The East and North coasts of Barbados meet the Atlantic Ocean where huge waves crash along the shore and coral reefs. This coast is not recommended for swimming except for a few of the very protected bays. There are strong currents and fierce waves beating on the rugged coral to create a spectacle of power of a wild and rugged sea. If you love the sea at its wildest you must visit the East Coast, but don't swim unless you are with someone who knows the area well.

Here you will find seas of gentle waves for body surfing and tumbling in the water. There are rollers for surfing with buggy boards and surfboards and some of the best windsurfing in the world. Annual surfing competitions and international surfing meets are held on both the South and East Coasts.

Generally the seas on the West coast are the calmest, but good, safe, quiet swimming is available in the many tranquil bays along the South West and the South that touch the Caribbean Sea. If you like calm waters with a soft sandy bottom, then the West Coast is probably the best of these conditions, but seasonal variations can cause things to change.

There are no nude beaches and all beaches are open to the public. Nudism is actually illegal.  Barbados has a history of conservative British tradition and Barbadians are not comfortable undressing or seeing other undress on public beaches.

Selling goods to tourists on the beach is a regulated practice in Barbados. Vendors are not permitted to roam the beach and set up shop out of a carrying case. If you are bothered by a vendor, report it to the police. Most of Barbados' favourite beaches are patrolled by police, but they cannot be everywhere and it is prudent not to leave valuables unattended.

All beaches in Barbados are open to the public. Properties which front onto a beach may own the land to the high-water mark only. Access to the beach is a right for every Barbadian and many of the sea front properties must provide a public right of way across their land to the ocean.

Barbados is a coral island and its beaches are made from finely ground coral forming a clean fine grain. There are few beaches that are not fine sand. Generally if there is a beach on the shore, it is beautiful sand. Natural sand dunes are not common but some exist in Long Bay on the South West Coast.

Swimming with a whale shark is the experience of a lifetime - a unique wildlife interaction that will live with you forever. Between April and early July, the professional and friendly 3 Islands crew will make sure your whale shark encounter is extremely enjoyable, totally memorable. Cruising close to the surface the whale shark presents incredible opportunities for snorkellers of all ages. From your initial snorkel on the reef to swimming with a whale shark, be amazed by the colourful corals, diversity of fish and so much more.

You may also see manta rays, turtles, dolphins, occasional whales and maybe even a dugong. It's all part of your magical 3 Islands experience. Our whale shark tours include everything! All snorkel gear and wetsuits, lunch, snacks and refreshments as well as courtesy transfers to and from the tour. Our safety zodiac is in the water while you swim and a spotter plane helps guide us to Whale Sharks. Draw Card has a spacious, shaded deck, seating, a marlin board for easy entry to the water and a large toilet/change area. Andy, our on-board videographer will record your experience to create a lasting memento of your day for you to purchase.

To join our surfing safaris which operate between July and October, get a group together and we'll take you to rarely surfed waves on Ningaloo Reef or to the remote islands north of Exmouth. Snorkel and fishing gear is on board for your use. Surfing safaris can be tailored to your requirements. Fishing charters from July to March include day tours for up to 12 or, for live aboards, the vessel sleeps 8 on full size bunks.

Exclusive day charters for groups up to ten also available. Fishing gear is supplied or bring your own if you prefer. For a trip with a difference join us on the outback coast of Western Australia.