Dover Beach

Visitors to Barbados who fancy a bit of active fun in the sun consistently flock to Dover Beach on the island's south-west coast. The gentle current and comfortable swell, as well as the dependable ocean breeze, make the beach perfect for watersports of all kinds, while the nearby Dover Playing Field offers sporting opportunities for those who would rather not get their feet wet.

The conditions along the beach are usually ideal for activities such as windsurfing, and there are plentiful vendors lining the sand who will be only too happy to show you the ropes. Alternatively, you could rent a boogie board and make the most of the gently undulating waves, or hop on a jet ski and blast right through them!

For something a little more chilled, rent or buy snorkelling gear along the beach and escape the world with a trip beneath the waves. Explore the offshore coral surrounded by colourful tropical fish or venture even further to discover the many shipwrecks along the coast, several of which are home to a variety of sea life. If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you could even sign up for an organised excursion to snorkel with the local sea turtles.

Of course, you don't have to rent or buy or organise anything specific to enjoy yourself at the beach. The waters here are ideal for some good, old-fashioned swimming, with lifeguards on patrol and easy-to-manage currents. The beach itself is one of the widest on the island, with plenty of room for sunbathing, and you can get everything from sun loungers to sun cream here too.

If you fancy a break from the beach, cross the street to the Dover Playing Field, where you can take in a cricket or football match. You can also get involved with a game of volleyball or simply grab a nice cold shower to wash away the sand.

Dover Beach is 7 kilometres to the south of Bridgetown. If you're not close enough to walk, it's probably best to grab a taxi or shuttle as parking at the beach can be rather limited.