Paynes Bay
Paynes Bay is located on the west coast of the island, in the parish of St. James.
Paynes Bay is a beautiful stretch of golden sand with plenty of trees for shade, however please look closely at the tree under which you seek shade, there are many poisonous Manchineel trees in the area. Most are clearly marked, and you must not shelter under them in the rain as the water takes the poison from the leaves and this will blister the skin. The fruit from these trees looks like small apples and must not be eaten.
Things to Do
The water is calm and crystal clear for swimming and snorkeling. Paynes Bay Fishing Complex is also located on the beach. This operates as a fish-processing hall for fisherman of the west coast. Members of the general public are welcome to come and purchase fresh fish from that day’s catch.
There are rest rooms and a shower for rinsing off.
Features
Great swimming
Fish Market
Toilets
Showers
Snorkeling
Driving Directions
From Bridgetown head towards the Harbour along Prince Alice Highway, going past the Pelican Craft Centre, turn right and follow road until you reach the Elsie Payne roundabout, turn right here, then at traffic lights turn left on to the Spring Garden Highway, at the Frank Worrell roundabout turn right onto Walmer Lodge, you will see an Esso station on your right, pass the entrance to Batts Rock Beach. Follow road until you pass through Fitts Village, then you will see another Esso station on your right, Paynes Bay is coming up on your left. Parking areas and beach access are near the Coach House.
View the location of the beach on our Barbados Interactive Map.
Author: Brett Callaghan
