If you’re thinking about moving to Barbados, you’re in for an exciting new chapter in paradise. The Caribbean island is full of culture, natural beauty, and the friendliest people – and there is no better example of this than on the island’s quieter side – the East Coast. This lightly populated region offers magnificent vistas, eco-tourism opportunities, unspoiled beaches, and a certain island zen. For die-hard surfers or anyone who wants to embrace a slow-paced life, the East Coast of Barbados could just be the perfect place to consider as your next home.
The Climate on the East Coast of Barbados
The east coast of Barbados is known for its tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. Average highs are in the low 30s celsius throughout the year, with low temperatures rarely dropping below 20 degrees celsius at night.
Rainfall is common throughout the year, but storms on the east coast tend to be short and intense compared to other areas of the island. The temperatures on the east coast of Barbados tend to be slightly warmer than those on the west coast.
Parishes along the East Coast of Barbados
If you’re new to Barbados, there are 3 parishes along the East Coast of the island. The largest one is St. Andrew, followed to the south by St. Joseph, and south of that further still – St. John. That said, St. Lucy and St. Peter, as well as St. Philip, do technically share in some of the Eastern shoreline, but they are seen as more northern and southern, respectively.
The Scotland District by Kaspar C on Flikr using Creative Commons Licence 2.0
In this article, we’ll take a look at each of these parishes and try to help you understand which one might be best for you to hang your hat, your towel…and your hiking boots!
St.Andrew
St. Andrew is the most northerly of the 3 parishes on the east coast and it’s known for its green, rolling hills and stunning scenery. It has the Island’s highest natural elevation, at 336 m (1,102 ft). Funnily enough, especially to anyone with a background in Scottish History or professional golf, St. Andrew is referred to as the Scotland District. It’s a colonial reference to the rolling, and at times craggy, hills that it gets its name.
Photo by Oakey Originals on Flikr using Creative Commons Licence 2.0
St. Andrew is also home to the historic sites of the Morgan Lewis Windmill – a sugar mill in perfect working order, also the nearby Grind Artisan Cafe, and the Springvale Museum. St.Andrew is a great place to live for those who enjoy being outdoors, hiking and exploring nature.
St.Joseph
While it’s the unique landscape that makes St. Andrew famous, it’s the beaches, and surf that best define St. Joseph. The parish is home to the park area and surfing mecca of Bathsheba – and, of course, the “Soup Bowl”, a perfect right-handed reef break that hosts a variety of international surfing competitions every single year.
The Soup Bowl by Jen Porter on Unsplash
Tent Bay is a quaint fishing village in St. Joseph, and one that time has seemingly forgotten. Its colorful fishing boats and fresh fish market, provides a wholesome charm to the village which locals and tourists alike love. Tent Bay also boasts the charming 100+ year old Atlantis Hotel – a great lunch venue.
More than just beaches and sand, St. Joseph is lush, teeming with life, and home to 3 of the more notable botanical gardens in the country – Flower Forest, Andromeda Botanical Gardens and Huntes Gardens.
St. John
Approximately 25 mins (12kms) from the International airport, St. John is most southerly and accessible of 3 truly east coast parishes. It is home to beautiful bays, small fishing villages, popular picnic spots and historic sites and destinations.
There are few places more photographed in the East than St. John’s Coddrington College. Built in 1793, it is the oldest Anglican theological college in all of North America. You can also head to the St.John Parish Church which is perched on Hackleton’s Cliff. Here you’ll enjoy spectacular views looking out over the Atlantic Ocean.
Another place named after its British counterpart is the small beach community of Bath. Don’t let all of the East Coast’s rugged coastline fool you, Bath is one of the calmest places to swim in all of Barbados, and it’s a terrific place for a picnic lunch.
The East Coast Culture
The culture on the east coast of Barbados is distinctly Caribbean, with a mix of British, African, and Creole influences. The official language in Barbados is English, though many people speak a Creole dialect called Bajan – this features English grammar with French, Portuguese, and West African vocabulary.
The East Coast is home to a close-knit community of locals and expats who value the peaceful lifestyle it offers. Neighbors look out for one another, and there’s a strong sense of camaraderie among residents
Cuisine on the East Coast of Barbados consists mostly of fresh local seafood such as tuna, mahi mahi, flying fish, and buckfish served with a traditional spicy pepper sauce that uses seasonal peppers from local farms.
Curry is also very popular in Barbados cuisine and is usually made from marinated chicken or goat mixed with vegetables. A variety of desserts and breads can be found, including gingerbread cake, and everyone’s favorite, Bajan Black Cake, also known as Rum Cake!
Education on the East Coast
Barbados offers quality education to expat children on the East Coast through schools that are rooted in traditional values and a love of learning. All of these schools strive to provide students with a holistic view of education.
They aim to recognise children’s distinct set of skills and interests, and provide them with the tools necessary to achieve academically and beyond. The curriculum follows the standards set by the Barbados Ministry of Education. This lets each student’s unique educational needs be met in a well-rounded way.
Rental and Real Estate Market
The East Coast of Barbados is a great place to call home, and chances are that the cost of living there will be affordable too. On average, you can expect to pay around $1500 US a month for rent. Although still high in rent, you’re paying for an incredible Caribbean life with the beach right outside your door. Why pay the same price for rent in someplace boring. Make the move and pay the same for paradise.
Of course, like anywhere in the world, this rent price varies on whether you want to live rurally or in the more sought after, built up areas. Finding an appropriate property isn’t always easy so you’ll need to do some research into what types of places are available.
When it comes to buying a property in this region prices vary significantly, as much will depend on location and size. However, expect to pay an average of around $500,000 US for an older single family home. Knowing all this can help make your search easier if you’re looking for somewhere comfortable to settle down or something more luxurious or investment driven.
An Overall Perspective on the East Coast
The East Coast of Barbados is for those seeking a slower pace of life. It’s a destination of quiet reflection, for those wanting a closer connection to nature, stunning sunrises and hikes that reward you with incredible 360 degree views. The populations in the eastern parishes are small, but their communities are steeped in history and rich in local spirit.
So if you’re thinking about investing your money and making the move to the gorgeous east coast of Barbados, this is your sign. With warm tropical weather and growing demand, Barbados is the paradise waiting for you to call home.
3 Commonly Asked Questions
1. Can you swim on the East Coast of Barbados?
There are a few great places to swim on the East Coast of Barbados, with Bath being the most popular due to its reef-sheltered beach.
2. Where is the best place to surf on the East Coast of Barbados?
Bathsheba is known internationally as the best place to surf in Barbados. Its consistent right-hand waves have made it a popular destination for many international events. It is approximately 30 minutes northeast of the Grantley Adams International airport.
3. Which East Coast Barbados parish has the largest population?
At approximately 10,000 residents, St.John is the most populous of East Coast Barbados parishes. Followed by St. Joseph at 7,000 residents and St. Andrew at 5,000 residents.
Are you looking to retire or buy a property in Barbados and need assistance with your island home? Or are you simply looking for property investment options? Please fill out our online form or email us at contact@residencebarbados.com. Alternatively, contact us via telephone or WhatsApp at (+1 246) 230-4982. One of our team members will reach out to you.
Content Disclaimer
The information contained above is provided for information purposes only. The contents of this blog post are not intended to amount to advice. You should not rely on any of the contents of this post. Professional advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from taking any action as a result of the contents of this post. Residence Barbados disclaims all liability and responsibility arising from any reliance placed on any of the contents of this newsletter.
