Best Barbados Beaches

Tucked in the southern corner of the Lesser Antilles, Barbados is the Caribbean's easternmost island. Its different coasts offer beaches that range from powdery sand and cerulean waters of the Caribbean to the perfect swells of the eastern Atlantic coast. Sequestered from the luxury resorts, the rugged Atlantic coast is where surfers and naturalists flock. Discover the best beaches of Barbados -- where there really is something for everyone.

Silver Sands
A windy outcropping ideal for windsurfing, Silver Sands beach is internationally recognized as a world-class beach for this sport. Located on the southern coast of Barbados, Silver Sands holds the Waterman Festival every February; a competitive contest for surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing, the festival has been going strong since 1989. The Silver Sands Resort is located here, offering affordable accommodations on prime oceanfront real estate.

Crane
Crane Beach, originally a harbor, is one of the most beautiful beaches along the coast of Barbados. It's home to one of the prettiest and oldest resorts on the island, The Crane Beach Hotel. Simple luxury and elegance define the hotel that sits on a beach named one of the 10 best in the world by Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. The waves here are perfect for beginner surfers or for body surfing, while the coastal coves offer sheltered swimming close to shore.

Bottom Bay
Located just north of the sprawling historic mansion known as Sam Lord's Castle, the pink-sand cove of Bottom Bay is protected by high jagged cliffs. The sugary beach is lined with coconut palms, but the crystalline waters feature a significant undertow, making Bottom Bay a perfect spot for picnics but not swimming. The postcard-perfect views are inspiring many to build homes here, so make sure to pack your picnic basket and visit before it's all private property.

Bathsheba
This picturesque East Coast fishing village hums with activity when the surf contests come to town. That's because this popular beach is the surfing capital of Barbados; the surfing sweet spot is known as Bathsheba's "Soup Bowl." If you don't surf, there are pools and reefs ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing. The breathtaking beach's wild landscape makes it one of Barbados' most popular.

Accra/Rockley
This beach, known either as Accra or Rockley, is one of the widest and most popular stretches of sand along the Barbados coast. Several vendors line the beach selling clothing and local jewelry. Waves are moderate without an undertow, making it a great place for windsurfing, sunfish sailing, snorkeling, boogie boarding and body surfing.

Bath
Bath beach is one of Barbados' best swimming beaches. Located on the Atlantic Coast, there are minimal waves and almost no undertow. Facilities here include ample parking, picnic spots and changing rooms. Stroll north along the perfect sandy beaches to a small waterfall and the remains of a train line that once ran from Bridgetown to Bathsheba.

Cattlewash
This is one of the longest beaches on Barbados; it has a rough and rugged character that makes it a spot for sightseeing and sunbathing rather than swimming. Because of the waves and undertows, this beach is often deserted, so pack a cooler and hit the beach that was once the bathing spot for herds of cattle shepherded from the surrounding villages.

Dover Beach
This popular beach on the South Coast of Barbados is idyllic for swimming, jet skiing, body surfing and romantic shore-side strolls. Across the street is the Dover Playing Field where you can often catch a cricket match or see Bajan footballers in action.

Folkestone Beach
Situated 1 mile north of Holetown, Folkestone is home of the government-run Folkestone Marine Park. This gorgeous beach features many water-related activities, a marine museum and coastal environment displays. Snorkeling aalongmidst the fringe reef or diving off a private boat are perfect aquatic afternoon activities.

Mullins Bay
Mullins is a popular hangout, a charming bay surrounded by a placid beach, perfect for relaxing in a chaise lounge. There's a beach bar here serving cold drinks and simple lunches so you can fuel up before taking to the waters in a jet ski. If you prefer to move at a slower speed, rent snorkeling equipment and leisurely explore the tranquil waters.