With more than 80 beaches to choose from, Barbados provides shore side diversions ranging from the relaxing to the inspiring and even the exhilarating. A trip around the coast of this island nation reveals everything from tranquil, powder-white strands and pink-sand shores to surf-washed coastlines caressed by trade winds and flanked by dramatic cliffs. These are some of the best. Photo: Raul Rosa/iStock
Accra

Also known as Rockley Beach, this popular spot on the island’s south coast invites long walks on powder-fine sands. People watching is a favorite activity, while more active pursuits include sailing, snorkeling, boogie boarding and at times surfing. A number of nearby eateries offer sustenance and refreshment, and the beach is an easy walk from a number of resort properties. Photo: Philip Willcocks/iStock
Bathsheba

For a look at the wilder side of Barbados, head east to the surf- washed shoreline of Bathsheba. Here giant boulders sit in shallow water and are exposed for exploration at low tide. The biggest waves to hit the island crash over this rocky coastline, and the place is world-renown to surfers who come to test their skills at the popular Soup Bowl break. Photo: iStock
Bottom Bay

One of the most photographed beaches on Barbados is rarely used as a swimming spot, due to rough waters and dangerous currents. But nonetheless, its dizzying dramatic scenery attracts its share of visitors. Photographers come to shoot catalogs and travel brochures while everyone with a cell phone is working on their own snapshots. Ringed by cliffs, and adorned with tall palms, it offers sand as white as sugar. Photo: iStock
Crane Beach

The island’s most popular swatch of pink sand is found at Crane Beach. A high cliff leads down to a beach cast against electric blue waters. During the winter, when the waves are up surfers take on the breaks, but boogie boarders claim the spot for themselves year round and are often playing in the shore break. The Crane Beach Hotel perches cliffside, with a restaurant offering lunch served with a sea view. Photo: Henrik Winther Anderson/iStock
Fowl Bay

An island fisherman’s day begins early, and their small boats are a familiar sight as they bob along the coastline of Fowl Bay. These diminutive, single-engine launches are painted bright colors so they are visible on the sea. Fowl Bay’s white sands are backed by rugged cliffs, and the wide and long strand makes it a popular spot for local picnics on weekends. Photo: Philip Willcocks/iStock
Harrismith

Isolated enough to keep crowds away; this beach is a perfect stop on an island road trip along the southern coast. Similar in scenery to adjacent Bottom Bay, Harrismith is less trafficked, and is overlooked by the cliffside ruins of an old plantation. Out-of-the- way and idyllic make this magnificent wonder on Barbados a must see. Pack a picnic and you might have the place to yourself. Photo: iStock
Miami Beach

Also known as Enterprise Beach, this south coast spot is close to Bridgetown, so visitors arriving by cruise ship can easily get some beach time in while on shore leave. Locals also love the spot for early morning beach walks before the crowds move in. There’s food nearby, a lifeguard during peak hours and plenty of white sand and blue water. An added plus is the fishing town of Oistins right around the corner. Friday night’s fish fry makes a perfect ending to a day at the beach. Photo: Flavio Vallenari/iStock
Paynes Bay

Located on the “Platinum Coast”, this charming west coast bay is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. While strolling along the long sweeps of golden sand that wrap around the bay, you’ll pass the island’s most exclusive resorts. Also nearby is Holetown, and a stop at this small hub of activity, with its restaurants and nightlife, is in order after a long day in the sun. Photo: Flavio Vallenari/iStock

50 Shades of Blue: Barbados Beaches
Published on: 5/31/15 By Debbie Snow

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