Top Hotels in Saint James Parish
- 1. Beach View
- 2. Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels
- 3. Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive
- 4. Coral Reef Club
- 5. Fairmont Royal Pavilion
- 6. Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels
- 7. Colony Club by Elegant Hotels
- 8. The Sandpiper
- 9. The House by Elegant Hotels
- 10. Tamarind by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive
Top Things to do in Saint James Parish
The 10 best hotels in Saint James Parish, Caribbean
Discover the best hotels in Saint James Parish, Barbados including Beach View, Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels, Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive, Coral Reef Club, Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels, Colony Club by Elegant Hotels, The Sandpiper, The House by Elegant Hotels, Tamarind by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive.
Things to do in Saint James Parish
1. Beach View
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1775 reviews
Beach View is a family run hotel, nestled on five acres of lushly landscaped gardens, just across the road from the stunning turquoise waters of Paynes Bay. Accommodations include spacious 1, 2 & 3 bedroom classic & luxury suites with full kitchens, fully-equipped two-storey garden villas & well-appointed hotel rooms. The property features four pools, including one for children. There is also a poolside, open-air cafe serving breakfast, lunch & dinner as well as a spa, salon & on-site gym. Conveniences such as free WiFi throughout, car rental on site, pre-arrival grocery stocking and the help of a knowledgeable concierge team, will further ensure that your holiday is as memorable as possible.
Not so happy this time
Reviewed By FilV2014We have been guests at Beach View for a number of years both before and after it had an extension. The property is on the lovely calm west coast in St James, on Paynes Bay. On the opposite side of the main road outside is Paynes Bay beach, which is relatively small, but sandy and safe for swimming. The road is narrow two way and is generally not so busy except in the early morning and evening. A pedestrian crossing is 50 metres to the right opposite the small fish market, however most Bajan drivers are polite and will stop if they see you waiting to cross outside the hotel. When the tide is out there is considerably more sand. At the back of the beach to the right, the small fish market has one counter, where you can buy fresh fish brought in the early morning by a few small boats. We have not noticed any unpleasant smells, especially as there is generally a prevailing offshore wind. Should a bigger beach be required, then it is a short walk around the beach to the right and over a small wooden bridge across a storm gully. This is a public beach that stretches all the way to Holetown and passes behind some prestigious hotels like the Tamarind. The road outside is a bus route which is handy for those without cars and both government buses and yellow buses stop outside. Yellow buses sometimes have loud exhausts, blaring reggae music or air horns, but they come and go quite quickly and we do not find them too intrusive when relaxing at the lower pool. At the upper pool in the extended part of the hotel they are much less noticeable. The property has a gate guard and the gardens and pools are kept in very good order. There is ample parking on site. All of the apartments are kept in first class order and have fully equipped kitchens with all utensils. At one time the reception was a small office at the front of the original property, but now there is a much bigger office and gift shop. Normally the office manager, the owner’s daughter, is there, but on this occasion she was absent due to illness and the staff on duty, although pleasant, were not really aware that we were long returning guests. The personal touch was missing. This became obvious on our last day when we asked for a late check out by 1½ to 2 hours as our flight was at 17.30. The receptionist said that our room was booked for guests arriving that afternoon, so it was not possible. I noticed the arrivals sheet and our room was allocated. We asked if there was an alternative empty room, or one recently vacated but not serviced, as we had been allocated such in the past when our own room was needed. She said she would look and would ring us by 10am (when we said that we would go to the pool for the last time). No call was received. We returned from the pool to our room and were preparing to vacate it by 12.00, when at 11.50 there was a loud banging on the door and three rude, over eager, cleaners said they were there to clean our room, implying that we were turned out. They waited outside and watched as we left. They appeared not to trust that we would leave on the dot of 12.00. We went to hand back the room access cards to reception and the receptionist said that she could not offer us another temporary room. Her attitude gave the impression that she had not tried. What a disappointing end to an otherwise enjoyable stay. Another thing that we should point out is the phenomenon of noisy kites. In all our years of staying at Beach View, this has not manifested itself before. On both days of the weekend while we were there, and on occasions during the week, several kites were flown on very long strings from properties on the hill behind the hotel. There is a prevailing, offshore wind and once the kites were up and above the hotel or the beach just across the road, they were tethered and left all day. Each kite was fitted with a wind operated noise generator and individually they emitted loud sounds like a motorbike, a jet ski, demented bee, etc. which was very annoying while sitting poolside with them maybe 20 to 30 metres above. They far outweigh any noise that may emanate from passing traffic in terms of nuisance value. Occasionally another kite with a different noise would appear. The noise was still audible while sitting on the balcony outside our room. This problem ia apparently common across Barbados and not restricted to Paynes Bay, with the police unable or unwilling to act.
2. Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 912 reviews
New to the award winning Elegant Hotels Group family in Barbados, the redesigned all-inclusive Waves Hotel and Spa is located on a stretch of white pristine beach on the Platinum West Coast of the island. The oceanfront hotel offers a unique getaway where the all-inclusive experience goes beyond premium accommodation and versatile dining. The focus on mind & wellness, freshly prepared dishes, artistic and local activities provides an opportunity for guests to unwind and reconnect. This eco-chic wellness hotel caters to those seeking a mind and body holiday: whether guests are looking for a serene, adult-only escape in the dedicated spa side of the property or a high-energy communal oceanfront lounge setting, the 70 room hotel offers an authentic Barbados experience for all ages. Elegant Inclusions with each stay provide complimentary motorized and non-motorized water sports, WiFi, all meals and beverages, fitness center, yoga, bespoke daily activities plus a complimentary water taxi.
Wonderful Stay
Reviewed By MullwiGreat Small Hotel. We stayed across the street in the adults only section. If you can afford a pool view room rather than standard, it is well worth it. We had beautiful room with balcony overlooking the pool. Even caught a glimpse of some monkeys playing early one morning which was fun. Jacqueline was frequently at the front desk and we chatted with her several nights. She wasn’t working one night and we missed seeing her. Beautiful huge porch over looking water off of the beautiful lobby and terrace area. Used water taxi several times to visit other hotels. Hard to describe how great it is, but we hope to go back again!
3. Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2391 reviews
"An enchanting blend of vitality and Caribbean charm." A colorful and vibrant beachfront all-inclusive property with 88 rooms offering a seductive Caribbean charm that will make you feel at home from the moment you arrive. Crystal Cove's warm, relaxed ambience and friendly service which includes all-inclusive accommodation as well as a supervised Kids Club (for children aged 3-11) appeals to families and couples of all ages, many of whom return there year after year. Elegant Inclusions with each stay are all meals and beverages, motorized water sports, Wi-F, fitness center, tennis , bespoke daily activities and superior pool & beach ambassador service. Experience select sister west coast properties via daytime water taxi and enjoy additional dining outlets and amenities.
Another great stay at Crystal Cove
Reviewed By timmM6851JPThis was our second visit to Crystal Cove in the past 12 months, and we enjoyed it just as much second time around! The resort is in our opinion the most "fun" of the Elegant Hotels chain, with a beautiful beach, multiple pools and two good quality restaurants offering both buffet and A La Carte options. We loved dinners at Drifters, sat right on the ocean, and spending the days lounging with views of the beautiful Caribbean. Cocktails are always great, and the rooms while a little old-style well maintained, but you're probably not going to spend much time there! We also really enjoyed the dine around programme, and had a dinner at Treasure Beach and Tamarind during our stay and Waves on our previous visit, which is a nice scene change especially if you have a longer visit. But the part that makes Crystal Cove so special is the staff - everyone we have interacted with has always been so wonderfully kind and genuine. Special mentions on our most recent visit to Kathy in reflections who definitely kept us on our toes, Jensel in the bar who is so friendly and easy to talk to, and Antonette on reception who makes sure everything you need happens! But in general a huge thanks to all the staff. We can't wait to come back next year for our third visit!
