Fodor's Expert Review Folkestone Underwater Park & Marine Reserve
The mission of this family-oriented marine park, located just north of Holetown, is to provide high-quality recreational activities in a sustainable way to educate and entertain Barbadians and visitors alike. Facilities include a playground, basketball court, picnic area, beach with lifeguards, and a museum (two rooms with artifacts and photos of how the sea is used for various purposes) that illuminates island marine life. For firsthand viewing, there's an underwater snorkeling trail (equipment rental, $10 for the day) around Dottins Reef, just off the beach in the 2.2-mile (3.5-km) protected marine reserve; nonswimmers can opt for a glass-bottom boat tour. The ship Stavronikita, deliberately sunk in 120 feet of water about a half-mile from shore, is home to myriad fish and a popular dive site. A canteen serves snacks and drinks.