NEGRIL — Picture a seven-mile stretch of white powder beach, reggae music sounds, and the aroma of spicy jerk chicken.

Enter Negril – Jamaica’s sleepy beach town with a bohemian vibe.

When you think about it, Negril has many tourism touchstones – sun, sand, world-class resorts and an enviable, unhurried pace away from the daily grind.

After arriving at the airport, grab a bottle of ‘WATA’ or Jamaica’s famous Red Stripe beer and a beef patty snack. The drive to Negril is 90 minutes (on a good day) but it will be well worth the trip.

Unlike Montego Bay or Ocho Rios, as Travelweek recently discovered, you won’t find tourist trappings and cruise ships here.

Instead, you’ll find much-coveted golden sunsets, plus plenty of opportunities to uncover some off-the-beaten-path experiences – that go well beyond the sun and sand – that you can brag about when you get back home.

Here are four attractions, tried, tested and confirmed by Travelweek (during a trip to Jamaica for Negril’s Reggae Marathon), for those seeking unique things to do while visiting this part of the island.

THE ART OF CANDLE MAKING

Head to a fun-filled candle-making session at the Negril Candle Company located at the Rockhouse Hotel.

Before crafting your candle, they’ll teach you the basics of ingredients such as soy wax, fragrances and wicks. All containers are 100% recycled glass bottles; you can choose from six scents, ranging from the hotel’s Rockhouse signature fragrance to a non-traditional CBD scent.

And if you’re lucky enough to have the candle master, Travis, leading the session, you’re in great hands.

BOOBY CAY WITH CAPTAIN VINCENT

Enjoy a glass-bottom boat excursion to Booby Cay Island, so-called for the presence of booby birds that inhabit the island. The island is located a mere 700 metres by boat off the coast of Negril. It’s a cozy destination for scuba diving, snorkelling and bird-watching.

Best of all, if you’re a seafood lover or simply seeking a culinary adventure, you’re in for a big treat as Captain Vincent and his crew will catch and prepare a fresh and delicious meal on the beachside grills.

Here, you’ll find delectable options like fresh lobster and red snapper that are absolutely yummy, accompanied by your traditional rice and peas.

WATERFALL ADVENTURE AT BENTA FALLS

Located in Savanna-La-Mar, Westmoreland, about an hour’s drive from Negril, Benta River Falls is like a smaller version of Dunn’s River Falls without the crowds. No wonder it’s pegged as one of Jamaica’s best-kept secrets.

The park features seven waterfalls, including a fascinating under-fall cave to explore and a thrilling Tarzan-style rope swing. Local guides are available to accompany visitors along the waterfall trail, and they even offer a unique rejuvenating limestone massage using mineral-rich riverbed rocks.

The park entrance fee is US$25, like Dunn’s River Falls. This hidden gem is well worth discovering.

Here’s a tip: visitors are required to wear water shoes. No shoes? No problem – you can rent them at the park for a minimal cost.

SUNSET PAMPERING

If you seek a private escapade coupled with a rejuvenating massage treatment, this is a must-do outdoor experience. There is no need for recorded spa sounds, as the natural sound of huge crashing waves will be your backdrop as you unwind.

Natasha’s One Love Massage Spa, Negril Cliff’s location is tucked away on Negril’s Beach Road. They offer a range of services, including the classics to coffee body scrubs, reflexology, hot stones and aromatherapy, to name a few.

The setting is rustic and simple, with an open tent-like structure that comfortably accommodates up to five people and professional therapists.

For what it lacks in luxury, the natural beauty and stunning sunset vistas that await more than make up for it.