Beaches of the South Coast
Barbados is well known for her clear, blue waters, shallow reefs and glittering white sand, and the south coast certainly is no exception. These beaches are hives of activities, bustling with locals and visitors. Here, you can also find bars and restaurants on, or in close proximity to several beaches. This coast also reveals several street vendors, ranging from food to arts and crafts. You may even pass some coconut vendors on the sides- be sure to take a taste of the refreshingly cool and delicious coconut water. This enchanting coast has many beach gems nestled within its territory. From swimming and snorkeling, to the wide variety of watersports available, it is no wonder that the South Coast is often referred to as the "Fun Coast'. As this is where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean see, the waters are gentler than those on the East Coast, yet rougher than those on the West so swimmers must be aware of possible unexpected, strong sea currents that may naturally occur.
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This beautiful beach is 2 miles of uninterrupted golden sands, glittering waters, refreshing breezes and stunning landscape. It is not wheelchair accessible as you have to climb down some stairs to reach this sandy world. This beach is perfect for a romantic stroll, or a group picnic. As it tends to be fairly isolated, group trips are recommended. Its high winds and medium waves also make it perfect for beach activities such as wind-surfing. Now demolished, Long Beach Club, a private hotel, once fronted this beautiful beach.Waves- Medium to large waves. Swimming may be possible close to shore; Ideal conditions for kite and wind-surfing
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
As its names suggest, this beach is ideal for surfers and kayakers. However, swimmers are not to be left out, as natural pools form here that are even ideal for children. This picturesque stretch of sand is actually made up of several small bays, and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Fishermen can also be found here, and divers sometimes visit here to catch octopi. You can also find Surf shops that can provide interested persons with lessons and equipment for your sea adventure.Waves- Medium to large with formation of natural pools. Swimmers are advised to exercise caution while in water. Excellent for kayaking and surfing.
Amenities
- Shower
- Beach Bar
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Parking
- Benches
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
This beautiful south coast beach offers up fantastic views of the Atlantic Ocean amidst its cool, refreshing breeze. The rough nature of the waters makes this beach unsuitable for swimmers, however strong swimmers can enjoy its turbulent waters while exercising due caution. Its sea conditions, however, make it a favourite spot for many kite and wind surfers. There is also a shop here that offers wind and kite surfing lessons, and equipment rentals. Located in the next bay is Silver Rock Beach. Waves- Medium waves suitable for strong swimmers; excellent for kite-surfing and wind-surfing.
Amenities
- Shower/Toilet
- Food and drinks available
- Equipment Rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Benches
- No Lifeguard
This gorgeous bay is located right next to Silver Sands Beach. Here was once the beach front for Silver Rock Resort, but this has since been closed down and demolished. Here the waters are slightly calmer, and can be suitable for swimming. Other beach activities such as wind and kite surfing are also done here, mainly over the weekend. Close by, you will also be able to find a bar and restaurant.Waves- Medium waves. Sea conditions suitable for swimming, wind-surfing and kite-surfing.
Amenities
- Shower/Toilet
- Food and drinks
- Children’s play area
- Trees provide shade
- Picnic Tables
- Benches
- No Lifeguard
This picturesque south coast beach is a beautiful, secluded stretch of sand, also very suitably called ‘The Secret Spot’. This beach is suitable for swimming near the coast, and also has a bar and accommodation nearby. It has a very tranquil setting, adorned with coconut and casuarina trees. This indeed is a beautiful, tropical paradise, also ideal for watching sun rises.Waves- Small to medium. Swimming is possible close to shore.
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Benches
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
This south coast gem is a small and rocky bay, and is located at the southern most end of the island. This beach is also in close proximity to Gordon’s (South Point) Lighthouse. The waters can be quite rough, and persons wishing to swim here should also be mindful of the currents, and the rocks. This beach offers fantastic views, and is definitely worth a visit. This is also a great beach for surfing.Waves- Small to medium. Swimming is possible close to shore. Great sea conditions for surfing.
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
When the surf is up at the south coast beach, its waters are excellent for surfing. As a result, this scenic bay has become one of Barbados’ top surfing spots. This tiny bay has sea conditions suitable for swimming, but swimmers must be mindful of rocks. In low tide, natural pools are formed that are very enjoyable for a wade in the sun. Kindly note that this beach is not wheelchair accessible as there is a slight climb down to reach its shores.Waves-Small to medium. Ideal swimming conditions. Excellent for surfing.
