Seven Mile Beach

There’s much more going on here than just miles of white sand. Many of Negril’s main resorts line the beach, and private operators abound offer activities such as snorkeling, water-skiing, parasailing, and glass-bottom boat rides. Breezy open-air restaurants and beach bars are plentiful for delicious beachfront meals and drinks.

You can experience Seven Mile Beach on your own, or with a group or private half-day or full-day tour leaving from Falmouth, Montego Bay, Negril, or Ocho Rios. Depending on your departure city, tours may include time at the beach for sunbathing and water activities along with highlights of the chosen area, including a stop at local institutions like Rick’s Cafe or Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville for sunset jams. Tours typically include round-trip transportation but not rental fees.

• Seven Mile Beach is a must-do for sun and sand lovers, including families with small children.

• Remember to bring sun protection and swimwear. Snorkeling and other water-sports gear are available for rent, as are umbrellas and beach chairs.

• Restaurants and bars dot the beach and serve up casual fare.

• Note that there may be partially or fully nude sunbathers.

• Hustling hawkers of various trinkets and services may feel aggressive at times.

Seven Mile Beach is directly north of Negril’s center along Norman Manley Blvd. You can access the beach outside of the all-inclusive hotels, which restrict their sands to their guests. Have a taxi drop you off at the stretch called Bourbon Beach, which also has public bars and restaurants.

Seven Mile Beach is a popular destination year-round. High-season winter months see the most visitors, but the beach is long and wide, so it never feels too crowded.

Visible in the distance from Seven Mile Beach is the lovely Negril Lighthouse. Standing 65 feet (20 meters) tall at Jamaica’s most westernmost point, it is one of the earliest concrete lighthouses and has been guiding ships away from the craggy promontory since 1894.