Lakes Beach, St. Andrew
Key facts: St. Andrew · Free · Daily · Ages: all
Lakes Beach is a wild, golden-sand beach on the east coast in St. Andrew, between Barclays Park and Walkers. The open Atlantic brings crashing waves and strong currents, so it is for walking and scenery rather than swimming. Leatherback turtles nest here between April and June.
About Lakes Beach
Lakes Beach lies on the rugged east coast in St. Andrew, between Barclays Park and Cattlewash to the south and Walkers Beach to the north. It faces the full force of the Atlantic, with crashing waves, golden sand, and reef just offshore. It is an unspoilt and undeveloped stretch of coast.
Why Families Go
Families come for the wild scenery and long walks rather than the water. Between April and June leatherback turtles come ashore here to nest, which makes it a memorable spot for children who care about wildlife, provided nesting areas are respected.
What to Know Before You Go
Swimming is not recommended, with strong currents and undertow in the open Atlantic. Use the beach for walking and beachcombing. There are no lifeguards or facilities, so bring everything you need. If turtles are nesting, keep your distance and stay off the dunes. Free to visit. About 45 minutes from Bridgetown.
Family Fit
Best for families with children who enjoy walking and wildlife, treated strictly as a scenery beach. Keep everyone out of the water. During nesting season, give turtles and their nests plenty of space. Combine with Barclays Park and the east coast drive.
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
Can you swim at Lakes Beach?
No. The open Atlantic has strong currents and undertow, and there is no lifeguard. Use the beach for walking and scenery instead.
Do turtles nest at Lakes Beach?
Yes. Leatherback turtles nest here between April and June. Keep your distance, stay off the dunes, and do not disturb nests.
Are there facilities at Lakes Beach?
No. It is undeveloped, with no lifeguards or facilities. Bring everything you need.
More family places in St. Andrew · Open the related family guide · Browse more family places in Barbados