Things to Do at Port Royal

Complete Guide to Port Royal in Kingston

About Port Royal

Port Royal, once known as the 'wickedest city on earth,' stands as one of Jamaica's most fascinating historical sites. This former pirate haven was a bustling Caribbean port in the 17th century, home to notorious buccaneers like Henry Morgan and serving as the unofficial capital of piracy in the New World. The city's golden age came to an abrupt end on June 7, 1692, when a devastating earthquake caused two-thirds of the city to sink into the sea, taking thousands of lives and most of its legendary wealth with it. Today, Port Royal is a quiet fishing village that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Jamaica's colonial past and maritime heritage. The surviving remnants of this once-mighty city include historic forts, ancient buildings, and fascinating archaeological sites. The area has become an important destination for history enthusiasts, underwater archaeologists, and travelers seeking to explore one of the Caribbean's most significant historical locations.

What to See & Do

Fort Charles

The oldest and largest surviving fort, built in 1656, featuring original cannons, ramparts, and the Maritime Museum showcasing naval artifacts and Port Royal's history

Giddy House

A tilted Royal Artillery storehouse that sank during the 1907 earthquake, creating a disorienting optical illusion that makes visitors feel dizzy

St. Peter's Church

One of the oldest Anglican churches in the Caribbean, containing historical graves and artifacts, including silver pieces donated by pirate Henry Morgan

Port Royal Archaeological Museum

Houses artifacts recovered from the sunken city, including pewter plates, clay pipes, and other 17th-century items that tell the story of daily life in pirate-era Port Royal

Morgan's Harbour

The historic harbor area where pirate ships once anchored, now offering boat tours and access to underwater archaeological sites

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Fort Charles and museums: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily. St. Peter's Church: Usually open during daylight hours, but check locally for service times

Tickets & Pricing

Fort Charles: approximately $300 JMD for adults, $150 JMD for children. Museum entry: around $200 JMD. Combination tickets available

Best Time to Visit

November to April for cooler weather. Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photography lighting

Suggested Duration

Half-day (3-4 hours) to explore main sites, full day if including boat tours or diving excursions

Getting There

Port Royal is located at the end of the Palisadoes Peninsula, about 30 minutes from downtown Kingston. Take the Norman Manley Highway from Kingston, passing the airport, and continue to the end of the peninsula. Public buses and route taxis run regularly from Kingston to Port Royal. Alternatively, you can drive, take a taxi, or join an organized tour. The ferry from downtown Kingston to Port Royal operates sporadically, so road transport is more reliable.

Things to Do Nearby

Norman Manley International Airport
Jamaica's main international airport, featuring duty-free shopping and dining options
Lime Cay
A small, pristine island with white sand beaches, accessible by boat from Port Royal, perfect for swimming and snorkeling
Palisadoes Strip
A scenic drive along the narrow peninsula connecting Kingston to Port Royal, offering views of Kingston Harbour and the Caribbean Sea
Kingston Harbour
One of the world's largest natural harbors, offering boat tours and spectacular views of the Blue Mountains
Hellshire Beach
Popular beach destination famous for its fried fish, festival, and bammy, located a short drive from Port Royal

Tips & Advice

Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water as there's limited shade in the historical areas
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven surfaces and coral stone paths
Try the local seafood at one of the waterfront restaurants, particularly the fried fish and bammy
Consider hiring a local guide to get the most detailed historical information and stories about the pirate era
Bring cash in Jamaican dollars as some vendors and small establishments may not accept credit cards
Visit the local fishing beach to see traditional Jamaican fishing boats and interact with friendly local fishermen
Don't miss the sunset views over Kingston Harbour – they're spectacular from the fort ramparts

Tours & Activities at Port Royal