6 Best Hotels in Port Antonio, Jamaica

This resort has a pristine location and decor that feels like a time capsule, but a far cry from when Queen Elizabeth II stayed in Villa 18. Villas are the best option; tucked into the dense forest, they offer beauty and space. Many are just steps from one of Port Antonio's best beaches, a setting in movies. Standard rooms, many fairly large, are in the main building, known as the greathouse. Butler service is available for Villa 12.

Located 10 minutes east of Port Antonio, this stylish, tech-savvy rockers' getaway (Gwen Stefani recorded an album here, and it's a favorite of Grace Jones) was once a music producer's hideaway. It still features a state-of-the-art recording studio that's available to guests (assuming you're cutting your next album while on vacation). Cell phones are provided upon arrival, and visitors have their pick of more than 50 international newspapers to peruse in their rooms, which are notable for a modern mix of high-tech and island simplicity. The 12 studio rooms added most recently are especially nice, each with a balcony, ocean views, white and wooden decor, and well-curated art.

Hummingbirds flit about this reasonably priced property, consisting of one- and two-story villas with the conveniences of a hotel, including tennis courts, a pool, and a restaurant and bar that's centered on a 300-year-old ficus tree and looks like a movie set. The well-designed villas are bright and breezy and take full advantage of the stunning views and natural scenery. It's near San San Beach.

From the locally sourced bath soaps and stationary to the solar panels and naturally cooled rooms, this ecofriendly boutique hotel is a delight for those who are environmentally conscious and socially aware, while also offering luxury bound to please anyone. The vision of Shireen Aga and Barbara Walker, Mockingbird Hill has received recognition for its sustainable model of responsible tourism. "Guiltless indulgence" is how the hotel describes itself, and it provides an authentic Jamaican experience. Your housekeeper prepares breakfast, and there are a handful of restaurants nearby. There's also a Garden of Wellness, for massages and other services.

This Port Antonio hotel might be distinctive for its Jamaica-shape swimming pool and surrounding black-and-white pool terrace, but that's just the beginning of its unusual aspects as the all-white building is designed to resemble a 17th-century Italian palace. Deemed "the art gallery hotel," the facility displays 2,000 pieces of art from paintings to sculptures, some by the hotel's owner. Guest rooms are surprisingly stark, most having beds with curving footboards, flowery spreads, and little other decoration. There are a handful of dining options at the hotel and guests can choose between a "bed-and-breakfast" or an all-inclusive package.

One of Jamaica's most stylish resorts features villas decorated with commissioned artwork and elegant furnishings designed and made especially for the hotel, plus three excellent dining options, including a dinner club with live jazz by the house band or mento music by the famed Jolly Boys. A farm and nursery down the road provides plants for the beautifully landscaped property. All villas are fully appointed and provide ocean views and privacy. A full-service spa, private cinema, fitness center, and a private beach round out the amenities.