Beaches of the West Coast
Beautiful white sandy beaches, perfect sunny weather, clear calm waters- it’s just another gorgeous day on Barbados' West Coast! From the capital city of Bridgetown, this coast runs upwards to the parish of St. Peter. The West Coast is a favourite for many tourists looking to experience sun, sea and sand. With jet skis, snorkelling adventures, swimming with the turtles, as well as numerous bars, shops and restaurants, there is a host of activities to partake in. Also dubbed as the ‘Platinum Coast’, the West Coast of Barbados can provide a truly spectacular time with tons of watersports, and amenities for all.
Remember:
1. Watch out for sea urchins when swimming/ snorkelling near reefs.
2. Where there are water-sport activities persons should be cautious when entering outside the area marked with orange coloured buoys!
ALL of Barbados’ beaches are open to the public. There are no private beaches in Barbados.
View Beaches of the North Coast
View Beaches of the East Coast
View Beaches of the South Coast
View All Barbados Beach Amenities
Brandon’s Beach- St. Michael
This beautiful beach is located along the Spring Garden Highway and is quite a popular beach for some locals. Several local events are held here annually, including the delightful Pan Pun De Sand, Reggae on the Beach, and several charity events. This picturesque beach can also be seen from the highway.This long beach is jewelled with golden sands and has an abundance of casuarinas and other trees along its shore. Here you can find a few water-sport operators and a restaurant & bar. Brandon’s Beach has calm waters that are favourable for swimming and snorkelling. Because of its close proximity to the Barbados Cruise Terminal, during cruise season this beach has its fair share of tourists.
Brandon’s Beach is wheelchair accessible.
IMPORTANT - Manchineel Tree Warning!
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach Equipment Rentals
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This scenic west coast beach gives a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea. Located next to Brandon’s Beach, this beach shares common traits such as golden sands and calm, blue waters. This beach is also popular with many locals, and many cruise ship passengers tend to frequent this beach around cruise season. Brighton Beach is a nesting site for the Hawksbill turtle. 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. Here, you can find some water-sport operators as the sea conditions are conducive to swimming and many other activities.This beach is also wheelchair accessible.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach Equipment Rentals
- Parking
- Lifeguard on duty
This is a wonderfully calm, tranquil beach with clear blue waters occasionally dotted with fishing boats and other sea vessels.Located in a small fishing village, this beach is excellent for swimming, and snorkelling, although sea-farers should be cautious and aware of the vessels in the sea. This is a great location to observe the island’s fisherfolk, as they are frequently seen at this bay.
This beach is wheelchair accessible.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- No Lifeguard
This peaceful aquatic gem is perfect for those who just want to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the Caribbean Sea.There is no water-sport activity originating on these shores, although you are sure to see some activity in the sea. Beautifully calm waters make swimming and snorkelling very enjoyable experiences, with gentle waves lapping the golden shore.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and snorkelling
This beach is perfect for swimming and snorkelling due to its calm, peaceful waters. Adorned with Barbados’ trademark golden sands, this beautiful sea offers up a fantastic view of the west coast, complemented by a gentle breeze.Snorkelers will also find reef here to explore, as some can be seen in the sea close to shore.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and snorkelling
This beautiful Caribbean Sea beach is an ideal for picnics and swimming due to its wide expanse of golden sands, tall trees for shade against the Caribbean sun, and of course its calm, turquoise waters.There is even a play park here for children to enjoy.
This is indeed a relaxing beach to enjoy with the whole family, with breathtaking sunset views over its the Caribbean Sea.
Batts Rock Beach is wheelchair accessible.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This west coast bay is a beautifully calm beach, with gentle waters and golden sands. The sea conditions here are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and you can find a few water-sport operators here.Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Beach equipment rentals
- Ranger
- No Lifeguard
This tranquil beach is an oasis of golden sand, lush vegetation, tall casuarinas and sparkling waters.
