Jamaica is known today for many of its beaches and resort towns like Montego Bay and Kingston, but the island’s first vacation destination is actually Port Antonio.

This vacation spot was known in the 19th century as the banana capital of the world, being a major port for Jamaica’s banana trade. In the 20th century, several rich and famous Hollywood stars discovered and fell in love with the quiet charm and majestic beauty of the coastal city. Attracted by the secluded and serene quality of the area, some of the celebrities who came to Port Antonio at the time even decided to build their own villas there. Therefore, this vacation spot was then the best kept secret Jamaican getaway of the rich and famous in Hollywood.

Today, Port Antonio remains a perfect destination for tourists who want to avoid the bustling urbanized Jamaican resort route and find a truly laid-back vacation experience. It is one of the most accessible destinations in Jamaica, as almost everything in the city proper is within walking or cycling distance. Its hotels are also praised for their nature-friendly ecotourism practices, in keeping with the area-wide effort to achieve environmental sustainability.

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous attractions in Port Antonio. The remarkable color of the water is a result of its depth of 200 feet. Other incredible sights include the hidden beaches of Frenchman’s Cove and San San, where adventurous vacationers can enjoy snorkeling, surfing, and even deep-sea fishing.