St. James, Barbados travel guide

St James is the sophisticated, upmarket parish on the western coast of Barbados and lines the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean. The beach has everything you could hope for in a Caribbean holiday - pure white sand, gently waving palms and warm, clear water.

Holidays in Barbados

Increasingly St. James is being known as the playground of the rich and famous and haven for sun-worshipping tourists. Barbados’s west coast is the most popular tourist area and its beaches are often referred to as the Platinum Coast. There are many spectacular beaches to choose from and you will easily find one that better suits you. Whether you have chosen to visit Barbados for lazing around topping up your tan on one of the many sun-drenched beaches whilst sipping a tropical rum cocktail, or partaking in any of the adventures or activities on offer here, Barbados caters for everyone.

Sights and places to see in St. James, Barbados

In St James, the pace of life is relaxed and the clientele tend to be chic and well-healed. This is the part of the island that international celebrities head for. Not surprisingly St James boasts a world class 18-hole golf course, and many upmarket seafood restaurants and cocktail bars.

Holetown is the commercial heart of the St James, with banks, supermarkets, police station and local stores. Holetown Festival, which celebrates the landing of the first settlers in February 1627, includes a street parade, local exhibits and of course music and dancing.

Paynes Bay is one of the most popular places since it's loaded with fabulous resorts and plenty of activities. Water sports operators are available for jet-skiing, parasailing and/or scuba diving. There is also volleyball available and if you're not feeling very active you can head to the Beach Bar & Restaurant.

Weather, flight and travel information in and around St. James, Barbados

The islands climate tends to be nice throughout the year although June to October is the hurricane season. The peak season is December to May as they are the cooler and dryer months.

The international airport is 10 miles from Bridgetown and is undergoing a large expansion. There are several airlines that offer direct flights. Buses are the best and cheapest way to manoeuvre around the island and there are plenty of taxis available and the fares are fixed by the government. Renting a car offers you more freedom to get around and you also drive on the left-hand side here, temporary driving permits are required and they are easily obtainable.

Money; £1 = 2.85 Barbados Dollars (BBD)

Time; GMT/UTC -4

Telephone; 00 or + (246)

Last updated; March, 09