What’s your favorite part of Jamaica?
For many Jamaica veterans, Portland seems to stand out as a fan favorite and it’s easy to see why.
There is this rain forest like lushness across the parish and tons of caves and coves perfect for a relaxing and peaceful getaway.
One of the most memorable parts of my visit to Portland was the visit to Somerset Falls…
J and I woke up bright and early and made the 30 minute drive north along the coast from Frenchman’s Cove Resort to Hope Bay, the small beach town where the falls are located.
We arrived around 9:30am on a Monday morning (they open daily from 9am to 5pm) and were one of the firsts to arrive. The restaurant and bar weren’t open so we made our way to the falls.
To actually see all of the falls you have to take a short boat ride up Daniel’s river (included in your entry fee). You can also swim it.
As we rounded the corner, I spotted the one of the guides. He had climbed the walls of the falls and waiting for our boat to clear before he took a graceful dive into the cold water below.
After the boat ride, I swam back out with a few others to enjoy more of the refreshing waters. I sprawled out on the rocks, face down, to enjoy the pulsating massage from the water on my back. We took turns jumping from the much lower rocks and enjoying the view until I was completely worn out (I really need to get in better shape for swimming).
I left with bloody knees and shins from close encounters with the rocks and was completely worn out, but it was such a fun time in such a beautiful place. Though a lot smaller than Dunn’s and YS Falls, Somerset Falls did not disappoint and was well worth the trip.
Visit Somerset Falls
Rates: $JA 750/ $15 US
Hours: 9 am- 5pm daily
Website: www.somersetfallsjamaica.com







May 17, 2013 at 6:24 pm
I love Portland. My family is from there.
May 17, 2013 at 7:41 pm
It’s my fave parish!! Very cool your family is from there.
January 21, 2013 at 10:20 pm
Went there last week. Was absolutely beautiful and totally worth the drive. The journey there is half the fun. The staff is great and it is a bargain for the amount of fun you can have there.
April 28, 2013 at 9:06 am
Glad you enjoyed it! It is definitely an affordable attraction definitely worth the journey!
January 7, 2013 at 7:28 am
As April shared, the falls are exquisite. The waters are clear and lovely and the walk up the falls and the boat ride are very beautiful and refreshing!
January 7, 2013 at 8:28 am
They sure are Melody. I think it’s time for a return visit!
May 2, 2012 at 10:18 pm
We went to Jamaica, profiled it on our blog and absolutely loved it. We didn’t make it to the falls however, but these pictures are GORGEOUS! Where is Portland? Also, what plug-in did you use to show your pics? I’ve been looking for a good one for some time.
May 2, 2012 at 11:31 pm
Will have to check out your profile on JA. Living here at the moment. Portland is the parish on the northeast. It’s beautiful out there. Very lush, amazing beaches. You have to go on your next trip.
May 2, 2012 at 11:32 pm
The plugin is from Picasa. I use it to manage some photos.
April 29, 2012 at 11:08 pm
Is the river behind you real or just man-made? I’m amazed that the water is very clear and it’s really blue. The water falls inside the cave is pretty awesome as well. Oh I’m so envious of you having to experience all that.
April 30, 2012 at 9:45 am
It’s real and natural. Lots of beauty all over the island.