Barbados has so many beaches to choose from — some great for swimming, some great for surfing, and others so beautiful you simply need to see them for yourself. This is why we've compiled a list of our favourite off the beaten path beaches you must visit in Barbados. We promise you won't be disappointed. Most of the beaches below are not meant for swimming due to the strong currents in the area.
1. Bottom Bay
You'll have seen this location in a few other posts, like our self-drive island tour of Barbados and the most Instagrammable spots in Barbados. There's a reason we mention it so often — it is absolutely stunning. The water is crystal clear and turquoise, the beach is lined with palm trees, and it's breezy and relaxing. Avoid swimming here though — the current is very strong. It's better to visit with a group rather than solo, since it's a bit secluded, though it has gotten busier in recent months.
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The full island in one day — from a Bajan who actually lives here.
2. Shark Hole Beach
Found easily on Google Maps — a tiny bay with bright blue water, definitely worth a few photos. This counts as off the beaten path despite being close to the road, simply because you have to drive through a residential area to reach it.
3. Foul Bay
Located on the southern side of Barbados, before The Crane. Foul Bay has a huge expanse of white sandy beach and perfectly turquoise water with crashing waves. Again, not the safest for swimming due to the currents — but the perfect place for picnics and cocktails, with plenty of shaded spots ideal for a beach chair and a cooler.
4. Harrismith Beach
Right next door to Bottom Bay. You can either walk across the cliff from Bottom Bay to Harrismith, or drive back down the road through the residential area to get as close as possible. The coolest feature here is the old house atop the cliff — from there you head down some stairs to this secluded beach below.
Beach Hopping Tip
Bottom Bay and Harrismith Beach are close enough together to visit both in one trip — walk the cliff path between them if the weather's good, or drive between the two if you'd rather save your legs for the beach itself.
5. North Point Hotel
On the other side of the island, near the increasingly busy Animal Flower Cave. Walk along the cliffside to reach the old North Point Hotel, where a long stretch of cliffs and crashing waves leads down some stairs to a small beach below. This is usually where surfers head to catch waves. Be careful here too, given the currents — it's a beautiful, quiet and secluded spot. You can also drive down to the old hotel: coming out of the cave, turn left onto the dirt track that leads to this spot.
Most of these spots can be found on Google Maps, but if you have any trouble, feel free to give us a shout. Just remember not to swim at these locations — the currents are very strong. These beautiful off the beaten path beaches are great for your Instagram photos, or simply to chill out with a picnic or a coconut and take in the view.
Free Download
Free Barbados Self-Drive Route Guide
The full island in one day — from a Bajan who actually lives here.
Related Posts
- Self-Drive Island Tour of Barbados
- Most Instagrammable Spots in Barbados
- Best Beaches in Barbados
- The Ultimate Barbados Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
It's not recommended — the current at Bottom Bay is genuinely strong. It's a stunning spot for photos, a walk along the palm-lined beach and taking in the view, but not a safe swimming beach.
