History
Oistins is located on the south of the island. It is a major fishing community in Barbados and the site of the annual fish festival which honours and recognizes those to contribute to the local fishing industry. In 1639 there was a clash between the Royalists and Round head supporters over the bid for independence of Barbados from Cromwell’s England. Due to this clash, the Articles of Agreement were drafted in order for Barbados to form its own parliament – now the third oldest in the commonwealth. Oistins was originally called Austin’s Bay but was later named Oistins after Edward Oistine, a plantation owner who resided in the area.
Food
In addition to all the stalls where food can be bought daily (see more below), Cheffette and KFC are also located in Oistins.
Shopping and Stores
- Art and craft items are usually on sale in Oistins at various stalls including pottery, wood carvings, jewellery, clothing and straw craft.
- Southern Plaza Shopping Centre – the lone shopping mall in Oistins, this plaza has a variety of stores to meet a variety of needs whether it be shoes, jewellery or souvenirs. Open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm and on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm.
Attractions and Recreational Activities
Oistins Fish Fry – every Friday and Saturday night, Oistins is bustling with activity as tourists and locals frequent the area for the weekly fish fry. It is one of the highest rated attractions in Barbados as it provides the opportunity to enjoy the best of local cuisine including fish, chicken and lobster. The ambiance is set with music from back in the day and also calypso including new/recent Crop Over jams. During the week other activities occur including live music on Mondays, karaoke on Tuesdays and Thursdays and Steel Pan on Wednesdays.
- Oistins Beach – ideal for a lime and also offers watersport activities.
Getting Around
An Oistins or Airport bus will take you to Oistins. Located right in the centre is a bus station with busses running regularly to take you to any destination you wish. There is also the Oistins taxi service, with many taxi drivers waiting to take you anywhere on the island that you want to go.
