by Angela Braun, GoGirlfriend correspondent
Beach 411 ~ Frenchman’s Cove
Portland Parish
- Beach type: Secluded - hidden local gem
- Beach geography: A fresh water stream runs into the sea here, keeping the water cool. The beach and swimming areas are small but you won’t be hassled by salesmen.
- Ease of access: Look for a sign that says, "Beach this way (to the right)" and then follow this road. Park and enjoy a short walk with many photo opportunities to the beach.
- Extra costs: There is an entrance fee of $8 per adult and $4 per child (12 and under) and chairs are available for rent.
- Beach amenities: You’ll have access to washrooms with showers, wireless Internet and food and drink service right on the beach. A lifeguard regularly patrols the beach.
- Special note: You’ll also find a lazy river in the heart of a rain forest setting. Bliss!
- Geo-locator: Where is Frenchman’s Cove?
Spectacular sand, surf & service
Spoil yourself here when you order food and drink right from your beach chair. Want to save some money? We recommend packing a picnic and bringing a towel for lounging. Although the services here can sometimes be slow and pricey, the intersection between the fresh water river and the salty sea is worth the price of admission. Bring the family, have fun in the waves and take advantage of the opportunity to experience two different bodies of water at once.
Frenchman’s Cove activities & attractions
After a day of swimming, sunning, drinking and sunscreen slathering at Frenchman’s Cove, the calm Errol Flynn Marina will be your personal, quiet escape when the day comes to a close. If you’re looking for something with a little more action, venture to Hope Bay and Port Antonio – Somerset Falls. Here you can dive into a deep river pond, walk through lush garden areas and delight in the sight of smell waterfalls trickling down bushy hillsides and shady benches. We recommend meeting the falls via a gondola – the feeling of the falls pounding against you will be invigorating.
Prefer a deeper into a state of relaxation? Try rafting leisurely down the Rio Grande. Or scout out a narrow lane off of A4 coast road with a sign marked “Blue Hole” and follow this until you set your sights on Jamaica’s famous Blue Lagoon. Now, swim in the deep, cool water and let the blue color of the water mesmerize you and your fellow travelers.
Frenchman’s Cove events
Check out Caribya or a complete list of events and festivals taking place all over the island – revel in the celebrations and become one with the culture and history in Jamaica.
- International Marlin Tournament (October): Anglers from all over the world gather at the Errol Flynn Marina and compete to catch the biggest marlin. Local fishermen also partake in a special canoe competition and there are parties and receptions that make this tournament a heritage highlight.
- Marbana (April): Take part in this carnival celebration – listen to local DJs beats, survey costumed dancers, Congo drummers and fire breathers and enjoy bonfires right on the beach. For dates and details contact Marbana.
GoGirlfriend Frenchman’s Cove hotel recommendations
Geejam: In each guest room you’ll find 500-count cotton sheets, treated wood floors, spa quality steam room within the shower, a compact digital surround sound system with Apple TVs, minibar, Geejam cellphone service, Broadband wireless Internet and even nanny service, if needed. You’ll also enjoy a private beach, gym, healing spa, swimming pool and Bushbar. If you don’t already want to book a room – Geejam is home to a state-of-the-art recording studio that has been visited by international music artists including, but not limited to, Gwen Stefani, Drake and Snoop Dog. Visit Geejam on Facebook and Twitter and read reviews on TripAdvisor.
Hotel Mockingbird Hill: Hotel Mocking Bird Hill is a luxury, eco-chic, boutique hotel featuring an outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant and rooms with views of the Caribbean Sea or the Gardens. Rooms have a European-style bathrooms, coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi. A massage gazebo and a "Garden of Wellness" with a variety of treatments is available as well as an on-site gallery and paths through the tropical gardens. Visit Hotel Mockingbird Hill on Facebook and Twitter and read reviews on TripAdvisor.
Trident Hotel: Trident hotel sports a private beach area, gym, spa and Mike’s Supper Club. Its home to stylish air-conditioned villas with private soaking pools and oceanfront porticos. All villas have a lounge with flat-screen cable TV and free Wi-Fi. A fridge and kettle are also provided. Watersports guides at the hotel will be glad to go adventuring with you. Visit Trident Hotel on Facebook and Twitter and read reviews on TripAdvisor.
For more hotel recommendations throughout Jamaica, we recommend exploring Booking.com.
Frenchman’s Cove weather
The island of Jamaica enjoys fairly consistent tropical temperatures year round with average temperatures of 82°F – lows to 70°F. July and August are the hottest months in Jamaica, whereas January and February are the coldest months. Fortunately, from month to month the water temperature fluctuates between 78°F and 84°F.
For more information or help planning your next Jamaica getaway, visit:
Read our other Bahamas beach guides:
Ever been to Frenchman’s Cove in Jamaica? We'd love hear what you love about it! Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook – and let's continue the conversation!
Check out our
Post new comment