Saint Lawrence holidays

How to reach St Lawrence

Flight time: Flights to St Lawrence Gap from London typically take 8 to 9 hours. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct flights to Grantley Adams International Airport in Barbados.

Transfer time: The airport is about 20 minutes from St Lawrence Gap by car and taxis are readily available outside the terminal.

Price: A taxi ride from the airport to St Lawrence Gap costs around $40–$50 (Barbados dollars). You can also arrange private transfers or hire a car if you prefer more flexibility.

Best time to visit St Lawrence

Barbados enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, making it a great destination for your holidays to St Lawrence Gap. There are, however, some variations in weather and crowd size that you might want to consider.

December to April is the high season with the highest prices and the largest crowds. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 25°C to 29°C, with 8–9 hours of sun each day.

May to June offers warmer temperatures of 27°C to 30°C with slightly increased rainfall and 9 hours of sun a day. This is a good time to visit if you prefer smaller crowds and lower prices.

July to November is the low season given that this is also hurricane season. Temperatures range from 26°C to 30°C, with higher humidity and rainfall. Visitors can expect 7–8 hours of sun per day.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the official language, making it easy for UK travellers to communicate.

• Local habits and customs: Bajans (Barbadians) are friendly and laid-back. It’s polite to greet people with a smile or a nod. Dress modestly when not on the beach.

• Currency: The Barbados dollar (BBD) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are common.

• Getting around: Taxis are readily available and are metered. Public buses and minibuses are inexpensive, with fares around $3.50 BBD per journey.

• Electricity and plug types: The voltage is 115V/50Hz and the plug type is the same as in the UK (Type G).

• Time zone: Barbados operates on Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is 4 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in St Lawrence

St Lawrence is a bustling and vibrant destination in Barbados, offering a mix of exciting activities, stunning beaches and rich cultural experiences. Here’s a guide to the best things to do during your St Lawrence holidays:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• South Point Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse offers fantastic views of the coastline and is a great spot for photographers.

• Harrismith Beach: This is one of the less crowded beaches, with beautiful views of the rugged coastline.

The best districts

• St Lawrence Gap Strip: This is the main drag where all the action happens. It’s lined with bars, restaurants and clubs, and is a good bet for a night out.

• Oistins: This nearby fishing village is famous for its Friday night fish fry, where you can enjoy delicious food, music and a lively atmosphere.

Parks and gardens

• Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary: This is a beautiful and serene spot to explore, with a variety of bird species and lush greenery.

• Queen's Park: Located in Bridgetown, this park offers beautifully landscaped gardens and a historic bandstand.

Historic monuments

• George Washington House: Also in nearby Bridgetown, this historic house is where George Washington stayed in 1751, offering a glimpse into the island’s colonial history.

• St John's Parish Church: One of the oldest churches in Barbados, with stunning architecture and panoramic views of the east coast.

Day trips in the area

• Harrison's Cave: A must-visit attraction, this limestone cave system features stunning stalactites and stalagmites. The tram tour here is particularly popular.

• Andromeda Botanic Gardens: Located in Bathsheba, these gardens offer a beautiful collection of tropical plants and stunning views.

Activities for families in St Lawrence Gap

St Lawrence Gap is an excellent destination for families, offering a variety of activities to keep children and adults entertained.

• Interactive museums: The Barbados Museum in Bridgetown offers interactive, fun and educational exhibits for children.

• Aquariums: The Barbados Aquarium at the Atlantis Submarine site is a top spot for kids and families to learn about marine life and enjoy hands-on exhibits.

• Swimming pools: Many resorts in St Lawrence Gap feature expansive pool areas with dedicated children’s zones and water slides.

• Beaches: Dover Beach offers calm and shallow waters – perfect for swimming and playing in the sand.

Free things to do in St Lawrence Gap

Despite its reputation as a party hub, there are plenty of free and low-cost activities that visitors can enjoy in St Lawrence Gap.

