The Lighthouses of Jamaica

By Alice Lane 

If you love lighthouses and warm weather, then look no further than the tropical island of Jamaica and the fantastic Negril hotels. Jamaica is home to seven lighthouses, all of which are spectacular in their own right. A visit to each of these lighthouses will be a history lesson in itself.

The Morant Point Lighthouse is the oldest on the island. Built in 1841, this lighthouse consists of a cast iron tube 100 feet long and 18 feet wide at the base. A masonry wall has recently been built around the seaward side of the base of the lighthouse to help protect it from any potential damage during a hurricane. Painted with red and white horizontal bands, Morant Point is located at the easternmost point of Jamaica, about 30 miles from the city of Kingston.

The Negril Point Lighthouse is located on the extreme western end of Jamaica. This completely white lighthouse was built in 1895 to guide ships safely to the western shores. Negril Point is one of Negril's most famous landmarks. During the day you can take in the beautiful views from the top of the 100 foot structure. You will see breathtaking views of lush countryside and the Caribbean Sea. If you choose to visit the lighthouse in the evening, you will be treated to one of the most spectacular sunsets you have ever seen. Just a short walk from your Negril resorts and you can be at this landmark.

To visit the highest lighthouse in the western hemisphere, make a trip to Lover's Leap Lighthouse. This lighthouse is built right where the Santa Cruz Mountains come to an end on Jamaica's south coast. Built on top of a 1,700 foot cliff, this 100 foot tall lighthouse is very impressive. The lookout lends itself to a stunning view of the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. If you are scared of heights, you should consider remaining at one of the Negril Jamaica resorts. The Lover's Leap legend says that two young slaves leapt to their deaths to avoid being separated. They were eventually chased to the edge of the cliff where they decided to leap to their deaths rather than be captured and separated. There is a wooden carving of the two lovers at the site to remember this touching story. You can make an entire day out of a trip to this lighthouse, as there is also a restaurant right on site. If you are feeling spunky you can traverse a three mile trail that leads you down the cliffs to Cutlass Bay. Don't bring your swimming suit however, as swimming is prohibited.

About the Author

Whichever of the seven lighthouses you choose to see while staying at one of the many Breezes Negril Jamaica resorts you will be sure to enjoy yourself. There is always something new to discover at each of these amazing sites. Breezes is a quick and easy way to get started planning your trip to enjoy a stay at the Negril resorts. Breezes can provides you comfortable, clean Negril hotels for you to relax after your lighthouse excursions.

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For information on other outdoor adventure activities in Jamaica, visit our other Jamaica Pages

To learn about the other islands in the Caribbean, visit our Island Adventures Page