Folkestone Marine Park and Visitor Centre

Folkestone Marine Park and Visitor Centre Review

The mission of family-oriented Folkestone Marine Park, a marine protected area just north of Holetown, is to provide high-quality recreational activities in a sustainable way that will educate and entertain Barbadians and visitors alike. Facilities include a playground, basketball court, picnic area, museum, and beach with lifeguards. The museum (two rooms with artifacts and photos of how the sea is used for various purposes) illuminates some of the island's marine life. For some firsthand viewing, there's an underwater snorkeling trail (equipment rental, $10 for the day) around Dottins Reef, just off the beach in the protected marine reserve area; nonswimmers can enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour. A barge sunk in shallow water is home to myriad fish, making it a popular dive site. The park is open around the clock, with full security; lifeguards are on duty at the beach from 9 to 5:30 every day. A canteen serves snacks and drinks.