A Treasure Beach road trip is a great way to explore the quiet and peaceful parts of Jamaica. It’s far from the noise of the big cities and busy resorts. Instead of crowds and loud parties, you’ll find small towns, friendly people, and wide open spaces. Treasure Beach doesn’t have big hotels or noisy parties. Instead, you’ll see fishermen by the shore and small cafés with fresh food.
Getting a rental car in Jamaica is the easiest way to do this trip. Buses don’t come here often. But with your own car, you can take your time, pull over for photos, and grab food when you're hungry. You’re not stuck waiting or rushing. You’re free to explore how you want.
There are two main ways to reach Treasure Beach by car, depending on where you land in Jamaica. Both give you a scenic look at the island and take you through small towns, farmlands, and coastal areas. Below are the two easiest routes:
Driving to Treasure Beach from Kingston takes about 3 hours, covering 165 kilometers. After leaving the airport, you’ll head west along Norman Manley Highway, then merge onto the T1 toll road. This highway is smooth and helps you cover distance quickly. You’ll pass through places like Williamsfield, Gutters, and Nain. The last part of the journey winds through small rural roads leading into Treasure Beach. There aren’t many signs, so using GPS is a good idea. This route is longer but has less traffic once you leave the city.
If you fly into Montego Bay, the drive is a bit shorter, around 2 hours and 33 minutes over 110 kilometers. You’ll take Queens Drive from the airport and continue through Long Hill via route B8, then connect to the A2 highway. You’ll drive through Black River, a quiet town on the south coast. From there, small local roads take you the rest of the way to Treasure Beach. The roads are narrower but offer beautiful views of the countryside and coast. This route is popular for those staying on the north or west side of the island.
Planning a trip to Treasure Beach means getting ready for quiet beaches, local charm, and slow, scenic drives. In 2 to 3 days, you can enjoy the coast, meet the community, and take a few short adventures nearby. Here’s a simple plan to help you maximize your time.
Once you reach Treasure Beach, check in at Jakes Hotel. It’s a colorful, beachfront stay with garden paths, cozy rooms, and ocean views. Another great option is Treasure Beach Hotel, a quieter spot with a local vibe and easy access to Billy’s Bay. Both places are close to the shore, so you can settle in and start exploring without needing to drive again.
After checking in, take a relaxing stroll along Billy’s Bay or Great Bay. The sand is soft, the water is calm, and you’ll often see fishermen pulling in their nets or kids playing in the waves. If you're feeling more active, walk to Old Wharf Beach, where the waves are a little stronger and perfect for body surfing or beachcombing. Some visitors also like to rent a bike from their guesthouse and ride through the village roads to get a feel of the area.
If you arrive earlier in the day, stop by Treasure Beach Sports Park. It’s a large green space where you can sometimes watch local cricket or football matches. By sunset, go to Jack Sprat Restaurant, beside Jakes Hotel. Grab a table near the water, order a plate of grilled snapper or jerk shrimp, and enjoy the view as the sun dips below the horizon. The music is light, the breeze is cool, and the scene sets the tone for a relaxing stay. If you're up for it, drink under the stars before returning to your room.
Start your morning with breakfast at Hold A Vibz Cafe, a small local spot that serves fresh smoothies, salads, and plant-based meals. After that, head out for a boat tour. You can book a trip to the Pelican Bar or the Black River Safari. Most boats leave from Parottee, which is about a 30-minute drive from Treasure Beach. These tours take you past mangroves, crocodiles, and dolphins. At the Pelican Bar, you can swim, sip a drink, and enjoy the ocean all around you.
After the tour, return to the village and visit Callaloo Butik or the Treasure Beach Women’s Group craft shop. You’ll find handmade items, souvenirs, and friendly faces who’ll tell you more about the local culture.
In the afternoon, relax at Calabash Bay Beach. The water here is calm and great for swimming. As the sun sets, go to Lashings Restaurant, which sits on a hill above the village. They serve Jamaican meals like jerk chicken, curry goat, pizza, and other international dishes. The view is wide and peaceful, perfect for ending your day.
On your last day, grab breakfast at Smurf’s Café, a small and cozy place known for Jamaican omelets, fried plantains, and fresh Blue Mountain coffee. After that, you have two great options if you have extra time.
One is a trip to YS Falls, about 1.5 hours away. The drive takes you through green hills and quiet backroads. Once there, you can swim in natural pools, swing on a rope, or just relax by the water. It’s one of the most beautiful waterfall spots in Jamaica.
The second option is a shorter drive to Lovers’ Leap, just 40 minutes from Treasure Beach. This cliffside viewpoint gives you a stunning look at the coast below. There’s also a small café where you can grab a quick snack.
If you’re heading north, stop at Middle Quarters for a local treat—pepper shrimp sold in bags on the roadside. It’s spicy, simple, and very Jamaican. For lunch before you hit the road, try 77 West Restaurant & Bar. It’s a modern eatery on a cliff with great food and sea views. If you're staying another night, consider booking a quiet room at Nat’s Place, a family-run guesthouse with a homey feel and garden views.
Treasure Beach is a fishing village on Jamaica’s south coast. Whether you're staying for a weekend or longer, these top things to do in Treasure Beach will help you make the most of your visit. Most spots are easy to reach by walking, biking, or a short drive. Bring cash, wear sandals, and prepare to slow down and enjoy.
You’ll love visiting Floyd’s Pelican Bar. This is a wooden bar built on stilts in the middle of the sea, about a 30-minute boat ride from Treasure Beach. The views are stunning, the vibe is easygoing, and the drinks are ice cold. Swim in shallow turquoise waters, chat with locals or other travelers, and relax with reggae music playing in the background. Bring some cash since cards aren’t accepted, and don’t forget to carve your name into the wooden railings.
