Pelican Bar trip

Pelican Bar trip

When you think of Jamaica, stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and endless sunshine come to mind. But there’s one hidden treasure you might not have heard of that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful, secluded beach experience: Pelican Bar. Located off Jamaica’s southern coast, Pelican Bar is a tiny sandbar surrounded by crystal-clear waters, making it the ultimate spot for relaxation, adventure, and pure natural beauty.

If you’re dreaming of spending a day in paradise, Pelican Bar is the place to be—and there’s no better way to get there than with Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours. Their guided trips to this breathtaking location offer a hassle-free, comfortable experience, ensuring you can sit back and enjoy the ride while leaving the logistics to the experts.

Why Visit Pelican Bar?

Pelican Bar is an uninhabited sandbar about 3/4 mile (1.2 km) off the coast of Parottee Bay, located in Westmoreland Parish, on Jamaica’s southern shore. It’s famous for its calm waters, the abundance of pelicans (hence the name), and as one of the best spots in Jamaica for a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path beach day. There’s no better place to unwind in nature, away from the crowds of Jamaica’s more popular tourist areas.

Here’s why Pelican Bar should be on your travel radar:

  • Pristine Beaches: Picture yourself lounging on powdery white sand with a backdrop of the turquoise Caribbean Sea—Pelican Bar is a perfect slice of heaven.

  • Crystal-Clear Waters: The shallow, calm waters around Pelican Bar are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the warm sunshine.

  • Wildlife: The area is home to hundreds of pelicans, making it a birdwatcher’s dream. Plus, you may even spot some dolphins, sea turtles, or starfish.

  • Seclusion: Because Pelican Bar is so remote, it offers a more peaceful, serene experience compared to more tourist-heavy beaches. It’s a great spot for those who want to get away from it all.

What to Expect on the Pelican Bar Tour with Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours

Booking a Pelican Bar trip with Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours is a great way to ensure your day is smooth, enjoyable, and filled with incredible memories. Here’s what you can expect on your trip:

1. Comfortable, Stress-Free Transportation

Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours provides comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for your journey to Pelican Bar. The drive to the bar is scenic, with plenty of views of Jamaica’s lush countryside and coastal beauty. Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or in a group, the ride is relaxing and stress-free, and you’ll have a knowledgeable driver to guide you along the way.

2. Guided Boat Ride to Pelican Bar

Once you arrive at the dock, Vern’s team will arrange for a local boat ride to take you to Pelican Bar. The boat ride itself is part of the adventure! As you cruise through the warm waters, you’ll pass fishermen’s boats and have the opportunity to take in the coastal beauty of Jamaica’s southern coastline. Depending on the time of year, you may even spot dolphins playing in the water along the way.

3. Relax and Explore

Upon arrival at Pelican Bar, the real fun begins! The sandbar offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation, swimming, and exploration. You can:

  • Swim in the Shallow Waters: The waters around Pelican Bar are warm and shallow, perfect for a refreshing dip or for wading along the shoreline.

  • Snorkel and Discover Marine Life: Bring your snorkeling gear (or ask Vern’s to arrange it for you), and dive into the crystal-clear waters to explore the colorful marine life. Expect to see tropical fish, starfish, and maybe even sea turtles gliding by.

  • Birdwatching: The bar is home to many pelicans, and during certain times of the year, you may spot migratory birds or even flamingos. Bring your camera and binoculars for the perfect wildlife shots.

  • Sunbathe and Relax: With no crowds around, you can relax on the beach, enjoy the warm sun, and soak in the beauty of your surroundings. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and de-stress.

4. Fresh Local Cuisine

While you’re at Pelican Bar, you’ll have the chance to sample some fresh, local Jamaican dishes. Many boat operators or vendors in the area offer freshly caught seafood, including lobster, fish, and shrimp, which you can enjoy on the beach or on the boat. The food is delicious and adds a local flavor to your beach day experience.

5. Plenty of Photo Opportunities

From the boat ride to the time spent on the beach, Pelican Bar is one of those places where every corner is picture-perfect. You’ll want to capture the beauty of the water, the wildlife, and the serenity of the surroundings. Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours will ensure that you don’t miss any of the highlights for the perfect Instagram shots.

What Makes Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours the Best Choice?

1. Experienced, Knowledgeable Drivers

Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours offers local expertise that makes your trip to Pelican Bar even more special. Your driver won’t just get you to the dock—they’ll share interesting facts about Jamaica’s southern coast, its history, and the wildlife you might encounter. Whether it’s chatting about the local culture or giving you tips for the best spots to snorkel, you’ll feel like you’re being guided by a local friend.

2. Seamless Experience

Vern’s JAMAICA Taxi and Tours takes care of all the details. From the comfortable ride to arranging the boat trip to Pelican Bar, you don’t have to worry about logistics. This means you can focus on enjoying the natural beauty of the island without any hassle.

3. Flexibility and Personalization

Whether you want to spend an hour at the sandbar or enjoy a leisurely half-day at Pelican Bar, Vern’s team is happy to accommodate your schedule. They can also add stops at nearby attractions like YS Falls or the Appleton Estate Rum Tour, depending on your interests.

4. Safety and Comfort

Vern’s priority is your safety and comfort. They ensure all the details of your trip are carefully planned, and their local guides are experienced professionals who know how to navigate the waters around Pelican Bar safely.

Tips for Your Pelican Bar Trip

  • Bring Sunscreen: You’ll be in the sun for a good portion of the day, so make sure to bring sunscreen to protect your skin.

  • Water Shoes: The sandy bottom of the bar is shallow, but water shoes can make it more comfortable to walk around, especially if you want to explore the area by foot.

  • Snorkeling Gear: If you plan to snorkel, it’s a good idea to bring your gear (or let Vern’s arrange it for you).

  • Cash: If you’d like to purchase food or drinks from the local vendors, it’s best to bring cash with you, as many places may not accept cards.