• Free events: It’s always worth checking local listings for free events and parties, like the Crop Over Festival in July – a vibrant celebration with plenty of free events.

• Beaches: The stunning beaches, such as Dover Beach and Worthing Beach, are free of charge to the public. They’re the perfect destination for sunbathing, swimming and beachcombing.

• Explore by public transport: Local buses are an affordable way to travel, explore different parts of the island and get a glimpse into local life.

• Free guided tours: Many hotels and hostels offer complimentary walking tours of St Lawrence Gap, providing insights into the history and culture of the area. These tours usually operate on a tips-only basis.

Wellness in St Lawrence Gap

Barbados offers a wealth of wellness options to help you relax and rejuvenate during your Holidays to St Lawrence Gap.

• Spas and thermal baths: Many resorts feature luxurious spas offering a range of treatments, from massages to hydrotherapy. The Chakra Spa at Accra Beach Hotel is particularly renowned for its extensive spa services.

• Traditional body care: Look out for traditional Bajan massages and treatments that use local ingredients like coconut oil and sea salt. These treatments are designed to relax the body and soothe the mind.

• Yoga and meditation: Several resorts across St Lawrence Gap offer yoga classes on the beach or in tranquil garden settings. You can join group sessions or book private classes for a more personalised experience.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Watersports: St Lawrence Gap is perfect for watersports, including snorkelling, scuba diving, paddleboarding and windsurfing. Clear waters and a vibrant marine ecosystem make it the perfect location for underwater adventures.

• Boating: Rent a boat or join a sailing tour to explore the beautiful waters around St Lawrence Gap. Visit secluded beaches, snorkel in coral reefs and enjoy the stunning turquoise waters.

• Golf: Barbados is home to several world-class golf courses, such as the Barbados Golf Club, which offers ocean views and challenging runs.

• Fishing: The waters around St Lawrence Gap are ideal for fishing, with opportunities to catch marlin, tuna and other big game fish. For a truly unforgettable experience, consider charting a fishing trip.

• Hiking: Explore the trails of the island’s many parks, such as the Welchman Hall Gully, which offers scenic views, historic sites and opportunities to see local wildlife up close.

Local dishes in St Lawrence Gap

One of the great delights of your holidays to St Lawrence Gap is the chance to indulge in the local cuisine – a delightful mix of Caribbean flavours and international influences.

Some typical dishes

• Cou-Cou and Flying Fish: The national dish of Barbados, consisting of cornmeal and okra paired with fried or steamed flying fish, is often served with a spicy gravy.

• Pepperpot: A rich, hearty stew made with beef, pork and spices, slow-cooked to perfection.

Meat dishes

• Bajan Fried Chicken: Known for its unique seasoning, this dish is a must-try for chicken lovers.

• Jug-Jug: A traditional Christmas dish made from guinea corn flour and green peas, typically served with ham or pork.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled Mahi-Mahi: A popular choice, often served with a wide variety of sides and sauces.

• Saltfish: Usually served with breadfruit, this dish is a staple in Bajan households.

Street food

• Fish Cakes: Spicy, crispy and delicious, these are perfect for a quick snack.

• Roti: A flatbread filled with curried meat or vegetables, reflecting the island's Indian influence.

Sweets and desserts

Bajan desserts are a treat, showcasing the island's tropical fruits and flavours. Cassava Pone is a popular choice – a moist cake made from cassava, coconut and spices. Tamarind Balls, made from tamarind pulp rolled in sugar, are a tangy-sweet delight. Coconut Bread, also known as Sweet Bread, is another local favourite, filled with grated coconut, raisins and spices.

Local drinks

• Mauby: A traditional drink made from the bark of the mauby tree, with a unique bittersweet taste.

• Rum Punch: A Bajan classic made with rum, lime juice, sugar, nutmeg and bitters.

• Banks Beer: The island's local beer, perfect for enjoying on a hot day.