Find peace in this island paradise, both on the beach and beyond
It’s difficult not to feel relaxed in Barbados. As an island famous for its beaches, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of sandy spots on which to unwind, where there’s nothing to be heard but the sound of waves gently lapping the shore.
But this tranquillity stretches far beyond the shoreline: across the rest of the island, from the thriving towns of Holetown and Oistins to the serene spots of Bathsheba and Speightstown, one thing remains constant: an air of unfi ltered peace and quiet.
What’s more, the Bajan culture is undeniably chilled out and nearly impossible to resist, so however your clients opt to spend their time on the island, they are guaranteed to feel recharged and rejuvenated by the end of their stay.
Visitors keen to enjoy the hot, sunny days with the sand between their toes are spoilt for choice when it comes to pristine beaches. Part of the charm of Barbados is its size – the island measures just 166 square miles, so wherever clients choose to stay, they’re never far from a glorious stretch of sand.
The western coastline is lapped by the Caribbean Sea, whose pristine waters give this side of the island its Platinum Coast nickname. The beaches here are easily accessible and the calm waters are ideal for paddling. A few that should be on any must-visit list are Pebbles Beach, where visitors can watch as racehorses from the nearby stables take their morning dip in the sea; and Heywoods Beach, whose calm, peaceful waters offer the perfect conditions for glimpsing marine life.
Over in the east, on the Atlantic side of the island, the coastline is more rugged and the beaches are quieter, but by no means less alluring. Limestone cliffs offer unparalleled views across the ocean, and often give way to secluded bays for a more tranquil beach experience for clients to enjoy.
Just because the water isn’t as calm doesn’t mean dipping into the waves is off the cards – Crane Beach is cut off by an ancient coral reef, meaning that the waters remain ideal for swimming, while at Bathsheba Beach, the small coral pools are perfect for cooling off.
Even away from the beach, the town of Bathsheba is a haven for those seeking a little R&R. At the quaint Zemi East Coast Cafe, perched on a cliff and surrounded by pretty frangipani trees, the laid-back Bajan culture is showcased in all its glory. Friendly staff welcome visitors like old friends and the chilled-out vibe creates the perfect atmosphere for enjoying a sumptuous spot of lunch – the coconut-crusted barracuda is a menu staple and undoubtedly a favourite among diners.
To while away the rest of the afternoon, recommend a visit to Bathsheba Park. This charming green spot nestles just behind the beach, with swaying palms offering welcome shade from the heat of the sun.
Sit back and watch the locals play cricket, browse the stalls selling handcrafted jewellery, or simply soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Fiona Field
director, Travel Designed
"Barbados is the perfect place for some rest and relaxation. With white sandy beaches and turquoise seas, the resorts along the coastline lend themselves to a restful and rejuvenating holiday. This small island has so much to o er in terms of relaxation, including chilled-out catamaran tours where you can swim with turtles and dive among shipwrecks – there is something for all to enjoy.”
Image credits: Shutterstock/Graham Tomlin, Simon Dannhauer, Filip Fuxa, Wirestock Creators, Christopher W Blackwood, nau2018