Surrounded by crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches, Barbados is a surfer’s haven. This was highlighted when the island recently hosted the exhilarating World Surf League Barbados Surf Pro QS 5000. The event, which is the Caribbean’s largest surfing competition, welcomed surfers from around the globe to the famous Soup Bowl to surf some of the best waves in the world.

As the waves have eased and champions crowned, it’s the perfect time to delve into what makes Barbados a surfer’s haven or a ‘Surf Isle’.

Based on the island’s location, Barbados is perfectly positioned to capture swells from any direction. This means, whether you’re a seasoned pro or novice you can find great waves on the island.

Here are a few surf spots to help you find the best wave for you.

Soup Bowl

Soup Bowl is the undisputed home of surfing in Barbados. The name ‘Soup Bowl’ is derived from the characteristics of the popular spot. The curling face of the wave represents the ‘bowl’, whereas the white water after the wave breaks is considered the ‘soup’.

Located on the unspoiled East Coast, Soup Bowl is known for its powerful break and is suited for the more advanced surfers. The best time to surf the waves are between November and April.

Don’t be surprised if you spot some of the sport’s elite surfing the break, as Soup Bowl regularly attracts professionals from all over the world seeking the ultimate thrill. A great example is world-renowned surfer, Kelly Slater who considers Soup Bowl one of the best waves he has ever surfed in the entire world.

Freights Bay

For all you beginner surfers, Freights Bay offers the best waves to learn how to surf.

Located on the south coast of the island, this wave is the longest left break on the island with little current, so it is great for long boarders, intermediate surfers and beginners. 

What is also unique about surfing at Freights is while enjoying the waves, you might spot Barbados’ honorary citizens, turtles.

Freights Bay is also an earshot away from Oistins Bay Garden; a cultural treasure where one can get the most delicious Barbadian cuisine and flavourful fish. Tourists and locals flock to the fishing village on a Friday night to eat, drink, sing karaoke, and have a grand time.

Drill Hall/Brandons

Some say the south of the island is where you can experience more of the surf culture. As mentioned before, there is Freights Bay, but there is also Brandons known as Drill Hall. This surf spot is popular for many local and international surfers as the Barbados Surf Pro was initially held here.

This break is perfect for surfers of all levels and the beach itself is a good picnic spot. Brandon’s is also a few minutes away from the island’s capital, Bridgetown, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.   

Maycocks

Situated in the northwest corner of the island, Maycocks stands as a secluded gem for surfers, offering breathtaking vistas and reliably lengthy right-hand waves. This hidden treasure of Barbados remains relatively unknown to most visitors, adding to its allure.

Maycocks presents a challenging surfing experience, making it ideal for advanced surfers rather than beginners or those with intermediate skills. Despite its somewhat elusive nature, both locals and tourists will find the journey to this surfing paradise well worth the adventure.

North Point

Tucked away behind the abandoned North Point Surf Resort is a hidden gem for all thrill seekers, North Point. It is described as a fun break but suited for the more advanced surfers.

However, on your journey to north point, you can make a stop at the island lone accessible sea cave, Animal Flower Cave. This amazing cave opens directly into the Atlantic Ocean and its name comes from the sea anemones found in the pools of the cave.

The area surrounding the cave is also the most enthralling point of the legendary Round Barbados Race; where even windsurfers set out to battle the gusty winds and waves of the north coast.

Surfing Community

Barbados is indeed a surfer’s paradise with world-class waves, but beyond the breaks surfing on the island is about community and making lasting memories. The island has a vibrant surf culture, so no matter what level of surfer you are, you will find your wave in Barbados.

By: Rhe-Ann Prescod