Set on the beachfront of Gibbes Bay in St Peter on the west coast of Barbados, Shoestring overlooks the sparkling ocean. Gibbs beach is much quieter than its neighbouring Mullins Beach, known for its peerless beauty, on arguably one of the finest stretches of coast in the world, this is one of the island’s best beaches. Located north of Holetown, Gibbs Beach is backed by swaying palm trees, offering sparkling crystal waters and flawless white sands.
Several vendors offer lounge chairs, umbrellas and refreshments, such as the quintessentially Caribbean rum punch. Long enough for a stroll, catamaran charters cruise into the bay offering trips to Bridgetown and beyond, with snorkelling and sumptuous lunches on board. This stretch of coast is known as the “platinum coast,” for its fine beaches with white sands and clear, azure waters.
As well as the exclusive developments and international jet-set crowd that are drawn to this spot, visitors can delve into colourful, historical local life, architecture and traditions.
From rum festivals to the colourful “crop over” festival (a tradition dating back to the plantation days), to indulgent beach massages, to Friday night’s fried fish nights, visitors will experience a colourful, inspiring blend of tradition and luxury. Close by Holetown will offer a slice of local Bajan life. The Chattel village is a melting pot of artisans, offering local crafts, art and jewellery. The Chattel houses provide a striking contrast to the colonial residences with their dazzling white coral facades and open verandas; the former are vividly coloured with fancy gables and gingerbread fretwork.
The west coast of Barbados is a blend of exclusive and high-end developments attracting a well-heeled, international jet-set, majestic beaches and intriguing, colourful local life.
Barbados is a place of contrasts, from movie-star hedonism to cane-cutting village life and artisanal fare; from fishing villages to dramatic, rugged Atlantic coastlines - visitors will enjoy a vivacious diversity within a very accessibly-sized island. A unique blend of vibrant, local life and colonial-influenced afternoon teas alongside cricket matches on the green!