The waters that launched Brooke Shields’ movie career are by any measure one of the most beautiful spots in Jamaica. The 55m-deep ‘Blue Hole’ (as it is known locally) opens to the sea through a narrow funnel, but is fed by freshwater springs that come in at about a depth of 40m. As a result the water changes color through every shade of jade and emerald during the day thanks to cold freshwater that blankets the warm mass of seawater lurking below.
You may encounter boat operators eager to take you on a short boat ride (US$25) to nearby Cocktail Beach (where parts of the Tom Cruise vehicle Cocktail was filmed) and rustic Monkey Island, a short distance away.
The lagoon is accessible from the road and is technically public property, but touts in the parking area may demand an entrance ‘donation’ – J$200 should assuage them.
