I love a beach vacation, especially in the middle of the winter, and I couldn’t have asked for a better escape than going to Barbados.
In numbers, Barbados is an island country in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies. It is 34 kilometres (21 miles) in length and up to 23 km (14 miles) in width, covering an area of 432 km2 (167 squares miles). Its population is of almost 300,000 people.
My favorite spots.
Oistin Fish Market
During the daytime it might look quiet, however wait for a Friday night to eat some freshly caught fish cooked to perfection. Try some lobsters, shrimp, red snapper which are prepared on the grill and served with local favorites such as rice and peas, coleslaw, and salads.
My best evening in Barbados!
Pebbles Beach, the most popular spot according to TripAdvisor
Located in Carlisle Bay. This one seemed overrated to me. The minuses: looking to the left and you’ll see the not so pretty and massive Hilton hotel; look to the right and you’ll see the cruise ships transiting. At some point during the day the beach will be overcrowded by (cruise ship) tourists popping by for a few hours.
The pluses: the easy place to go snorkelling and watch the turtles. Magical!
Miami Beach, my (beach) hot spot!
This quickly became my preferred beach: beautiful sea & sand, good waves to both swim and bodysurf. Relaxed and not too busy (as the access isn’t obvious from the main street). Nice trees in the background – in case you’d need some shade. This beach has it all.
Sandals by Teva | Swim shorts by Luke Sport
Dover Beach, a popular spot
One can only enjoy the vibrant colours.
Saint Lucy, all the way up to the North
Here you’ll find a beautifully rugged coastline dotted with bays. The powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean pound the cliffs creating sea caves and blowholes. This is not an area for swimming but it makes up for this with majestic views and small pools for sea-bathing.
Shirt by Luke | Sunglasses by Lyle&Scott
Bridgetown, the Capital City
Both Barbados’ capital and largest city, it’s a vibrant, vivacious place steeped in history, where its unique blend of African, American and British heritage comes alive. Bridgetown and its Garrison is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with buildings dating back to the 17th, 18th, and 19th Century.
Bathsheba, the surfers’ paradise!
Useful websites: visitbarbados.org or barbados.org