Barbados, blessed with warm and pleasant climate, is a favorite island destination of sun-worshippers from all over the globe. This special liking by tourists who dare strut their stuff in the midday sun may be owed to the island's beaches - they are all open to the public! Yes, all the shores of Barbados are yours for the taking. They are never privately owned, as per government ruling, and access to all beaches, via roads along property line or through hotel entrances, is required. Even those in front of the big resort hotels and private homes are not restricted.

 Barbados is one of the world’s most densely populated countries. So, for comfort’s sake, you can be assured of miles and miles of uncrowded beaches.

 Along the west coast, where the waters are calm, lie the best beaches. The beautiful Payne’s Bay, accessed from the Coach House, is a good water sports (i.e. snorkeling) beach and has a parking area to boot. The beach can get rather crowded, though. Directly south of Payne's Bay, at Fresh Water Bay, are three of the best west-coast beaches: Brighton Beach, Brandon's Beach, and Paradise Beach. Mullins Beach, with its glassy blue waters, comes highly recommended especially for snorkelers.

 The east coast, on the other hand, is mostly frequented by beach buffs coming from Bathsheba/ Cattlewash areas. But since this is the Atlantic side - waves are extremely high, the bottom tends to be rocky, and the current proves to be unpredictable – visitors only do their strolling here, with the exception of several daredevils. Swimming here is potentially dangerous, but it is your take.

 Accessed from Maxwell Coast Road is Casuarina Beach, one of Barbados’ wider beaches. This is a haven for windsurfers due to the strong winds sweeping through the southern coast. Silver Sands Beach, to the east of Oistins, is a favorite among many Bajans. It’s directly east of South Point Lighthouse and near the Silver Rock Hotel. But it does not have silver sands, as its name suggests, but actually white. Sandy Beach, reached from the parking lot on the Worthing main road, has tranquil waters opening onto a lagoon, the epitome of Caribbean charm. This is a favorite of families, and is especially boisterous on weekends.

 By the southeast coast, the white-sand Crane Beach abounds. The beach is set against cliffs, with the Crane Beach Hotel towering above it. This particular beach has graced the pages of several travel magazines for its spectacular view (palms by the backdrop) and splendid big waves that is common to southeastern coast beaches. Hence it is an excellent site for bodysurfing, save for the times when the waters may be too rough for all but the strongest of swimmers, so taking precautions is a must. As an attestation to its splendor and beauty, Prince Andrew has a house built overlooking it even.

 Park on the top of a cliff, then walk down the steps to this much-photographed tropical beach with its grove of coconut palms (there is even a cave!). Bottom Bay. The sand is brilliantly white against the aquamarine sea, a picture-postcard-perfect beach paradise located north of Sam Lord’s Castle Resort. One can clearly see why it is an all-time Bajan favorite.

 If you get hungry or thirsty, the beaches sell food and drinks. So come on. Take your pick.