Great Huts, Eco Resort, Port Antonio

Perched on the dramatic cliffs of Boston Bay in Port Antonio, Great Huts Eco Resort is unlike anything else in Jamaica. Founded in 2001 by Dr. Paul Rhodes, this Afrocentric “anti-resort” was intentionally designed to resemble a traditional West African village—serving as both a boutique lodging experience and a living cultural monument to Jamaica’s ancestral roots.

The name itself is a powerful statement. “Great Huts” reclaims and reimagines the legacy of colonial “Great Houses,” shifting the narrative toward African heritage, community, and harmony with nature. The property is filled with handcrafted African and Jamaican art, from intricate wood carvings to vibrant textiles, creating an immersive environment that feels more like a cultural sanctuary than a resort.

While not Black-owned, founder Dr. Paul Rhodes—a physician and philanthropist—has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to supporting the Port Antonio community, particularly through efforts to alleviate homelessness in Portland Parish. Great Huts operates as a social enterprise, with a portion of its profits and guest contributions helping fund the Portland Rehabilitation Management (PRM) Homeless Shelter.

The resort stands out for its deep respect for Afro-Jamaican culture, its investment in local community empowerment, and its dedication to preserving heritage—making it a meaningful, purpose-driven travel experience aligned with the spirit of BlackHotelGuide.

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Highlights & Amenities

• Location: Boston Bay, Port Antonio – one of Jamaica’s most authentic and unspoiled coastal regions
• Concept: Afrocentric eco-lodge designed as a West African-style village
• Room Style: Over 20 uniquely crafted huts, treehouses, and villas built into the natural landscape
• Signature Stays: Multi-level treehouses with panoramic ocean views, bamboo lodges with natural stone baths, and cliffside villas with private amenities
• Eco-Friendly Design: Open-air layouts using natural sea breezes in place of traditional air conditioning
• Setting: Lush tropical gardens, dramatic cliffs, and sweeping Caribbean Sea views
• Beach & Pools: Private beach access plus two scenic cliffside pools
• Dining: Safari Deck Restaurant serving Jamaican and Ethiopian-inspired cuisine, with fresh local ingredients
• Cultural Experiences: Weekly Saturday night drumming and dance performances, art installations, and heritage storytelling
• Wellness: Cliffside yoga deck, meditation spaces, and nature immersion
• Art & Culture: A “living gallery” featuring works by local Jamaican artisans and African-inspired design throughout
• Community Impact: Supports the Portland Rehabilitation Management (PRM) Homeless Shelter through resort proceeds
• Employment: Strong focus on hiring and showcasing local Jamaican talent
• Parking: Complimentary on-site parking

Why Stay Here

Great Huts is not about polished luxury—it’s about purpose, culture, and connection. This is where you trade predictable resort experiences for something far more meaningful: waking up in a handcrafted hut overlooking the sea, falling asleep to the sound of waves and drums, and engaging with the deep cultural roots of Jamaica.

For travelers seeking authenticity, heritage, and a stronger connection to place, Great Huts delivers an experience that is both visually unforgettable and culturally enriching. It’s an ideal choice for those who value Afrocentric storytelling, community impact, and immersive travel—even when ownership differs.

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👉🏾 Jamaican-Owned Hotels & Resorts & Authentic Experiences