No Amenities
This beautiful little bay is home to fairly calm waters, making it ideal for swimmers. Its waters also are very suitable for beginner surfers. Framed with lovely golden sands, rugged cliffs and clear waters, this bay makes for an enjoyable beach experience. This secluded beach is also in close proximity to accommodation and a bar.Waves- Small to medium. Ideal for swimming close to shore. Great conditions for light surfing
No Amenities
Waves- Small to medium. Excellent conditions for swimming; Water-sports available
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Benches
- Picnic Tables
- Parking
- Vendors
- Lifeguard on duty
This south coast beach is located in the historic fishing town, Oistins. Here amidst the tropical beauty of the Ocean are several bars, restaurants and accommodation. This beach is in very close proximity to the Oistins Bay Garden, a popular spot on weekends for a fish fry. Here at this beautiful bay you will find a few boats and fishermen. At nights, you may see the fishermen hold a bonfire where some of the day’s catch are roasted. This is an excellent opportunity to hear more about this beautiful island directly from the fishermen, and partake in some of the delicious fish. This beach is also wheelchair accessible.Waves- Small to medium. Ideal for swimming. Fishing activities done here.
Amenities
- Drinks and food
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
This beautiful golden sand beach was once a tiny bay, but has been redeveloped into the eco-treasure that it stands today. This beach can be seen from the road, and has favourable conditions for swimmers. Waters are fairly calm, but can get a bit rough, so caution should be exercised. In addition to sun-tanning and sea-bathing, there are a few water-sport activities that you can enjoy here, such as wind-surfing and jet-skiing. Generally, you might find one or two other persons at this beach when you visit. This beach is also wheelchair accessible.Waves- Small to medium. Ideal for swimmingNo Amenities
As its name suggests, this scenic beach is lined with beautiful golden sand. It is visible from the road, and is also near to the popular town Oistins. This picturesque beach of clear, blue waters is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and also has water-sport activities, such as wind surfing. There is also a namesake hotel, Golden Sands Hotel & Spa, nearby.Waves- Small to medium. Ideal for swimming and wind-surfing
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
This gorgeous south coast beach is an oasis of golden sands, turquoise waters and lush vegetation. This beach is ideal for swimming, picnicking, sun-bathing, and pretty much relaxing! Here waters are generally calm, and there are a few hotel accommodations nearby. Visitors can also visit the vendors that are situated in close proximity to this beach for nifty souvenir items. On weekdays, it is also possible to purchase lunch and drinks from vendors who frequent this area.Waves- Small to medium. Suitable for swimming
Amenities
- Beach equipment rentals
- Food and drinks
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Picnic Tables
- Benches
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This south coast beach acquired its name from the numerous turtle sightings and nestings found on the beach. You are reminded that in the event of a sighting, it is important not to intervene or interfere with the turtles, or their eggs. If you are unsure about what to do, you can call the Barbados Sea Turtle Project (246) 230 0142. This beautiful stretch of sand is also the front for the all-inclusive hotel property, Turtle Beach Resort. This beach boasts of golden sands, and enchanting waters that can be a bit rough, but is suitable for swimming. Here you can also find several beach activities, including kayaking, body surfing and wind surfing. Waves- Small to medium. Water conditions are suitable for swimming
Amenities
- Beach Equipment Rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- No Lifeguard
This beautiful white sands beach is the waterfront of quite a few properties, such as Oceans Two Resorts & Residences and White Sands Beach Villas. Here you the sea conditions are favourable to swimming, and there are several water-sports, such as surfing that you can enjoy here. There is also a beach bar, where you can enjoy refreshments while taking in this scenic view of Barbados’ south coast. White Sands Beach also has its share of turtle sightings. You are reminded that in the event of a sighting, it is important not to intervene or interfere with the turtles, or their eggs. If you are unsure about what to do, you can call the Barbados Sea Turtle Project (246) 230 0142.Waves- Small to medium. Water conditions are suitable for swimming, and other water-sports
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
Without a doubt, Dover Beach is one of Barbados’ liveliest beaches, alive with activity during the day. It also serves as a waterfront for many South Coast hotels, and is a popular beach for visitors and locals.
This beautiful beach also is home to many water-sport activities, including jet-skiing and wind-surfing. There is even a children’s playground for the active kids. With the crowds of visitors this beach certainly attracts, you can find vendors selling many different items, ranging from jewellery to craft. There is even a hair-braider where you can get beautiful corn-rows and colourful hair beads. Dover Beach is also wheelchair accessible.
