In 1976, the 111-metre Greek freight ship SS Stavronikita set sail from Ireland to the Caribbean. Nearly at its final destination, the ship caught fire and was eventually towed to Barbados. After cleaning and salvaging, the Barbados Parks and Beach Commission sunk the vessel to create a unique wreck for diving. Over 350 metres off the shore near Paradise Beach, the SS Stavronikita is a treasure trove for divers.In the years that followed the sinking of the Stavronikita, the underwater structures have slowly been assimilated into the massive coral reef that surrounds Barbados. Coral grows on the ship where cargo was once held small fish dart down corridors and through rooms formerly occupied by sailors.Paradise Beach and its neighbouring Batts Rock Beach, just a little over 5 kilometres north of Bridgetown, are both convenient to access and also boast some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in Barbados. Under the sea there are fathoms of ocean to explore. The stunning underwater world here is full of brightly-coloured coral, flamboyant tropical fish and enticing shipwrecks.As well as the huge SS Stavronikita, there are smaller wrecks perfect for new scuba divers. At the Lord Combermere and her sister ship Lord Willoughby, you’ll find sponges, corals and a myriad of fish which have all made these wrecks their new home. Head out to the Charles Bank to see a fantastic coral forest in the diamond-clear waters and all the sea life that it supports. You might find the finger-like stony Porites coral, Staghorn, Elkhorn and boulder star coral among many others. To let you reserve your undersea adventure for a time that perfectly suits you, many of the dive crews in Barbados offer flexible booking services.For a break from exploring, enjoy a picnic in the shaded area between Paradise and Batts Rock Beaches or visit the quaint fishing village at nearby Freshwater Bay.
Paradise Beach Tours and Activities
Visit Paradise Beach
Tours & day trips
See all 104 activitiesOpens in new tabBarbados Turtle and Shipwreck Snorkel Adventure
Private & custom tours
See all 30 activitiesOpens in new tabBarbados Full-day Private Tour
Water activities
See all 16 activitiesOpens in new tabCatamaran and Snorkelling Cruise At Carlisle Bay
Classes & workshops
See all 6 activitiesOpens in new tabFlying Dress Photoshoot in Barbados
Attractions
See all 3 activitiesOpens in new tabUltimate Adventure Pass at Harrison's Cave by Chukka
Popular places to visit
Batts Rock Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Batts Rock Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Prospect. Amble around the area's seaside or visit its spas.
Brighton Beach
A popular beach for cruise passengers and locals, with nearby rum tasting and a secret hot tub in the sea.
Pelican Craft Centre
During your visit to Cheapside, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Pelican Craft Centre. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its seafood restaurants.
Paynes Bay Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Paynes Bay Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Paynes Bay. While in this relaxing area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.
3Ws Monument
You can find out about the history of Cave Hill with a stop at 3Ws Monument. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Stavronikita Shipwreck
Explore the waterfront of Stavronikita Shipwreck and enjoy activities such as snorkelling in Prospect. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.