Seven Mile Beach, famous for being a favorite hot spot of the 1960's hippie movement, is home to a care-free, laid-back environment that includes nude bathing. Although it was once an idyllic retreat into natural Jamaica, now this area is more of a tourist attraction than a hippie retreat. If you are visiting this beach, expect to see many sun worshipers wearing nothing but their birthday suits. Many of the resorts also host nude beaches as well as bars, hot tubs and swimming pools.
For the more clothing-conscious or for visitors with children, Montego Bay offers several appropriate beaches. Cornwall Beach is lively and happening, offering a variety of concessions and water-sport activities. Also a great place to visit, Walter Fletcher Beach is guarded from the surf, and on windier days, offers exceptional bathing and swimming opportunities that may not be found elsewhere. With calmer waters, this beach is recommended for a visit with children.
MoBay's most famous bathing spot, Doctor's Cove Beach, was founded in 1906 when a group of doctors banded together to bathe here. At the time, access to the small cave was limited, and it was later destroyed by a 1932 hurricane. Although the cave is no longer there, the popularity of the bathing spot lived on, especially when Sir Herbert Bake claimed in 1920 that the waters in this location had curative powers. The crystal clear water, almost always between 78 degrees F and 84 degrees F, is fed by mineral springs. Admission costs approximately $5(USD), and there are plenty of changing areas and showers, as well as dining options.
Boston Bay Beach, an easily missed but beautiful bathing area, is just outside Port Antonio, perfect for small fishing trips and surfing. Snack stands around the beach serve delicious jerk pork, a tradition in Jamaica. Formerly owned by author Roger Moore (The Happy Hooker and The Greek Berets), he donated this small beach to the Jamaican government.
Frenchman's Bay is said to be among the most beautiful beaches in the world. For a small charge--approximately $3(USD)--a visitor can sunbathe, swim, body surf, or simply relax in the shaded parts of this gorgeous Jamaican treasure.
Blue Lagoon Beach is famous for hosting Brooke Shields in the movie Blue Lagoon. The deep water is a gorgeous shade of cobalt blue and is excellent for swimming and enjoying the environment.
Of course, these fantastic beaches are just the tip of what the island has to offer along its shores. Jamaica is surrounded by beautiful beaches and, of course, the crystalline waters of the Caribbean.
