With over 70 miles of powdery sands adorning its coastline, Barbados offers an abundance of choices to couples looking for the perfect beach setting for their wedding.
The climate is as close to perfect as one can hope for with 3000 hours of annual sunshine and the crystalline, turquoise waters lapping gently at the sands creating the perfect backdrop against which to enjoy your wedding day. With over 60 beaches to choose from, narrowing down your location can be a difficult decision, but below we've put together our top 5 picks to inspire you.
Crane Beach
Located in the parish of St. Philip, Crane Beach is world-famous and widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous named this beach 'one of the Top Ten Beaches in the World' and it isn't hard to see why. Swaying palm trees fringe the soft pink sands that make this beach so unique, and in the background, the majestic limestone cliffs rise above with the island's oldest hotel perched atop them, The Crane. An atmosphere of secluded serenity lingers here creating the perfect romantic setting.
Best For: An elegant wedding against the stunning cliff backdrop
Needham's Point
On the southwestern tip of Barbados, Carlisle Bay nestles on the shoreline with Needham's Point beach situated perfectly in the middle. The tranquillity of the sea attracts the many boats which can be seen peacefully swaying in the distance, whilst the crystal clear waters offer fleeting glimpses of the abundant marine life. Two miles of achingly beautiful white sands stretch as far as the eye can see creating a truly breath-taking location.
Best For: An intimate and informal wedding that makes the most of the natural beauty
Gibbes Beach
Although all of the beaches in Barbados are open to the public, journey to the pristine golden sands of Gibbes beach and you are unlikely to find anyone else here. A haven of solitude, Gibbes beach is considered one of the most unpopulated on the island creating the perfect atmosphere for an intimate wedding. Located on the beautiful West Coast it offers picturesque views and a feeling of pure tranquillity.
Best For: A relaxed 'toes in the sand' wedding that will make the most of this 'Robinson Crusoe' setting.
Bottom Bay
Another hidden gem, Bottom Bay is tucked away on the southeast coast of the island and remains largely undiscovered. The smooth, rolling waves and soft, white sands contribute to making this one of the more beautiful beaches to be found in Barbados. The surrounding coral cliffs create a striking background and almost enclose the bay creating the perfect romantic atmosphere, or a vantage point to take in the panoramic views of the stunning coastline.
Best For: Those who want to take in the stunning view on their wedding pictures
Sandy Lane Beach
Made prestigious by being home to the island's most opulent 5* hotel, as well as the celebrities that can be spotted here throughout the year, Sandy Lane Beach is magnificent in its own right. The pristine sands and lush surroundings are immaculately maintained, whilst the peaceful waters create a sublime setting. Its popularity makes this beach busy throughout the year but if you come in the evening the crowds will have dwindled away.
Best For: A sunset wedding that makes the most of the setting without the crowds.
Heron Bay
On the calm west coast, you will find Heron Bay beach, an oasis of coral sands shaded by leafy trees, where the peaceful turquoise waters lap gently at the shore. Many locals refer to this beach as the Colony Club beach, with the AAA 4 diamond hotel sitting towards the south of the beachfront. If you are looking to make your day perfect opt for one of the hotel's wedding packages that will give you an intimate beachside location for the ceremony and a host of extras to follow. With even the smallest details catered for by the hotel's experienced wedding planners, all you need to do is relax and enjoy your big day.
Best For: A relaxed, care-free wedding that can be tailored to your every need.