Celebrating Bond Day: Jamaica's top 007 locations
Today (5 October) is Global James Bond Day, and whilst we take a moment to celebrate the glamour and drama of this most iconic of spies, the island of Jamaica deserves a special mention for the part it has played in the Bond franchise.
The golden beaches of Jamaica formed the backdrop of some of the Bond movies' most iconic moments, and author Ian Fleming wrote all thirteen of the Bond books here whilst staying at Goldeneye, his Jamaica residence on the Oracabessa Bay.
FOUR FAMOUS BOND SCENES FILMED IN JAMAICA
1. GREEN GROTTO CAVES
In the eighth 007, Live and Let Die, filmed in 1973, the Green Grotto Caves of Jamaica played the perfect role for Dr Kananga's underground base. The Green Grotto caves are a natural wonder on the north coast and are named for the vibrant green algae that cover the walls. In the film, Bond finds himself navigating the labyrinthine passages of the Grotto in pursuit of the villainous Dr Kananga. The caves' unique features and striking rock formations provide an atmospheric setting for his daring escapades. Today, the Green Grotto Caves are the perfect spot for an island adventure for travellers looking for an alternative Caribbean.
2. SWAMP SAFARI
Remember the scene in Live and Let Die when Bond, played by Roger Moore, is seen leaping across the backs of crocodiles? This scene, which culminates in him setting fire to a lab in a crocodile farm supposedly in Louisiana, is actually filmed in Jamaica, at the Swamp Safari near Montego Bay. This croc sanctuary is home to 80 reptiles, and the small concrete mound where Bond was surrounded still exists. It is now connected to a bridge where travellers can visit with a safari tour guide. Visitors may even spot the famous ‘Trespassers Will Be Eaten’ sign, as seen in the movie.
3. DUNN’S RIVER FALLS
The breathtaking Dunn’s River Falls can be seen in the 1962 Bond movie Dr No, when Bond climbs the cascading waterfalls, navigating the rushing water and rocky terrain with his usual indomitable skill. The iconic scene captured the sheer grandeur of Dunn's River Falls, with their lush tropical surroundings and dramatic cascades. A true marvel of nature, Dunn’s River Falls is a great way to enjoy a Bond experience in a remarkable aquatic paradise.
4. JAMES BOND BEACH
Possibly the most iconic of Bond moments is when the enigmatic Honey Ryder, played by Ursula Andress, meets Bond for the first time, in Dr. No. The scene unfolds against the backdrop of this most perfect of Caribbean beach settings; James Bond Beach, named for the character some years after the movie’s release. Ian Fleming loved the area so much that he built a house (Fleming Villa, see below) on the cliffs overlooking the beach. James Bond Beach is located on Jamaica’s north coast, around ten miles from Ocho Rios and continues to capture the imagination of visitors from around the globe, who follow in the footsteps of James and Honey, shaken and stirred by the stunning views.
BOOK A STAY AT THE FLEMING VILLA
Bond fanatics can enjoy a trip down memory lane with a stay at the Fleming Villa, where Ian Fleming wrote all 13 James Bond novels. The author designed the house himself and retains the features and character Fleming found so appealing.