Barbados
Posted 7/3/2008 @ 10:26:33 am by caribbeanfavs.com
Barbados is the eastern most island in the Caribbean chain, considered part of the Lesser Antilles. The island is non-volcanic, composed chiefly of limestone coral. This tropical island is covered in mangroves and lovely hardwood forests. The trade winds keep it reasonably cool around the year, while the Caribbean sun beats down on its pristine beaches. Barbados is the " Little England of Eternal Summer. " Meaning " the bearded ones, " it's name is said to have been given by a Portuguese discoverer because of the beardlike vines on the fig trees. With nearly 1,600 inhabitants per square mile, Barbados is one of the most densely populated countries in the Caribbean; the friendliness of it's people is it's foremost charm.
Most major hotels have a beach or are near one, and most types of aquatic gear can be rented. Motorboats for water skiing and sailboats are available for hire at beach club resorts. Conditions are excellent for skiing in the tranquil waters off the west coast, while sailing is favorable on both the west and south coasts. In the path of the trade winds, the east coast beaches are considered dangerous for swimming but ideal for surfing, with the Soup Bowl at Bathsheba being the best area for this sport.
Popular west coast beaches include Mullins Beach near Speighstown, which features a good snorkeling reef just offshore as well as shaded areas, shower facilities and an open-air restaurant providing a view of the bay. Paynes Bay, recognizable by the neighboring fish market, is a site where one can indulge in numerous water sports. Visitors will enjoy the picturesque bay at Sandy Lane, with public access available from either side of the hotel.
Southeast coast beaches are not known for swimming amenities, but rather for their rugged beauty. Bottom Bay is a delightful cove with a white sand beach surrounded by cliffs and a coconut grove. At Crane Beach, pounding waves crash against the rocky shore. A hotel known as The Crane rests atop a dramatic cliff surrounding the beach; parking is available at the beach or hotel. Foul Bay Beach is accessable by a road that travels downward to a paved parking area. This long stretch of beach, nestled between two cliffs, has a wide expanse of seagrape trees.
Popular Beaches on the south coast of Barbados include Accra, where water-sports equipment is available for rental and opportunities are good for body surfing. Casuarina Beach is frequented by windsurfers due to large waves and abundandt winds. Sandy Beach is preferred by families because of it's shallow lagoon and calm seas.
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