The Soup Bowl: Barbados' Surfing Mecca
Experience the raw beauty and powerful surf of Barbados' Soup Bowl in Bathsheba, a haven for surfers and nature lovers seeking an authentic Caribbean escape on the island's rugged east coast.
The Soup Bowl, located in Bathsheba on the rugged east coast of Barbados, is a world-renowned surfing destination celebrated for its powerful waves and dramatic scenery. This iconic spot attracts surfers from across the globe, drawn by the consistent swells and challenging breaks. Even for non-surfers, the area offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against unique rock formations, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The surrounding village of Bathsheba provides a glimpse into authentic Barbadian life, with local eateries and rum shops adding to the area's charm. Whether you're seeking thrilling water sports or simply a tranquil escape, The Soup Bowl promises an unforgettable experience immersed in the natural beauty of Barbados.
A brief summary to The Soup Bowl
- Bathsheba, Saint Joseph, BB
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter beach experience and witness the stunning sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean.
- Check the surf report before heading to The Soup Bowl, especially if you're planning to surf, as wave conditions can vary significantly.
- Explore the natural pools carved into the coral reef for a safe and relaxing swim away from the strong currents.
- Sample local Bajan cuisine at nearby eateries, and don't miss the opportunity to try fresh fish cakes or cou-cou and flying fish.
- Bring a windbreaker, as the east coast of Barbados can be quite breezy, especially during the winter months.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bridgetown, the capital, take the #6 bus from the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal directly to Bathsheba. The scenic ride takes approximately 1 hour. The bus will drop you off near the beach. The fare is BBD $3.50 (approximately US $1.75) each way, payable in cash. Ensure you have the exact fare, as change is not given on Transport Board buses.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From most points on the island, a taxi or ride-share to Bathsheba is readily available. A taxi from Bridgetown will cost approximately BBD $80-100 (US $40-50) and take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. There is free parking available near the beach, but it can get crowded on weekends and during peak season.
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Driving
If driving from the west coast, take Highway 1 and then follow the signs to Bathsheba. The drive is approximately 30-45 minutes from Holetown. Be prepared for some winding roads as you approach the east coast. There is a free parking lot available near the beach. Parking can be limited, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
Discover more about The Soup Bowl
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Round House
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Atlantic at Round House, Bathsheba's premier restaurant and cultural venue.
Rest Haven Beach Cottages
0.5 km
Experience tranquility at Rest Haven Beach Cottages, a serene retreat in Bathsheba, Barbados, where natural beauty meets comfort.
Joes River Dam
0.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Joes River Dam in Barbados, a must-visit landmark for nature and history enthusiasts.
Zemi East Coast Cafe
0.9 km
Experience the soul of Bathsheba at Zemi East Coast Cafe: Ocean views, local flavors, and a taste of Barbadian history.
ECO Lifestyle & Lodge
1.0 km
Discover the serene ECO Lifestyle & Lodge in Bathsheba, Barbados, where eco-friendly living meets stunning natural beauty.
The Atlantis Historic Inn
1.1 km
Experience the authentic charm of Barbados at The Atlantis Historic Inn, a boutique hotel on the rugged east coast offering stunning ocean views and Bajan hospitality since the 1880s.
Naniki
3.1 km
Escape to Naniki in St. Joseph, Barbados: Breathtaking views, authentic cuisine, and a tranquil retreat in the heart of the Caribbean.
Williams Tours Barbados
3.2 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Barbados with Williams Tours, your premier tour operator for unforgettable island adventures.
Mals Island Tours Barbados
3.2 km
Explore Barbados like never before with Mals Island Tours, where adventure meets culture in the heart of the Caribbean.
Stouteland Tours
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the region with Stouteland Tours, your premier travel operator for unforgettable adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Bathsheba
0.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Bathsheba beach in Barbados, a serene escape with breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and thrilling surf.
Joes River Bridge
0.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Joe's River Bridge in Bathsheba, where nature and serenity come together in perfect harmony.
Joes River
0.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Joes River in Barbados: a lush tropical rainforest with hiking trails, historic bridges, and tranquil escapes in the heart of St. Joseph.
Joe's River
0.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Joe's River in Barbados: a tropical rainforest escape with hiking trails, historic bridges, and breathtaking views, offering a tranquil retreat.
