Is it safe to swim in Barbados? All you need to know (+ Map)

Is it safe to swim in Barbados? I recently traveled to Barbados and loved my time swimming in the sea.

As a self-proclaimed beach enthusiast, I can say it is safe to swim in Barbados. Read on to learn more about safety in enjoying the waters of this tropical island.

ARE YOU PLANNING A TRIP TO BARBADOS?
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BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BARBADOS:
• Meridian Inn (I stayed here)
• Southern Palms Beach Club (top location on Dover Beach)
• South Gap Hotel (on the beach and close to Gap)
• Sugar Bay Barbados (great location and close to Carlisle Bay)
• OceanBlue Resort (I stayed here)

TOP EXPERIENCES and TOURS IN BARBADOS:
• Turtle and shipwreck snorkeling (my favorite)
• Catamaran cruise with lunch and snorkeling (top-selling tour)
• Harrison Cave tour (I did this)
• Barbados food tour (incredible food tour)
• St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway (I did this)

Barbados is a dream tropical destination for many. Great for weddings, honeymoons and leisure holidays.

It offers an abundance of stunning beaches, each with its unique charm and character. But what if you want to take a dip in the Caribbean Sea?

As someone who’s cautious about the sea, I was pleasantly surprised by how calm and welcoming the waters were. Below many useful info, I also included best barbados beaches on a map.

So inside this guide, I share the safest beaches for swimming, currents, potentially dangerous marine animals and other beach safety tips!

Swimming in Barbados

KEY TAKEAWAYS

● Barbados has more than 80 pristine white-sand beaches. Lifeguard services are available at many popular ones for safe and enjoyable swimming

● The beaches on the west are the calmest. They face the Caribbean Sea and you’ll find the water is generally super calm and perfect for all levels of swimmers, snorkeling, and sunbathing.

● On the East side of the island, on the Atlantic coast, have stronger currents and bigger waves. They are less suitable for swimming but are a popular surf spot.

● Swimmers should be aware of potential risks such as rip currents, changing weather conditions, and marine life encounters.

● Follow beach safety and security guidelines, always swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards, and pay attention to the flag system on Barbados beaches.

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Where to swim in Barbados

Beaches in Barbados are not only stunning but also generally safe, as long as you follow beach safety rules.

Stick to beaches with lifeguards and pay attention to the flag system, which indicates swimming safety. Public swimming beaches in Barbados usually have lifeguards on duty, adding an extra layer of protection.

The west coast beaches, facing the calm Caribbean Sea, are often considered the best for swimming. The water here is gentle, making them ideal for swimmers of all levels.

In contrast, the east coast beaches, facing the Atlantic Ocean, are not safe for swimming due to strong currents and big waves. These beaches, like Bathsheba Beach, are a popular surfing spot in Barbados.

During my visit to Barbados, I explored many of them but spent most of my time swimming on the South Beaches of Barbados.

Beaches on the South side of Barbados offer the best of both worlds.

Here you will find white sandy beaches calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, but also lively waves great for boogie boarding. Silver Sands and Silver Rock Beach are especially famous for windsurfing.

I loved Dover Beach, which is close to the Meridian Inn where I stayed. It’s also where I witnessed sea turtle hatchlings – a magical experience! Miami Beach was another favorite, with its natural shade and proximity to Oistins, a lively local spot.

When I stayed at OceanBlue Resort, I didn’t swim much but explored other gems. At Long Beach, I visited the famous kite spot and watched incredible windsurfers at Silver Sands Beach. If you’re in the area, make sure to grab a bite at Surfer’s Bay.

Best beaches in Barbados for swimming

The easternmost Caribbean island is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

While the west coast is ideal for its calm waters, the south coast offers a perfect mix of activities.

Personally, I found the south to provide the most enjoyable swimming experiences. However, during my Barbados itinerary, I had the opportunity to explore the coastline all around the island.

One of the best things about Barbados is that all beaches are open to the public and free of charge. This is similar to the Seychelles but different from places like Fiji, Vanuatu, or Samoa, where private beaches are common.

With over 80 beaches to choose from, I’ll highlight some of the top public swimming beaches in Barbados in the list below.

