Great Goat Island Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Great Goat Island, Jamaica in this comprehensive travel guide.


Great Goat Island is a hidden gem located in Middlesex County, Jamaica, in the Caribbean. Known for its pristine turquoise waters, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, this island is a must-visit destination for every traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top places to visit, best activities to do, where to stay, and much more.

Introduction to Great Goat Island

Great Goat Island is a small island located off the southern coast of Jamaica’s mainland. Despite its small size, the island boasts a wide range of natural and cultural attractions that make it a popular destination for tourists. The island’s history dates back to the colonial era, but it remains largely untouched by the modern world, making it a perfect destination for peace-seekers.

List of Places to Visit in Great Goat Island

Great Goat Island offers a plethora of attractions, ranging from historical landmarks to exciting outdoor activities. Here’s a list of the top places to visit on the island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Fort Clarence
  2. Fort Liguanea
  3. Old Harbour Bay

Natural Attractions of Great Goat Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Great Goat Island Lighthouse
  2. The Blue Lagoon
  3. Hellshire Beach
  4. Portland Point

Hiking/Biking Routes of Great Goat Island

Great Goat Island offers a range of hiking and biking trails for adventure enthusiasts. Here’s a list of the best hiking/biking routes on the island:

  1. Portland Point Trail
  2. Old Harbour Bay Trail
  3. Fort Liguanea Trail
  4. Great Goat Island Lighthouse Trail

Best Things to Do in Great Goat Island: Activities and Tours

Great Goat Island offers a range of activities and tours to suit different interests. Here are some of the best things to do on the island:

  1. Snorkeling and scuba diving
  2. Kayaking and paddleboarding
  3. Fishing tours
  4. Bird watching tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Great Goat Island

To make the most of your visit to Great Goat Island, here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and check-in
Day 2 Fort Clarence Tour
Day 3 Hellshire Beach Day Trip
Day 4 Portland Point Trail Hike
Day 5 Blue Lagoon and Great Goat Island Lighthouse Tour
Day 6 Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Excursion
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Great Goat Island

Great Goat Island has a rich culinary heritage, with a range of local dishes and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Jerk chicken
  2. Ackee and saltfish
  3. Curry goat
  4. Festival

Local Beverages

  1. Red Stripe Beer
  2. Rum Punch
  3. Ginger Beer

Where to Stay in Great Goat Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Great Goat Island boasts a range of accommodation options for every budget and preference. Here are some of the top picks:

  1. The View Guesthouse
  2. Fort Clarence Beach House
  3. Old Harbour Bay Guest House

What to Buy in Great Goat Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Great Goat Island is known for its unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy on the island:

  1. Handmade baskets and bags
  2. Hand-painted pottery
  3. Rum and coffee

Local Culture and Customs of Great Goat Island

Great Goat Island has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its African and European roots. The islanders are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature, and visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Great Goat Island

The best time to visit Great Goat Island is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. The island can be visited throughout the year, but the rainy season from May to November can bring occasional showers and high humidity.

Do’s and Don’ts of Great Goat Island

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.
  2. Leave no trace policy.
  3. Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  1. Take coral or shells from the island’s beaches.
  2. Litter or damage the island’s environment.
  3. Disrespect the locals or their heritage.

Safety and Health

Safety in Great Goat Island

Great Goat Island is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should take basic precautions to avoid petty theft or pickpocketing. Always be vigilant and avoid carrying a lot of valuables with you.

Health in Great Goat Island

Visitor’s do not need any vaccinations to enter the island but should be careful of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Zika and Dengue. It is essential to use insect repellent and mosquito nets while on the island and to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.

Getting to Great Goat Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Great Goat Island can be reached via different modes of transportation. Here are some of the options:

Airports Near Great Goat Island

  1. Norman Manley International Airport, Kingston
  2. Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

Bus Stations Near Great Goat Island

  1. Kingston Bus Station
  2. Spanish Town Bus Station

Other Options

  1. Private tour operators
  2. Car rental services

How to Get Around in Great Goat Island

Visitors can explore the island on foot or by bike, but renting a car or hiring a taxi is more convenient, especially for longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Great Goat Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Great Goat Island is a gateway to many other Caribbean destinations. Here are some of the top picks:

  1. Port Antonio, Jamaica
  2. Ocho Rios, Jamaica
  3. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Conclusion

Great Goat Island is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, this island promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So, pack your bags and get ready to indulge in some island paradise.