Embarking on a road trip from Kingston to Port Antonio is a scenic way to see Jamaica. By renting a car in Jamaica, you can travel at your own pace and stop wherever you like. The drive from Kingston to Port Antonio is about 100 kilometers and takes you along the A4 coastal road. You'll pass through lively towns, green hills, and beautiful beaches. Read on to know how to make the most of this road trip.
Before driving in Jamaica, preparing well is important to ensure a smooth and safe trip.
To rent, you need a valid driver’s license. An international permit and a credit card for the security deposit are recommended. Car rental agencies are available at major airports like Kingston, Montego Bay, and most large towns.
Book online in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Choose a plan with full insurance coverage, including third-party liability protection, to stay safe and avoid unexpected costs.
Jamaicans drive on the left-hand side of the road. The speed limit is generally 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways. Road quality varies. Main roads are decent, but some rural routes can have potholes and limited lighting. Use GPS or offline maps, as mobile data may not work well in remote zones.
The best time to go on a road trip from Kingston to Port Antonio is between December and April. This is Jamaica’s dry season, so there’s less rain and warm, clear weather.
February and March are the driest months, which makes them great for driving and sightseeing. Roads are safer, and views are better without fog or heavy rain.
If possible, avoid June, October, and November. These months experience more rain, especially around Port Antonio, which could make the drive harder.
Plan your trip during the dry season to enjoy good weather and smooth travel.
Renting a car in Jamaica gives you full control over your stops, whether it’s for a quick dip in a lagoon or a bite of spicy jerk pork. Here’s a look at the must-see stops on the way to Port Antonio:
Located at 56 Hope Road, the Bob Marley Museum is an 8-minute drive from central Kingston. This historic home-turned-museum is the perfect first stop for any road trip across Jamaica.
The museum preserves Bob Marley's former residence, where he lived and recorded some of his greatest hits. Walking through the rooms, you can sense the reggae legend's energy and spirit. Each space tells a piece of his story, from his humble beginnings to his rise as a global cultural icon. His lyrics, lifestle, and activism are on full display.
You can view personal items like his stage outfits, handwritten notes, and favorite records. The tour also takes you into Marley’s original recording studio. Knowledgeable guides share stories about his career, personal beliefs, and legacy. The experience is rounded out by a small theater showcasing live footage, a gift shop with official merchandise, and a café that serves Jamaican dishes.
Located 30 kilometers northeast of Kingston, Castleton Botanical Gardens is a 45-minute drive from the Bob Marley Museum. Sitting along the Wag Water River, this peaceful garden is among the oldest in the Western Hemisphere.
The setting is quiet, filled with tropical plants, palms, and vibrant flowers. Forested hills surround the garden, and the air feels cooler here. Paths wind through towering bamboo and colorful blooms, perfect for a slow walk or picnic. The sound of the river nearby adds to the relaxing feel.
Castleton is a favorite weekend spot for locals who come to unwind by the water or take a short hike in nature. Travelers should visit here before heading to the countryside.
Located on the Palisadoes Peninsula near Kingston, Plumb Point Lighthouse is about 30 minutes from Castleton Botanical Gardens. Built in 1853, it is Jamaica's second-oldest lighthouse, guiding ships into Kingston Harbour.
The lighthouse is a 70-foot-tall stone and cast-iron structure painted white with a red lantern roof. Its light, flashing every nine seconds, is visible up to 25 miles from the sea.
Surrounding the lighthouse are serene coastal views and a tranquil atmosphere, and you can stop to appreciate Jamaica's maritime heritage. The area has historical significance and natural beauty.
Fort Charles is approximately a 10-minute walk from Plumb Point Lighthouse. Originally named Fort Cromwell, it was later renamed to honor King Charles II.
Fort Charles was crucial in defending Jamaica's coastline during the colonial era. Its strategic position at the entrance of Kingston Harbour allowed it to guard against potential naval threats. The fort's design, resembling the shape of a ship, reflects its maritime significance.
