Coastal Views Between the Bay and Jamaica’s Western Parishes

A climb up Dolphin Head Mountain opens up wide views of other parishes in western Jamaica. From the hills above Lucea Harbour, the view stretches more than 180 degrees across the bay. Each viewpoint has its own focus: the climb opens up views of the surrounding parishes, while the hills above Lucea Harbour frame the panorama of the bay.

Along the coast, Negril Beach stretches from Westmoreland into the Parish of Hanover. Miskito Cove lies about seven miles east of Lucea. The bay is considered a natural harbour and suitable for water sports and recreational fishing; its history is associated with Miskito raids on Taíno villages.

In eastern Hanover, rafting is offered on the Great River. Clifton Cave and Cousin’s Cove Cave are among the caves in the parish and are considered recreational options for adventurous visitors. Paradise Falls is also considered a recreational option for visitors to the Parish of Hanover. Rafting, caves, and Paradise Falls offer distinct ways to enjoy leisure activities.

Fort, Town Hall, and Church History

Fort Charlotte in Lucea was built by the British in the mid-18th century to defend the northwestern part of the island. Lucea Town Hall was built around 1840 in the Jamaican Georgian style and originally served as the town’s courthouse. The two buildings had different functions: the fort served for defence, while the Town Hall initially served as a courthouse. Hanover Parish Church, also called St. Mary’s Anglican, is believed to have been built around 1725. Its presumed construction predates the fort, built in the mid-18th century, and the Town Hall, built around 1840.

The church has a working organ dating from 1891. It is regularly maintained; rain damaged it in the past. The history of its pastors also marks out different periods: D. W. Rose served from 1806 to 1824, and John Stainsby from 1833 to 1853. Both are known in the history of Hanover Parish Church for their commitment to justice. The organ and their terms of service add further 19th-century details to the building’s history.

Blenheim in Hanover is the birthplace of Sir Alexander Bustamante, the first Jamaican to be named a National Hero during his lifetime. This biographical connection differs from the military and civic functions of Lucea’s buildings. The history of the Lucea yam leads to another chapter: after the abolition of slavery in 1834, it was one of the well-known crops with which Hanover supplied much of the rest of Jamaica. Agriculture and food supply offer another historical perspective on Hanover.

Discover more destinations: Lucea, Green Island, Hopewell, Orange Bay, Saint Catherine Parish, Saint Ann Parish, Saint James Parish, Saint Thomas Parish.

For the main travel overview: Jamaica.