Negril Beach, Booby Cay is a popular spot for snorkeling, sunbathing, and picnics. The island is most likely named for the sea bird, the blue-footed booby, although visitors are not likely to find any boobies on the island today. Glass bottomed boats whisk visitors out to the cay from many Negril hotels, or visitors can zoom over on jet skis. The highlight attraction is feasting on fresh lobster grilled on the beach by locals.
6 Kool Runnings Adventure Park
At Kool Runnings Adventure Park, visitors can find many things to do: drift around the lazy river ride, zoom down Jamaican-themed waterslides, cruise around in go-karts, and bounce on the bungee trampoline. Small children will love the interactive playground and carousel, and the small heritage museum provides a glimpse of Jamaican history. After a day of water-themed fun, guests can relax at the onsite restaurants.
Address: Norman Manley Boulevard, Negril
Official site: www.koolrunnings.com
7 Half Moon Beach
Private Half Moon Beach is a peaceful slice of hammock-slung coast where guests come to relax at the open-air restaurant and dine on fresh-grilled lobster. Wooden cabins and camping are also available on the property.
Location: Green Island, Hanover
Official site: http://halfmoonbeachjamaica.com/
8 Blue Hole Mineral Spring
About 25 minutes southeast of Negril, Blue Hole Mineral Spring lies in a limestone cavern where tourists come to soak in the cool clear waters and test the claim of its therapeutic qualities. The white clay-like mud surrounding the spring is said to be soothing for the skin. More agile visitors can jump off a cliff into the chilly waters or climb down a ladder, while those who are physically challenged can soak in the spring-fed swimming pool.
Location: Brighton District, Westmoreland Parish
Official site: https://www.facebook.com/BlueHoleMineralSpringJamaica/info
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