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Bottom Bay

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Landmark
—°3
Bottom Bay (Barbados)

Weather…

Bottom Bay, located in the parish of Saint Philip, is widely regarded as one of Barbados' most wide-open coastal locations. Tucked away beneath towering coral limestone cliffs that rise nearly 30 meters, the beach has a sense of seclusion and raw Atlantic beauty. The landscape is dominated by a signature grove of swaying coconut palms and fine white sand that occasionally takes on a pinkish hue. Unlike the calm Caribbean waters of the west coast, the sea here is powerful; strong undertows and unpredictable currents make swimming hazardous, though it remains a premier destination for picnicking and landscape photography. The site is situated just north of the historic ruins of Sam Lord's Castle, a once-grand 19th-century estate belonging to a notorious local figure. The lack of commercial development directly on the shore ensures that Bottom Bay retains its rugged, natural charm, making it for those seeking the wild side of the Caribbean.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272828282828282827
Rain mm34191928527274959813210749

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The beach is open to the public, with gentle waves convenient for swimming. You can relax on the sand or explore the palm grove.
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Typical hours
No official hours; accessible from dawn to dusk. Lifeguards may not be present, so swim at your own risk.
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Photography
Capture the sweeping view of the bay with cliffs and palms. Best photographed in the late afternoon when the light is golden.
⏱️
Time needed
Spend 1-2 hours swimming, sunbathing, or walking along the shore. Picnic facilities are limited.
Combine with
The Bottom Bay cliffs are directly adjacent, offering a higher perspective. Also nearby is the historic St. Philip Parish Church.
🧭
Getting there
By car via the Bottom Bay road from the highway. Parking is available near the beach entrance.
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Insider tip
Bring your own food and drinks as there are no vendors. Look out for the resident green monkeys in the trees.

Geography

Coordinates
13.13600, -59.43000

Facts

  • Length: 200 m
  • Width: 50 m
  • Sand color: white
  • Cliff height: 20 m
  • Water depth: up to 10 m
  • Current strength: moderate

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Bottom Bay (3)

Palmetto Bay, Barbados📍 landmark

A bay on the south coast of Barbados, featuring a sandy beach and calm waters.

Bel Air, Barbados📍 landmark

A residential area near Bridgetown, Barbados, overlooking Carlisle Bay.

Cave Bay, Barbados📍 landmark

A small bay on the south coast of Barbados, lined with cliffs and caves.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim at Bottom Bay?
Swimming is not recommended due to very strong currents and high waves.
How do you get down to the beach?
There is a steep stone staircase that leads down from the cliffs to the sand.
Is there shade from palm trees?
Yes, the beach is famous for its many coconut palms that provide natural shade.
Are there any restaurants?
No, there are no permanent restaurants; bring your own food and drinks.
Is the beach suitable for picnics?
Yes, it is one of the most beautiful spots on the island for a picnic in a scenic setting.
Bottom Bay: where is it located?
Bottom Bay is located in Barbados.
Bottom Bay: what is there to see?
Highlights include Palmetto Bay, Barbados, Bel Air, Barbados, Cave Bay, Barbados.
Bottom Bay: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Bottom Bay: why is it worth visiting?
Bottom Bay, located in the parish of Saint Philip, is widely regarded as one of Barbados' most wide-open coastal locations.
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