Everywhere we are feeling the high temperatures- at home, at work and especially on the road. Yep the summer is on.

I myself regularly scan Google for cheap, not too distant places to go and cool down. I’m a river lover but I know there are a lot of beach and pool lovers so I’ve got you guys covered.

I recently hit some spots so I’ll just post for you….hopefully it comes up in your Google search results.

 

Flavours Beach

Location: Runaway Bay, St Ann

Price: $$

Perks: Free access. Parking.

I gave it that pricing because of the toll charges and gas. Its roughly a 1 hour drive from Kingston. You can take your own food and drinks so we stopped at Scotchies, yum.

There are no lounge chairs so take your own. I paid JMD $200 to use the shower which is annexed to the restrooms, both were in okay condition. There is a bar on the property.

This beach has gotten a bad rap because its free and the nearest beach- the first beach exiting the highway. It really does not deserve it though. I visited on a Saturday and it was not packed. My advice would be to avoid visiting on or close to public holidays, its popular for group beach trips.

 

Mayfield Hotel pool

Location: 4 West Kings House Close

Price: $$

Perks: Wi-Fi. Parking. Proximity- in Kingston

You pay JMD $1500 to get pool access, the pool has lounge chairs and garden furniture. The restroom is poor considering its a hotel, there is no changing room but there are showers with low water pressure. No towels provided. There is a bar & restaurant right next to the pool which is a bit pricey. I ordered a chicken burger with a fruit drink which cost about $2000. No food or drink is allowed inside. There is NO lifeguard on duty.

Pool is open 10 am-4 pm daily.

I am not a fan of chlorinated water but it was a very relaxing experience for me. I visited during the week and it was empty. Yaaay for me.

P.S. Be prepared to be eye f**ked by old men at the bar.

 

Penfield River & Falls

Location: Penfield District, Gordon Town, Saint Andrew

Price: $

Perks: Free access. It’s a river (because I love rivers). Proximity- close to Kingston.

 

It’s a 15 minute drive from Papine Square tops, I promise. You park along the road and I know some persons do not like this idea so take a taxi. You hike (straight uphill) 10 minutes to visit all three falls and pools.

There are shops along the way you can purchase beverage and snacks or you can make a day of it- take your stocked cooler and a grill and have a river cookout. The community folks are very friendly.

There is no restroom or changing room facilities. Also take your garbage with you.

P.S. There is a fourth pool that few find.

 

Puerto Seco Beach

Location: Discovery Bay, St Ann

Price: $$$$

Perks: Adequate parking. Wi-Fi.

This was a 2 hour drive using the highway, toll charges amounted to $3000 JMD for a car. I paid $2000 JMD to be admitted on to the property which gives you access to pool and beach, an obstacle course and lounge chair. No towels provided. For an additional $1500 JMD you get a boat ride and for an unknown sum (I did not ask) you get to see the dolphins- Dolphin Cove is on the premises.

The property is really top-notch. It has a nice bar, restaurant with dining area, several outdoor showers, changing room which is separate from the posh restrooms (with I appreciate). There are many workers on the premises to assist. No food or drink is allowed. Food is a bit pricey- $400 for one Red Stripe beer, $750 for a regular hot dog with fries.

Pool closes at 5 pm and the property at 6 pm. I went on a Saturday and it was pretty pack but not so that you cannot enjoy yourself.

 

 

Do drop a comment below! Happy reading!