Most cruise ships offer shore excursions to different beaches. We had heard that Doctor’s Cave Beach was surprisingly nice, considering it was more or less right in town, so we decided to take the bus from the dock. Our bus driver pointed out some highlights as we drove—our favorite was Jamaica’s free hotel—free food and accommodation, mon.
Although not a large beach, Doctor’s Cave Beach is close to town and a lovely place to spend a day. Upon arrival, you pay at the booth for your admission, chairs and umbrella. Immediately there is someone to fetch these items and put them up where you would like. The umbrellas are red, blue and yellow and make a lovely picture from the terrace which runs along the beach. The chairs are also colorfully striped but they are horribly uncomfortable and cannot be adjusted to do anything but sit up in.
There is a building at one end of the beach where one can rent a variety of water craft such as jet skis, but walk beyond that area and you are immediately accosted by locals trying to sell jewelry and drugs.
The water is warm, but the beach slopes quite rapidly after the first couple of feet—not ideal for little kids. About thirty feet from shore are three enormous trampolines and these were a popular spot to swim to and then sun on or otherwise goof around on depending on your age.
There were bathrooms, change facilities and lockers, also several places to get food. You could also order food and drinks right from your little oasis on the sand.