Heywoods is Barbados’ best kept secret. It is arguably one of the most charming west coast beaches with its expansive coastline. Due to its northerly location in Speightstown, the visitor numbers remain very low. It has become our regular weekend hangout; where we can be deliriously happy, frolicking around in a heavenly bliss.
The calm waters combined with sandy beds make it ideal for swimming, filling our lungs with the salty sea air. We watch young children as they splash and paddle, having fun wading in the natural reef enclosures and rock pools.
For snorkelling enthusiasts, with the crystal clear waters you can explore the impressive reef; which is close to the shoreline with fluctuating heights. You will spot a variety of marine life, such as iridescent queen angel fish, blue tang, cleaning goby, spotted moray eel, octopus, puffer fish, gurnard, coral reef snakes and sergeant major, to name but a few. Every visit brings with it the excitement of encountering new exotic species.
If visiting during the hawksbill turtle hatching season between July and October – you may witness hatchlings breaking free from their shells, as the mothers are known to nest in this area each year. Usually the hatchlings will emerge from their nests in the evening and scurry towards the sea.
One afternoon, as I read on the beach I heard a shuffling beside my bag, I had assumed it to be a crab, so was delighted to see a hatchling appear. It must have been disorientated and wondered in the wrong direction to become lost in the hedgerow. Arlo took great delight swimming as far as he could to release him into the deep sea. We hope the plucky little fellow survives!
We love to relax on the beach area just in front of Port St. Charles, an exclusive residential marina development. You will only find a handful of loungers and umbrellas, so the vista remains unspoilt. To access this, you can park at Heywoods beach car park and walk five minutes to the right, along the beachfront.
It is worth noting that there are no eateries or facilities along this beach. However, across the way on a man-made island, you will see the upmarket restaurant – Pier One. This can be accessed by driving across the bridge and is worth a visit for their delicious offerings and dip in their fresh water pool.
TIPS
- We recommend that you take your own beach chairs and umbrella as there will not be any available for rent along this beachfront. There is also little natural shade available.
- Don’t forget to use suncream.
- If you’re on the beach in the late afternoon, remember to apply some repellant such as Deet.
- Remember to bring your own drinks and snacks.
- Park at Heywoods car park.
THE SPECIFICS
Opening Times: n/a
Facilities: No public washrooms or outdoor showers available here.
Loungers & Umbrella Hire: We advise that you bring your own beach furniture if required as they are unavailable to hire here.
Parking: Free parking available at Heywoods beach car park.
Location: Heywoods Beach Port St. Charles, Speightstown, Barbados.
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If there are any beaches that we have not featured here but you’d love to read about, please send us a message on the SAY HELLO page.
