The Complete Guide to a Port Antonio Honeymoon

The destination is a romantic playground for water worshippers.
Port Antonio beach from above
Photo: Shutterstock
sheryl nance-nash - the knot freelance travel writer
by
Sheryl Nance-Nash
sheryl nance-nash - the knot freelance travel writer
Sheryl Nance-Nash
Travel Writer & Expert
  • Sheryl Nance-Nash is a freelance writer specializing in travel and personal finance.
  • She has reported and written for publications like Fodors, Conde Nast Traveler and the Wall Street Journal.
  • Travel is what feeds her adventurous spirit.
Updated Mar 07, 2024
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A Port Antonio honeymoon pretty much guarantees a gorgeous couples' retreat. Ask any Jamaican for the best honeymoon destination on the island and, no contest, they'll reply that it's the parish of Portland on the northeast coast. It scores high on the romance meter with lush, tropical vegetation everywhere, including breadfruit, banana and coconut trees. Honeymooners will see flowers in every color of the rainbow.

In this particular area of the island, couples will find the highest elevation in Jamaica with the Blue Mountain Peak rising to more than 7,400 feet. Water worshippers will be beside themselves too. The region boasts four waterfalls, world-class beaches and the turquoise Blue Lagoon, the site of an extinct volcano that plunges 180-feet-deep.

In the center of the beauty is Port Antonio, the parish's capital city. Back in the 1950s and 1960s, Port Antonio was a haven for Hollywood elites like Errol Flynn and the Rat Pack who wanted to get away from it all. It's still magical and ideal for a romantic getaway. Jamaica is an easy jaunt from the States, especially for those in the South and couples based along East Coast of the US.

When it comes to planning a honeymoon in Port Antonio, let us be your guide. From the best months to visit to the top things to do, here are our tips and recommendations.

Port Antonio Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

View of Port Antonio
Photo: Getty

Best Time to Visit for a Port Antonio Honeymoon

While there's never a bad time to be in Jamaica as year-round the temperatures are warm, the summer months can be scorching hot and humid. Late fall and the winter seasons are cooler, though temperatures are still around 80 degrees with lower humidity.

The fall though can be rainy, particularly from September through December—so the best time to visit would be anywhere between November and March. Peak tourist season is in from January to March, so if you like to avoid crowds, a honeymoon in Port Antonio during November or December might be most enjoyable.

Best weather: November to March.
Festival highlights: The Portland Jerk Festival in July is one of the largest food festivals in Jamaica celebrating jerk cuisine; The Maroon Festival in the nearby town of Charles Town is held in January and offers a deep dive into the rich heritage of the Maroon community with music, dancing and traditional ceremonies.

Port Antonio Honeymoon Planning Tips

Port Antonio is somewhat off the beaten path compared to Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Because you won't find hordes of tourists here, you don't have to worry about people hassling you to buy stuff when you're trying to tan on the beach. The vibe is definitely chill. You can stare into each other's eyes, uninterrupted. A Port Antonio honeymoon is perfect for newlyweds with the sultry jungle and sea right at your fingertips. (The rum punch will do its thing too.)

Well, there's a good reason why the greenery is so lush. It rains almost daily in the parish of Portland because it's along the path of the prevailing northeast trade winds that bring rain. But then again, as a newlywed, you might not mind being holed up in your hotel. The good news is, the rain is usually short-lived, so you likely won't lose an entire day.

You want to keep these things in mind before buying plane tickets:

Entry requirements: A valid US passport and proof of anticipated departure from Jamaica.
Language: The official language of Port Antonio, Jamaica is English, accompanied by a local dialect known as Patois (Patwa).
Location:
Port Antonio is located on the northeastern coast of Jamaica.
Currency:
The Jamaican Dollar (JMD).
Flight time to Destination:
If you're flying from Miami, it can take as little as 2 hours to fly to Jamaica.
Getting around:
Car, public buses, bicycle, by foot.

Pro tip: Invite a honeymoon planning expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for Port Antonio honeymoon expertise, reviews, testimonials and more.

Best Port Antonio Honeymoon Resorts & Hotels

From luxurious resorts and boutique hotels to Airbnbs and eco-friendly lodges, Port Antonio offers a range of honeymoon accommodations. Remember, don't hesitate to communicate with your stay about special honeymoon packages or offers. Here are our top picks.

