Port Antonio Hotels, Villas

Frenchman's Cove. A favorite with European travelers, this expansive property with many room types is located on one of the prettiest little beaches in Jamaica.

Great Huts at Boston Beach. Operated by a friendly, helpful staff, Great Huts is one of the most unusual properties in Jamaica...literally huts, some with sand floors. Rates are low (as are amenities); be sure that you're OK with minimal niceties before booking this ultracasual property that's close to camping.

Hotel Mocking Bird Hill. This 10-room hotel is often cited for its eco-friendly policies. It uses solar energy and locally produced furniture and the grounds feature local plantings. Even the restaurant, the excellent Mille Fleurs, uses local produce. This property is very popular with ecotourists and offers many tours that explore the natural attractions of the Port Antonio area. Also see: Interview with Hotel Mocking Bird Hill owners; Hotel Mocking Bird Hill mission statement; birding at Hotel Mocking Bird Hill

Jamaica Palace. Jamaica Palace is built like a 17th-century Italian palace. The black and white floor tiles that surround the exterior echo the black lacquered furniture inside. Persian rugs and unusual antiques fill the property. The hotel’s pool is built in the shape of Jamaica.

Trident. This longtime favorite of the well-heeled crowd is one of Port Antonio’s top resorts. The atmosphere is super-quiet (when we had lunch here we were the only diners, and were accompanied by a few elegant peacocks that strolled through the open-air restaurant). Look around for familiar celebrity faces. This resort has long drawn stars, and recently was used as a setting for the movie Shattered Image. Guest rooms are elegant and private; dining here is white-gloved and equally cultivated. There is a small beach area, but most of the property is bordered by rugged rocks which are pounded by the sea night and day – truly a stunning sight. It is well worth coming out just for a look around the property and a meal. NOTE: At the present time, Trident is undergoing a major renovation.