Skeete's Bay: A Tranquil Coastal Escape
Discover Skeete's Bay, Barbados: A serene coastal haven with stunning views, tranquil waters, and a vibrant fishing village, offering an authentic Bajan escape.
Skeete's Bay, located on the rugged southeastern coast of Barbados, is a hidden gem offering a tranquil retreat for those seeking an authentic Bajan experience away from the crowded tourist hubs. Situated in the parish of St. Philip, this picturesque bay is part of a small, traditional fishing village, exuding a charm that captivates visitors with its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Named after Francis Skeete, a 17th-century landowner who once held vast estates in the area, Skeete's Bay boasts a rich history intertwined with the island's colonial past and maritime traditions. The area around Whitehaven, near the bay, was once part of the Wiltshire Plantation, with the first recorded land purchase dating back to 1639. The bay's strategic location made it a vital landing point for fishing boats, and the village evolved as a close-knit community deeply connected to the sea. One of the main features of this relaxed little village is the fish market which has stood there for many years and is the hub of the community. Here you can regularly purchase the varieties of fish that have been freshly caught by local fishermen. Availability varies though, and in the winter months only two boats usually leave Skeete's Bay to source fresh fish for the area. In the summer months, however, six additional fishing boats return from their labours during the 'flying fish' season and work out of Skeete's Bay in Barbados spending just one day at a time at sea. In contrast with many other East Coast locations, Skeete's Bay in Barbados is calmer and considered to be safe for swimming, and there are also toilet and showering facilities available. There is no coast guard in this area, though, so, as always, caution is strongly advised. The cliffs overlooking Skeete's Bay offer spectacular views of the rugged coastline and are a wonderful place for a walk/hike. Just to the south of Skeete's Bay is Culpepper Island, a small uninhabited island. As you continue walking south you'll reach Ragged Point lighthouse, another lovely lookout spot.
Local tips
- Bring a picnic to enjoy under the palm trees, as there are no food vendors on-site.
- Wear water shoes, as the rocky areas can be slippery when entering the water.
- Visit during the week for a quieter experience, as weekends may attract more local visitors.
- Don't forget your camera; the sunsets at Skeete's Bay are spectacular and worth capturing.
- Check the weather before you go, as the ocean conditions can change quickly.
A brief summary to Skeete's Bay
- Whitehaven, Saint Philip, BB
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Crane Resort area, walk to the main road (Highway 7) and catch a bus heading towards Bridgetown. At the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal in Bridgetown, transfer to a #10 or #7 bus heading to Bayfield in St. Philip. From Bayfield, it's approximately a 20-minute walk (1.5km) to Skeete's Bay. The bus fare is BDS$3.50 per ride, so BDS$7.00 total. Confirm with the driver that the bus will pass near Bayfield.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From the Crane Resort, a taxi or ride-share to Skeete's Bay will cost approximately BDS$40-50. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. There are no taxi stands directly at Skeete's Bay, so arrange for a return trip in advance or be prepared to wait for a passing taxi on the main road.
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Driving
From Six Roads, St. Philip, head east towards Marley Vale. Continue past Marley Vale and turn right at the sign for Skeete's Bay. Follow the road down to the bay. Parking is free but limited near the fish market. Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
