Barbados is a place of unparalleled natural beauty. From the pristine white beaches to the lush green hills, this island truly offers something for everyone. Life on the West Coast of Barbados is really something special, it’s relaxed and laid-back yet refined. Spend your time lounging on the beach, connecting with friends, and enjoying the local shops. The evenings are often spent enjoying a delicious meal or sipping local rum under the stars.
In this article, we’ll delve into its vibrant climate, prestigious communities, rich culture, top-notch education system, and rental/real estate market.
The climate on the West Coast of Barbados
The West Coast of Barbados is generally cooler and less humid than the South Coast and East Coast due to the trade winds blowing in from the Atlantic Ocean. The climate is generally considered mild and comfortable. Its sheltered location on the Caribbean Sea allows for calm waters and gentle breezes, creating the perfect environment for water sports.
The temperatures average between 25-30°C. This area is considered to have a tropical monsoon climate, which means that there is a distinct wet season from June to November, followed by a dry season from December to May.
Prestigious Communities on the West Coast of Barbados
This side of Barbados is home to some of the most prestigious and luxurious communities in the Caribbean. Popular areas on the west coast include Holetown, which is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, and Paynes Bay, which offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Other popular areas on the island include Sandy Lane, home to the luxurious Sandy Lane Hotel, and Mullins Bay. It’s also a popular spot for surfing and celebrity spotting, with Rihanna having some property there.
Holetown
Settled by the English in 1625, Holetown is the island’s second-largest town. It is a town steeped in history, with several historical sites such as St. James Church and the popular Barbados Museum. It is known for its laid-back yet upscale ambience, excellent shopping and dining options, and of course the white sugar sand beach with blue waters. You can find luxury villas, hotels, a local marine park and a gorgeous boardwalk. It is the ideal place for a fun day at the beach, snorkeling, scuba diving or even kayaking in the clear water.
Every February, there’s a week-long Holetown Festival that features parades, live music, street fairs, historic talks, nightly performances, and so much more. If you’re on the island during this time, it’s definitely an event worth checking out with your family.
If you’re a golfer and looking to practice your drive, you must visit the Royal Westmoreland Golf Course in this area. It is one of the most exclusive courses in Barbados. It offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea as well as Holetown’s white-sand beaches. The course itself is world-renowned for its layout and difficulty, making it a favorite among professional golfers.
Holetown attracts people who enjoy a more upscale and relaxed lifestyle. It is perfect for those who crave beach-side living, and enjoy being close to excellent shopping and dining options. Holetown is where you’ll experience truly luxurious Barbadian living.
Paynes Bay
Situated on the Platinum Coast of Barbados and just a few minutes’ drive from Holetown, Paynes Bay is an idyllic beach community in St. James that caters to a range of lifestyles. The dazzling white beaches and turquoise waters are perfect for those who love to spend their days outdoors. Given the calm Caribbean waters as opposed to the strong surf on the south or east coast, many locals consider it to be one of the island’s top swimming beaches.
The proximity to luxury hotels and restaurants makes Paynes Bay an ideal location for those who enjoy a more glamorous lifestyle. There are also several small shops and boutiques in the area, meaning you can find everything you need right at your doorstep. Although quieter and less busy than the big towns, it makes up for it in beauty and charm tenfold.
Homes in Paynes Bay range from apartments to large estate properties, allowing you to choose the type of home that best suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed beach lifestyle or an exciting change of scenery, Paynes Bay has something to offer everyone.
Sandy Lane
Sandy Lane is one of the most exclusive and prestigious communities in Barbados. The beach here is pristine, with spotless golden sand meeting water of startling clarity. It’s tranquil and serene, with waves gently lapping the shore.
You can find many celebrities and affluent individuals owning homes on the Sandy Lane Estate. Although it’s referred to as an estate, it’s not a gated community, but rather an area with blind alleys and quiet roads where the finest and most magnificent villas are constructed. You may even spot a famous celebrity while walking down the street in this area.
Many of the residences here have views of the golf course, while some are closer to the ocean. You will see a beach cabana in some older homes, which people would use to keep their beach equipment. It’s a unique feature that you don’t see in many homes nowadays.
The West Coast Culture
The west coast of Barbados is a lively area, with vibrant coastal towns surrounded by scenic shorelines and stunning tropical seascapes. The culture of this region has been shaped by centuries of diverse influences from African, Caribbean, and even English settlers. In addition to its beautiful beaches, this coast has a wide range of activities that bring to mind traditional island life.
You can find yourself horseback riding along the beach, sampling local seafood in rustic marketplaces, or getting lost in lush jungles and rainforest hikes. Arts and music are also an integral part of west coast culture. There are opportunities to explore street art murals, visit galleries featuring works by local artists, or attend traditional parties and festivals featuring live music performances.
Education on the West Coast
This coast of Barbados offers a range of educational institutions for expat families with children. Both public and private schools are available, with English being the primary language of instruction and the curriculum based on the British system. Academic achievement and discipline are highly valued in these schools, with many also offering extracurricular activities such as sports, music and drama.
Private schools may be expensive, but they often provide smaller class sizes and more personalised attention for students. It is recommended to research and compare the various schools in the area, taking into consideration factors such as curriculum, class size, and reputation, when selecting a school for your child’s education.
Rental and Real Estate Market
The West Coast, also known as the Platinum Coast, is the epitome of luxury living in Barbados. With its high-end properties and luxury resorts, this region offers a lifestyle like no other. While it may come with a higher price tag than other parts of the island, it’s well worth the investment for those seeking a refined, upscale lifestyle. The stunning beaches, top-rated restaurants, and easy access to numerous attractions are just a few of the many benefits of living on the Platinum Coast.
From cozy apartments to spacious villas with private pools and ocean views, the rental options are varied and impressive. For those looking to purchase property, be prepared for exclusivity to be reflected in the price. However, owning a piece of paradise on this beautiful coastline is an investment you won’t regret. To find your dream home, it’s recommended that you work with a reputable real estate agent who can guide you through the process and make the home-buying experience stress-free.
Houses for sale on the West Coast
An Overall Perspective on the West Coast
The West Coast of Barbados is a beautiful place with something to offer for everyone. From the luxurious and exclusive Sandy Lane to the more relaxed and down-to-earth Holetown, there is definitely a community that will suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for a place to retire or investing in a vacation home, Barbados has it all.
There is a wide selection of properties on the West Coast of Barbados, from apartments to luxury villas. You can find something to suit your budget and lifestyle no matter what you’re looking for.
Some Queries About Life On The West Coast of Barbados
What is the West Coast of Barbados like?
The West Coast of Barbados is a beautiful place to visit. The water is crystal clear, and the beaches are white and sandy. There are many activities to enjoy on the West Coast, including swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, and fishing.
Where do expats live on the West Coast of Barbados?
Expats on the West Coast of Barbados tend to live in one of three areas: Holetown, Paynes Bay, or Sandy Lane. Holetown is the most developed area on the coast and offers a variety of shopping and dining options with a lively nightlife scene. Sandy Lane is a luxury resort area with high-end restaurants and shops, while Paynes Bay is a more laid-back community with several small businesses and beaches.
Which coast of Barbados is the best?
It depends on what you’re looking for. The south coast is home to the island’s capital city, Bridgetown, as well as its busiest tourist areas. Here you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly apartments. The west coast is generally less crowded and more laid-back. If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax and enjoy the incredible views, this is the coast for you.
