Description
Winnifred Beach, also known as Winifred Beach, is located along Jamaica’s northeastern coast in the parish of Portland, near the town of Port Antonio. Tucked into the lush Fairy Hill area between Boston Bay and the Blue Lagoon, this beach is one of the few remaining free public beaches in Jamaica. Known for its community-driven upkeep and natural charm, Winnifred offers a welcoming and authentic Jamaican beach experience, popular with both locals and travellers looking for something less commercialized.
The beach features a wide stretch of golden-white sand, particularly on the western side, while the eastern section is rockier. A coral reef offshore helps keep the waters calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. A small freshwater stream feeds into the sea at one end, and the beach is fringed with coastal trees like almond, seagrape, and coconut palms that offer natural shade. The surrounding greenery and clear waters give the area a tranquil, scenic vibe that feels untouched by large-scale development.
Winnifred Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and local flavour rather than organized watersports. Visitors can enjoy swimming, wading, beach games like football or volleyball, and snorkelling near the reef. There are a few small food stalls and rustic bars run by local vendors serving jerk chicken, fried fish, and cold drinks. Access to the beach is free, though donations are welcomed to help with maintenance. It’s reachable by road from the A4 highway, but the final stretch is unpaved and can be rough. Parking is available but somewhat limited, and while there are restrooms and basic facilities, they may not always be modern or well-stocked.