Travel Eye on Runaway Bay (Jamaica, Caribbean)

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Overview:

Runaway Bay is certainly one of the most scenic areas in Jamaica, which is probably why it was the first place in Jamaica to be developed almost completely as a resort area. Since the early 1960s, when the old Cardiff Hall Estate was converted to a combination of luxury hotels, golf courses and private villas, the town has developed its own character and persona as an elegant yet lively getaway for those who truly need to relax, enjoy a bit of luxury and rejuvenate themselves completely. There is mainly hotel accommodation, with all-inclusives ruling the roost; many adult-only operations although some family-friendly options. A few apartments and villas for more independent types.

Over the years, there has been much debate about the name of this small coastal town. Some believe it got the name as the fleeing point of the last batch of Spanish soldiers retreating from English troops under the directive of Governor Ysassi in the 1600s. Others argue that it once was the point of departure of African slaves from inland sugar plantations who ran away to Cuba. Whichever story is true, in the hills outside the resort town, many foreigners have run away from their former selves and made Jamaica home!

Runaway Bay tends to suit families, groups and couples looking for sun, sea and fun in a quieter locale but still within reach of the bigger centres of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

Locality:

Runaway Bay is situated on the N coast, 27 mls W of Ocho Rios. 40 mls E of Montego Bay and Sir Donald Sangster international airport. On the coastal highway between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. Forested, gently sloping hills form a backdrop to the area.

Entertainment/Facilities/Attractions/Things to do:

Runaway Bay has attractions such as Green Grotto Caves, the largest and most accessible caves on the island. The two caves open to the public are the Runaway Cave and the Green Grotto Cave, both estimated to be approximately half-million years old.

Beaches are good along this stretch of coast, although not as fine as those farther E and W. Some have dark sand, some rocky outcrops. Beware of unsavoury local characters sometimes haunt the less-populated public beach areas.

Local restaurants serve spicy Jamaican dishes, with seafood a favourite. Most hotels will accommodate nonresidents for dinner, again, seafood and Jamaican dishes predominate but international choices are also on offer

Daytime offers water sports including windsurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving (there is an offshore wreck) but you will not find many motorised water sports. Fishing and a 18-hole golf course with tennis at some hotels are other activities to try.

The nightlife is mainly hotel based.