On the upscale west coast of Barbados, the Saint James parish is known with good reason as the island’s ‘platinum coast’. Aside from being a celebrity hangout, the area is famed for its beautiful white sand beaches, various golf courses and excellent dining options, as well as luxury brand shopping.
One of the area’s main towns, Holetown, is a good place to get acquainted with what Saint James has to offer. The Limegrove Lifestyle Centre brings shopping and entertainment together, with dozens of high-end stores, a multi-screen cinema and regular live events, from music concerts to art shows and craft fairs, while colourful Chattel village sets its shops in scenic tropical gardens.
The beachfront walks are another highlight, and particularly spectacular if you happen to be there at sunset. Eateries like Zaccios and Tides occupy some of the prime ocean-view locations, and with views like those, chances are you will want to try them out.
Holetown’s big annual event comes around each February – the Holetown Festival is a commemoration of the first settlement on the island in 1627. It’s a broad and lively celebration, encompassing everything from fashion shows and beauty contests to vintage car parades, sporting events and a Police Tattoo, and it’s a great opportunity to sample Bajan delights like macaroni pie and Barbados rum.
The town is also a centre for nightlife, concentrated mainly on Holetown’s First and Second Streets. Cool hangouts like the Red Door Lounge prove that Barbadians know how to party, and are very happy for you to join them. Head south of the town and a string of stunning beaches like Sandy Lane and Payne’s Bay await you, and it won’t be long until you find yourself in Bridgetown – the historic capital city is just 11km from Holetown.