Kingston is Jamaica’s capital and biggest metropolitan area. The metropolis is comprised of the City of Kingston and parts of the neighbouring parish of St. Andrew. Nearby is Portmore, a growing city in the parish of St. Catherine.
Kingston is nestled between the majestic Blue Mountain range and the Kingston Harbour and hosts several great cultural and historical attractions.
The Blue Mountains form the longest mountain range along the eastern edge of Jamaica and features majestic scenery. Many people hike or bike through the mountains to witness first hand nature at its finest. This under-explored area is also the source of the world famous and fragrant Blue Mountain Coffee.More Information
The museum is situated on the site of the legendary musician’s home, which he purchased in 1975. This house, featuring 19th-century architecture, was Marley’s home until his death in 1981. It was converted into a museum six years later by his wife, Mrs. Rita Marley. The main museum displays Marley’s personal treasures.The property also features a well-equipped 80-seat theatre, a photographic gallery, and a gift shop selling T-shirts, posters and CDs and other Bob Marley memorabilia as well as items from Jamaica. You can also tickle your palate with sumptuous meals from the Legend Cafe. The venue allows you to see every aspect of the life of Bob Marley.
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Devon House is one of Jamaica’s leading national monuments and a symbol of the cultural diversity, which makes this island a unique choice for thousands of visitors. This 127 year old site located in the heart of metropolis Kingston, Jamaica’s capital, offers a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city. The 11-acre property with its lush sprawling lawns provides an ambience that soothes the mind and soul, and offers an enviable shopping experience for both local and overseas visitors. Patrons to Devon House can partake in the fascinating history of the site, which was built by Jamaica’s first black millionaire George Stiebel.More Information
The morning breeze ushers in dawn’s new light as joggers commence the day’s ever-changing cycle. A rare jewel in the heart of Kingston city, Emancipation Park is a refuge for many who seek solitude and a soothing ambience away from the hustle and bustle of daily living. It’s an oasis where one can rejuvenate among its lush seven-acre landscape that symbolizes the legendary beauty of the island of Jamaica. Nature lovers can bask in the Park’s scenery lined with tropical flowers and trees such as the majestic Royal Palm, its branches stretching outwards beckoning to the skies. Art lovers can appreciate the beautifully crafted 11ft. bronze sculpture “Redemption Song” by celebrated Jamaican artist, Laura Facey that graces the ceremonial entrance of the Park.More Information
Hope Gardens is a beautiful park and botanical garden located in the Kingston/St. Andrew metropolis. There are many rare and beautiful species of tropical plants and trees to be found there, including the Hibiscus elatus (blue mahoe), the national tree of Jamaica. Blue mahoe is a small spreading tree with flowers that open in primrose colour in the morning and change to orange and deep red as the day advances.More Information
Located right beside Hope Gardens, the Hope Zoo is home to 900 animals across 60 species, including indigenous, endangered, and endemic animals from Jamaica, Africa, and the Americas. Among the main attractions is Lucas the Lion, which was a well anticipated addition to the animal population of the zoo.More Information
Port Royal is a town rich with some of the islands earliest history. Located at the end of the Palisadoes peninsula; it was originally colonized by the Spanish, but captured by the English in 1655. Its strategic location and natural harbor made Port Royal a favourite port for famous pirates and buccaneers such as Blackbeard, Captain Morgan and Calico Jack. Much of Port Royal sank after an earthquake in 1692, however this has added to the towns lore and sense of wonder and has created strange attractions such as the Giddy House.More Information
Hellshire Beach is located just south of Portmore, less than a half hours drive from Kingston. It is famed for its fried fish and lively atmosphere. One of the few spots you can get a true taste of the fun and excitement of Jamaica’s local beach going experience. Eat from a seemingly endless selection of seafood huts, each with their own unique flavor. Take a ride on horseback or jet ski, the choice is yours.More Information
A quieter alternative to Hellshire Beach is the adjacent Fort Clarence Beach. Unlike Hellshire Beach, there is a small charge (approximately $150JA) to enter. As a result the beach is far less crowded, there are far fewer vendors and no harassment from hustlers.More Information
Fifteen minutes by boat from Port Royal is a small, low-lying island cay with one of the most beautiful beaches in Jamaica. The largest of the many small tiny islands off the coast of Port Royal, Lime Cay is the perfect spot for a secluded evening of fun and relaxation. Sundays on Lime Cay is a favorite beach getaway for city folk as the tiny island pulsates with life, laughter and good times. Lime Cay features some of the best snorkeling on the south-east coast of Jamaica.More Information
The easiest way to enjoy the scenery and majesty of the Blue Mountains is at the Holywell National Recreation Park. The park offers five signposted trails, a ranger station, bathroom facilities and picnic / barbeque areas.The 330 acre park stands approximately one kilometer above sea level and is the most popular destination within the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park.
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