Bathsheba Guide
On the eastern coast of Barbados lies the small coastal town of Bathsheba. Jutting into the Atlantic Ocean, Bathsheba is popular with surfers and sun-seekers alike. In fact, some people claim the beaches at Bathsheba are amongst the best in the world.
Only 5,000 people claim Bathsheba at home, but Barbadians and foreign visitors alike make pilgrimages to the little town each year to enjoy the surfing, scenery, and sun.
Beaches of Bathsheba
The main beach is Bathsheba Beach itself, which is also known by its nickname, 'the Soup Bowl', due to the frothy surf always churning the waters. The waves in the Soup Bowl are big and steady, offering some of the best surfing in all of Barbados. In early November, Bathsheba hosts an international surfing competition that draws internationally known surfers to brave the waves. Non-surfers will still enjoy the competition, as the event turns Bathsheba into a weekend-long block party.
The surfing at Bathsheba isn't just for professionals; with the help of one of the local surf shops, such as Zed's Surfing Adventures or Surf Barbados, lessons for beginners can be had at a reasonable price.
For those more interested in lounging than surfing, Bathsheba's sandy beach and warm waters fit the bill. Bathsheba takes its name from the biblical wife of King David, who, according to legend, bathed in milk to stay soft and beautiful. The mineralized, foamy waters of Bathsheba are said to resemble the legendary milk bath of the queen.
However, one note of caution: Bathsheba's waters are not that safe for swimming. The currents and undertow that make the area so great for surfers also make it dangerous for swimmers.
Bathsheba Pools
The inshore pools, though, provide a great place to soak and float. Only a few feet deep, the Bathsheba Pools are almost like a natural hot tub, which might explain why rum punch parties in the pools are a popular tradition.
Other Attractions and Things to Do
Besides beach, water, and sun, there are a few other things you might also enjoy while you're visiting Barbados's east coast. Here's a sample:
- Andromeda Botanic Gardens: Created in 1954, the Andromeda Gardens include rare tropical plants spread over 6.5 acres. Walking paths lead through the gardens and wind over bridges, offering serene views of the garden's three waterfalls.
- Old Train Line Paths: A train line from Bridgetown to Bathsheba used to make it easier for Barbadians to visit the seaside town, but today all that remains are empty paths where the train line used to run. These paths, though, make great places to hike near Bathsheba.
- Bathsheba Experience: A new addition to the Crop Over Festival of Barbados, the Bathsheba Experience is a weekend party in Bathsheba held during the Crop Over. Featuring tasty Barbadian cuisine, cocktails, and a variety of Caribbean dancehall musicians, the annual party is becoming increasingly popular with locals and visitors alike.
Bathsheba is a perfect Barbadian holiday destination. With plenty of action for surfers, but enough quiet space for those looking for a honeymoon destination, Bathsheba can suit almost any Caribbean holiday wishes. If you have young children, they might find Bathsheba a little on the boring side, but for adults, Bathsheba is a Pleasure Island.
