The island's beaches are all open to the public — even those in front of the big resort hotels and private homes — and the government requires that there be access to all beaches via roads along the property line or through hotel entrances. The beaches on the west coast — also known as the Gold Coast, or in recent years, Platinum Coast  — are the most popular.

On the West (Platinum) Coast

The waters are calm here. Major beaches include Paynes Bay, which is accessed from the Coach House, south of Holetown, and has a parking area. This is a good choice for watersports, especially snorkeling. The beach can get rather crowded, but the beautiful bay is worth the effort. Directly south of Payne's Bay, at Fresh Water Bay, are three of the best west-coast beaches: Brighton Beach, Brandon's Beach, and Paradise Beach.

We also recommend Mullins Beach, where the glassy-blue waters attract snorkelers. There's parking on the main road and some shady areas. At the Mullins Beach Bar, you can order that rum drink you've been craving.