St. Philip is home to some of the most impressive natural beauty in Barbados and can be a peaceful place to plan a quiet retreat. If you’re looking for some of the best beaches and cliffs on the island, St. Philip won’t disappoint.
In this St. Philip Barbados Travel Guide, we’ll cover the best things to see, do, and eat while exploring this fascinating south coast landscape.
About St. Philip, Barbados
St. Philip is located in the southeastern corner of Barbados. While it isn’t as populated as neighboring Christ Church parish, there are plenty of cool spots to check out in this rugged, off-the-beaten-path area.
Things to do in St. Philip Barbados
St. Philip Barbados is the perfect place to explore if you love sea views, history, hiking, and great food. While it’s not the best area for swimming and surfing due to rougher seas, the area makes up for it in beautiful viewpoints and interesting attractions.
Sam Lord’s Castle, Barbados
Take a walk through history at Sam Lord’s Castle, Barbados. This mansion estate allegedly belonged to a famous Bajan buccaneer, Sam Lord. It was later turned into a hotel which tragically burned down in 2010.
Now, guests can explore Sam Lord’s beach, take a walk around the lookout point, and see the grounds of Sam Lord’s Castle.
Sunbury Plantation House
The Sunbury Plantation House is a luxurious estate that dates back to the 17th century. Today, it has a museum and guests can see the different rooms, furniture, and antiques. To visit, you’ll need to call ahead and book a tour in advance.
Bottom Bay, Barbados
If you’re looking for a picturesque Barbados beach in St. Philip, Bottom Bay is a great stop. The ocean at Bottom Bay is usually too rough for swimming, but it’s a beautiful place for sunbathing or a picnic with minimal crowds.
Crane Beach, Barbados
Just a short distance away from Bottom Bay, you can stop by Crane Beach. Crane Beach is famous for having pink-tinted sand and a small hiking trail along the cliffs that surround it.
Crane Beach is just below the Crane Resort but there is also a public access point at the end of Crane Beach Road. You can usually rent beach chairs and umbrellas from the resort and there are drinks and food items available for purchase.
Shark Hole Beach, Barbados
Shark Hole Beach is a tiny swimming hole and one of the most unique places to visit in St. Philip Barbados. Normally, the ocean is too rough for swimming in this part of the island, but the Shark Hole swimming spot is protected by a reef that makes it safer for a dip in the water. Don’t worry, unlike the name implies, you won’t come across any sharks at Shark Hole.
Three Houses Park
Three Houses Park is a green space in St. Philip with picnic areas, a playground, and a quaint spring. There are restroom facilities and plenty of space to enjoy the fresh air, making this a great thing to do with families and kids in Barbados.
Bushy Park Barbados
The Bushy Park Racing Circuit is a must visit for car and racing enthusiasts. Located in the center of the parish of St. Philip, Bushy Park offers karting and driving experiences for the whole family. You can also attend rallies, races, and other motorsport events throughout the year.
Best Places to Stay in St. Philip
Check out these resorts, hotels, and rentals in St. Philip on the south coast of Barbados.
The Crane Resort
The Crane Resort is the oldest continuously operated hotel in the Caribbean and a stunning place to call home during your Barbados vacation. We stayed here our first few days on the island and it was a perfect way to unwind. With easy access to Crane Beach and multiple pools, restaurants, and relaxing enclaves, this resort checks all the boxes.
Coral Villa
If a private villa is more your style, check out the Coral Villa in St. Philip Barbados. This property has three bedrooms, comfortable amenities, and a private swimming pool and garden. It’s ideal for a family or group of friends who wants to be near the St. Philip attractions but also prefers privacy.
Manderley Villas
Manderley Villas offers functional and practical one-bed, one-bath apartments near Foul Bay and Crane Beach. All apartments have a kitchen, laundry facilities, and parking, and guests rave about the cleanliness and peaceful location. It’s also convenient to Grantley Adams Airport.
Best Places to Eat in St. Philip
Cutters Barbados
Stop by Cutters Barbados deli to try two local favorites: Cutters sandwiches and some of the best rum punch on the island! Cutters has both an indoor and outdoor eating area as well as a little shop where you can buy rum punch to take home (and you’re going to want some!)
Cutters is open Wednesday through Monday for lunch and dinner. Takeaway and delivery are also available.
Marco Polo Barbados
The Marco Polo Bar and Grill Barbados is located just a short walk away from The Crane Resort and offers a wide variety of home cooked comfort food. With traditional bar food, pasta, pizza, and burgers served in a lively, casual outdoor setting, Marco Polo is a great spot to stop for a bite.
Delon’s Roti and Bar
At Delon’s Roti and Bar, you can try classic Bajan rotis, macaroni pies, cutters, and fried fish. Grab a cold beer and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere at Delon’s, open every day for breakfast and lunch.
Sam’s One Bar and Grill
Sam’s One Bar and Grill is located in the Long Bay area near Sam Lord’s castle. They serve traditional Bajan dishes like fried fish, macaroni pie, and fish cakes, and guests love the friendly atmosphere, tasty cocktails, and welcoming hosts.
Related Post: 18 Best Places to Eat in Barbados
St. Philip Barbados Travel Guide Final Thoughts
St. Philip is definitely worth a trip when visiting Barbados. The landscape is so different from what you’ll see on the west and east coast and with unique attractions and tasty restaurants, it’s bound to be a memorable experience.
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