Swimming With Sea Turtles in Barbados
The island of Barbados is surrounded by over 50 miles of coral reefs, which creates the perfect protective environment for sea turtles. If you’re interested in swimming with turtles in Barbados, there are a few spots where you can find abundant turtle species.
Is it Worth Swimming with the Turtles in Barbados?
Swimming with sea turtles in Barbados is definitely worth it! Barbados is known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters, which provide the perfect environment for encountering these gentle creatures.
Swimming alongside turtles can be a truly magical experience. It allows you to get up close to these fascinating animals in their natural habitat. Plus, it's a memorable way to connect with nature and create lasting memories during your time in Barbados.
What Type of Turtles Are There in Barbados?
Barbados is home to three species of nesting turtles, and swimming alongside them makes for an unforgettable experience. It includes the Green turtle, the Leatherback, and the Hawksbill.
Green turtles are a threatened species, whereas leatherback turtles, known for their large size and black leathery shells, are endangered. This makes both species less common. The leatherback turtle can weigh 550 to 2,000 pounds! They can be seen on the beaches, particularly during the nesting season.
However, Hawksbill turtles, distinguished by their hawk-like beaks, are the second-largest nesting population in the Caribbean.
All three species are paramount to the marine ecology of Barbados and are protected by local laws.
Venture to the exciting different spots to see these majestic turtles this season in Barbados:
Where to Swim with Turtles in Barbados?
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Carlisle Bay
Location: On the south coast of the island in Saint Michael.
This crescent-shaped bay is your best place to swim with turtles in Barbados, Caribbean. Not only are sea turtles frequently sighted in the area, but the bay is home to stunning man-made shipwrecks that you can explore with your snorkeling gear. There are six shipwrecks in all, spanning from 12 to 55 feet. They were designed to attract marine life, so you can often see various tropical fish, sea horses, rays, eels, and sea turtles.
The waters are calm, so you can spend the day swimming, wading, and splashing as you wait to glimpse the best marine life. Watch out for the yachts, fishing boats, and catamarans that frequently stroll past.
The bay is especially popular with locals in the morning and sunset, so strive for the quieter afternoon hours if you want the best chance to see turtles. Local touring companies also offer guided tours that take guests to nearby Brown’s Beach and Carlisle Bay Marine Park, where sea turtles are seen in abundance.
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Freights Bay
Location: Near the southern tip of Barbados.
Barbados turtles are often seen just off the coast of Freights Bay near the village of Oistins. The best way to see them is to grab a surfboard or boogie board and drift a few meters from shore. There are no lifeguards at this quiet bay, so it’s recommended for strong swimmers only.
Freights Bay doesn’t have as many turtles as the other spots on this list, but even if you don’t see the marine life, you’ll still appreciate the gorgeous turquoise waters and breathtaking sunsets for which the area is famous. Bring snacks and supplies; no beach facilities are in the immediate area.
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Worthing Beach
Location: The south coast of Barbados.
Worthing Beach is yet another destination along the south coast. Because of how the coral reefs are arranged, you’ll find more turtles along this stretch of the island. In addition, the waters are calmer along the southern coast, so safety is also a factor.
Worthing Beach has one of the best coral reefs in Barbados. You’ll find it along the east side of the beach. The calm water stretches only about six feet along the reef, so it’s an excellent spot for kids, families, and inexperienced swimmers to see the turtles and tropical fish.
When you finish your shallow-sea exploration, you can venture back to the sand, where there are several beachside restaurants and shops to explore.
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Paynes Bay
Location: The west coast of Barbados
If you happen to be on the west coast of Barbados, you’re in luck. Paynes Bay, often called the Platinum Coast, is another excellent place for aquatic turtle species to take to the sea.
This is one of the more crowded beaches but has some of the calmest and most vibrant surroundings. The beach has resorts, shops, restaurants, and gorgeous rental properties, so you can book a Barbados luxury villa and explore the entire island at your leisure.
How Much Does it Cost to Swim with Turtles in Barbados?
The cost of swimming with turtles in Barbados can range from $30 to $100 per person. It depends on the guided tour you choose.
What to Expect - When Swimming with Turtles in Barbados?
You can expect a unique and unforgettable experience:
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Encounters with Green and Hawksbill Turtles:
Barbados is home to both green and hawksbill turtles. These majestic creatures are often found in the warm, shallow waters around the island, especially in areas with seagrass beds and coral reefs.
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Clear, Turquoise Waters:
Barbados boasts stunningly clear turquoise waters, which provide excellent visibility for spotting turtles as they swim gracefully beneath the surface.
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Snorkeling Adventure:
You must go for snorkeling to swim with turtles in Barbados. You can get snorkeling gear and enter the water from a boat or the shore to explore the turtles' habitat.
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Close Encounters:
With the expertise of experienced guides, you'll have the opportunity to get up close to the turtles while maintaining a respectful distance. Turtles are generally curious & gentle creatures who may approach you if you're calm and non-threatening.
Tips for Anyone Wanting to Swim With Turtles in Barbados
Heeding the following tips will help to increase your swimming experience with Turtles while also keeping you safe at sea.
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Travel between February and July for the best chance of seeing leatherback turtles; that’s when they migrate to Barbados to nest.
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Travel between May and October for the best chance of seeing green and hawksbill turtles.
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Stay close to the shallow reefs and shipwrecks. That’s where you’re most likely to see turtles in their natural habitat. Just watch out for stingrays and sea urchins near the reefs.
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Always wear a brightly colored flag or floaty when swimming or snorkeling in the ocean. This will make you more visible to passing boats and jet skis.
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Avoid snorkeling after a storm or in the presence of heavy waves.
The expert guides often excel at finding prime viewing spots and can take you to locations where tropical marine life is most abundant. Just be patient, be persistent, and don’t forget your sunscreen.
Where to Stay in Barbados?
You will need a perfect relaxing accommodation while having exciting encounters with Barbados' majestic turtles. Here is where Villaway comes into play.
We offer a collection of stunning villas across Barbados, catering to all travelers. Whether you're a couple seeking romance or a family craving adventure, we have the perfect villa to match your Barbados dream. Our villas, featuring 3 to 12 rooms, are ideal for couples and families. Enjoy your private pool to relax and have fun in the sun.
Want a special meal? Our villas can have a private chef to cook delicious food just for you. With stunning views and all the comforts you could want, our villas promise an unforgettable getaway in beautiful Barbados.
So, what are you waiting for? Explore and book our luxury villa to get the most out of your trip!