Best Beaches in Barbados

If you’re planning a trip to Barbados then, there’s no doubt you’re going to be spending some time at the beach! During our time exploring Barbados, we had the chance to visit a fair few of the island’s beautiful beaches. Not only does Barbados offer white sandy beaches with calm aqua waters, but, if you head over to the east coast, you get a completely different feel, with the Atlantic waves rolling in. The great part is that all Bajan beaches are free to visit! Here’s our best beaches in Barbados that we would recommend checking out!

No.1

Rockley Beach

On the south coast, you’ll find the popular Rockley Beach (also known as Accra beach). It is the largest beach in the area with beautiful views out over the crystal blue water. It is located near to the main road and Hastings board walk runs along the beach meaning you are able to easily walk for 3km along the sea front. There’s lots of great places to eat along the front and we would recommend checking out Chill Café Bar and Grill for some lunch or a drink along the sea front.

No.2

Drill Hall Beach

Our personal favourite was Drill Hall Beach. Once you reach the end of Hastings board walk, it is roughly another 10 minutes along the coast. We hadn’t heard of this beach and managed to stumble upon it whilst exploring. As it isn’t well known, and is a little further from the main stretch, it is much quieter here. It is a popular beach for surfers and you can rent out boards or get surf lessons here.

No.3

Heywood Beach

On the west coast, you’ll find the charming Speightstown which is definitely worth a day trip to have a wonder around. Heywood’s Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand with calm waters to swim in. There are shallow reefs which make it good for snorkelling.

No.4

Miami Beach

On the south coast, near the town of Oistins is Miami Beach. It’s a small beach with lovely waves for swimming in and picnic benches shaded by trees. It is also a great place to watch the sunset! We went on Friday before heading to Oistins fish market right around the corner where you’ll find the Island’s most popular party on a Friday night!

No.5

Bathsheba

Take a trip away from the crowds to the east coast where you’ll find Bathsheba. We definitely couldn’t miss this off of our best beaches in Barbados! Another favourite of ours, this lonely and rugged stretch of golden sand is beautiful and is definitely not to be missed. With the large rolling Atlantic waves, it isn’t the safest to swim in, but is famous for surfing in the Soup Bowl!

No.6

Cattlewash

A short walk from Bathsheba Beach, is another beach on the east coast, called Cattlewash. Similar to Bathsheba the strong currents make it difficult to swim in but it is perfect for beach walks away from the crowds. There are various natural pools with surrounding rocks along the beach that you can take a dip in. See if you can find the rock with the swings!

No.7

Carlisle Bay

Near to the Capital, Bridgetown, on the west coast is Carlilse Bay. It is a calm bay with shallow waters making it popular with families who have younger children. It is also a popular spot for cruises to stop and boats to anchor, however, it didn’t seem too busy when we were there. The bay also has six shipwrecks so if you’re looking for somewhere to snorkel then here is a great place!

No.8

Folkstone Park

Last on the list of our best beaches in Barbados is Folkstone Park and Marine Reserve. Established in 1981 the area is protected and prevents the removal of marine organisms except for scientific purposes to conserve marine resources. Covering 11% of the West Coast they educate people on how to protect the coast and encourage people to get involved in projects related to keeping beaches clean, protecting sea life, and water conservation. You can find more about the great work they do here.