The Best of the Barbados Coasts

Photo by Instagram user @its.barbados

The Best of the Barbados Coasts

North, south, east or west coast? Each of the coasts has something unique to offer. From the rugged north coast and scenic east coast to the lively south coast and calm west coast. While you may already have your favourite coast (we are team south coast) we urge you to explore all 4 coasts of Barbados – you will be shocked by how different they all are. For a small Caribbean island of 166 square miles, Barbados sure does pack a punch. Here are the best things to do on each of the Barbados coasts.

North Coast

Whale watching, cave exploring and eating fabulous local food at one of the most stunning views in Barbados. The Animal Flower Cave is the only place you need to visit to experience the rugged north coast.

Sit on the cliffs looking out to the rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean while snacking on some ‘Buljol’ a local seafood favourite. Venture into the caves on a private cave tour. It’s an awesome photo opp and you can learn more about how coastlines features, like the cave, were formed.

Tip: The drive from the south coast to north coast is usually around an hour and it’s super scenic so plan for stops along the way.

Photos by Instagram users @nd_squared and jeep_girl_1

East Coast

Visiting the east coast is like stepping back in time. The rolling hills and lush landscapes are on protected land leaving an untouched, laid-back charm to this stunning coast. The rough Atlantic Ocean makes Bathsheba and Cattlewash beaches a surfers’ paradise. At low tide, calm rock pools appear, perfect for a more relaxing ‘sea bath’ as the locals call it.

For lunch, we recommend you stop at Martins Bay fishing village, for fish of course. The local characters are welcoming and entertaining. After lunch, and a stroll along the sand (where you can find lots of shells and sea glass) hop into your car and head north. The most breathtaking view of the east coast is from Cherry Tree Hill. This popular lookout spot has been featured in Rhianna, Simple Plan and Avicii music videos.

On your way from Bathsheba to Cherry Tree Hill, you will pass the Morgan Lewis Windmill, Barbados only remaining sugar mill and one of the 7 wonders of Barbados. If you are visiting in sugar cane season, you may be lucky enough to catch it in action.

Tip: Rent a car and download Google Maps or Waze, the east coast roads are rather winding. If you happen to get lost along your way the locals on the east coast are very friendly and always happy to help.

Photos by Instagram users @rexon_rexon_rex, @kris.lebar, @cielopro, @travellushes and @sammyjowilsher

West Coast

Known as the ‘Platinum Coast’ the west coast is where the celebrities like to vacation. This coast is lined with luxurious hotels, villas and restaurants. The Limegrove Lifestyle Center, located in Holetown is great for duty-free shopping.

The ocean along the west coast is clear and calm compared to the rough east coast. This makes the west coast perfect for water sports, sailing and snorkelling. We highly recommend seeing the west coast from the sea on a Cool Runnings catamaran tour. Swim with turtles, soak up the sun and relax, catamaran cruises are our favourite island activity.

Tip:  Try to dine on the west coast at least once. Some of our favourite west coast restaurants include Tides, Tapestry, Fusion and The Cliff.

Photos by Instagram users @coolrunningsbarbados and @limegrove_live

South Coast

Last but not least our favourite coast – The South Coast of Barbados. Known as ‘the life of Barbados,’ the south coast is where the locals tend to live and it shows. You will find local eats, local hang out spots and bursts of Bajan culture.

Oistins fish market is top of our south coast to-do list. Enjoy fresh local fish and cool local beers in this historic Bajan fishing village. Visit St. Lawrence Gap for a fun night out. There are lots of local restaurants and bars all along one strip. We recommend dining at Cocktail Kitchen for food by the award-winning, #1 chef in the Caribbean and for their prime people-watching wall on the corner of the gap.

The south coast is lined with stunning white sandy beaches. The boardwalk connects Rockley beach to the Craggy Nook beach with lots of points of attraction along the 1.6 km stretch.

Feeling adventurous? Try surfing for the first time at Freights Bay, near the south coast lighthouse. Or explore the city of Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados and it’s many historical museums.

Tip: Stay in the Hastings area, it is near the best beaches, restaurants, supermarkets and Bridgetown where there are many attractions to explore.

Photos by Instagram users @its.barbados and @larissarosec

No matter which coast you are staying on, we encourage you to rent a car and start exploring. Each coast is only a short 15 – 20 minute drive away from the next. If you are staying with us at Craggy Nook ask us how you can get 10% off your car rental booking from Stoutes Car Rental, our booking team is always happy to help.