Flavorful Jamaican Getaway: Negril's Many Options

Mix of a beautiful beach, some peace and the option of nightlife.

ByABC News
June 15, 2011, 11:04 AM

June 16, 2011 — -- When one thinks of a Jamaican vacation, Bob Marley, jerk chicken and idyllic beaches may come to mind. But there's much more to Jamaica than just spicy food and a good reggae beat. It is a country of proud people with serene hilltops and a myriad of vacation options, from the adventurous to the slow-paced.

While Negril and Montego Bay are well-known tourist locations, the northeastern parish of Port Antonio is a relatively underdeveloped, sleepy seaport just 60 miles northeast of Kingston.

If you are looking for a mix of a beautiful beach, some peace and the option of a nightlife, Negril might be your best bet. When you read suggestions of the world's best beaches, Negril's seven-mile beach will often land on the list, and for good reason. Miles of powdery white sand and calm, aqua blue water stretch as far as the eye can see.

If you prefer views over beaches, staying on the west end in the cliffs is ideal.

But, to be right on the beach and in the midst of all the fun, try a small boutique hotel, like The Palms Resort. Owned by Washington, D.C., native Kristyl Nelson-Vickers, the Palms mixes serenity with prime location.

What particularly sets the Palms apart is that it is run completely on solar energy and is in the process of becoming "green globe certified," which means conserving energy and fewer pollutants for hotel guests.

Grab a seat at Kristyl's Restaurantin the morning for some ackee and saltfish, or enjoy jazz on Sundays and a meal right on the beach. Don't forget the rum punch; you are in Jamaica, after all.

To enjoy cuisine beyond your hotel, something as simple as stepping out on the road will lead you to a variety of choices. Fuming pits burning wood chips emit flavorful spices. The portions are large, and the flavor is even larger at many roadside food stops.Ivan's Bar, Negril