Thank you for visiting our site on Negril, Jamaica. Below is information on Negril with description of activities, tours, shopping, restaurants, night life and other attractions. Once you are finished reading, be sure to visit our main page for: other towns of Jamaica, pictures of Jamaica, facts about Jamaica and other Jamaican links.

Negril has a number of unique attractions to enjoy. Dhana Car Rental and Tours, Ltd. can help you experience these sites by renting a car. Click to reserve online now or call toll free for more information call 1-866-276-1884 in North America or (876) 953-9555 in Jamaica. We offer rates as low as US$175 per week, plus taxes and insurance. Click here to find out why Dhana's rates are so low.

Known as the “Capital of Casual”, to introduce Negril, we have to quote Richard Hershman, the original owner of Rick's Cafe: “Your body has suddenly arrived where your mind has always been".

This description seems adequate but we have space to fill; and if you have a few moments to spare, then read on.

Negril occupies no great place in the history books and especially not in the annals of naval warfare. British Admiral Benbow sailed ruefully into Negril (christened Negrillo by Spanish discoverers in 1494) and regrouped his forces after his ill-fated encounter with the French under Admiral DuCasse.

Negril was not too lucky for pirates, either. The infamous Calico Jack and Anne Bonney disported themselves in this area and were finally captured here. No doubt Negril's charm caused them to let down their guard.

Also in comparison to other vacation destinations on island such as Montego Bay and Portland, Negril was more recently discovered. Even middle-aged Jamaicans remember when Negril was really nothing more than a lighthouse to guide ships around the rocky western coast, and its population consisted mostly of land crabs... big red ones, good for eating. Tourist accommodation consisted of one house, which could be rented, called Llantrissant, no doubt built by a Welsh resident in the first half of the century.

While Llantrissant is still there this resort town has certainly evolved. Now accommodations range from hostelries, all-inclusive beach front resorts to exclusive boutique hotels attracting the rich and famous.

Even after Negril began its first tentative steps on the road to resort fame, it maintained a very low profile, but it was impossible to keep such a place secret and so, inevitably, the trickle of visitors became a flow, and then a flood.

The first to discover Negril's charms were the "Hippies and Flower Children" of the 1960's who naturally gravitated to the laid-back lifestyle here and related to the warmth and gentleness of the sparse population. Their influx led to the development of Negril's West End on the cliffs beyond the lighthouse.

Hippies were followed closely by the better-heeled visitor whose concept of paradise went beyond a hammock and palm-thatched bohio; so luxury hotels began to sprout. The eighties saw even more expansion as Negril's fame spread and those same hippies, now lawyers, doctors and businessmen, began to return to recapture the idyll for a couple of weeks each year.

The hippies left their mark forever on Negril, and helped to create its carefree, unhurried atmosphere where friendships spring up between visitor and local, making Negril the ideal place to meet Jamaicans on their own turf.

Nowadays the people of Negril seem to be aware of their uniqueness and exhibit a pride in their territory which almost becomes a nationalistic attitude. They take great delight in telling the tale of the promoter who marketed Negril so skillfully that one arriving tourist was heard to exclaim: "But this is Jamaica, I thought we were going to the island of Negril".

Nature blessed Negril and ensured her place as a premier Caribbean vacation destination with two shimmering beaches with a seven-mile stretch of pristine white-sand and views of simply majestic sunsets that will take your breath away.

Hotels grace the shoreline and most of them welcome the day visitor who can use their beach facilities for a small fee or the cost of a few drinks at their beach bars.

Paradise comes in another guise as you leave this seven-mile strip and pass the roundabout in what could be called the centre of Negril. From here the road meanders along to the West End, where hotels and restaurants cling to the cliff's edge. Here there is no beach. White sand gleams from the seabed. Here there are caves to explore, and rocky bluffs where heroism can be added to holiday pastimes and doughty souls may hurl themselves from dizzying heights into the shimmering crystalline waters below.

It is easy to explore Negril. After all, it only has one road, and it runs along the beach or the foreshore. Take it easy and walk along the beach or the main highway (Norman Manley Boulevard). If you feel impelled to rush, push-bikes and motor bikes can be hired.

There are shopping plazas at the roundabout in the center of Negril and one on the hotel strip. There are also two crafts markets which are not difficult to find.

This then, is Negril, as close to the conflagration of a Caribbean sunset as you can get in Jamaica, without falling off.

