25/05/2026
I love exploring the roads less traveled — letting the day unfold naturally and seeing where it takes me. That’s exactly how Rappa and I ended up curious about James Bond Beach during one of our road trips, drawn in by all the hype surrounding this famous spot.
So there we were in 2017, standing in front of a locked gate at James Bond Beach. But Rappa managed to track down the security guard, who surprisingly let us in. Lucky us!
Ian Fleming build the estate in 1946 and he created James Bond at , a favorite swimming spot. He wrote between 1952 and 1964 the famous 007 novels. This coastal estate lays next to James Bond Beach.��It’s no wonder that one of Jamaica’s most gorgeous beaches was featured in one of the most iconic Bond scenes. ‘Laughing Waters Beach’ appears in Dr. No, when Ursula Andress rises out of the water and encounters Sean Connery.�Guess who bought the property after Bob Marley became the owner in 1976 ? Chris Blackwell. And Chris turned it into a luxury resort.
, in Oracabessa - only a 30 minutes drive from Ocho Rios, is famous for its stunning natural beauty and clear turquoise waters.
�… or was famous….?�
Once there was a $5 fee, which goes toward maintaining the property and gives you access to clean restrooms, showers, a grassy field, and a bar/restaurant ‘Moonraker’ where concerts were held. �Snorkeling equipment and other water activities could be rented for an additional cost. The venue frequently hosted stage shows and music events.
In 2017, the place was still open, we could have a great swim, though wonderfully quiet and almost forgotten by time. By 2019, it had come back to life a little, with a few arts and crafts stalls adding color and character.
Sadly, it’s now closed to the public, but if luck is on your side and the gate happens to be open, you might still sneak a glimpse inside.
https://rapparastatours.com/2023/12/11/7-amazing-unknown-treasures-of-st-mary/