4. Coral Reef Club
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 605 reviews
Set amidst twelve acres of beautifully landscaped gardens on the calm West Coast of Barbados, Coral Reef Club is the epitome of West Indian elegance. This family owned and run luxury resort renowned for its special ambiance and classic island style. A five star hotel, it is one of the finest in the Caribbean. Accommodations are traditionally designed with wooden balustrading, fretwork and shuttered windows. Fine dining and personal service are a high priority at this "Small Luxury Hotel of the World".
Impressive old world charm meets modern style
Reviewed By TokyoJimmyThe Coral Reef is impressive, it has kept its old-world charm whilst being modern and stylish. My wife and I decided to book the Coral Reef Club as the world came out of lockdown, after watching the old 80’s BBC adaptation of Miss Marple’s ‘A Caribbean Mystery’ which was filmed in the hotel and wanting some luxury indulgence. Our impressions of the hotel were impressive from the start, as I asked them to arrange a three day car hire before we arrived which they did efficiently and with no issues with the excellent Holetown firm of Ballantyne’s. All the staff at the hotel whether in the bar, dining room, housekeeping, gardeners or reception are extremely friendly and eager to help. They always delivered what we wanted, from sorting our bill the night before departure to passing messages on to our travel firm. Our check in was smooth and quick, we were shown to our garden view room and offered a complimentary rum punch. Our room was comfortable and large with a fan and air conditioning, a small wall safe, plenty of drawer and wardrobe space, lots of hangers, hairdryer, a large comfortable bed, cold water and a toaster (in case you want breakfast in your room) and an iron and ironing board. We also had a nice veranda with chairs, table, loungers, rack for drying swimwear and a small fridge, which was very good for storing cold drinks. There are no TV’s in the rooms which we were aware of at the time of booking, but there is a TV lounge somewhere on site. The bathroom was also large, with two sinks, shaving/vanity mirror and we thought we were lucky enough to have a shower/bath as few garden view rooms appeared to. This shower/bath was one of the few downsides to our stay as the bath had a large marble surround, around eight inches wide, which made getting in and out of the bath a bit of a hurdle, but it also meant that each time you showered a large amount of water pooled and because the shower screen was too small, and the rubber seal at the bottom of it too short, unless a convoluted system of beach towels and bath mat was rigged by housekeeping and ourselves, a small flood appeared in the bathroom. It became highly tedious to spend every morning and evening after a shower to mop up this flood. The only other downside to the room was the Wi-Fi, which was fine in terms of strength, but I was thrown out of it every time that I put my phone lock screen on, so I had to keep logging in. The property has a large pool which was quiet and fine for swimming during our stay, and an excellent beach front, with plenty of loungers, attentive service, and a very suitable stretch of sea to take a dip in. The breakfast offers plenty of choice, from cereals, fruit, eggs, waffles and pancakes made to order, hot choices and toast. They need to work on the tea, it’s a little weak! You can have as much or as little as you want. The restaurant has a menu that changes daily, we ate there once and found the food well-presented and cooked, and there was a wide choice of dishes, but it was pricey even by Barbados prices and the portions on the smallish side. Service was very good. The bar has a great view of the beach, sea (particularly at sunset) and Holetown in the distance, but be careful of where you sit after a rain shower as they don’t move the chairs and I got very soggy trousers after discovering this the hard way after sitting on a seat that I didn’t realise had been left out. The local town in a 15-minute walk by road or beach, and it offers alternative places to eat, pubs, supermarkets and other shops to suit all tastes and budgets. The Coral Reef Club also has on site parking, a spa, a tennis pro and some water sports. It’s a highly relaxing place to stay and we very much enjoyed our stay. Overall it was the luxury stay we wanted and we had a great time.
5. Fairmont Royal Pavilion
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1578 reviews
All of our newly renovated 72 Beachfront Suites and Oceanfront Rooms offer unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea. Our Three Bedroom Villa is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offers garden views from the bedrooms and ocean views from two terraces. All balconies and terraces feature comfortable furnishings, making this the perfect spot to enjoy magnificent vistas, whilst relaxing on the sun loungers, or enjoying a private candlelight dinner. All rooms offer comfortable Fairmont beds, flat screen TVs and refreshment centre. Fairmont Royal Pavilion has re-imagined it's room categories with all categories being inclusive of Airport Fast Track and Breakfast. All suite categories will be further enhanced with butler service, luxury airport transfers and more.
