anytime i ask a security guards, bar or restaurant manager the same question they strongly recommend taking the road. i've walked the beach and lots of other people do it without incident. but here's the rub - if something bad does happen it will negatively affect the area. its not just your stuff and safety that are at risk, its also the livelihood of the people who work in the Negril tourist industry. bad and even FAKE news travel at the speed of light these days so keep your ass as safe as can be. its good for everyone.