From rum-cocktail-fuelled beach parties to kitesurfing and snorkelling, Barbados is the ultimate Caribbean island, says Ben Holbrook
Transparent waters and ivory sands, Barbados is the epitome of tranquillity, relaxation and Caribbean charm. Famed for being exquisitely warm and friendly, with parties on the beach, and fresh fish barbecues under the stars, the Bajan culture is a truly enchanting experience. So grab your suntan lotion and prepare to discover paradise; this is your essential guide to the most beautiful beaches of Barbados.
Miami Beach – Lunch in True Bajan Style
This is where the Bajan charm really comes into its own. With endless, crystal white sands and a huge selection of freshly prepared Caribbean cuisine, a day at Miami Beach is a day in paradise. Grab a delicious fish cake salad or one of the island’s classic Flying Fish sandwiches, and take a seat at the sheltered picnic tables where you can indulge and cool down whilst taking in the beauty of the beach. Of course, if you do get the urge to stretch your legs, Freights Bay is only a short stroll up the beach, where you will find one of the island’s very best surf spots. But in true Bajan style, just do whatever feels right.
Silver Rock Beach – Get Wet and Wild
When you think of Barbados beaches, the first image that springs to mind is of you and your loved one lying on a pure white-sandy beach, with a straw hat and good book. However, besides total offering total relaxation, Barbados is also the perfect destination for a spot of adrenalin-fuelled water sports action. Whether you’re an expert or total newbie, Silver Rock Beach’s warm and windy conditions have seen it transform into a haven for the fastest growing extreme sport on earth; kite surfing! Its sandy bottom and high sandbanks offer protection for fumbling learners, although the undercurrents can turn vicious during heavy swells. Follow the instructions on the beach or speak to an instructor and you’ll have a Barbados adventure you’ll never forget.
Dover Beach – Fame & Fortune
This is one of the most famous beaches in Barbados, perfect for swimming and playing in the warm ocean waves on surfboards and jet skis, Dover Beach is full of action and excitement. But it’s not just in the water that you’ll find the action! Cricket and football are hugely popular beach sports here in the Caribbean, and it is here, on Dover Beach, that you can watch the Bajan sport stars strut their stuff in the golden island sunshine. If the sun gets too much to handle, treat yourself to a refreshing cocktail break at one of Barbados’ famous all-inclusive resorts – they may even let you cool off in their swimming pool!
Crane Beach – A Coconut Paradise!
If your ultimate idea of paradise is finding a deserted beach with views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs that shoot into the sky like electrified volcanoes, then this is the beach for you. Pack a picnic and fill up your drinks chiller; a day at Crane Beach, in the shade of tropical coconut trees, is as close to heaven you’ll get.
Accra Beach – Shopping at the Beach
You know how holidays are, there’s never enough time to see all things you want to see! But, at Accra Beach, which is also known as Rockley Beach, you can kill two birds with one stone and do a spot of shopping whilst enjoying a day at the beach. What’s more, you can also explore the ocean waves on a rented bodyboard, or even go snorkelling; there is just so much to do at Accra.
Taking you closer to the world’s most exciting places, foods and cultures, Ben Holbrook is passionate about really getting under the skin of the countries he travels to. Funny and often over-sentimental, you’re sure to be inspired and entertained with his adventurous anecdotes and tasty, vino-fueled travelogues – check out www.driftwoodjournals.com for more!
Leave a Reply