Derricks Beach, St. James
Key facts: St. James · Free · Daily · Ages: all
Derricks is a small, sheltered cove on the calm west coast in St. James, near the village of the same name. The clear, gentle water suits swimming and snorkelling, and the bay is quieter than the busier west coast beaches nearby. Paynes Bay is a short distance down the road.
About Derricks Beach
Derricks is a small cove on the west coast in St. James, tucked below low cliffs and villas near the village of Derricks. The Caribbean side of the island gives it calm, clear turquoise water and soft sand. It is an intimate spot rather than a wide open beach.
Why Families Go
The gentle water is well suited to children, and there is good snorkelling close to shore over the reef and seagrass where fish and the occasional turtle pass through. It is calmer and less crowded than some of the larger west coast beaches, which families with young children appreciate.
What to Know Before You Go
Access is via a path between properties, as is common on the west coast where all beaches are public. There are no dedicated facilities on the beach itself, though restaurants sit nearby. Public access is free. Parking is limited. About 25 minutes from Bridgetown, with west coast bus service along Highway 1.
Family Fit
Good for all ages, including young children, thanks to the calm water. Bring your own shade and supplies, and keep an eye on snorkellers near boat channels. Easy to combine with Paynes Bay just down the coast.
Beach Safety
Check conditions before leaving home. Conditions can change quickly, especially on the east and south coasts. Choose a beach with a lifeguard on duty when possible, and obey warning flags: a red flag means the water is not safe to enter.
Never leave young children unsupervised at the water's edge or in the sea. Children should not be left in the care of other children near the water.
Watch for watersports activity in the water. Jet skis, banana boats, and paddlers use designated zones that are not always clearly visible from shore. Stay aware of what is moving in the water around you.
Use sunblock and reapply after swimming. The Barbados sun is strong even on overcast days.
Manchineel trees grow along the edges of many Barbados beaches. They have small green apple-like fruit and broad leaves. Do not shelter under a manchineel tree in the rain. Water dripping from the leaves causes skin irritation. Do not touch or eat the fruit.
Leave the beach as you found it. Take all plastic and rubbish with you when you go.
Questions parents ask
Is Derricks Beach good for swimming?
Yes. It is on the calm west coast in St. James, with clear, gentle water suited to swimming and to children.
Can you snorkel at Derricks Beach?
Yes. There is reef and seagrass close to shore, with fish and the occasional passing turtle. Watch for boat channels while snorkelling.
Is there parking at Derricks Beach?
Parking is limited. The beach is reached by a public access path between properties, as with all west coast beaches.
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