Named after the church it serves as a waterfront for, this lovely beach is perfect for picnics and swimming. There are also a few reefs and turtle sightings here, so snorkelers can have a great time exploring. The sea floor can be a bit rocky in places, so caution should be exercised.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- No Lifeguard
This beautiful St. James beach is in the heart of activity, with a supermarket, shopping area, restaurant and a beach bar within close proximity. Named after the fishing village it is located in, Fitts Village beach also features an esplanade nestled in among trees. As with its sister beaches along this Gold Coast, this beach boasts of sun-kissed golden sands and wonderfully blue calm waters. This is a great beach for swimming, snorkelling and picnics.Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and snorkelling
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Picnic tables
- Benches
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- No Lifeguard
This slice of paradise is a wonderful beach to enjoy, with a few water-sport operators on hand. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and the golden sands are a perfect place to relax and work on your tan. Sunsets are absolutely gorgeous here, so be sure to walk with your camera.Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sport activities
Amenities
- Beach equipment rentals
- No Lifeguard
Mahogany Bay has the characteristically calm, blue waters and golden sands to the west coast. There are a few natural reefs in the water, making it a good area to explore with a snorkel. The already calm waters also form natural pools, making it ideal for a swim or a dip in the ocean. This beautiful gem is also the beachfront to a fishing complex, which is part of the Paynes Bay fishing village. It is also within close proximity to the Cubana monument, an Obelisk-shaped tribute in memory of the 73 passengers who perished on October 6th, 1976 on board the bombed Air Cubana Flight CU 455.Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and snorkelling
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- Benches
- Picnic tables
- No Lifeguard
Also called Tamarind Cove Beach because of the Tamarind Cove Hotel Resort it fronts, this gorgeous beach boasts of clear, blue waters, golden sands and beautiful landscape. Here, you can also find some water-sport operators to add more excitement to your sea day.The waters at this lovely beach are quite calm, making it a great beach to swim and snorkel at. The sea floor can be a bit rocky in places so caution should be exercised.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
This scenic stretch of Caribbean Sea is a wonder for the eyes with its golden sands, and turquoise waters. Water-sport operators are around this beautiful beach offering fun activities such as banana boat rides, jet-skiing, snorkelling and more. Because of all of these sea activities, this beach tends to be lively with people, especially around the weekend. The sea conditions are calm waters, making it an excellent swimming spot. For the fish lovers, there is the Paynes Bay Fishing Complex on the beach where you can go in and purchase freshly caught fish.Paynes Bay is wheelchair accessible.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Beach equipment rentals
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This dazzling west coast beach serves as a waterfront for the five-star luxury accommodation, Sandy Lane Hotel Resort.This beautiful stretch of beach is highlighted by its golden sands, turquoise waters and beautiful seascape. The serene waters are perfect for swimming and wading, and its sands are a perfect place to relax on while watching the gorgeous sunset over this Caribbean sea.
Sandy Lane Beach has some water-sport operators, but some of these only operate for Sandy Lane Hotel Resort guests. There is also a beach bar on this five-star property that non-guests can also use.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Parking
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This gorgeous stretch of sand is located in close proximity to one of Barbados’ major towns- Holetown.This beach boasts of beautifully golden sand, and calm, blue waters. These conditions make this a very ideal swimming spot, but caution should be exercised as there are a few rocks located in the waters.
The crowd here is usually small, making it an ideal location for a romantic get-a-way. Its west coast location gives you a front row seat to the striking Barbados sunsets.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
This west coast beach is located in the Holetown, St. James area, and is a beautiful beach with white sands and tranquil waters.Because of its close proximity to this historic town, this beach attracts a fairly large crowd, especially on the weekends. Vendors abound here offering you an opportunity to purchase Bajan arts and craft.
There is also a beach bar here, making it a convenient stop for refreshments.
Its calm waters are very suitable for swimmers, and there are quite a few water-sport operators in this area. There is even a hair braider who can fix you u with a beautifully done authentic island style.
IMPORTANT - Manchineel Tree Warning!
This beach is also wheelchair accessible.
This beach is also wheelchair accessible.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Parking
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This beautiful beach serves as a beachfront for Discovery Bay Hotel and Sandpiper Hotel. It has wonderfully calm waters, making it suitable for swimming and wading.The gorgeously golden sands are perfect to suntan on, and there are even a few water-sport operators here. It is a great beach for sea adventures, and the sea conditions are great for snorkelling.
Amenities
- Beach equipment rentals
- Rangers
- No Lifeguard
Folkestone Beach is a gorgeous stretch of sand that has quite a few things to boast of. Not only does it have the sun-kissed golden sands of the Gold Coast and the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea, it also has an underwater park marine reserve- Folkestone Marine Reserve.This reserve features an artificial reef, created by the deliberate sinking of the ship Stavronikita, and is 120ft deep. This reef provides shelter and a home to many forms of marine life, including sea anemones, sea lilies, sea fans and sponges. This is a great area for scuba-divers to explore.
It also has an inshore reef, an area mostly utilized by snorkelers, and a Museum which provides information and photographs on coastal marine life, as well as an aquarium with rare and fascinating sea creatures including coral and sponges.
Folkestone Marine Reserve also has other facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, picnic area and a children’s playground.
This beach is perfect for picnics and a favourite for many locals on weekends. There are also water-sport operators here.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Parking
- Benches
- Picnic Tables
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Children’s play area
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- Lifeguard on duty
This lovely St. James Beach is quite calm, and beautiful. It is the beachfront for Heron Bay House, a stunning coral stone house built in 1947 by the late Ronald Tree, a member of the Winston Churchill British Cabinet.This house sits on 20 acres of land that even includes a small lake, and has seen the likes of many famous people, including former US President Bill Clinton and former British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill.
Its tranquil waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. There are also water-sport operators here offering activities such as kayaking and jet-skiing.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Beach equipment rentals
- No Lifeguard
This west coast beach is nestled in the Weston fishing village, and a fishing complex complete with a fish market. Apart from the fishing complex, it also shares its beachfront with a popular seaside bar.This peaceful beach has calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Its golden sands are great to suntan on, and its waters are jewelled with quaint fishing boats in the backdrop.
This is also a great place to enjoy a Caribbean Sea sunset.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
Crowned with golden sands, draped in calm blue waters and jewelled with many trees, this beach is a little slice of Barbadian heaven.Locally recognized as Carlton Beach, it has also acquired the name Tropicana from surfers.
