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It was 88 degrees on a mid-August Tuesday in Jamaica. Three of us had just wrapped up a job with a patty lunch stop in Clarendon. With the work day done, we ventured off main roads to the countryside of Toll Gate community. Streamz Palmz is a local hot spot off the Clarendon Park thoroughfare. The turn-off to the river is near a couple of the parish’s popular rest stops. Stretches of rough, narrow tracks covered the road deviation but they couldn’t deter from reaching the attraction’s gate.
Its spacious grounds can comfortably hold a crowd. On this afternoon in Streamz Palmz, heat lured multiple groups to its crisp waters, including families with children. Large speaker boxes facing the riverbanks added a rhythmic backdrop to rushing waves and waterside scenery. Thankfully the musical selections and volume didn’t strip the setting of its tranquility at the time.
By the way, quick reminder…
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A glassy stream flows through verdant land, forming natural pools and short cascades great for hydromassages. The refreshing cool was such a satisfying relief to Jamaican summer temperatures! Water levels were relatively shallow in many areas, ranging from knee to chest height for adults.
Much of the riverside is shaded by treetop umbrellas. I recognized a few in-season Jamaican fruits growing here– like banana, noni, coconut and plum. River goers had reasonable space between chosen spots. Wooden tables and smoothed stumps beneath the trees kept belongings elevated and in view from the water.
Streamz Palmz Amenities
Paid entry takes patrons to a sizable open space for parking and a restroom area. The sloped stairway leads to the main attraction. By the river are a rustic bar, bamboo-built kitchen and open-air dining that blended well with Streamz Palmz’ natural setting.
- Gated parking
- Restrooms
- Venue music sound system
- Grill
- Bar
- Dining Area
- Picnic Areas
- River Massage optional service
Streamz Palmz’ restaurant serves done-to-order meals from a daily menu. The dining hall is filled with rustic tables and chairs, between the stocked bar counter and kitchen. Workers we encountered were warm, helpful and professional.
Outside food and beverages aren’t allowed in Streamz Palmz.
Streamz Palmz Location: Toll Gate, Clarendon
Streamz Palmz is tucked in an agricultural area. A cool oasis found at the end of a few turns on country roads. The only downer of my first visit was when whiffs of neighbouring farmlands travelled in the breeze. The venue is bordered on 1 side by a towering, arched bridge topped with an old train line. Since Jamaica’s train passenger services ceased in 1992, it’s probably track remnants of a Kingston to Montego Bay railway line.
The Toll Gate village where Streamz Palmz flows was named after a historical toll plaza that stood there before. Back in the 1850s– shortly after the abolition of slavery in Jamaica– toll roads were introduced along many major thoroughfares. Eventually, this original toll gate system was stopped after protest and destruction by our emancipated people. Fast forward to modern-day Jamaica, highway toll roads are stationed throughout the island, including a key south coast passage in Toll Gate.
Directions to Streamz Palmz
Travelling from Kingston & St. Andrew we took the Mandela Highway onto T1 Road, passing through 2 toll plazas in Clarendon.
- Exit at the Toll Gate, Clarendon toll plaza
- Turn right where the road splits onto A2 Road
- Turn left towards popular rest stop Murray’s Fish & Jerk Hut
- Turn left just by the restaurant, off the A2 Highway Road
- Stay right at a fork in the road
- Follow the route to the Streamz Palmz entrance gate mural
Check their social page or call 876-335-7287 for updated entry fee, hours and contact info.
Streamz Palmz Conclusion
If looking for a group river par, especially a big one, this is a great south coast option! Areas didn’t feel overcrowded even with a moderate number of groups. The vastness, natural serenity and calm waters create an outdoor escape enjoyable for all ages.
In addition to its on-site eatery, it’s near enough to renowned food spots– from bountiful fruit stalls to jerk restaurants! It’s tucked away enough for peacefulness, yet close enough to conveniences and comforts.
How do you picture spending a day at Streamz Palmz???
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