Port Antonio: A Fascinating Coastal Town
One of the biggest ports in the country, Port Antonio, Jamaica is well-known for being a shipping point for bananas as well as coconuts. Before, it was a settlement first founded in Spain Jamaica as Puerto Anton. It used to be a sleepy coastal town until Lorenzo Dow Baker began the banana trade in the country. As such, he was also able to promote the town as an interesting destination for travelers.
Best Time to Visit
With a tropical rainforest climate, the ideal time to visit Port Antonio is anytime during the months of November through July. Tourists just need to be cautious about the peak tourist season, which is usually in the months of January, May, and December. People are least likely to visit in October. An interesting event that attracts anglers happens every late September, Port Antonio International Marlin Tournament. Basically, the competitors strive to catch the largest blue marlin. The Port Antonio Local Canoe Tournament is also held at the same time.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Travelers may visit the 200-foot deep Blue Lagoon, which is perfect for family vacations and honeymoons. Usually, the color of the water changes throughout the day, depending on how the sun shines upon its surface. Then, there is Rio Grande, one of the biggest rivers in the Jamaica. Its name, which literally means “big river”, came from the Spanish. They named it when they occupied the country. Today, it is a popular destination for rafting. Tourists may stay at some of the excellent Port Antonio hotels in town, such as The Jamaica Palace Hotel, which offers an outdoor pool as well as banquet hall and a coffee shop; and the Hotel Mocking Bird Hill that features a restaurant and an outdoor pool.