Treasure Beach, Jamaica isn’t just a place you visit — it’s a place that welcomes you like family. Tucked on Jamaica’s quiet South Coast, this charming fishing village is where time slows down, and everything from food to conversation is savored. Thanks to My Irie Escape, I got to experience Treasure Beach the way it’s meant to be — staying in two beautiful villas, connecting with the heart of the community, and tasting my way through the island’s rich culinary culture together with my girlfriends.
Where We Stayed: Amelia’s & Minerva House in Treasure Beach, Jamaica
Our adventure began at Amelia’s, a cozy yet refined villa where island breezes flow freely and the pool glistens just steps away from open-air living spaces. What truly made Amelia’s unforgettable was our cook, Natalie, who welcomed us with her signature coconut curry lobster — rich, creamy, subtly spicy, and utterly unforgettable. It was the kind of meal that made you close your eyes and just feel the island.
Midway through the trip, we moved to Minerva House, a stunning, secluded villa perched above its own stretch of beach. The views were postcard-worthy, the infinity pool irresistible — but it was Shan and Princess, the culinary dream team, who made the stay special. Their fried snapper escovitch, served with was fresh from the sea and cooked with love.
Our Itinerary: A Taste of Treasure Beach, Jamaica
A Warm Welcome
We arrived at the airport greeted by the ever-reliable transport provider, Treasure Tours who drove us down to our first villa, Amelia’s in Treasure Beach. Bags dropped, sandals on, and the smell of Natalie’s cooking in the air — our stay was already off to the perfect start. We had an amazing welcome dinner and then had a night swim in the infinity pool under the stars!
Breakfast with the Locals
Our first morning took us to Ms. Dawn’s/Smurf’s Café, where the breakfast was as bold as the colors of the walls. Of course I had to have my favorite- Jamaica’s national dish — ackee and saltfish, paired with green bananas and fried dumplings and a coffee. It was the perfect laid back setting to start the day.
Beach Time & Handmade Finds in Treasure Beach, Jamaica
From there, we wandered down to Frenchman’s Bay, stopping at Eggy’s Beach Bar to have some drinks and yap with the bartender. I recommend trying a rum punch or rum and ting! Next we browsed the local shops like Callaloo Butik and Robert’s Craft Shop, where handmade jewelry, batik clothing, and rustic wood carvings told stories of the community.
Lunch was quick but satisfying at Diner’s Delite Cookshop, and dinner took a flavorful turn with a visit to Pan A Knock, where the garlic shrimp was a stand-out — tender, garlicky, with Caribbean flavors.
Connecting with the Community in Treasure Beach, Jamaica
The next day, after a relaxed breakfast at Amelia’s, we headed to the Treasure Beach Women’s Group (TBWG) — a community-run nonprofit where women lead initiatives in health, education, and economic development. We sat with Lillieth Lynch, a local storyteller and activist, who gave us a heartfelt glimpse into Treasure Beach’s past and the pride that shapes its future.
On the way, we made a quick but memorable stop at Cynthia’s fruit stand in Kingfisher Plaza, a roadside gem full of color and character. We sipped ice-cold coconut water straight from the shell, sliced open with a practiced hand and offered with a smile that felt like sunshine. Cynthia’s stand is more than a refreshment stop — it’s a reminder of the simple, joyful connections that make Treasure Beach so special.
That afternoon, we transitioned to Minerva House, greeted once again by the sea and the hospitality of Shan and Princess.
Day Trip To Floyd’s Pelican Bar
A boat ride to Floyd’s Pelican Bar was next— but not just any boat ride. Captain Dennis picked us up right from Minerva’s beach and took us on a private boat ride- the ride out was exhilarating, with salt spray and sunshine all around as we skimmed over turquoise waters.
Then, like a dream rising from the sea, Pelican Bar appeared — a hand-built driftwood hideaway perched on a sandbar miles from shore. Surrounded by endless water and swooping pelicans, it felt like stepping into a secret world. We sipped cold Red Stripes, danced to reggae music, and played dominoes with locals and other travelers. The views were unreal — you could see the shimmer of the Jamaican coast in the distance and nothing but sky and sea all around.
Later, back at Minerva House, we gathered for a family-style dinner — we had one of my favourite Jamaican dishes- escovich snapper with hearty sides, then had drinks with the girls; we watched the stars, listened to the sound of waves crashed in the distance, and laughed into the night
Relaxing at the Villas
Between excursions, some of our favorite moments were the quiet ones — spent simply being at the villas. At Minerva House, we floated in the infinity pool overlooking the sea. The villa’s private beach also offered the perfect escape — a secluded stretch of sand where we had long swims and sunset walks. Whether chilling in the shade of the huge outdoor terrace or sharing rum punch around the pool, these unhurried hours were where the spirit of Treasure Beach really sank in. The same goes for Amelia’s Villa; the views from being up on the hill were epic and you can choose to relax in the infinity pool or read a book in the hammock.
Golden Hour in Treasure Beach, Jamaica
The sunsets in Treasure Beach were nothing short of magic. Each evening, the sky lit up in shades of gold, pink, and deep blue, casting a warm glow over the sea. Whether we were in the infinity pool at Amelia’s taking in the sunset or barefoot on the private beach at Minerva House, we paused to soak it all in — the stillness, the beauty, and the sense that we were exactly where we were meant to be.
Where to Eat in Treasure Beach, Jamaica
Treasure Beach may be a laid-back coastal village, but it’s bursting with flavor. For casual bites and local vibes, Smurf’s Café is a must for breakfast, and Diner’s Delite Cookshop is great for a quick plate of Jamaican comfort food. Pan A Knock serves up bold vegetarian dishes and standout seafood dishes such as garlic shrimp and lobster, while Ki’s on the Beach is perfect for a sunset dinner with your toes in the sand. And if you’re craving seafood, Lobster Pot delivers fresh, hearty plates that hit the spot. Each spot brings something different — and all of them reflect the heart and hospitality of Treasure Beach.
Why Treasure Beach, Jamaica? Why My Irie Escape?
This wasn’t just a vacation — it was an immersion. Booking through My Irie Escape gave us insider access to the soul of Treasure Beach. Unlike an all-inclusive resort that keeps you within its walls, staying in locally owned villas and supporting community-run experiences allowed you to directly invest in the people and culture of Treasure Beach From meals prepared by neighborhood cooks, to interacting with locals at their shops and restaurants, to visits to grassroots organizations, every experience reflected the strength and heart of this community. It’s travel that gives back — and leaves you feeling more connected, grounded, and inspired.
Treasure Beach is a place that offers vibes, community, and culture! So if you’re looking for more than just a beautiful beach (though the beaches are pretty stunning) and to truly experience Jamaican culture and cuisine, let My Irie Escape help you find the kind of travel experience that stays with you long after your suitcase is unpacked.
For more Jamaica travel ideas off the beaten path, check out my stay at Kanopi House in Portland, Jamaica!
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