Divi Southwinds Beach Resort is a roomy, relaxed and value-minded base on the lively south coast of Barbados, in the parish of Christ Church near St Lawrence Gap. It has 116 rooms and suites set in landscaped grounds that run down to a long stretch of white sand between Dover Beach and Rockley Beach. Unlike the west coast's intimate luxury hotels, this is a place that works for families and groups: three outdoor pools, a playground, mini golf, tennis courts and a spa keep everyone busy, and rooms come with patios and kitchens, so you can eat in when you want. Guests praise the friendly staff and the comfortable rooms, and it rates well for the price. The Gap's restaurants and nightlife are within a short ride, and the south coast's more dependable winds and livelier sea suit windsurfers and kitesurfers as well as swimmers.
The rooms
Each has air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a safe, a television with satellite channels, a patio, a refrigerator and a kitchen. A kitchen is the main reason to choose this resort over a standard hotel, because you can shop at a local supermarket, cook breakfast and keep snacks cold, which keeps the cost down over a long stay.
Rollaway beds and cribs are available for a small daily charge. The resort's rooms vary by size and location, so request a ground-floor or upper-floor room depending on how much you want to hear the pool and how many stairs you are willing to climb.
Food, pools and activities
Two restaurants serve breakfast, lunch and dinner with light fare and a happy hour, there is a coffee shop and a terrace, and beachfront dining makes sunset easy. The three outdoor pools have sun loungers, the on-site spa offers massage, aromatherapy and manicures, and the sports options include mini golf, tennis courts and a playground. A hair salon, babysitting for a fee and meeting rooms round out the services.
Free parking and free Wi-Fi are included. The beach has white sand, sun loungers and beach umbrellas, and the water is generally gentle enough for most swimmers, though conditions vary and it is wise to check with staff. A stroll along the shore takes you to Dover Beach, a hawksbill turtle nesting area at certain times of year.
What to know before you book
The south coast is busier and noisier than the west, and St Lawrence Gap has bars and music into the night, so ask for a quieter room if you are a light sleeper. Check-in begins at 4 PM and check-out is at 10 AM, which is earlier than at many hotels, so plan flights and transfers accordingly. The minimum check-in age is 21, pets are not allowed, and the premises are smoke-free.
Seaweed can wash onto south and east coast beaches in some seasons, so check conditions when you book. Grantley Adams International Airport is a short taxi ride away, and buses on the main road make it easy to reach Bridgetown, though a taxi is simpler after dark. Check the final total including taxes before you pay.
Why stay here
- ✓Beachfront between Dover and Rockley beaches
- ✓Three outdoor pools
- ✓Two restaurants and a coffee shop
- ✓Kitchens and patios in rooms
- ✓On-site spa
- ✓Mini golf and tennis courts
- ✓Playground for children
- ✓Free parking and Wi-Fi
Good questions
Can I cook in the rooms?+
Yes. Rooms are described as having kitchens and refrigerators, which suits longer stays and families. Check the room type when you book, since facilities can vary.
Is it close to restaurants and nightlife?+
St Lawrence Gap's restaurants and bars are a short ride or walk along the coast, so you can dine out without a long taxi trip. Ask for a quieter room if you want an early night.
What time is check-out?+
Check-out is at 10 AM, earlier than at many hotels, and check-in starts at 4 PM. Confirm timings when you book if you have a late flight.
