DestinationBarbados

If you're visiting Barbados as part of a Caribbean cruise, one of the best ways to spend the day on the island is at one of our wonderful beaches. Unlike many of our neighbouring Caribbean islands which are volcanic in nature (and hence have black sands), Barbados is a coral island with white sandy beaches. The cruise port is located on the west coast of the island on the outskirts of the capital city Bridgetown. On this tranquil west coast the turquoise waters gently lap the shores, creating ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding and jetskiing. Several beaches are within easy walking distance (or a short taxi ride) from the cruise port. The map below shows the location of the Bridgetown harbour (where your cruise ship will dock) and our favourite nearby beaches. We've selected a variety of beaches - from quiet shores where you can sunbathe and enjoy the tranquility of an island retreat, to lively beach clubs with flowing drink...

We love this quote from Henry Grunwald "A beach is not only a sweep of sand, but shells of sea creatures, the sea glass, the seaweed, the incongruous objects washed up by the ocean." As a tropical island, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the shores of Barbados are blessed to receive many of the sea's treasures. Some of our favourites are the beautiful corals, pretty shells, and lovely sea fans. As we survey nature's beauty we're also aware of the tremendous responsibility we bear to protect the natural environment, especially from littering which introduces plastics, balloons, chemicals, and other trash that harms marine life and disrupts the delicate balance of nature. Explore Barbados beaches...

Driving along the southern coast of Barbados you may suddenly come upon, in the midst of a residential neighbourhood, a stunning window to the turquoise ocean.... welcome to Freights Bay . This scenic location is a favourite spot for beginner and intermediate surfers, drawn to the bay by consistently good surf conditions, especially between November and April. Many of the local surf instructors take their guests to Freights Bay and the sea is usually dotted with these mavericks waiting to catch the next wave. There is a lovely shaded, grassy area overlooking the bay which is the perfect spot to kick back, watch the surfers, and enjoy the warmth of the Caribbean sun. While exploring this area of Barbados be sure to stop by Miami Beach (the Mr.Delicious food truck serves incredible local food and some of the best rum punch on the island!), the South Point Lighthouse, Silver Sands beach (popular with the kitesurfers and windsurfing crowd), and Surfers Point.

Sam grew up by the seaside in Suffolk and has seen the world through his travels with P&O Cruises. In his blog post at  http://www.thecruiseblogger.com/best-of-barbados/ Sam reveals what makes Barbados such a special Caribbean cruise destination and share his favourite island pursuits and the top local attractions and beaches. As he says ""Barbados is a great island for leisure activities" If you're taking a Caribbean cruise with a stop in Barbados be sure to check out his article before you set sail.

Hop aboard a Hobie Cat (small catamaran) for a wonderful sail along the coast of Barbados. Glide over warm, crystal-clear waters, enjoying the warmth of the Caribbean sun and refreshing island breezes. You might even spot a sea turtle! Hobie cat rides are available at several Barbados beaches, and some hotels (especially the all-inclusives) offer them as one of their water sports activities. Read more about Hobie Cat rides in Barbados