The waters here are calm, making it highly suitable for swimmers. There are also some water-sport operators in this area.
At this beach, you may see some sailing cruises and fishing boats in the waters.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sport
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
Here, the waters are wonderfully calm and ideal for swimming and snorkelling. This beach also features an array of vacation homes and beautiful, lush tropical plants.Its shady seascape makes it a great place for a picnic, or to simply relax under a tree and enjoy a Gibbs Beach sunset.
There are not many people who usually frequent this beach, although it is a beach stop for some local boat cruises.
You can also find some water-sport operators who offer activities such as jet-skiing, water skiing and even banana boat rides.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sport
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
This golden sanded aquatic gem is usually alive with people and activity. Definitely one of the popular west coast beaches, Mullins Bay is a beach the whole family can enjoy. Its waters are clear and calm making them highly suitable for swimming and wading.Children are certainly not left out as there are some sea activities that they can enjoy such as the sea trampoline and iceberg.
Water-sports such as jet skiing, pedal boats and banana boat rides are also available here.
There is also a bar and restaurant here for a nice time-out from your tiring sea adventures.
This is also a great beach to enjoy a Caribbean Sea sunset.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Shower/Toilets
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Parking
- Vendors selling arts and craft
- Trees provide shade
- Rangers
- No Lifeguard
King’s Beach/St.Peter’s Bay- St. Peter
Once the beachfront for the King’s Beach Hotel, it is now the front for St Peter’s Bay luxury Condominiums Resort. It is also locally known as Dark Hole Beach. This beautiful beach features golden sands, and a number of bays divided by rocks and artificial reefs. These reefs are great places for snorkelers to explore. The sea conditions at King’s Beach are calm and very favourable for swimmers. However, swimmers should be careful as the sea floor can be a bit rocky in some areas. You should be able to find some water-sport operators here.Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
Cobbler’s Cove Beach- St. Peter
Apparently named after the Cobbler’s Cove Hotel that it serves as waterfront for, this beach is also locally known as Cholera Beach.This gorgeous stretch of sand features beautifully calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. You can also find a number of water-sport operators here.
The crowd here is usually very small, and this is a great beach to take in one of the Gold Coast’s stunning sunsets.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- No Lifeguard
This beach is absolutely gorgeous, with beautiful sands and crystal clear waters- perfect for sun-tanning and swimming.The trees at this beach provide shade as well as serves as eye food as they decorate this beautiful seascape. There is also some beach activity here as you can find some water-sport operators in this area.
Godings Bay Beach is fairly isolated with not much of a crowd, making it a great place for a romantic getaway.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming and water-sports
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- No Lifeguard
Named after the historic town of Speightstown, this beautiful sea gem is located in… you guessed it… Speightstown!This tranquil beach can be seen from the road and is located in the heart of Speightstown’s shopping district.
The sea conditions here are calm, but with some undertow, suitable for swimmers. This can be a perfect break away from a long day shopping in the town.
Waves - Calm waters with some undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
Located just on the fringes of Speightstown, this beach enjoys calm, clear waters, golden sands and areas of shallow reef.The reefs found here are great places for snorkelers to enjoy, and there are a few natural pools formed that are suitable for children to wade in.
Heywoods Beach also serves as a waterfront for Port St.Charles Marina and the now-closed Almond Beach Club Resort. You can also find a small executive golf course on this beach.
The sea conditions make Heywoods Beach suitable for swimming, and water-sport operators can also be found here. Food and drinks can be found at this beach.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Beach equipment rentals
- Trees provide shade
- Parking
- No Lifeguard
Located in a quiet St. Peter fishing village, this scenic beach is also the beachfront for a small fish market, great for securing fresh fish.Decked with golden sand, clear blue waters and the idyllic fishing boats bobbing in the sea, Six Men’s Bay is one of the most illustrated portraits of Barbados.
This is also a great place to meet with the local friendly fisherfolk and learn more about Barbados through their eyes. You can even watch them tend to their boats, and in some case even see how the boats are made.
There is also a weekend Fish Fry at Six Men’s, a popular place to visit for many locals.
Here, the sea conditions are calm, with some undertow, making it suitable for swimming.
Waves - Calm waters with little to no undertow; ideal for swimming
Amenities
- Food and drinks
- Trees provide shade
- No Lifeguard
RELATED ARTICLES
View Beaches of the North Coast
View Beaches of the East Coast
View Beaches of the South Coast
View All Barbados Beach Amenities
A Night on the Ocean
All Things Ocean
Fishing in Barbados
Barbados Fish Markets
Activities For Kids
Sports In Barbados
Barbados Kayaking
Accommodation
Local Transport
View Beaches of the North Coast
View Beaches of the East Coast
View Beaches of the South Coast
View All Barbados Beach Amenities
A Night on the Ocean
All Things Ocean
Fishing in Barbados
Barbados Fish Markets
Activities For Kids
Sports In Barbados
Barbados Kayaking
Accommodation
Local Transport
Article © Caribbean Dreams Magazine
