A guide to getting active on the beaches of Jamaica

Jamaica is famous for its sun, sea and sand, as well as its laidback vibe, but you'd be wrong to think the Antillean island is only ideal for those who want to relax on Jamaica holidays, as the beautiful coastline is perfect for a range of sports.

There are plenty of spots where lying back with a good book and soaking up the sun is the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon, but if you want to get your adrenalin pumping and have some really memorable experiences during your getaway, try out a few of the sports available. Read on to find out how you can get active on Jamaica's beaches.

Surfing

The island's eastern area is known as a paradise for surfers, and there are many beaches worth visiting to have a go at the sport. Makka is among the most renowned spots for advanced surfers, and you'll find the best surf between Yallahs and Morant Point.

Unpredictable winds and swells means the spot has lots of potential but is best suited to those with lots of experience in the water. Intermediate surfers and beginners would be better heading to Boston Bay Beach in Port Antonio, which boasts excellent surfing conditions between December and March.

Another good location for riding the waves is Long Bay, which boasts some dramatic scenery and consistent surf. You can also pick up souvenirs here from the vendors selling their wares on the sand.

Scuba diving

If you enjoy exploring the world beneath the waves, the town of Negril is the perfect place to indulge your passion. Home to a vast marine park that spans approximately 160 sq km, Negril is a top spot to visit among keen divers.

The West End area in particular is renowned for its good diving spots, and you should catch sight of coral reefs, sea grass and all manner of marine creatures if you explore.

Port Royal near Kingston Harbour is another place you might want to explore on a diving excursion; the area is known as the sunken city after it was destroyed repeatedly between 1692 and 1907. There are many pirate ships beneath the surface that provide fascinating wreck diving sites.

Swimming

With so many beaches in Jamaica, you'll have a great choice of swimming spots. Doctor's Cave Beach in Montego Bay is an idyllic location that boasts beautiful white sand and warm clear water, perfect for a dip. There's also sometimes a water trampoline here if you fancy some fun, and you can easily spend an entire day at the site as there is food service on the beach.

If you're making Port Antonio your base, Blue Lagoon is unmissable. The beautiful body of water is fed by freshwater springs and surrounded by verdant shrubs and trees. There are floating docks to rest on, from which you can admire the natural beauty of the location.

Another popular area is Ocho Rios, and it's here you'll find James Bond Beach. The sandy spot was the former property of 007's creator, Ian Fleming, and is a lovely place to get active in the water while listening to live music from the bandstand.

The scenery surrounding the water is simply breathtaking and includes the rugged mountains of St Mary. There's also a popular restaurant here serving up fresh fish dishes.