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Scene
A simple beachfront resort for all ages
The hotel, which is situated in the heart of popular St. Lawrence Gap, occupies a white structure with purple accents and framed by palm trees. The hotel is actually split into two sections: one by the beach and one on the other side of the road. Upon arrival in the lobby — a simple yet homey space with a green “U”-shaped couch and fresh flowers — guests are offered a ticket for a free rum punch or soda at the bar. Beyond the lobby is an outdoor courtyard with a small pool, which leads to the bar and restaurant that face the beautiful beach. Not surprisingly, most guests spend their time on the wide stretch of sand (it’s one of the more popular beaches in Barbados). Afternoon happy hour specials bring in guests and non-guests alike, but generally, the vibe is relaxed and peaceful.
Location
Set in a popular beachfront destination a few blocks from the nearest bus stop
The hotel is located on the south coast of Barbados, near the popular St. Lawrence Gap — a touristy strip lined with restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops. The gorgeous Dover Beach — one of the highest-rated beaches in Barbados — is right in front of the hotel. Free parking is available, or guests can travel via the local bus system, nicknamed “reggae bus,” which stops a five-minute walk from the property. It’s a 20-minute ride to Bridgetown (the capital) or 30 minutes to Holetown, the spot where settlers first landed and claimed the island in the name of England. There, travelers will find luxurious hotels and several restaurants and shops. It’s about a 20-minute drive to Grantley Adams International Airport.
Rooms
Contemporary rooms with coffeemakers and furnished balconies
There are 66 rooms and suites, which were renovated in 2014 to include tile floors and contemporary furnishings in an earth-tone palette. Most rooms have views of the pools and courtyard, though some offer partial views of the sea, while Premium Rooms (the highest category) offer direct ocean views. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, iPod docks, and sliding glass doors leading to furnished balconies. Bathrooms are less modern — some with blue and yellow tiling — but they have walk-in showers with eco-friendly containers of shower gel and shampoo.
One-Bedroom units either have lounge areas by the beds or separate living rooms. Additionally, a Duplex Penthouse with Ocean View (two balconies), includes a master bedroom on the top floor and a kitchenette and half bathroom on the lower floor.
Features
Seaside restaurant, two outdoor pools, and access to beautiful stretch of beach
Dover Beach is truly the standout here; it has white sand against bright turquoise water, and is calm enough for swimming. Though the beach is public, the hotel has a private area lined with lounge chairs under bright blue umbrellas. Water sports from an outside vendor are also available for rent next to the property. Two outdoor pools include a smaller bean-shaped pool in the main courtyard that doesn’t get much attention — except from toddlers and kids — due to the lack of sun loungers, as well as a larger and more peaceful adult-only pool in the rear. Pool towels are free to use, but will need to be turned in during check-out to avoid being charged a fee.
The Sea Fans Restaurant has an orange-and-white color scheme and views of the ocean. It serves a la carte fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a buffet spread once a month. Two daily happy hours make the bar a popular place in the afternoons. Every Tuesday evening a Manager’s Cocktail Party is hosted by the General Manager with free rum punch and steel drum music.
Massages and basic treatments are available in a separate spa area or in guest rooms. Other amenities include meeting space, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout.
Pros
- Gorgeous oceanfront setting along Dover Beach
- Two outdoor pools, one of which is adult-only
- Modern rooms have furnished balconies and flat-screen TVs
- Beachside bar and restaurant with two daily happy hours
- Spa services and meeting facilities
- Water sports available for a fee
- Free Wi-Fi and parking
Cons
- Some areas feel dated, including bathrooms in guest rooms
- Pool towels need to be turned in at check-out, otherwise incur a fee
- Rooms facing the courtyard may lack privacy
Bottom Line
This three-pearl hotel with 66 rooms on the south coast of Barbados received a makeover when new owners took over in 2014. The most notable feature here is the hotel’s prime location on Dover Beach — ideal for both sunbathing and swimming — plus there are two outdoor pools. Modern rooms have air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers, as well as balconies — some of which overlook the turquoise sea. Guests can drink and dine at the property’s beachside restaurant and bar, and more options are within walking distance along the touristy St. Lawrence Gap. For slightly higher rates, Yellow Bird Hotel has rooms with kitchenettes and a pool overlooking the ocean.