Places to Visit in Negril, Jamaica
Negril has a number of unique attractions to enjoy. Dhana Car Rental and Tours, Ltd. can help you experience these sites by renting a car. Reserve online now or call tollfree for more information 1-866-276-1884. We have rates as low as US$175 per week, plus taxes and insurance. Click here to find out why Dhana's rates are so low.

Belvedere Estate
Belvedere is a family-owned estate set on one thousand acres a short distance from Negril. It was one of the first sugar cane plantations in Jamaica and is still a working estate. The owner, Mr. Pat McGann, has opened it up so that visitors can share the natural beauty of its rivers and waterfalls, its ruins and exotic plants and birds. Call 876-952-6001.

Ja-Ja Originals
Studio and art gallery is located at Coco La Palm Resort on Norman Manley Boulevard has a unique selection of paintings, sculptures, carvings and hand-crafted jewelry designed by talented Jamaican artists. Visit their web site www.jajaoriginals.com 876-957-4326

Kool Runnings Water Park
This picturesque park promises water fun all day with slides and pools sure to keep the children and children at heart entertained for hours. 876-957-5400

Mayfield Falls
Visit this beautiful spot for exhilarating activities including hiking, cliff jumping and cave diving or simply relax in one of the natural pools. Immerse yourself in the local culture as the staff teaches traditional dances and how to prepare favorite Jamaican meals. 876-971-6580

Negril Light House
Perhaps the most distinctive landmark in Negril. Built in 1894, it was originally operated by kerosene.

Negril Hills Golf Club
With magnificent views and a challenging layout, Negril Hills Golf course is probably one of the best hidden golf gems. The experience is enhanced with specially selected caddies to ensure a memorable round or two! 876-957-4638

Rhodes Hall
For horseback riding, expert guides will ensure your mount is right for you whether you are a novice or an experienced rider. A two-hour ride takes you through banana and coconut groves and high into the hills. Crocodile watching is a highlight of the tour. Climax is an exhilarating gallop, or trot, or walk, along the beach, according to desire or ability. Rhodes Hall offers air conditioned seaside villas with fully-equipped kitchens. 876-957-6334

Jamaica Whitewater Expedition
Approximately 45 minutes outside Negril, Jamaica Whitewater Expedition is a 3 hour tour along the winding Cabarita River. Traverse cool waters of this river and enjoy beautiful views of the lush vegetation along the banks. 876-387-9342

Dolphin Cove
Located just outside Negril, book your experience of a lifetime to interact and swim with these delightful creatures. Feeling even more adventurous, this natural lagoon offers swimming with sharks and stingrays. 876-292-4869

Water Sports in Negril
The Negril Yacht Club, located on the Lighthouse Road in Negril is the single-stop location for water sports. It offers kayak and snorkel rentals with some of the best snorkeling in town. Daily sunset and nude cruises are available as well as water taxi to the beach and glass bottom boat tours. Deep sea fishing charters run from the Yacht Club as well.

The Negril Yacht Club also offers a relaxing day-trip to Little Bay and a more extended trip to the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston. Custom tours are also available, 876-957-9224

Ray's Water Sports
In operation for over thirty years, Ray's offers a wide range of water activities including parasailing, catamaran cruises, snorkeling, jet skiing and much more. Call 876-957- 5349

Charela Inn Water Sports
Find Windsurf boards, Kayaks, Sunfish and other non-motorized water sports available at Charela Inn Water Sports. Plus other nearby options provided include parasailing, scuba diving, and snorkeling trips.

Diving in Negril
Negril Scuba Centre located at Mariner's Negril Beach Club will introduce you to the wonders of the Jamaican deep with courses for beginners as well as more advanced divers. Call 876-957-4425

Spas & Beauty in Negril

The Fountain of Youth Day Spa
The first spa in the island to offer BioBody treatments, Fountain of Youth's main emphasis is to provide an escape to relieve the stress and rigor of everyday life.
876-857-0857/ 876-957-9486

Kamala Spa at Moon Dance Cliffs
Drawing from Asian traditions, the Kamala Spa at Moon Dance offers a refuge designed for the ultimate in pampering and relaxation. 312-981-6344

Nail De Negril
Nail De Negril nail salon specializes in Japanese-style gel nail art, eyelash extension, and Swarovski stone art. Call to 876-418-7191 to book you appointment.

