"Take thing seriously easy in Hastings and Rockley – both perfect slices of beach break paradise."
Pop on your sunglasses, flip open the sun cream and sink into Hastings' impressive sweep of pearl white sand for some serious Caribbean beach lounging. Just a 5km hop from Barbados' capital, Bridgetown, this tropical island slice is a great spot to top up your tan, with its pretty, palm-backed beach melting into a crystal sea. Likewise, the neighbouring resort of Rockley is just as tempting with its array of adrenaline-pumping watersports at Accra Beach. One of Barbados' most popular beaches, it's ideal for windsurfing, boogie boarding or jet-skiing. Alternatively, slip on your snorkel mask and delve into a colourful underwater world where exotic fish flit across the sandy seabed. When you're not soaking up the sun, browse the souvenir shops of both Hastings and Rockley. But for serious retail therapy, there's no better place to splash the cash than Bridgetown, where a deluge of duty-free bargains are waiting to be snapped up. While you're there, don't miss a wander round the Barbados Museum where you can unravel the history of the island. Housed in the old military prison, exhibits range from a rare map collection to a reconstruction of a prisoner's cell. Shine the spotlight on nightlife and you won't be disappointed. While Rockley is fairly quiet, Hastings boasts a light sprinkling of bars and restaurants and, of course, you'll find plenty more in Bridgetown. And if you're really serious about stepping in time to the Caribbean beat, let the bright lights of St Lawrence Gap lure you to the island's pulsating party capital, just a five minute drive away.
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Hastings hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Hastings include Coconut Court.
More Barbados holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Barbados? Our Barbados holiday destinations include Hastings, Maxwell Beach, Rockley, St James, St Lawrence and St Peter.
Beaches
Though the beach has eroded since Hastings first developed, the soft, white sands still appeal to sun worshippers and snorkellers. A couple of miles further along the coast is the bustling and beautiful beach at Rockley, known as Accra Beach by the locals, with white sand.
Eating out
The resort has plenty of international restaurants and offers dishes catering for all palates. If you're feeling a little adventurous, why not try the local speciality, a 'conkie?' - a delicious pattie made from cornmeal, pumpkin and coconut. Soups are popular and include pumpkin, red pea, black and yellow bean. Pepperpot soup is a meal in itself, made from salted meat and vegetables with special local seasonings.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Hastings is low key with a few bars in the town. For some of the best nightlife on offer in Barbados, take a five minute drive to St. Lawrence Gap where you can party 'til the sun comes up.
Shopping
Hastings itself has grown around the tourist trade and the shops reflect this. Nearby Bridgetown offers the best selection of shops on the island, with some great duty-free bargains to be found.
Local information
For an interesting day out visit the nearby Barbados Museum, brimming with fascinating treasures and glittering finds. Alternatively, learn about British rule on the island whilst exploring the historic Garrison Savannah, where the British troops were once stationed. For those wanting to take advantage of the beautiful, tropical waters surrounding Barbados, scuba diving and snorkelling excursions are widely available.
Location
5km south of Bridgetown
Transfer time
30 minutes
Recommended
