Top 5 river swimming spots in Portland, Jamaica

Portland’s rivers are cold, clear and close to the sea. These five are the best places to get in the water. Stay out if the river is brown or rising after rain.

Updated November 2026. Prices and opening times change, especially after storms, so confirm before you go.

  1. 1 Blue Lagoon

    River / Spring Portland Easy access

    Why it made the list: Deep blue water where cold springs meet the sea. A swim you will remember.

    Cost
    Not confirmed. Fees change, so check locally.
    Getting there
    Easy. No hike. Parking is limited, and access and any fees or boat and raft offers around the lagoon have been disputed, so confirm current rules locally. Swim only where locals say it is safe, and be careful of boat traffic.
    Best time
    Early morning, before the boats.

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  2. 2 Muirton Pen

    River / Spring Portland Off the beaten path

    Why it made the list: Turquoise river, rope swing, diving platform and a bar. Sundays are a vibe.

    Cost
    Free entry. Visitors are asked to buy from the bar and kitchen.
    Getting there
    Easy by road. It is on the A4 at Muirton, beside the bridge, near Manchioneal. Free entry; they ask visitors to support the bar and kitchen instead. It usually closes around 9pm, but listings disagree, so call first. Avoid the river after heavy rain. Not formally re-checked since Hurricane Melissa, so confirm it is open before you go.
    Best time
    Sundays are the liveliest. Dry weather is best.

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  3. 3 Reach Falls

    Waterfall Portland Off the beaten path

    Why it made the list: Swim through clear pools and small caves along the river.

    Cost
    Not confirmed. Fees change, so check locally.
    Getting there
    Easy. Stairs from the parking area; entrance fee; wet rocks near the water.
    Best time
    Dry season (December to April), in the morning. Skip it for a day or two after heavy rain.

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  4. 4 Frenchman's Cove

    Beach Portland Easy access

    Why it made the list: A river runs right into the sea on the sand, so you can swim in both.

    Cost
    Not confirmed. Fees change, so check locally.
    Getting there
    Easy. It is a private beach, so check the current entry price and rules first. Outside food and drink are reported as not allowed. Phone numbers are reported differently, so confirm before you travel.
    Best time
    Weekday mornings for a quiet beach. Weekends are livelier.

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  5. 5 Rio Grande, Berridale

    River / Spring Portland Easy access

    Why it made the list: Ride a bamboo raft down the river and stop for a dip on the way.

    Cost
    Not confirmed. Fees change, so check locally.
    Getting there
    Easy. You sit on a raft, so it suits most ages and fitness levels.
    Best time
    Dry weather, late morning to early afternoon. Stay away after heavy rain.

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🚌 Getting there without a car?

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