Dover Beach

Dover Beach is a popular spot for active beachgoers on the southwest coast of Barbados. Rent a boogie board to enjoy the generally gentle surf or ride a Jet ski to cut through the waves.

Bring your snorkeling gear or purchase some from the beach vendors. Colorful tropical fish will swim with you as you explore the coral. Look for parts of several shipwrecks that have become home for marine life.

Ocean breezes provide ideal conditions for windborne activities. Take a windsurfing lesson from the friendly and competent watersport vendors and find yourself skimming along the water faster than any surfer. Or, ride a dual-hulled sailboat with the thrilling experience of lifting one hull high out of the water.

Look for the excursions that will take you to a nearby location for snorkeling with sea turtles. Some vendors will rent magnifying goggles for those who normally wear glasses for distance.

Dover Beach is great for swimming. Lifeguards patrol the area and the water generally has swell and some waves, but no strong currents. The beach is one of the widest on Barbados, offering space for those who want to sunbathe as well as others who want to dig in the sand.

Visit one of the vendors to rent beach chairs and umbrellas or purchase snacks, sunscreen, sunglasses and T-shirts. Or, relax in the shade with an icy cold beer or frozen daiquiri at the beachside bar.

While you’re on a break from beach activities, look for the activity going on across the street. This is the Dover Playing Field where you may find cricket or Bajan football (soccer) underway. Go to the ocean side to play beach volleyball and cool off with a freshwater shower before you return to your hotel.

Dover Beach is 11 miles (7 kilometers) south of Bridgetown. If you are not staying within walking distance, take a taxi or shuttle to the beach as parking may be limited.