“Then I realized adventures are the best way to learn.”
Visit Nature's Sweet Escapes YouTube channel for an in-depth look at this amazing adventure! Also, follow me on Instagram at Nature's Sweet Escapes and on TikTok at .naturessweetescapes for more updates and behind-the-scenes moments from my journeys.
I was thrilled to return to the Blue Lagoon for the third time—and with all the recent rumors swirling around, this visit felt even more meaningful than before. Invited by my friends Bobo and Ronaldo, I didn’t hesitate to accept.
There’s talk that the Blue Lagoon and its surrounding lands may soon be sold to a private entity—possibly Mr. Stewart, the powerhouse behind the Sandals resort brand.
Such a deal could mean restricted public access, and for a place this iconic, that’s a serious concern.
However, according to the Jamaica National Heritage Trust (JNHT), those rumors are false.
They’ve assured the public that access remains open and that no such sale has taken place.
This time, we took the Junction route from Kingston. Our last adventure had led us through St. Thomas, where we stopped at Rocky Point and Boston Beach.
The roads were still under construction, making for a longer journey—but the destination made it worth every bump.
As we arrived at the Blue Lagoon, I felt that same awe I’ve experienced on each visit. The rumors only made me more grateful I accepted the invitation.
The Blue Lagoon facility has seen upgrades. There’s a more organized system in place now, including: Lifeguards for added safety, Restrooms and designated vendor areas and A cleaner, more welcoming space overall.
I made a beeline for the mineral spring before the crowds arrived, and managed to capture a few beautiful photos in the early morning light.
Formerly known as the “Blue Hole,” the lagoon is approximately 180 to 200 feet deep. It’s fed by a unique blend of freshwater springs from the Blue Mountains and the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea. This combination creates a magical interplay of colors and temperatures, shifting between turquoise and deep sapphire, depending on the light.
The Blue Lagoon is rich in local legend: One tale speaks of a mermaid who lived in its depths. Another myth tells of a golden table that would rise to the surface, warming the water. Some even say it’s bottomless and was once home to a dragon.
Though the 1980 movie The Blue Lagoon, starring Brooke Shields, wasn’t actually filmed here, the international fame led to the location officially adopting the name.
In August 2018, the Jamaican government designated the Blue Lagoon a National Monument, protecting it along with neighboring areas like Unity Bay and Lime Kiln Bay.
Today, the Blue Lagoon remains a beloved spot for both locals and tourists seeking its beauty, history, and healing waters.
Visitors can: Take a boat tour, Explore Monkey Island, relax at the water’s edge or, like me, dream of cooking a meal by the lagoon one day.
Though the surrounding lands are privately owned, the JNHT has regulated public access for over 50 years. Legal challenges have arisen regarding public rights to the beach and waterways, and a trial is currently underway to ensure that this natural treasure remains open to all.
The lagoon was temporarily closed in 2023 for renovations and to address issues like tourist harassment, safety concerns, and illegal activity—a necessary pause to preserve its future.
I had a wonderful time, soaking in both the water and the moment.
But the uncertainty about the lagoon’s future hangs heavy. Like so many gems in Jamaica, it may not always be accessible. So, I’ve decided to visit as often as I can—just in case this public paradise becomes another private retreat.
Have you ever visited the Blue Lagoon? If yes, isn’t it just gorgeous? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation—and the access—alive. 💧🌿
Until next time,
Your favorite tour guide,
Nature’s Sweet Escapes
More Adventures
FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM @NATURESSWEETESCAPES
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Whatta Gwaan!
You've discovered my blog. I'm delighted you're here. Maybe it's destiny. I'm Doreen Lillian Scarlett welcome to Nature's Sweet Escapes where I go on the far side of Instagram to document and share my adventures.