Step into a creative world at the Mud Palace Gallery, run by the talented artist Sharon Martini. This cozy spot in Africa Village showcases colorful handmade art, including paintings, pillows, jewelry, and more. Each item has a story and reflects Jamaican culture and community. If you're lucky, you’ll meet Sharon herself. She’s always crafting, singing, or sharing stories. Whether buying a keepsake or browsing, this gallery is a peaceful place to enjoy Jamaican artistry. If you want a special and local gift, this is the best place to shop in Treasure Beach.
Start your morning or wind down your afternoon at Wise Wellness Centre. Join a yoga class led by experienced local teachers who guide you through slow, mindful movements. The space is filled with tropical plants, quiet corners, and soft breezes from the nearby sea. Even if you’ve never done yoga before, the classes are easy to follow and deeply relaxing.
Book a boat tour with Captain Dennis for an authentic taste of Treasure Beach adventure. You’ll cruise along the coast, visit the famous Pelican Bar, and then pull up to a hidden beach only locals know. While you swim, sunbathe, or play beach games, Captain Dennis and his crew will cook you a fresh seafood lunch over an open fire. Expect grilled lobster, fish, or crab with rice, vegetables, and cold drinks.
Jack Sprat is located beside Jakes Hotel. This beachfront restaurant offers delicious local dishes like jerk chicken, seafood, and wood-fired pizza. Sit under the trees, listen to reggae, and enjoy the ocean breeze while you eat. The setting is casual and friendly, perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers. It’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset in town. Don’t skip the fresh juices or the spicy pepper sauce.
Discover the wilder side of Treasure Beach with Red’s hiking and biking tours. Red is a friendly local guide with years of experience and a deep love for nature. He’ll take you through quiet backroads, jungle trails, and scenic hilltops. You’ll see birds, goats, exotic plants, and maybe even hidden waterfalls along the way. Red knows all the stories of the land and will share Jamaican culture as you go. You can choose a gentle route or a more challenging adventure. Either way, it’s a great way to enjoy the landscape while getting a bit of exercise outdoors.
If you want a fun way to explore, hop on a scooter with Smurf’s Famous Scooter Tour. After a short lesson at Smurf’s Bar, you’ll follow a local guide through fishing villages, farmland, and long stretches of beach. You’ll stop for photos, fruit tastings, and a domino game at a roadside bar. Smurf and his team make the ride feel easy and safe, even for first-timers. You’ll get a close-up view of local life, from goats wandering the road to people waving from their porches.
Frenchman’s Bay is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Treasure Beach. You’ll find golden sand, clear blue water, and shady trees nearby. The beach is calm most days, though it’s best to check the waves before swimming. It’s a lovely place to bring a towel and spend a few quiet hours under the sun. If you get hungry, restaurants like Frenchman’s Reef are nearby and serve fresh, tasty meals.
Support the local community by visiting Treasure Hunt Craft Shop, where everything you see is handmade by local artists. Over 70 crafters contribute to the store, offering items like wood carvings, woven baskets, jewelry, and art. Each piece is unique and carries the spirit of the area. The shop is managed by a women’s group committed to keeping traditional skills alive and supporting local livelihoods.
Hold a Vibz Café is your go-to spot for healthy food, great coffee, and good vibes. Set in a colorful, artsy space with a laid-back feel, it’s perfect for relaxing after a busy morning. The menu includes salads, soups, burgers, and vegan options, all made from fresh local produce. It’s also a nice place to chat with locals or other travelers, read a book, or catch some live music.
Before you start your Treasure Beach road trip, there are a few key things to know. Renting a car in Jamaica is easy, but local roads and driving habits can differ. Here are some helpful tips to keep your trip smooth, safe, and stress-free.
You need a valid driver’s license from your home country to rent a car in Jamaica. If your license is not in English, bring an International Driving Permit. You must also carry your passport and a credit card. Some rental companies may ask for a deposit. Always double-check the terms before booking. Keep copies of your documents in case you lose anything while on the road. Most car rental companies will let you book online and pick up your car at the airport or main town. Be sure to bring printed or digital confirmation of your booking.
The roads along Jamaica’s south coast are mostly paved but can be narrow or bumpy in rural spots. A compact SUV or mid-size car is a good choice. These cars handle potholes better and give you more comfort for longer drives. If you're staying near the beach or going off the main road, an SUV offers more ground clearance. Avoid very low or luxury cars because they may not do well on uneven roads. Most visitors pick automatic transmission cars since they’re easier to drive on hilly or unfamiliar routes. Always check the spare tire and air conditioning before leaving.
Cell service in Treasure Beach and nearby areas is generally good, especially with local SIM cards from Digicel or Flow. But some rural roads may lose signal. Download offline maps before your trip. You can also ask your rental company to include a GPS unit. Save key places like your hotel, gas stations, and attractions in your phone. Paper maps are rare, so don’t count on finding one locally. Keep your phone charged with a car charger, and carry extra data if you plan to explore off the main route.
A road trip to Treasure Beach is a simple way to experience the quieter side of Jamaica. You’ll pass through small towns like Nain and Black River, follow rural roads with sea views, and arrive in a place where things move more slowly. Whether swimming at Calabash Bay, dining at Jack Sprat, or taking a boat to Pelican Bar, each stop feels unhurried. Final Rentals is a car rental platform with pick-up options at Montego Bay and Kingston airports. You can book online and choose a vehicle that fits the route, like a compact SUV for rougher roads near Treasure Beach.
