· JM

Westmoreland

Westmoreland, Jamaica

Westmoreland, Jamaica, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers seeking a unique and authentic Caribbean experience. Located on the western end of the island, this lush and vibrant parish offers …

#Westmoreland#Jamaica#Caribbean#Beach#Tropical

1/2

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Westmoreland.

Top Hotels in Westmoreland

Top Flights to Westmoreland

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Westmoreland.

Tours

Savanna-La-Mar Historical Walk

A walking tour of Savanna-La-Mar, showcasing its rich history and architecture.

Shopping

Local Market Shopping Experience

Visit the vibrant local markets in Westmoreland to discover handmade crafts and local produce.

Outdoor

Negril Beach and Cliff Adventures

Explore the beautiful beaches and stunning cliffs of Negril, offering various water sports and breathtaking sunset views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Westmoreland.

Currency

J$ | JMD | Jamaican Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Westmoreland, Jamaica, is around 144,000.

Languages

English, English, Jamaican Patois

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Westmoreland.

What people love

Westmoreland, Jamaica is a beautiful and relatively untouched part of the island that offers a more laid-back and authentic Jamaican experience. Some of the pros of traveling to Westmoreland include:

Natural Beauty: Westmoreland is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush green mountains, picturesque beaches, and serene rivers. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, and swimming in the clear waters.
Local Culture: Westmoreland is home to a vibrant and welcoming community that is proud of its Jamaican heritage. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture by sampling traditional Jamaican cuisine, listening to reggae music, and exploring historic sites like the Bluefields Great House.
Peace and Quiet: Unlike more touristy areas of Jamaica, Westmoreland offers a peaceful and tranquil environment for those looking to relax and unwind. Visitors can escape the crowds and enjoy the slow pace of life in this part of the island.
Affordable Accommodation: Travelers to Westmoreland can find a range of accommodation options to suit their budget, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Staying in Westmoreland can be more affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations in Jamaica.
Local Markets: Westmoreland is home to vibrant local markets where visitors can shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and other unique souvenirs. Exploring these markets is a great way to support local artisans and get a taste of everyday life in Jamaica.

Overall, traveling to Westmoreland, Jamaica can provide a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and local culture of the island.

What to know

Westmoreland, Jamaica is a beautiful destination with many appealing features, but like any travel destination, there are some cons to be aware of. Here are some potential drawbacks of traveling to Westmoreland:

Safety Concerns: While Jamaica is a popular tourist destination, there are certain areas that may have higher crime rates. It is important to stay informed about the current safety situation in Westmoreland and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
Limited Infrastructure: Westmoreland may have limited infrastructure compared to more developed tourist areas in Jamaica. This could mean fewer amenities, accommodations, and transportation options for travelers.
Remote Location: Westmoreland is located in a more remote area of Jamaica, which could make it more challenging to access compared to other tourist hotspots. Travelers may need to plan ahead for transportation and logistics when visiting this area.
Limited Tourist Facilities: Due to its more off-the-beaten-path location, Westmoreland may have fewer tourist facilities such as restaurants, shops, and attractions compared to other more popular destinations in Jamaica.
Limited Activities: While Westmoreland offers beautiful natural scenery and a more laid-back atmosphere, it may not have as many tourist activities and attractions as other areas in Jamaica. Travelers looking for a wide range of entertainment options may find Westmoreland to be lacking in this aspect.

It's important to research and plan your trip carefully to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience in Westmoreland, Jamaica.

Westmoreland is a parish located on the western tip of Jamaica and is known for its rich history, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here is a detailed history of Westmoreland, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

Early Inhabitants: The Arawak and Taino peoples were the original inhabitants of the area that is now Westmoreland. They lived in small communities and were known for their farming, fishing, and pottery.
European Colonization: Westmoreland was colonized by the Spanish and later taken over by the English in the mid-17th century. The parish was officially formed in 1703 and was named Westmoreland because it was the westernmost point of the island that was settled by the English.
Sugar Plantations: The parish became a significant area for sugar plantations during the 18th and 19th centuries. These plantations were worked by enslaved Africans, and the region's economy was heavily dependent on sugar production.
Emancipation and Post-Emancipation Era: After the abolition of slavery in 1834, Westmoreland, like the rest of Jamaica, experienced significant social and economic changes. Many former enslaved people became small farmers.

Significant Events

Morant Bay Rebellion (1865): Although the rebellion took place in St. Thomas, the socio-economic conditions that led to the uprising were present in Westmoreland as well, highlighting the widespread discontent among the freed population.
Hurricane Charlie (1951): This devastating hurricane caused widespread damage in Westmoreland, destroying crops, homes, and infrastructure. It was one of the most significant natural disasters to hit the parish.
Development of Negril: In the 1960s and 1970s, Negril, a town located partly in Westmoreland, developed into a major tourist destination. Its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere attracted visitors from around the world, boosting the local economy.

Historical Figures

Samuel Sharpe: Although not from Westmoreland, Samuel Sharpe was a key figure in the fight against slavery in Jamaica. His legacy influenced the entire island, including Westmoreland.
Sir Alexander Bustamante: One of Jamaica's National Heroes and the first Prime Minister of independent Jamaica, Bustamante played a significant role in the labor movements that affected workers in Westmoreland.

Important Landmarks

Negril Beach: Known for its stunning seven-mile stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters, Negril Beach is one of the most famous landmarks in Westmoreland.
The Negril Lighthouse: Built in 1894, this lighthouse is one of the oldest in the Caribbean and offers panoramic views of the coastline.
Roaring River Park and Cave: This natural attraction features a cave system and a river, offering insight into the geological history of the area.
Savanna-la-Mar: The capital of Westmoreland, this town has several colonial-era buildings and serves as the economic and administrative center of the parish.

Cultural Events

Reggae and Music Festivals: Westmoreland hosts various cultural and music festivals, celebrating the rich musical heritage of Jamaica, including reggae and dancehall music.

Westmoreland continues to be a vibrant part of Jamaica, blending its historical legacy with modern development and tourism.