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Children’s park
- Picnic Tables
- Benches
- Rangers
- Trees provide shade
- Lifeguard on duty
This scenic beach is located in St. Lawrence Gap, also known as The Gap. The Gap is one of Barbados’ liveliest streets, featuring many bars, restaurants, clubs and accommodation. You are also very sure to come across my street vendors selling various and unique forms of arts and craft. Although the sand bank is not particularly broad, the waters are strikingly beautiful, shallow and calm. Here there is an abundance of shallow reef, great for exploring by snorkelling. This beach is wheelchair accessible.Waves- Small to medium. Water conditions are suitable for swimming, snorkelling
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Benches
- No Lifeguard
This aquatic gem lives up to its local name ‘Sandy Beach’ with its generous display of beautifully golden sand. Its look has changed quite a bit over the years, as it was redeveloped due to natural erosion. It now boasts of several artificial bays and a shallow reef. This is a popular beach for both locals and visitors, and its sea conditions are very favourable for swimming. You can also find several operators of water-sports, and some street vendors to nip your island souvenir. This beach is also excellent for picnics. This beautiful beach also serves as a waterfront for a bar and several accommodations. Sandy Beach is also wheelchair accessible.
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Parking
- Rangers
- Trees provide shade
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- No Lifeguard
This beautiful south coast beach has gorgeous white sands and calm blue waters. It acts as a waterfront for several properties and is complemented by towering coconut trees. The sea conditions here are favourable for swimming, but the sea floor can be a bit rocky in places. This is a very scenic beach to relax and enjoy the sun. Rendezvous Beach is wheelchair accessible.
No Amenities
Accra Beach/Rockley Beach- Christ Church
This picturesque stretch of golden sand is a very popular beach among tourists and locals, with quite a few water-sport operators. If you are looking for a quiet beach day, then Accra may not be the beach for you. Activities range from snorkelling, boogie boarding and even body surfing. There is a children’s park, and you may even find some active people playing beach volleyball. Accra’s waters are generally calm, making it highly suitable for swimming.
Here, you can also find vendors selling arts and craft, and even delicious coconut water and jelly. Be sure to have a taste of this delicious island treat. You can even get your hair braided in a unique island style here. Within close proximity to this glittering gem are restaurants, bars, shopping and accommodation. Accra Beach is wheelchair accessible.
Waves- Small to medium. Water conditions are suitable for swimming, and other water-sports.
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Children’s park
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- Ranges
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Lifeguard on duty
Kentucky Beach- Christ Church
This beautiful beach gets its name from the KFC Restaurant it acts as a waterfront for. It is also the waterfront for a few other properties as well. This beach features gorgeous white sands, and is made up of a few artificial reefs. Here, the sea conditions are generally calm, making it suitable for swimming. However, caution must be exercised as the sea floor can get a bit rocky.
Waves- Small to medium. Water conditions are suitable for swimming.
No Amenities
Hastings Rock Beach- Christ Church
This is a scenic and tranquil stretch of beach, made up of several bays separated by artificial reefs. This beach’s landscape was redeveloped as it was eroded by the forces of nature. This beach also features a Promenade, a children’s play area and picnic tables. Although the waters are calm and inviting to swimmers, the sea floor can be rocky making it an uncomfortable experience. All around this is a wonderful beach to relax and admire the ever beautiful Caribbean Sea. This beach is also within close proximity to shopping, accommodation, restaurants and bars. Hastings Rock Beach is wheelchair accessible.
Waves- Small to medium
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Children’s park
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- No Lifeguard
Coconut Court Beach- Christ Church
This stunning south coast beach gets its name from the Coconut Court Beach Hotel it fronts. It is a gorgeous display of white sands, blue waters, and a beautiful seascape. Here the sea conditions are very favourable for swimming, and there is even a shallow reef a little further out- great for snorkelling over. This beach has a few rocks on its sea floor, but is not overwhelmingly rocky. There have also been some turtle sightings here. You are reminded that in the event of a sighting, it is important not to intervene or interfere with the turtles, or their eggs. If you are unsure about what to do, you can call the Barbados Sea Turtle Project (246) 230 0142.
Waves- Small to medium; Ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Trees provide shade
- Vendors selling art and craft
- Rangers
- No Lifeguard
Palm Beach- Christ Church
This beautifully scenic beach has its artificial reef to thank for its wonderful shallow, calm waters. This reef was built here to protect the shoreline against erosion, and provides a relaxing area for swimming and wading. This beach is also very ideal for picnics. Past the artificial reef the water is rougher with strong undercurrents. This beach also has a water-sport shop, and a convenient beach bar for drinks and refreshments.
Waves- Small to medium; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Ranger
- Picnic tables
- No Lifeguard
Drill Hall Beach- St. Michael
This stunning south coast beach happens to have quite a few military attractions in close proximity, with St. Ann’s Fort and the Barbados Defence Force Headquarters. It is a beautiful beach, with white sands, turquoise Caribbean Sea waters and lush vegetation with plentiful trees. Its picturesque land and sea-scape make it a great picnic spot. The waters here can be a bit rough, making it a fairly popular surfing spot. However, the sea conditions and rocky sea floor may not be suitable for swimming. Caution should be exercised.
