|
 The Crane" is one of Barbados' most beautiful beaches, and is often one of the world’s top 10 beaches. The name "Crane" was derived from the large crane situated at the top of the cliff which was used for loading and unloading ships. Crane Beach, originally a harbour, is considered by many to be one of the island's most beautiful beaches. Despite the fact that the beach is more on the Atlantic coast, it is still perfectly suitable for swimmers.
Crane Beach is on the island’s south-east coast and is where the rugged Atlantic beaches of the north and east coast meet the gentle stretches of the Caribbean west coast. It’s the archetypal palm-fringed Caribbean beach, but with bigger waves and a stronger breeze. The warm waters off the coast of Barbados provide some great fishing, where holidaymakers can catch barracuda, tuna and marlin amongst other species. Golf is very popular here and there are several courses on the island including Barbados Golf Club in the neighboring parish of Christ Church. The island has some wonderful places for hikers, horse riders and cyclists to roam with some organized walking trips arranged free of charge.
 The sandy Crane Beach on the south eastern side of the island is a perfect place for sunbathing. The waves are great for body surfing and windsurfing and there is a protected cove to the left of the beach that is much safer for swimming. Various other water sports can be tried on the waters off Barbados such as snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing and kayaking.
The beach provides ideal opportunities to take full advantage and fun body surfers and boogie boarders. This is also great for the young kids but some of the more elderly may prefer the lagoon like water of a south or west coast beach. There is even the chance to cliff jump into the ocean below, accessible by the rocks along the cliff face. This is not for the faint-hearted and should be done at your own risk. The waves and breakers here can be a little bigger than you would find along the south and west coast beaches.
There is a seafood restaurant serving lunch and dinner at Crane Beach or visitors may wish to take a packed lunch with them as there are not many eateries within 10 miles. The main shopping area is in Bridgetown but craft and gift shops can be found elsewhere in the south of the island. Duty free shopping is very popular with prices between 30 to 50 percent less than in Europe and North America.
 There are many interesting and ancient buildings in the south of the island including South Point Lighthouse and Sam Lords Castle. A short trip to the capital Bridgetown offers plenty of history and interesting sites such as the Parliament Buildings. Visitors will also find a few museums on the island such as Barbados Museum or the Sunbury Plantation House and Museum.
Numerous sailing cruises are offered in Barbados as well as safari tours. In the parish of St. Philip visitors can take a tour of a rum factory as well as Heritage Park, which features beautifully landscaped gardens. Andromeda Gardens is approximately 10 miles from Crane Beach and is another great attraction.
Many visitors feel that a beach's amenities and attractions are particularly important attributes. For others, getting the chance to spend a day in the sun and experience seclusion is the best part of the beach. No matter what you're looking for, Barbados has plenty to choose from, and Crane Beach may be just what you're looking for.
|