by Tabitha Easley

Created on: August 20, 2008   Last Updated: August 24, 2008

Come experience a small piece of paradise on the beaches of Jamaica, where Islanders say it is like Heaven on Earth. Every beach on this luxurious tropical island has its own personality, and is perfect for tourists, surfers, locals and more.

Turtle Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Jamaica. Located on the Northeastern coast, this very tourist oriented beach offers beautiful manicured sands with shady palm and almond trees swaying in the tropical breeze. With this beach being more secluded than any other on the island, you are sure to enjoy a nice, peaceful afternoon of bathing in the sun while putting the worries of everyday life behind you.

Turtle Beach is just within walking distance of Ochos Rios, so if any needs occur, you are not far from town. The Sunset Jamaica Grande Resort & Spa, as well as Sandcastles Resort are located close by so you are right there by the beach to take in the entire amazing atmosphere Jamaica has to offer. Offering added scenery to Turtle Beach is the landscaping of Firefly. Firefly is a historical attraction and home, turned museum of the playwright, Noel Coward.

Mallards Beach, located in the center of Ochos Rios, is another very popular tourist beach. The warm, soft sands and tropical waters will have you mesmerized with all the beauty it holds. This narrow stretch of sand has many hotels as a backdrop on the Northeastern coast. Mallards Beach is also the location for a multitude of cruise ships to dock as their passengers explore the island of Jamaica.

Blue Lagoon Beach has deep blue waters that are perfect for swimming. It was this beach that Brooke Shields stared in the movie, "Blue Lagoon." The Lagoon is surrounded by Jamaican Flora and jungle foliage with hanging vines. The crystal waters of the lagoon change color several times a day. Depending on the time you visit this area, your experience will always differ.

The restaurants close to the lagoon serve you grilled jerk over pimento wood, a Jamaican specialty. This meal is brought to you on bread fruit and banana leaf, giving you a true Jamaican experience.

For a small fee of $3.00 you can visit James Bond Beach, home of the Golden Eye Hotel. It is this beach that Ian Fleming, the writer of James Bond, called home. It is also the location where they filmed the movie, "Dr. No." James Bond Beach is also perfect for bathing in the sun or surfing the waves. Water sport rentals are available as well for your enjoyment.

Dunn's River Beach, located just under the Dunn's River Waterfalls has amazing views of where the river meets the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can experience the feel of climbing the falls and admiring the breathtaking beauty. While visiting the falls, relax and swim in the small whirlpools available at Dunn's River.

A very popular hot spot in the 1960's was, The Seven Mile Beach. During the hippie movement, it was here they were laid-back and care-free while visiting this clothing optional beach. This beach was once a retreat into natural Jamaica, but now it is considered more of a tourist attraction. Nude bars and hot tubs are available here if you are feeling frisky and spontaneous.

So, whether you are visiting Jamaica alone, on your honeymoon, or on a family vacation, choose the beach that is right for you.

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