West Coast Beaches

Mullins Bay

Mullins Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the west.

It is located just south of Speightstown and next to smaller Gibbs Bay. This is the place to relax in a lounge chair under umbrellas or take a dip in a generally calm sea. Safety ropes mark designated swimming areas since there are jetski rentals.

I’ve found it to be less crowded compared to the ones in the south and closer to the capital.

Sandy Lane

Sandy Lane is a sheltered public beach.

It is located on the Platinum Coast of Barbados, south of Holetown in front of Sandy Lane, the most iconic luxury resort in the world. This is a postcard-perfect stretch of pink-white sand, azure water, large trees, and a view of Rihanna’s residence. One of the ones you should pair with Barbados captions for Instagram.

Calm waters are perfect for swimming but snorkeling is better on Paynes Bay.

Brandons Beach

Brandons Beach is close to Barbados cruise port, yet it remains surprisingly uncrowded.

It has very calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. You can rent a lounger and umbrella for a relaxing day or snorkel right from the shore—just remember to bring your gear. There’s a lifeguard on duty, and excellent facilities, including toilets and showers, are available nearby.

South Coast Beaches

Carlisle Bay

Carlisle Bay is a popular tourist beach in the heart of Barbados’ capital, Bridgetown.

The sheltered, crescent-shaped bay consists of several beaches, Brownes Beach, Pebbles Beach, and Bayshore Beach. It is home to the Boatyard and Savvy on the Bay. I like them both!

I also loved seeing the horses early in the morning at Pebbles Beach and my time snorkeling with turtles.

No matter if you are old or young, there is something for everyone at Carlisle Bay – exercising, jogging, swimming, snorkeling, sipping on rum punch, sailing, swimming with turtles, eating, jetskiing …

With a lifeguard, toilets, showers, running chickens, changing rooms, and stunning views you will never want to leave.

But before you do, have the best fish sandwich in Barbados at Cuzz’s Fish Stand. I’ve had it on three different days, and it was absolutely delicious each time.

Rockley Beach or Accra Beach

Rockley or Accra is a popular stretch of sand just south of Bridgetown.

It is easily accessible by The Richard Haynes Boardwalk and is relatively close to St. Lawrence Gap. Here you can find information about the endangered Hawksbill turtle.

Lifeguard and shallow waters are a perfect combination for safe swimming. Watch your step as I spotted some eagle rays when I took my first dip in Barbados on this beach.

Worthing Beach

Worthing Beach is a less-known one, a hidden gem on the south of the island.

It is one of the best swimming beaches in Barbados for families. Before the reef, the water is calm and suitable for kids and beginner swimmers. A bit further out there is a coral reef, great for snorkeling.

There are lounge chairs and umbrellas, or you can rent kayak for a bit more adventure. There is a lifeguard on duty as well.

Dover Beach

Dover Beach is my favorite on the island.

Probably because I saw a sea turtle hatchling just in front of Pure Ocean restaurant when having dinner. 

It is located in the center of St. Lawrence Gap, and is close to the Meridian Inn where I stayed. There are palm trees on the West side. Dover is popular for swimming and offers a variety of watersports. You can try Hobie Cat sailing, boogie boarding, surfing, and windsurfing. I rented a chair with an umbrella and enjoyed the view with rum punch.

Miami Beach or Enterprise Beach

Miami Beach is close to Oistins so plan to swim here on Friday, before going on a Fish Fry. That is what I did.

It is popular among locals as it is easily accessible by bus. Here you will find tree shade, small shops selling fish cakes, rent a lounge chair, have a bite at a picnic table, or do some workout.

There are two sides to Miami Beach. One bay is calmer, and great for floating in the water and swimming. The other bay is bigger and where you can have some fun in the waves.

Crane Beach

Crane Beach, originally a harbor, is on the southeast side of the island.

It is known for its pink sand and was rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Just like Anse Lazio on Praslin island in Seychelles. The water here is not as calm as in the West but still great for swimming and boogie boarding.

There is a coastguard on duty. A must-do experience in the area is a Sunday Gospel Breakfast at L’Azure Restaurant at the Crane Resort.

