St Lawrence

For a lively beach break, holidays to St Lawrence are right on the money. They team white-sand beaches and a something-for-everyone restaurant scene with some of Barbados’ best nightlife.

Life and soul of the party

Hugging the shoreline in the south coast parish of Christ Church, St Lawrence has earned itself the title of Barbados’ liveliest spot. Most of the action centres around the ‘Gap’. It’s a 1.3-kilometre stretch of road that’s lined with bars, clubs and restaurants, as well as street stalls hawking everything from beaded necklaces to chicken and rice.

Hit the beach

There are a few sandy spots to pick from in St Lawrence. The big one is Dover Beach, smack-bang in the middle of the Gap. Its white sands are lined with watersports huts and stalls selling ice-creams and beach essentials. East of Dover Beach you’ll find Casuarina Beach, while gorgeous St Lawrence Bay lies to the west.

After-dark activities

When the sun goes down, the Gap is definitely the place to be. The bars and clubs here crank up the volume, playing everything from reggae and calypso to the latest chart tunes. Bajans like to stay out late, so the party doesn’t tend to get going ‘til after 11pm.

Close to Bridgetown

Follow the coast road west and within 15 minutes you’ll hit Bridgetown. Barbados’ capital is a must-do daytrip – there are loads of sights to tick off, like Heroes Square and the UNESCO-listed Garrison area, and the duty-free shopping is the best on the island.