Photo: Courtesy of twenty20photos 

Negril, Jamaica—The Perfect Place to Vacay, Part I 

Negril is a small but widely dispersed beach town located on the far western side of Jamaica. Although Negril has a long history, it did not become well known until the second half of the twentieth century (en.wikipedia.org). Now, along with Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Negril is one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Jamaica (beaches.com). While in Negril, must-visit stops include Seven Mile Beach, Mayfield Falls, and the Negril Cliffs. 

Seven Mile Beach (Negril Beach) 

Negril's Seven Mile Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world. Loved for its "dramatic sunsets, silky white sands, clear turquoise waters, and spontaneous island spirit," Negril's Seven-Mile Beach has been voted many times over as one of the best in the world (beaches.com). It recently made Trip Advisor's Travelers' Choice Top 25 Beaches in the World for the second year in a row (beaches.com). 

Seven Mile Beach is comprised of three-mile-long Bloody Bay at the north end and approximately four-mile-long Long Bay, which stretches south and ends at the Negril Cliffs, just beyond Negril's town center. While sunbathing in the pristine sand and swimming in the calm waters are a must along this expansive shoreline, almost every imaginable water sport is available for enjoyment by all ages. "Guests can enjoy kayaks, aqua cycles, windsurfing, Hobie Cats, stand up paddleboards, snorkeling, banana boats, water-skiing, kneeboarding, and wakeboarding" (tripadvisor.com).   

Additionally, glass bottom boats offer gorgeous views of the coral reef and sea life flourishing below. The shallow and mid-depth Negril Reef right off Seven Mile Beach (lonelyplanet.com) has tiny jellyfish, conch shells, a variety of urchins, and even some sea fans (beaches.com). Clusters of dwarf tube sponges are also a noteworthy feature (lonelyplanet.com). For a closer look, you can snorkel and even learn how to scuba dive. Beginner certification classes are available. 

When you get hungry, there are many restaurants and bars to choose from along the beach—ranging from charming eateries featuring authentic Jamaican food to larger chain restaurants such as Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, where you can spend half a day enjoying private beachside cabanas, a lively Tiki Beach Bar, and water trampolines (beaches.com).  

The fun does not end at sundown. At night, the beach lights up with reggae music and lively, Jamaican-style parties.  

Mayfield Falls 

About an hour's drive from Negril, past papaya trees and plantations (planetware.com), Mayfield Falls is a must-see while in Jamaica (beaches.com). The road through the jungle to reach the falls is rough and rugged, but that is part of the adventure (planetware.com). Made up of more than 44 mineral pools and 21 natural jacuzzis (the biggest one called the "Washing Machine"), Mayfield Falls' spring-fed cascades provide tranquil spots to soak under an invigorating rush of water (beaches.com, planetware.com).  

In order to get to Mayfield Falls, you can catch a cab or schedule transportation from your hotel to the trailhead. From there, you can hire a trail guide who will lead you on the hour or so hike to the falls and point out interesting birds, butterflies, and plants along the way (planetware.com). The tour may also include a river walk, cave explorations, and a trip to the community of Mayfield (beaches.com). Swimwear and water shoes are a must. 

The Negril Cliffs 

Rising above the sea south of Seven Mile Beach, the picturesque limestone Negril Cliffs rise to 12 meters high at their tallest point (planetware.com). The adrenaline rush of diving from the Negril Cliffs into the calm sea below attracts locals and tourists. Rick's Café, perched amongst these cliffs, is the perfect venue to enjoy a good meal, take in an exquisite sunset, and watch the cliff-diving bravery.  

Just a short walk from Rick's Café stands the impressive Negril Lighthouse. Built in 1894, it lights up the sky 30 meters above sea level and is the highest structure in Negril (planetware.com).  

In Summary 

Negril strikes a compelling balance between offering an array of activities and casting a relaxing vibe. Its beauty beckons across the sea, and those who heed its call are thankful they did so. 

Sources: 

beaches.com 

en.wikipedia.org 

lonelyplanet.com 

planetware.com 

tripadvisor.com