History of Port Antonio
Bananas, referred to as “green gold,” were responsible for putting Port Antonio on the map. At the end of the 19th century, Port Antonio took center stage as the banana capital of the world, immortalized by Harry Belafonte’s “Banana Boat Song” (“Day-O”). Boats that came to gather the bananas at the town’s picturesque twin harbors also brought hundreds of visitors. The word spread. Sleepy Port Antonio awoke, becoming a hotbed for jetsetters before there were jets.
The banana trade eventually languished, but the area kept its unspoiled charm, bewitching celebrities since the black and white movies era. Errol Flynn, the flamboyant movie pirate of days gone by, settled here. He called Port Antonio more beautiful than any woman he had ever seen. He sailed in on his yacht Zacca, and stayed the rest of his life, making occasional forays to Hollywood for movie making. Perhaps it was his love for the area that eventually brought more film crews to Port Antonio.
Silver screen luminaries have lent panache to Port Antonio for years. The area quietly became an elegant retreat for Hollywood escape artists such as Bette Davis and Ginger Rogers. Films were shot and stars were created here. Clara’s Heart and the huge box office hit Cocktail are all part of Port Antonio’s reel.
Celebrities like Brooke Shields, Harrison Ford, Tom Cruise, Denzel Washington, Eddie Murphy, and Robin Williams have found their way to peaceful Port Antonio. Less conspicuous visitors - honeymooners, romantics, hikers and nature lovers - visit the area today.  |
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 Birding in Rio Grande Valley
Blue Mountain Exploring
Visiting Gardens at Athenry
Frenchman's Cove
Jerk at Boston Beach
Swimming at Blue Lagoon
Rio Grande River Rafting
Seeing Trident Castle
Relaxing at Reich Falls
Visiting Nonsuch Cave
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