The secluded location and gorgeous views, make Crane Resort & Residences a popular choice among honeymooners.

Best snorkeling beaches in Barbados

Here you will be able to enjoy warm and clean water with exceptional visibility. Ideal for snorkeling and exploring vibrant marine life.

I bought a snorkel and goggles in a local supermarket and snorkeled at three different locations, all with easy accessible snorkeling spots.

You can snorkel on your own or book a snorkeling tour. You will be safer going on a tour, there you won’t have to swim as much and the guide will show you marine life.

You can also see turtles in Barbados! I saw them in Carlisle Bay, Dover Beach, and Miami Beach. If swimming with turtles is at the top of your bucket list as well, Barbados is worth visiting!

Here are some of the best beaches in Barbados for snorkeling:
• Holetown Beach in front of Zaccios: artificial reef on the right with a lot of fish on the far side.
• Paynes Bay: great snorkel in the morning, before the water gets busy with jetskis.
• Folkestone Marine Park: great snorkel but tides can be strong.
• Carlisle Bay: swim with turtles and snorkel with shipwrecks.
• Worthing Beach: coral reef only a couple of steps from the beach.

Barbados beaches MAP

Average water temperature in Barbados

For those of us who enjoy warm water, there’s great news!

The water temperature is pleasantly warm and suitable for swimming all year round.

According to sea temperature, the average sea temperature around Bridgetown is the warmest in September with around 84.9°F (29.4°C). The coldest is in February with 80.8°F (27.1°C). The temperatures were measured at the sea surface temperature (SST) which is most relevant to recreational users.

I visited Barbados in February, and the water temperature was (almost) perfect for my taste. I didn’t get chills getting in and wasn’t cold when snorkeling and swimming with turtles.

Have a look at the image below to see the average water temperatures by month.

Barbados dangerous marine animals

There are no sharks in Barbados close to the shores and no reports of any shark attacks. Occasional tiger sharks are spotted on the North beaches in the Atlantic Ocean.

When snorkeling near reefs you might come across stonefish or sea urchins.
They are harmless if you swim by them. But don’t touch them or step on them. Their venomous spines can cause intense pain, swelling, and numbness.

During certain times of the year you might encounter, Portuguese man o’ war jellyfish. They are present in the waters around Barbados. While not deadly, their sting is extremely painful. During jellyfish season, beaches are usually closed.

While you can admire beautiful sea life, encounters with dangerous marine animals are few and far between. In case of any danger, you will see a purple flag on the beach, meaning to avoid entering the water.

I haven’t seen any dangerous marine animals during my holiday in Barbados.

10 Barbados beach safety tips for a stress-free swim

During my time on the island, the water was calm for the first part of my Barbados holiday. Later, there were several red flag warnings due to strong waves and underwater currents.

Once arriving at the beach, even if the weather is sunny and the water is calm, follow beach safety precautions. On the beach and when in the water.

Be beach smart with these tips to ensure safe swimming and minimize the risk of injury.

1. Always swim on lifeguard-supervised beaches

Not all beaches in Barbados have lifeguards, so if you are not the strongest swimmer, use a beach with one on duty.

Beaches with Lifeguards in Barbados are: Accra (Rockley Beach), Alleynes Bay, Bath, Bathsheba, Batts Rock, Brownes Beach, Brandon’s Beach, Carlisle Bay, Crane, Dover, Drill Hill, Enterprise (Miami),  Folkestone, Heywoods, Holetown, Maxwell, Needham’s Point, Pebbles, Royal Pavilion and Worthing.

Lifeguard stations in Barbados are bright yellow.

2. Pay attention to the flags on the beach

To indicate the safety of the beaches for swimming Barbados uses a flag system.

Colors follow the same principle as we all know from traffic lights. Red means stop, yellow exercise caution and green is good to go. I saw all three colors on my vacation. Green on Carlisle Bay, Yellow on Dover, and Red on Silver Sands.

You can check water conditions on Barbados beaches with LIVE webcams.

