Historic site
Port Royal
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Port Royal, situated on a sand spit at the entrance to Kingston Harbour, was once the wealthiest and wickedest city in the West Indies, a haven for pirates like Henry Morgan. A devastating earthquake in 1692 sank much of the town into the sea. Today, visitors can explore the remaining historic buildings, including Fort Charles, the oldest fort in Jamaica, and the Port Royal Archaeological Museum, which displays artifacts recovered from the sunken city. The area offers a glimpse into Jamaica's pirate past and maritime history, with a small fishing village atmosphere.
Don't miss
- Walk the ramparts of Fort Charles, built in the 1650s, and see the old naval hospital and Giddy House.
- Visit the Port Royal Archaeological Museum to see cannons, pottery, and treasures from the 1692 earthquake.
- Explore the sunken city via glass-bottom boat tours that reveal ruins underwater.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Port Royal
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inPrivate Transfers To/From Kingston & Airport (KIN) Across Jamaica4.9★ · 118 travelers~1 hoursFree cancellationFrom$25 per personSee dates →
Most bookedClub Kingston VIP Lounge & Priority Entry at Norman Manley4.4★ · 369 travelers10 minutesFree cancellationFrom$38 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePort Royal (UNESCO World Heritage site)and Downtown Kingston Tour5★ · 22 travelers6–7 hoursFree cancellationFrom$135 per personSee dates →More attractions in Kingston