Who Owns Jamaica’s Blue Lagoon? Inside the Story of This Caribbean Gem
When you picture the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, the Blue Lagoon in Portland often tops the mental travel board. The reality, however, is that many visitors only skim the surface—literally and figuratively—without ever learning who is behind the curtain that keeps the lagoon sparkling. In this article we peel back the layers, from the family lineage to the practicalities of running a tropical hideaway.
The Lagoon’s Brief History
Discovered by European sailors in the 16th century, the lagoon was long considered a natural wonder left to the wild. It wasn’t until the mid‑20th century that a local entrepreneur saw potential for a modest tourism spot. The original development was humble: rope bridges, a small guesthouse, and the now‑famous cliff‑side diving platform.
Over the decades, the operation shifted hands a few times, each owner adding a personal touch—whether that meant planting mango trees along the shoreline or introducing night‑time lantern tours. The most pivotal change arrived in the early 2000s, when the current proprietor stepped onto the scene.
Meet the Owner: The Gittens Family
The name most often linked with the Blue Lagoon today is Gittens. The family's roots in Portland stretch back to the 1800s, when an ancestor, Samuel Gittens, purchased a stretch of coastal land for cocoa farming. Fast forward to 2003, when Angela Gittens—a third‑generation descendant—took over the lagoon property after her father's passing.
Angela isn’t a typical hotelier. With a background in marine biology, she blends ecological stewardship with a flair for hospitality. Under her guidance, the lagoon has remained largely family‑run, employing a close‑knit team of locals who grew up swimming in those waters.
- Family involvement: Angela’s brother handles maintenance, while her cousin oversees the on‑site restaurant.
- Community ties: The Gittens family sponsors a yearly beach clean‑up, reinforcing their reputation as caretakers rather than profiteers.
Why Ownership Matters for Visitors
Understanding who runs the lagoon can shape your experience in subtle ways. For one, the Gittens’ emphasis on sustainability means you’ll often see signage urging guests to use biodegradable sunscreen. It also translates to a more personal touch—staff members are eager to share stories about the lagoon’s hidden coves or recommend a quiet spot for sunrise meditation.
On the flip side, the family’s commitment to keeping the operation “small‑scale” means capacity is limited. During peak seasons, you might need to book a day in advance, and there’s a chance you’ll have to join a guided group rather than exploring solo.
Practical Tips for the Savvy Traveler
- Book at least two weeks ahead in the high‑season (December–April).
- Bring reef‑safe sunscreen; the staff will politely remind you.
- Take a guided tour if you want to learn about the lagoon’s marine life—Angela herself often leads the most popular “Eco‑Dive” sessions.
The Business Side: How the Lagoon Stays Afloat
Running a natural attraction isn’t cheap. Aside from routine maintenance of the wooden walkways, the Gittens family invests in water quality monitoring, a practice inherited from Angela’s scientific training. Seasonal fluctuations in tourism also mean revenue can be unpredictable.
To mitigate this, the family has diversified:
- Eco‑workshops: Short courses on marine conservation attract school groups and eco‑tourists.
- Villa rentals: A few upscale cottages on the property generate steady off‑season income.
- Event hosting: Weddings and corporate retreats provide higher‑margin bookings.
These streams keep the lagoon financially viable while preserving its laid‑back vibe. In recent interviews, Angela hinted at exploring solar energy options, showing a forward‑looking approach without compromising the lagoon’s rustic charm.
What the Locals Say
Portland residents often regard the lagoon as a shared treasure rather than a commercial enterprise. Many recall childhood days of snorkeling in its crystal waters, and they appreciate the Gittens family’s dedication to keeping it accessible.
“It’s not just a tourist spot; it’s part of our community,” says Leonard Green, a local fisherman. “When Angela’s team organizes a clean‑up, everyone shows up—young and old. It feels like we’re all guardians of this place.”
Future Outlook
While the Blue Lagoon may never morph into a massive resort, subtle evolution is inevitable. Climate change poses challenges, especially with rising sea temperatures that could affect the lagoon’s delicate ecosystem. Angela’s proactive monitoring suggests the family is prepared to adapt—perhaps by adjusting visitor numbers or enhancing reef restoration projects.
For now, the lagoon remains a serene slice of Caribbean paradise, guided by a family that balances profit with preservation. Knowing the story behind the owners adds a layer of appreciation, turning a simple swim into a glimpse of stewardship in action.