Negril Yoga Centre
Reconcile body, mind and soul at Negril Yoga Centre. Visit for Yoga sessions as well pampering with their spa services. For a natural, healthy meal, stop by for cuisine made from fresh foods and juices. 876-957-4397

Cambioman
Located at Risky Business on Norman Manley Boulevard will give you a highly competitive exchange rate. 876-995-8016

Restaurants & Nightlife in Negril, Jamaica
As for dining out, Negril has a huge variety of eateries to suit all budgets. The following is only a sampling.

Canoe Beach Bar
Like the name suggests, Canoe's is situated right on the beach and is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold Red Stripe beer while you watch the sunset. However, do not be fooled, Canoe's offers up some get food from the grill!

Ciao Jamaica
The perfect contradiction! Ciao Jamaica delivers a unique menu that fuses the best of New York style Italian cuisine and Jamaican flavour. From sumptuous pizzas and Fettuccine Thermador to West Indies Seafood Linguine and Scotch Bonnet Snapper Ciao Jamaica promises delectable feast! 876-957-4395

Cosmo's
Rustic, relaxed and right on the beach, its perfect spot to enjoy fresh seafood while you listen to sounds of pulsating reggae music from speakers set up at the bar. Try the conch fritters! 876-957-4330

Country Country Beach Bar and Grill
Visit this boutique hotel's bar and grill which serves both Jamaican and Chinese cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.876-957-4273

Kuyaba
Undoubtedly one of Negril's finest and most romantic restaurants, Kuyaba has a well-earned reputation for superb food. Located right by the sea, it offers complete beach services and is a great place to spend your days swimming and sunning. Architecturally beautiful, with waterfalls, tropical foliage, exotic birds and even more exotic drinks, it is a place you shouldn't miss. Call to be picked up for the beach, breakfast, lunch or dinner. 876-957-4318.

Margaritaville Negril
Located on the beach on Norman Manley Boulevard, Margaritaville Negril claims the title of Negril's hippest party bar. A day of fun includes bouncing around on the giant water trampoline, lounging in waterside sky chairs and sipping one of the 52 tropical flavours of margaritas. The delicious all-day menu includes burgers, fajitas, grilled specialties and authentic local fare. You haven't experienced Negril if you haven't experienced Margaritaville. 876-957-4467

Norma's on the Beach
Located at Seasplash Resort, the cuisine reflects the vibrant, colourful energy of the restaurant's owner Norma Shirley. Norma's offers a fusion of diverse types of cuisine that is uniquely Norma's but aptly coined New World Cuisine. 876-957-4041

Negril Yacht Club
In the West End is a most convivial spot offering interesting company, drinks and food right on the ocean's edge. The menu is extensive with both Jamaican and North American dishes. 876-957-9224.

Rick's Cafe
What better location to enjoy a meal? A complete attraction itself with thrilling cliff jumping and simply awe-inspiring sunsets, Rick's cafe

Robinson Crusoe at Footeprints Hotel
The restaurant is right on the beach as you might guess from its name. The original Robinson was never so lucky. It serves Jamaican food and international specialties such as Dahl and Roti. Their beach barbecue with a live Mento band should not be missed. 876-957-4300.

Xtabi's restaurant perches high on the cliff overlooking the bay. A pleasant spot at any time, it must rank as one of the most romantic spots in Jamaica by candlelight, especially on those nights when the full moon sparkles in the waters of the bay. Seafood is their specialty and the fish is caught daily. 876-957-4336.

Jungle Nightclub
This two floor jungle-decor club is one of the hottest night spots on the western section of the island. Dance to urban rhythms until the sun comes up!

Events

Jamaica Independence Weekend
Negril transforms in to party central during the first week in August each year with the staging of ATI - Appleton Temptation Isle and Absolut Dream Weekend. Each features back to back themed parties along the Negril strip. Young locals and foreigners alike indulge for a fun-filled weekend where sleep becomes optional!

Spring Break
Having been a host to MTV's annual Spring Break series of events, Negril has become a favorite locale for college students for fun and non-stop partying during the holiday break from school!

LINKS TO INFO ON OTHER JAMAICAN TOWNS

Below is a list of other major towns in Jamaica:

Kingston

Port Antonio

Ocho Rios

Montego Bay

Negril

Mandeville & the South Coast