Bathsheba Travel Guide

Named after the beautifying milk bath of King David’s wife Bathsheba, the foaming waters of this beach have such powerful breakers that they bring international surfing championships and world-class surfers here every year.After travelling for thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean, the waves that break on the coral reef east of Barbados are reliably powerful. Of all the beaches in Barbados, the ‘Soup Bowl’ at Bathsheba is not just the best on the island, but is one of the three best surfs in the whole world.For very experienced and skilled surfers, this is an adrenaline-filled dream. Dodge mushroom-shaped rocks rising from the water and watch out for huge boulders of broken coral hidden beneath the waves. Follow the lead of others to find the best and safest spots to ride the ocean.There are such excellent surfers to watch that those who aren’t experienced enough to hit the waves can still enjoy the spectacle. Extremely strong undercurrents and rip tides make swimming dangerous so it’s best to stay on shore while the experts show off their skills.When the tide is out, pools of sun-heated water form inland on the beach, turning the powerful sea into a gentle, natural hot tub – this is when everyone can enjoy the water. With a rum punch in your hand and the sun beating down invigorating fresh air, the bluest seas you could imagine and whitest coral sands, it’s easy to spend hours relaxing here.Bathsheba is not just a surfer’s paradise: photographers will be hard pressed not to return home with a memory card full of the most beautiful blue skies framed by impressive rock formations, azure seas and verdant foliage. For some truly unique photos of old Barbados, explore the tiny, sprawling fishing village at the foot of a steep hill, with old coral-stone buildings and chattel houses.Local Bajans and visitors from across the world alike come to Bathsheba to thrill in the waves or admire the scenery. It’s very definitely worth the effort to get here.