Treasure Beach in St. Elizabeth lives up to its name as a gem on Jamaica’s south coast. Its idyllic scenery, its long six mile stretch of golden sand and, most importantly, its authentic Jamaican vibe, takes this beach into the top five best-kept secrets on the island.
Treasure Beach is a winding 2hrs and 25mins journey by car from Montego Bay’s Sir Donald Sangster International Airport. But there are major hotels on the beachfront itself so, once you get there, you’ll be a hop and a skip from the beach.
Photo by caribbeanfreephoto / CC BY
This amazing beach combines the aquamarine waters of Jamaica’s southern coastal waters with an awe-inspiring golden sand. It goes on for miles and is dotted with mostly rustic, laidback hangout spots. There are, generally, not too many other visitors so beach clutter is at a minimum here.
Don’t expect easily available Jet Skis and other such watersport activities. Treasure beach is more about the relaxed Jamaica “No Problem” vibe than perhaps anywhere else on the island. Swimming, Snorkeling and Body Surfing top the physical activities list here.
Photo by alfredmoya / CC BY
All types of visitors can be accommodated on a treasure beach excursion so kids and the physically impaired are also welcome to come lay in the sun.
What should you carry?
- A swimsuit
- Cameras
- Towel
- Cash
- SUNSCREEN
You can park near the beach and leave everything in the car. That way you won’t have to negotiate where to leave your things when you enter the water.
Keep in mind the beach is six miles long and it’s easy to get caught up in your stroll. The beauty of the scenery and the cool Caribbean breeze has a tendency to let you wander off without realizing how far you’ve gone.
Photo by alfredmoya CC BY
All along the beach, there are various cafes and rustic restaurants so getting an authentic Jamaican lunch will not be a problem.
Reggae music in its various forms is the soundtrack of the various cafes and Red Stripe beers are available everywhere.
An added bonus is the attitude of the people you encounter. St. Elizabeth is a parish that seems to only produce friendly, industrious citizens and the best of them seem to all hang out at Treasure Beach.
If you’re looking for a distinctly Jamaican beach experience there is none quite like treasure beach. Though it may lack the flamboyance of an all inclusive or the availability of water sports activities that may be found on other beaches, Treasure Beach more than makes up for it in Iconic scenery, relaxed vibe and rustic island feel.
So if you value vibe over thrills and culture over typical beach fare, Treasure Beach is the one for you.
Photo by Kent MacElwee / CC BY