Bathsheba Park
0.7 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Bathsheba Park, a serene oasis in the hills of Saint Joseph, Barbados, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Hillcrest Community Centre
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hillcrest Community Centre in Bathsheba, Barbados – a perfect sanctuary for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Andromeda Botanic Gardens
1.0 km
Explore the lush wonders of Andromeda Botanic Gardens, a tropical oasis in Bathsheba showcasing diverse plant life and stunning artistry.
Cattlewash
1.2 km
Discover Cattlewash Beach in Saint Joseph, Barbados: a serene escape with golden sands and gentle waves, perfect for relaxation and natural beauty.
Hackleton's Cliff Community Park
1.5 km
Explore Hackleton's Cliff Community Park, a serene oasis in Saint Joseph, Barbados, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hackletons Cliff
1.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Hackletons Cliff in Barbados, where stunning ocean views and rugged landscapes await you in a serene natural setting.
PEG Farm and Nature Reserve
2.2 km
Experience the serene beauty of PEG Farm and Nature Reserve in Easy Hall, where nature, agriculture, and tranquility meet in harmony.
Amazing Adventures Barbados
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and stunning views of Amazing Adventures Barbados, a must-visit hiking destination in Saint Joseph.
St Joseph Parish Church Cemetery
2.4 km
Explore the serene St. Joseph Parish Church Cemetery, a historical gem in Barbados, where tranquility meets rich cultural heritage amidst beautiful landscapes.
New Castle St. John
2.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene ambiance of New Castle St. John, a historic church in the tranquil landscapes of Saint John, Barbados.
Cotton Tower Signal Station
2.5 km
Explore Barbados' colonial past at the Cotton Tower Signal Station, offering panoramic views of the Scotland District and a glimpse into the island's maritime history from atop Horse Hill.
Essential places to dine
Zaccios on the East
0.4 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Zaccios on the East in Bathsheba - where delicious cuisine meets stunning ocean views.
Dina's Bar
0.6 km
Experience authentic Barbadian cuisine at Dina's Bar, where warm hospitality meets breathtaking views in Saint Joseph.
Uncle Joe's Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Experience delicious Caribbean cuisine with stunning beach views at Uncle Joe's Bar & Grill in Bathsheba.
Sea View Bar
0.9 km
Discover breathtaking ocean views and delectable local cuisine at Sea View Bar in Foster Hall – your ultimate dining escape in Barbados.
Eastside Kitchen
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine at Eastside Kitchen in Saint Joseph, Barbados - where every meal tells a story.
Souse Gaggs Hill
1.1 km
Discover the culinary delights of Souse Gaggs Hill in St. Elizabeths, Barbados – perfect for families seeking authentic flavors amidst breathtaking views.
De Garage Bar & Grille
1.3 km
Discover De Garage Bar & Grille in Bathsheba - a culinary gem serving delicious Caribbean dishes with breathtaking ocean views.
Treeline House
1.3 km
Discover the flavors of Barbados at Treeline House, where local ingredients meet culinary artistry in a serene setting.
The Farm House
2.0 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Barbados at The Farm House, where local ingredients meet stunning nature in a delightful dining experience.
Amazing Cuisine
2.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Barbados at Amazing Cuisine - where local ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy setting.
Basement Bar
2.7 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine and vibrant vibes at Basement Bar in Edgecliff, Saint John – an unforgettable taste of Barbados!
Cottage Bar & Grill
2.9 km
Discover the flavors of Barbados at Cottage Bar & Grill in Horse Hill - where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
The Bay Lounge
3.2 km
Experience exquisite Barbadian cuisine at The Bay Lounge – where every meal tells a story amidst stunning coastal views.
DG Eats
3.6 km
Experience delightful Barbadian breakfasts at DG Eats in Chalky Mount - where every bite tells a story.
Bay Tavern Bar & Restaurant
3.7 km
Experience exquisite grill cuisine at Bay Tavern Bar & Restaurant with breathtaking views in Martin's Bay, New Castle Barbados.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cleaver's Hill Supermarket Inc.
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Barbados at Cleaver's Hill Supermarket, your local grocery store in Bathsheba, offering fresh produce and unique local products.
Bardown Variety And Bar
0.8 km
Experience the heart of Barbadian culture at Bardown Variety And Bar in Bathsheba, offering drinks, snacks, and a vibrant local atmosphere.
