A Morning in Bathsheba: Waves, Flavours, and a Different Barbados
There’s a side of Barbados that feels untouched, where the waves crash harder, the cliffs stand taller, and the island shows you its wilder edge. That place is Bathsheba, on the rugged east coast, and it’s well worth carving out a morning or afternoon to explore.
Bathsheba sits about an hour’s drive from the Bajan Hideaway, but it feels like a different island altogether. Where the West Coast is calm and polished, the East Coast is raw, windswept, and photogenic.
What Bathsheba is Known For
This small fishing village is best known for two things: its dramatic Atlantic coastline, and its surf. The beach at Bathsheba is home to the famous Soup Bowl, one of the most respected surf breaks in the Caribbean. It draws international surfers year-round, especially in November during competition season. Even if you’ve never been near a board, it’s worth watching.
The coastline here is all jagged rocks, natural pools, and iconic limestone boulders scattered across the sand. The sea is generally too rough for casual swimming, but you’ll often spot locals soaking in the shallow inshore pools at low tide.
Where to Eat
For a small village, Bathsheba punches above its weight when it comes to food — with a focus on relaxed, local flavours and a view.
The Round House: A long-standing favourite perched above the beach with panoramic views of the coastline. The menu is casual but well-executed with the likes of flying fish sandwiches, salads, curries, and homemade desserts. A good spot for lunch or a late breakfast with a sea breeze.
Atlantis Historic Inn: Just around the bend, this restored hotel offers a more formal sit-down option. Their Sunday lunch buffet is especially popular, offering a range of Bajan classics in a historic setting with verandah seating.
Local rum shops: For those who want to do as the locals do, you’ll find small bars and rum shops tucked into the hillsides where you can grab a cold Banks beer and a plate of whatever’s cooking. Don’t expect menus though, just ask what’s good!
Getting There
The drive from the Bajan Hideaway takes you inland and across the island’s central highlands. It’s a scenic trip in itself with rolling countryside, monkey crossings, and sugarcane fields.
If you’re driving yourself, take your time. The roads are winding but manageable. If you’d rather be chauffeured, local taxi drivers will often do half-day hire and wait while you explore.