What do beach flag colors mean:
• Red over Red – Beach closed, extremely dangerous conditions, avoid swimming.
• Red – High hazard, dangerous conditions like strong currents or rough surf, don’t swim.
• Red/Yellow (half-half) – Recommended swimming area with lifeguard supervision.
• Yellow – Medium hazard, swim with caution.
• Green – Low Hazard, calm waters, safe to swim.
• Purple – Marine pests present, like jellyfish, stingrays, or sharks, alert for swimmers and surfers to get out of the water and avoid swimming.

3. Be cautious of strong currents and rip tides

Strong currents are less common on swimmers-friendly west and south coasts.

They are more common on the East and North Coasts which is why it is not advised to swim there. When there, enjoy breathtaking scenery, impressive waves, and scenic beach walks.

4. Enter the water feet first and do not dive into shallow water

Before diving in, check for any possible rocks or corals.

Don’t jump into the water you are unfamiliar with. A reckless mistake can cause serious injuries to your head, neck, or back.

5. Do not touch Manchineel trees on a beach

Every part of the Manchineel tree or Beach apple tree is poisonous and contact will cause blistering or burning of the skin, even from the drops when it rains.

Manchineel trees are natural windbreakers and help to protect the beach from erosion. They can be found on Caribbean islands, South America, and even Florida in North America.

I saw a couple on the west coast. Manchineel trees have a warning sign on them and a red ring around their trunk.

If you come in contact with any parts of the tree, get medical attention right away.

6. Never swim alone and don’t swim at night

If traveling solo, always have someone on the beach watching you.

It can be a new friend you met on a cruise or a person renting lounge chairs and umbrellas. Avoid swimming at dusk, dawn, and at night. Besides the lack of visibility, this is also the time when sharks in Barbados (and in general) are most active.

7. Don’t touch animals or break corals when snorkeling

When snorkeling, maintain a respectful distance from marine animals, like turtles.

Avoid touching corals or other marine life. It can be painful for you. Besides, touching can damage, cause stress, and disrupt natural behavior or sea organisms.

Note, that it is illegal to break coral in Barbados.

8. Avoid drinking alcohol before or while swimming

One of Sour, Two of Sweet, Three of Strong, Four of Weak.

A saying for a Barbadian rum punch. Now, I know that rum punch in Barbados is delicious.

But don’t drink and swim. Alcohol affects your ability to swim safely and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm, which can quickly lead to hypothermia, even in the tropics.

9. Apply mosquito repellent and sunscreen BEFORE coming to the beach

Use mosquito repellent during the day as mosquitoes here can potentially transmit dengue fever and zika virus.

UV index is high, so protect your skin and eyes. Re-apply sunscreen after every swim, wear sunglasses, and a hat.

Stay in the shade during peak hours.

10. Drink a lot of water and stay hydrated

Tap water in Barbados is drinkable, so no excuses.

Always carry a water bottle with you, and make 2-3 sips of water every couple of minutes to prevent dehydration. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.

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Is it safe to swim in Barbados? Final thoughts

I can confirm swimming in Barbados is safe and that the high reputation of Barbados beaches is well-deserved.

When it comes to enjoying the ocean here, you have very little to worry about if you follow general travel safety rules. Gist of it is: be beach smart, follow the flag rules, and know your limits.

Like Sandy Lane and Paynes Bay, they are found on the tranquil West Coast. Those generally have calm waters perfect for leisurely swim. Swimming beaches on the South Coast, Rockley and Dover, are more lively and vibrant.

Pristine and rough stretches of coastline on the East are not safe for swimming.

Some of the best beaches for swimming in Barbados are also great snorkeling spots. Most famous snorkeling spot is Carlisle Bay where you can swim with turtles and snorkel among shipwrecks. If you don’t want to wet your hair while snorkeling, book a Clear Kayak Tour.

For more tips when visiting this Caribbean island, have a look at my other Barbados travel guides. Find out where is this island located, how to get here, what are the best things to do, is it safe, is it even worth visiting, where to stay and other useful tips.

➤ Read more Barbados travel guides

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• 101+ Beautiful Barbados Captions For Instagram
• Barbados vs Zanzibar: Which is better?
• What are the best beaches to stay in Zanzibar
• 27 Pink Places around the World you should visit

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