Visitors can explore the well-preserved structure, including its red-bricked walls and semi-circular gun ports. The fort houses a small museum showcasing artifacts from its storied past. Nearby, the Giddy House, an artillery storehouse tilted by the 1907 earthquake, offers a unique experience as visitors navigate its slanted floors.
Reach Falls is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Fort Charles in Port Royal. This journey takes you along Jamaica's scenic southeastern coastline.
Reach Falls is a hidden gem nestled in the Montane Forest of the John Crow Mountains. The waterfall cascades over a rock face into a clear, emerald pool, surrounded by dense tropical foliage. The area is home to over 23 species of ferns and various exotic birds.
Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pools or explore the caves and trails. One of the unique features of Reach Falls is the "Rabbit Hole," a heart-shaped natural jacuzzi. The site also provides picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a family outing or a retreat into nature.
Boston Beach is about a 30-minute drive from Reach Falls. This beach has vibrant waves, which are a great spot for surfing. Its soft, cream-colored sand and surrounding large rocks create a picturesque setting for visitors.
Beyond its natural beauty, Boston Beach is the birthplace of Jamaica's famous jerk cuisine. The nearby Boston Jerk Centre offers jerk dishes seasoned with traditional spices, including chicken and pork.
Facilities at Boston Beach include restrooms, changing rooms, showers, and gazebos, which are ideal for family outings or special events. The beach is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Lifeguards are on duty, so it’s a safe environment for swimmers and surfers.
Whether you're looking to catch some waves, savor authentic Jamaican jerk, or simply relax by the sea, Boston Beach offers these experiences for all visitors.
Located about a 30-minute drive from Boston Beach, the Blue Lagoon is one of Jamaica's most enchanting natural attractions. Its strikingly vibrant blue waters change hues throughout the day.
The lagoon is approximately 200 feet deep and is fed by warm Caribbean seawater and cold freshwater springs. Visitors often describe the sensation of swimming here as being gently massaged by alternating currents of warm and cool water.
The Blue Lagoon offers a serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation. It's ideal for swimming, rafting, or relaxing by the water's edge. The lagoon's natural beauty has also made it a popular filming location.
Port Antonio is a must-visit because it’s less crowded than other Jamaican hotspots. It’s home to some of Jamaica’s finest beaches and has long been a top spot for deep-sea fishing in the Caribbean. Here are some activities to do when you reach Port Antonio:
Experience a serene bamboo rafting journey along the Rio Grande River. Guided by local experts, this activity offers a peaceful way to explore the lush Jamaican landscape. It's a perfect opportunity to relax and appreciate the area's natural beauty.
Frenchman's Cove Beach is renowned for its unique setting where a freshwater river meets the Caribbean Sea. The beach is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a tranquil environment for swimming and sunbathing. Its picturesque scenery has made it a favorite among visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.
Somerset Falls is a peaceful spot hidden in thick tropical foliage. A short boat ride takes you into a cool grotto where the waterfall flows into a quiet pool. You can swim, relax by the river, or enjoy the lush surroundings. It’s a calm and scenic break after a long drive.
Winnifred Beach is a serene public beach known for its clear waters and soft white sand. It's a favorite among locals and visitors for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying authentic Jamaican cuisine from nearby vendors.
Deep-sea fishing in Port Antonio offers a thrilling experience with blue marlin, yellowfin tuna, and mahi-mahi. The nearby Cayman Trench provides deep waters teeming with large game fish, making it a prime angler spot. Charters are available for half or full-day trips, with professional crews available on-site.
A road trip from Kingston to Port Antonio is easy, flexible, and scenic. Renting a car with Finalrentals lets you pick up and drop off at Montego or Kingston Airports. We offer instant booking, no hidden charges, and well-maintained cars for a smooth drive. Book now with Finalrentals to explore Jamaica your way.
