The government has announced significant measures to enhance coastline accessibility for its citizens, even amidst ongoing hotel development.
Matthew Samuda, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, revealed on Tuesday May 27, 2025 that newly sanctioned hotel projects are now mandated to include pathways leading to public beaches that locals have traditionally frequented. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to secure beach access for all Jamaicans while respecting private property rights.
During his speech in the House of Representatives, Samuda highlighted a recent development in Trelawny, where a designated public pathway now connects the Riu and Royalton hotels.
Unlike some Caribbean nations such as the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos, and Antigua and Barbuda, which guarantee unrestricted beach access, Jamaica has struggled with the privatization of many of its most beloved beaches. Although public beaches exist across the island, residents have often lamented that the most picturesque locations are dominated by private entities or come with steep entry fees.
A petition on the Office of the Prime Minister’s website has called for an update to the Beach Control Act, advocating for unrestricted access to all beaches for Jamaican citizens.
This pressing demand is now being addressed.
Samuda announced that the long-awaited Beach Access Policy is completed and currently under final review by the Cabinet. Developed through discussions with private sector representatives, civil society groups, and the general public, the policy aims to enhance access, improve standards, and ensure sustainable maintenance of publicly available beaches.
“In this season of false promises, this issue remains at the forefront,” he stated. “This policy will balance the rights and expectations of citizens with those of local and foreign investors while adhering to Jamaican laws.”
He stressed that securing beach access goes beyond policy-making; it requires financial investment and coordinated efforts among government agencies.
“Beach access necessitates more than just policy; it requires investment and collaborative development,” he explained, referencing ongoing initiatives by the Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF), the Urban Development Corporation (UDC), and the Fisheries Division.
Among the key highlights, Samuda mentioned several new and upcoming projects, including:
• Harmony Beach Park in Montego Bay, which he labeled a model for effective public access.
• The upcoming Negril Public Beach Park, which will feature beach access, a craft market, and an entertainment zone.
• Planned enhancements to three additional beach parks: Pagee Beach in St. Mary, Success Beach in eastern St. James, and Priory Bathing Beach (Fantasy Beach).“These are quality beach parks that Jamaicans can enjoy freely,” Samuda affirmed.
Additionally, he reiterated that future hotel approvals will continue to be linked to commitments for public access. “This government, through its regulatory framework, has aimed to preserve access points to beaches that have traditionally been accessible to citizens,” he noted. “Hotels that receive approvals will now be required to establish pathways granting citizens access to beaches they have historically enjoyed.”
While the Beach Access Policy awaits final Cabinet approval, Samuda’s remarks indicate a more proactive governmental approach to a long-standing issue that has been a source of frustration for many Jamaicans.
