West Coast, Barbados, the A-List Holiday Destination
Holidaymakers from around the world flock to the Caribbean’s sandy beaches and clear blue seas but when it comes to A-Listers, there’s one place they head to more than anywhere else and that’s St James on the west coast of Barbados.
St James’ list of notable visitors reads like a veritable who’s who of the rich and famous, including royalty, billionaires, music legends, Hollywood actors and sports stars. So, what is it about this island parish that these discerning celebrities find so alluring?
One of St James’ biggest appeals is that it is on the west coast of Barbados. Facing away from the Atlantic, its seas are calmer, making it the ideal place for enjoying the water, whether that’s swimming, fly-fishing or taking part in more adventurous water sports.
There’s a lot to see under the waves, too. Snorkelling is a great way to experience the island’s spectacular sea life. The clear water makes it perfect for spotting the tropical fish, turtles, stingrays and the other exotic creatures that live around the stunning barrier reefs. If you fancy a closer look, you can go on a diving expedition where you can also check out some of our fascinating shipwrecks.
With sunshine nearly all year round, St James boasts some of the most idyllic coastline in the Caribbean. The pristine Mullins beach, with its golden, sandy beaches and crystal clear waters is, perhaps, one of the best places on the island to enjoy the sunshine. West coast beaches are also less busy than the those in the south, making them a marvellous place to relax with family and friends.
St James offers a high level of luxury to its visitors. For those seeking fine dining, the west coast boasts an array of exceptional restaurants serving a wide range of culinary delights. These include the internationally celebrated The Cliff restaurant where you can enjoy the delights of a Flaming Snowball: a meringue sphere, stuffed with fresh strawberries and ice-cream, marinated in Grand Marnier and duly ignited. Alternatively, you could try the very fashionable Cin Cin restaurant with its wonderfully innovative and sometimes eccentric dishes.
High fashion is also on the menu. The west coast of Barbados offers some of the best shopping experiences in the Caribbean. One of the major attractions is Holetown where you can find the chic boutiques of many of the world’s leading fashion brands. There are Cartier watches, Louis Vuitton handbags and outfits by Gorgio Armani, Hugo Boss and Ralph Lauren, just to name a few. If you are looking for something a little more Barbadian in style, there are also lots of shops selling locally made arts and crafts, fashion and jewellery.
The west coast is home to some of the most exclusive sports facilities on the island. If polo is your game, why not follow in the footsteps of Prince Harry and pay a visit to the excellent Apes Hill Polo Club right in the heart of St James. For golf lovers, there is the 18-hole Royal Westmoreland Golf Course. Boasting excellent facilities and set in a beautiful, sprawling landscape with stunning views, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf course is perfect for experienced players and those just wanting to give it a try.
One of the main attractions for A-Listers and many other visitors to St James is the quality of the accommodation in the area. It is home to some of the most stunning villas and apartments on the island. The Royal Westmorland resort, for example, provides beautifully designed accommodation to buy, fractionally own or book for holidays. Set in 750 acres of immaculately landscaped grounds with unparalleled sea views and world-class, gated security, it gives its community the high-standard amenities and exclusivity they need to experience a truly memorable vacation.
If you’re interested in visiting the Royal Westmoreland and want to discover the appeal of the west coast for yourself, take a look at our holiday and ownership options.