Top 10 beaches in Barbados open to the public

One of the Lesser Antilles islands in the West Indies, Barbados holidays offer 80 spectacular beaches to choose from. Remarkable when one considers that Barbados measures just 21 miles in length and 14 miles across.

Another remarkable feature of the island is how varied the coastline is. A holiday in Barbados’s east coast provides an view to the Atlantic and over time the crashing waves have created a wild, rugged section of coastline characterised by dramatic headlands, jutting cliffs and weather-marked boulders.

Facing the Caribbean Sea, a holiday in Barbados’s west coast is more sheltered and the beaches are more in-line with the Caribbean stereotype, that is, long stretches of white sand lined with coconut trees. What’s most alluring about a Barbados beach holiday is that every beach is open to the general public, regardless of how many billionaires have property nearby.

Accra Beach

Sometimes referred to it as Rockley beach by locals, Accra is a beach of soft, white sand. The beach is set in a scenic horseshoe bay and the water stays shallow for a fair distance making it popular with young families. There are a number of food and drink options close by making Accra beach a good option for a lazy morning and beachside lunch.

Archers Bay

Archers Bay is a lesser-known beach hidden away between imposing limestone cliffs along the sparsely populated northwest coast. The narrow beach isn’t signposted so you might need to ask locals for directions but it’s worth the effort, especially for couples who enjoy the relative privacy and serenity.

Bath Beach

One of the major draws of Bath Beach is the lack of strong currents which is rare for beaches on the Atlantic-facing east coast. Bath Beach is easily accessed via a nearby car park with toilets making it a good place to spend a full day.

Bathsheba Beach

One of the most popular beaches along the east coast, Bathsheba’s primary draw is the ‘Soup Bowl’ a point break that creates powerful Atlantic breakers, perfect for surfing. Bathsheba has striking rock formations and natural pools carved out from the coral which make for safe natural baths. Perfect for cooling off and watching the boarders.

Brownes Beach

One of the beaches in the famous Carlisle Bay, only a short distance from the capital Bridgetown, Borwnes Beach is one of the largest on the island. The turquoise waters are usually thronged with snorkelers and divers keen to explore the nearby shipwrecks, a home for many different types of fish.

Crane Beach

One of a few beaches on Barbados’s south coast, Crane beach is known for its sand which has an off pink colour. Fringed by coconut palms Crane is a very peaceful, rent a lounger and finish your book-type beach

Gibbes Beach

Tucked away on the northwest coast is the untouched Gibbes beach has stunning golden sands. Accessing the beach is not obvious but once you see the luxury villas you’ll know you’ve arrived, find a spot to park-up and make your way down to this quiet beach that fronts turquoise Caribbean waters.

Miami Beach

With its 250 yard stretch of bright white sand and mix of big waves on the eastern end and sheltered sections to the west Miami beach is popular with locals and tourists alike. The largest of the south coast beaches be aware that Miami beach is also known as Enterprise beach. With plenty of sellers who can offer loungers, parasols as-well-as food, it’s easy to pass a whole day at Miami beach. If you don’t fancy eating on the beach, the fishing town of Oistins is a short journey.

Mullins Beach

If you’re interested in water sports then Mullins is a good option. The water is carefully portioned into areas for snorkelling and further out jet skiing. The calm waters make it a great place to test your balance and core strength through a bit of paddle boarding. Mullins beach also has one of the best beach bars on all of Barbados, Mullins Restaurant & Beach Bar offers fresh seafood at reasonable prices, or simply have a cold drink and watch the world go by.

Sandy Lane Beach

Perhaps the most glamorous beach on Barbados, in that its often frequented by the rich and famous, Sandy Lane beach attracts a quiet, reserved crowd. Close your eyes and drift off to the other sound of calm waves lapping the shore and the cool breeze rustling the palms.

Silver Sands

Another beach for lovers of water sports, Silver Sands is a popular launch site for wind & kite surfers due to the stable winds that whip around this part of the south coast. Silver Sands which is also known as De Action Beach due to it being the site of the deAction Barbados Waterman Festival.

Planning Your Beach Holiday in Barbados

Barbados enjoys two seasons; wet and dry. The wet season begins in June and runs through to December, with the most rain falling between September and November. Many a bargain can be had during the low season and you can still be sure of plenty of sunshine during this time, it will just be interspersed with the occasional tropical shower.

The peak season corresponds with Barbados’s dry season which begins in the latter part of December and runs through to May. If you plan to travel to Barbados at peak season, be sure to book your accommodation and other in-demand activities such as go-to restaurants in advance.

Temperatures are tropical ranging from 23°C to 31°C all year round with the hottest months being May, June and August.