BLUE LAGOON

If there is a tourist must in the Portland area, it is the Blue Lagoon, which was called "Blue Hole" for the locals but was renamed after the movie Blue Lagoon filmed here by Brooke Shields in the 1980s. Famous far beyond Jamaica's borders for its waters of a thousand changing colors, from azure blue to deep green, and for its depth... unknown until now. It is said that even Captain Cousteau could not reach the bottom... In any case, the official version estimates it to be more than 60 m. Protected by a coral reef, set in a deep green setting, the bay nonchalantly spreads its calm waters in an absolutely fairy-tale setting. So much so that film directors have included it among the most extraordinary natural settings in the world. It is said that a dragon would hide here, it is also said that the green water of the lagoon, fed by highly mineralized underground springs, has rejuvenating properties. You can always dive in for a moment of regenerating relaxation. But it is better to come very early in the morning to have the happiness of swimming in the calm of this natural jewel.

The visit. The site was left abandoned by the owners and is managed by local people. The entrance is free, whatever you are told. A part of the Blue Lagoon is accessible to the guests of the Kanopi hotel. To swim, it is free; but some locals ask for a contribution to "keep" the car. Then, some hawkers try to sell you boat tours and handicrafts. You will be very solicited, so remain courteous, but firm. Know how to choose a guide quickly and negotiate (firm again). A fierce competition is raging to take tourists on board of boats... with motor. These boats are constantly turning in the lagoon to drop off and pick up tourists. An ecological disaster that the administration does not care about. Two options: a round trip just to Monkey Island in the center (1h on the spot) where a restaurant used to be before hurricane Ivan, or a tour in the bay, in front of the luxury villas up to the beach of the movie Cocktail.
An interesting alternative, not polluting and much more pleasant, is proposed: the kayak rental, more quiet than the loop frequented by hordes of tourists because you are free to go where you want in the lagoon, the whole at the same price (negotiated there again) Third option, the visit by bamboo raft, but which does not have much more to offer except a passage along the villas, for a higher price of course.