World Beach

A curlicue spit, Bear Cay, hooks around the north side of the bay. World Beach, the lonesome 3km-long white-sand beach on the north side, has long been appreciated by savvy travelers for its good snorkeling, sunbathing and solitude. At the time of research, 75% of Bear Cay remained undeveloped. Hawksbill sea turtles - an endangered species - are regularly sighted coming to shore to lay eggs in the deep, soft sand.

The gorgeous beach lined with casuarina pines is an unheralded Jamaican treasure that ought to qualify for protected status. But change is coming fast. Construction is set to begin on a 1700-room resort, and few here are speculating on the fate of the turtles.

You can access World Beach from Time 'n Place, or you can rent a boat at Glistening Waters Marina or Fisherman's Inn; picnic meals are available.