The city of Negril, has become a popular travel destination for visitors. However, the city’s popularity was a gradual climbing over time and many hotels and resorts did not become built until the late 1960’s. The city is also famous for its “hippiness” which came about also around the 1960’s.
Fun Negril Water Sports & Shopping
There is no shortage of things to do in Negril while vacationing here. There are many places to shop, such as going to craft markets where local crafters make abundant original pieces for the taking. Take part in water sports like scuba diving and snorkeling and other water activities.
To experience a more educational way of learning about the island, take a tour of the Negril Lighthouse, still operated by the Jamaican Port Authority.
Old Lighthouse-Located on West End Road
The Negril Lighthouse is a functional, historical building above sea level and has served many residents of Jamaica since 1895. This landmark lighthouse is located on West End Road, past the famous eatery called Rick’s Café.
The outside premises of this important building, are not landscaped to perfection. However, this should not discourage anyone from visiting, as it will be worth the experience of walking through this historical place.
If staying in Negril, the lighthouse is located on the westernmost point of the island and is a quick ride down on West End Road. This 66’ tall building was built in 1894 and is currently being maintained by Wilson Johnson, who is the lighthouse keeper.
To tour this l00-foot tall structure, Mr. Johnson will take people to the top of the building. Although there is no admission charge for the tour, a small nominal fee is usually suggested for a donation. Upon entering, he will give a short summary and history of the aged building and also shows visitors the authentic, original log papers dating back to the late 1890’s. Also on the lower floor of this lighthouse are aged original oil lamps that dominate the area.
After listening to the brief history of the building, the lighthouse keeper guides the visitor or visitors towards the top of the building, which is quite narrow. While climbing up the slim pathway on the spiral steel staircase to the top, it will be necessary to duck down as to not bump the head, as some parts of the structure are quite short. When arriving at the top floor of the building, be aware there is small square opening to enter outside. Once this adventurous climb has been achieved, there is a stunning and calming view of the Caribbean Sea. This is where taking pictures of this breathtaking view is a must for the traveler to take back home.
A tour of the Negril Lighthouse occurs from 9:00 am to sunset daily.
After experiencing touring the Negril Lighhouse, why not make a day trip of the event, by bringing a lunch and touring the grounds of the lighthouse? In the early morning hours, relax and enjoy watching the playful dolphins swimming in the nearby waters.
Negril is a great city to explore while vacationing in Jamaica and the Negril Lighthouse can be one of the many attractions that will be memorable.
References: Negril.com Negriltoday.com
Vanessa LaBranche - Vanessa is a culinary graduate from the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She is passionate about baking and ...