Goblin Hill Villas at San San Bay
Photo: Goblin Hill Villas | San San Bay

Geejam Hotel

Secluded, luxurious and home to a music studio, Geejam Hotel is a boutique gem that has been a hideaway for A-list celebs like Rihanna, Beyonce and Jay-Z. Between the villas, cabins or "Rumba Rooms," couples will also enjoy the experience of taking in more than 40 pieces of art per booking. The infinity pool has a panoramic view of flora, fauna and the ocean. Relax on the private beach or take a kayak out to sea. If billiards are your thing, grab a cocktail from the bar and flaunt your skills at the outside pool table. The open-air Bush Bar offers ocean and mountain views–and did we mention it serves traditional Jamaican cuisine like jerked lamb chops?

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Kanopi House

Love is in the air at this secluded treehouse resort overlooking the Blue Lagoon. Set on a hillside amidst wise Banyan trees, Kanopi House has eight treehouses that are connected via stairs and winding bamboo pathways with ginger lilies and an array of flora and fauna. It's downright dreamy, just like your treehouse. The bed is so comfortable that you'll have a hard time getting out of it. The jungle vibe and the Blue Lagoon both contribute to a wildly romantic environment.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Goblin Hill Villas at San San Bay

With its 12 acres of lawns and gardens overlooking nearby San San Beach and Princess Nina Island, you might feel like you're on a movie set at Goblin Hill Villas. Settle into one of the lovely chairs on the lawn, take your eyes off each other for a moment, and take in the stunning sea and tropical flowers. You might even catch sight of hummingbirds fluttering through the natural environment. Arrange yoga in the gardens or get a massage to the sound of crashing waves. Dine alfresco from your villa deck for the perfect champagne toast.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: There are many gorgeous honeymoon resorts in Jamaica, so make sure to shop around before making your choice.

Things to Do in Port Antonio for Couples

A Port Antonio honeymoon means basking in Jamaica's natural beauty. The area provides a romantic backdrop for outdoor adventures, while its laid-back atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and quality time together. Here are some things to do together while your on your trip.

Bamboo skiff on Rio Grande
Photo: Getty

Go to Reach Falls

Just about 90 minutes away from Port Antonio is Reach Falls. Not only is the drive scenic, but the falls are something right out of a movie with underwater caves, a heart-shaped Jacuzzi, mountain views and more surrounded by the jungle. Some folks say the falls have healing properties, but you'll have to give it a try and see.

Raft the Rio Grande

Spend two-three hours winding your way down one of Jamaica's longest rivers on a bamboo raft. You can leave the driving up to the captain, but pack a swimsuit as you may want to stop for a swim.

Explore the Folly Point Lighthouse and Folly Ruins

The red and white facade of Folly Point Lighthouse was built in 1888. Forty feet high and constructed from fireproof masonry, the Folly Point Lighthouse flashes every 10 seconds via its solar-powered white light. The Folly Ruins will stir the imagination. This former mansion, which resembles a Roman castle, was built in 1905 and once had 60 rooms. Its ruins include an indoor swimming pool, sauna, stables and more.

Frolic in Frenchmen's Cove

Frenchmen's Cove, where water from the Blue Mountains flows out to the Caribbean Sea, is spectacular. In fact, the canopy of tropical greenery and white sand beaches are a bonus. This is the spot that wows honeymooners. If a vigorous swim stirs your appetite, you're in for a treat after indulging in the sea. Couples can enjoy Jamaican Escovitch Fish, a big red snapper, fried and marinated in a sauce of vinegar, spices, onions, carrots and peppers, rice and peas. It's served with bammy, a flatbread made from cassava.

Take in the Local Culture

Mingle with the locals at Winnifred Beach and experience the real Jamaica. The music will be pumping, young folks taking selfies, couples cuddling (like yourselves), and families relaxing. You'll want to take in the local food stands from vendors. You might find yourself even doing a little shopping with talented local artisans. A visit here may just be one of the best memories of your honeymoon.

Pro tip: Add Jamaica honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so loved ones can give you an activity to enjoy together on your Port Antonio honeymoon.

What to Pack for a Port Antonio Honeymoon

Jamaica, Port Antonio, blue lagoon
Photo: Getty

Packing several swimsuits in your honeymoon luggage is a must as Port Antonio is all about the beach. Put sunscreen, sunglasses and hats on your packing checklist. An absolute must is bug spray. The lush environment is also home to insects, like pesky mosquitoes. You'll want an umbrella because it will rain. During the day, couples can dress casually. Come evening, however, you'll want to show off a bit, so pack a statement outfit, especially if you're going to Geejam's Bush Bar.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.

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