IMPORTANT MANCHINEEL WARNING!
Waves- Small to medium waves. Swimming possible close to share; water conditions ideal for surfing
Amenities
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Lifeguard on duty
Graves End Beach- St. Michael
This is a fairly secluded south coast beach that features wonderful golden sands and beautifully blue waters that can be a bit on the rough side. The Graves End Military Cemetery is in close proximity to this beach. Its sea conditions make it ideal for surfing, but its rocky sea floor and challenging waters are not the best suited for swimming. It is dotted with beautiful trees nestled in the gorgeous sand, and is a very tranquil beach to relax on.
IMPORTANT MANCHINEEL WARNING!
Waves- Small to medium waves. Swimming possible close to share; water conditions ideal for surfing
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- Lifeguard on duty
Needham’s Point Beach/Hilton Beach- St. Michael
Aptly named, this scenic beach is the waterfront for the prominent Hilton Hotel, and is also in very close proximity to the historic Needham’s Point Lighthouse. This beautiful beach is actually made up of two bays, each with calm waters ideal for swimming and of course, the trademark golden sands. There is also a reef in these waters that can make for a nice snorkelling exploration. Here there are also non-motorised water-sport operators. There are a couple of military attractions close by, namely Charles Fort and St. Ann’s Fort- 18th century monuments. This site also is the nesting site for the Hawksbill turtle, one of the most prolific on the island. You are reminded that in the event of a sighting, it is important not to intervene or interfere with the turtles, or their eggs. If you are unsure about what to do, you can call the Barbados Sea Turtle Project (246) 230 0142.
IMPORTANT MANCHINEEL WARNING!
Waves - Calm waters; ideal for swimming and snorkelling
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
Pebbles Beach- St. Michael
This picturesque south coast beach located in the Carlisle Bay area serves as a popular nesting ground for sea turtles. The environment here is carefully preserved and monitored so as to ensure the continued preservation of these amazing turtles. You are almost sure to see one of these friendly creatures in the water. You are reminded that in the event of a sighting, it is important not to intervene or interfere with the turtles, or their eggs. If you are unsure about what to do, you can call the Barbados Sea Turtle Project (246) 230 0142. You can also find quite a few water-sport operators around this beach, making this beach full of interesting and engaging activities. The beautifully golden sands, gorgeous view of the Caribbean Sea, and glittering, calm, blue waters make this an excellent spot for swimmers, picnickers and sun-tanners alike. It is also close to luxury resort, Hilton Hotel, and the now-closed Grand Barbados Beach Resort.
IMPORTANT MANCHINEEL WARNING!
Waves - Calm waters; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Children’s park
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
Browne’s Beach- St. Michael
This is indeed a very scenic long beach area with wonderfully calm waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. There is also an Esplanade here, perfect for relaxing and taking in the view around you. Located in the Carlisle Bay area, this tranquil beach is also a favourite for some locals, who usually frequent this beach around weekends. There are also a few water-sport operators in this area, offering activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, jet skiing and more. You can also find a number of bars and restaurants within close proximity to this beach. Browne’s Beach is wheelchair accessible.
IMPORTANT MANCHINEEL WARNING!
Waves - Calm waters; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Beach equipment rentals
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- Lifeguard on duty
Carlisle Bay- St. Michael
This stunning beach has several things to boast of. Besides its enchantingly beautiful golden sands, its waters hold many treasures within it. It is the home of six wrecks, a gem for snorkelers and scuba-divers who would find these sunken marvels rife with all kinds of marine life. It is also home to the Carlisle Bay Marine Park which features many different species of sea animals and plants, truly making it a fascinating site. Creatures such as sea-horses, eels and bat-fish can be found in these waters. Its waters are deliciously calm, making it highly suitable for an enjoyable swim. There is also a restaurant and bar located at the sea front, which makes it a convenient beach stop. This beach is also wheelchair accessible.
IMPORTANT MANCHINEEL WARNING!
Waves- Calm waters; ideal for swimming and water-sport activities
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Beach equipment rentals
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- Lifeguard on duty
Adventure Beach- St. Michael
This beautiful, lively beach is also known as ‘Boatyard Beach’ among locals because of the Boatyard Beach Club at its waterfront. Here there are many amenities offered through the Boatyard Beach Club, and it is a beautiful beach to relax, or for the more adventurous, take part in the numerous water-sport activities. Its calm waters make it an ideal beach for an enjoyable swim and it is also a very good place for a beach picnic or ‘lime’. Adventure Beach is wheelchair accessible.
Waves- Calm waters; ideal for swimming and water-sport activities
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- Lifeguard on duty
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