246apparel
3.1 km
Explore 246apparel for unique clothing that blends local culture with contemporary fashion in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
Venture Trading
3.1 km
Explore the heart of Saint John with a visit to Venture Trading, your go-to grocery store for local produce and authentic Barbadian snacks.
The Customs Palace
3.1 km
Discover stylish footwear that embodies Barbadian culture and craftsmanship at The Customs Palace in Bridgetown.
Hygieia
3.1 km
Explore Hygieia in Barbados for a delightful experience of fresh organic produce and sustainable living, perfect for health-conscious travelers.
Galleria mall
3.1 km
Explore the exquisite jewelry offerings at Galleria Mall, a shopping gem in Saint Joseph, Barbados, blending local artistry with international flair.
Shankar Lal Sharma
3.1 km
Explore the unique home goods store in Saint Joseph, Barbados, where local craftsmanship meets Caribbean charm for a memorable shopping experience.
sarjen murmu
3.1 km
Explore Sarjen Murmu in Saint Joseph, Barbados, where local culture meets unique shopping experiences amidst stunning natural beauty.
Popular supermarket
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Barbados at Popular Supermarket in Bowling Alley Hill, a local grocery store brimming with fresh produce and Caribbean delights.
Leandra Jones All Around Barbados
3.1 km
Experience the heart of Barbados at Leandra Jones, your go-to grocery store for local flavors and daily essentials.
Kanjoora
3.1 km
Explore the tranquil charm of Kanjoora, a unique bookstore in Bowling Alley Hill, Saint Joseph, Barbados, where every book tells a story.
SHOP & SHIP BARBADOS
3.1 km
Discover unique local finds at Shop & Ship Barbados, your ultimate wholesaler destination in St. Michael for quality goods and cultural treasures.
Mmm
3.1 km
Discover Mmm Bookstore, a literary sanctuary in Saint Joseph, Barbados, where every book opens a new world to explore.
CuriosbyDesign
3.2 km
Explore CuriosbyDesign for unique clothing and home goods that embody local craftsmanship and style, perfect for unforgettable souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gagg Hill Rumshop
0.7 km
Experience the authentic Barbadian vibe at Gagg Hill Rumshop, where local culture meets stunning ocean views and delicious rum.
Nicole Bar (Green Corner Shop)
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant ambiance of Nicole Bar in St. Elizabeths, the perfect spot to enjoy local drinks and the Barbadian nightlife.
East Side
0.9 km
Experience the lively charm of East Side Bar in Bathsheba, where refreshing cocktails meet stunning coastal views and a vibrant local atmosphere.
Aunty G Bar
1.0 km
Experience the warmth of Barbadian hospitality at Aunty G Bar, a cozy spot nestled in the hills of Saint Joseph, perfect for relaxation and local flavors.
Barbados
3.1 km
Experience Barbados: A Caribbean gem known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant nightlife. Discover this tropical paradise today.
Chalky Mount Bar
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant local culture and stunning landscapes at Chalky Mount Bar, a hidden gem in Saint Joseph, Barbados.
Rose Bar And Grill
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Barbados at Rose Bar And Grill, a premier dining spot in Chalky Mount, Saint Andrew.
Omerta Sports Bar
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant local culture at Omerta Sports Bar in Chalky Mount, where friendly faces and refreshing drinks await.
R.Y Wooden Finishes inc
3.8 km
Experience the rustic charm of R.Y Wooden Finishes Inc, a cozy bar in Barbados offering delightful drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
Old Brigand Rum Shop
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Barbados at Old Brigand Rum Shop, a must-visit cocktail bar in New Castle known for its local rum selection.
Home Alone Domino Club
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant local culture and community spirit at the Home Alone Domino Club in Saint Joseph, Barbados - a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Velma's Bar
4.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Velma's Bar in Saint Joseph, Barbados, where every visit is a celebration of Caribbean hospitality.
Cynthia's Variety
4.1 km
Discover the authentic Barbadian bar experience at Cynthia's Variety in Church View, Saint John – a vibrant hub of local culture and hospitality.
AAA's Hide-Away
4.3 km
Discover the laid-back charm and vibrant local culture at AAA's Hide-Away, a hidden bar in Saint Joseph, Barbados, perfect for relaxation and socializing.
City Escape Bar and Lounge
4.5 km
Discover a vibrant escape in Bridgetown at City Escape Bar and Lounge, where cocktails and camaraderie meet the spirit of Barbados.