Great Beach, Good enough room, spotty service, worn out property, horrible Internet access
Reviewed By jeffreyrN6093PXThe beach where the property is located is beautiful. The rooms were fine and clean, although looking very aged and in need of refresh like the rest of the resort. I have been to many Fairmont hotels in the past and this was NOT a Fairmont experience. Our room came with a butler that did not show up until the last day at the property. Internet (considered a basic requirement) is UNUSEABLE throughout the property. Service was mixed with some employees (20%) that were happy to serve and showed it. All other employees treated us with complete disdain and horrible service. (Hotel is employeeing people w/6 month contracts which shows). Food was fine, but the location where we had to eat on a number of days allowed the buffet to be subject to the outside heat and bugs. The location changed halfway in to our stay where it improved by the food being located in an air conditioned area. I am an avid traveler and understand that “things” can happen during a stay, but it is how the employees react that makes all the difference. The hotel is NOT a 4 or 5 star experience. 3.5 would be the score. We will not be back to this property and are not sure if we will be staying at a Farimont again after being acquired by Accor. If you are looking for a high level of service and a beautiful fresh resort in Barbados look elsewhere (Sandylane may be a better choice)
6. Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 912 reviews
New to the award winning Elegant Hotels Group family in Barbados, the redesigned all-inclusive Waves Hotel and Spa is located on a stretch of white pristine beach on the Platinum West Coast of the island. The oceanfront hotel offers a unique getaway where the all-inclusive experience goes beyond premium accommodation and versatile dining. The focus on mind & wellness, freshly prepared dishes, artistic and local activities provides an opportunity for guests to unwind and reconnect. This eco-chic wellness hotel caters to those seeking a mind and body holiday: whether guests are looking for a serene, adult-only escape in the dedicated spa side of the property or a high-energy communal oceanfront lounge setting, the 70 room hotel offers an authentic Barbados experience for all ages. Elegant Inclusions with each stay provide complimentary motorized and non-motorized water sports, WiFi, all meals and beverages, fitness center, yoga, bespoke daily activities plus a complimentary water taxi.
Wonderful Stay
Reviewed By MullwiGreat Small Hotel. We stayed across the street in the adults only section. If you can afford a pool view room rather than standard, it is well worth it. We had beautiful room with balcony overlooking the pool. Even caught a glimpse of some monkeys playing early one morning which was fun. Jacqueline was frequently at the front desk and we chatted with her several nights. She wasn’t working one night and we missed seeing her. Beautiful huge porch over looking water off of the beautiful lobby and terrace area. Used water taxi several times to visit other hotels. Hard to describe how great it is, but we hope to go back again!
7. Colony Club by Elegant Hotels
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1031 reviews
Colony Club is a boutique hotel in Barbados that features elegant inclusions with luxurious island flair. Located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados.
10 Nights of Pure Bliss
Reviewed By Phil JWe had an absolutely brilliant time at this hotel. Right from the moment we arrived up until the time we departed it was just awesome. The location is brilliant, the food delicious and the staff super friendly. In fact their near constant laughing was infectious. One of the very few hotels that we'd happily revisit.
8. The Sandpiper
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 412 reviews
Everyone needs a place to lay their weary head. For travelers visiting Saint James Parish, The Sandpiper is an excellent choice for rest and rejuvenation. Well-known for its luxury environment and proximity to great restaurants and attractions, The Sandpiper makes it easy to enjoy the best of Saint James Parish. Guest rooms offer air conditioning, a refrigerator, and a kitchenette, and Sandpiper Barbados makes getting online easy as free wifi is available. You can also take advantage of some of the amenities offered by the hotel, including room service and a concierge. In addition, guests can enjoy a pool and free breakfast during their visit. As an added convenience, there is free parking available to guests. While you’re here, be sure to check out Lemongrass Noodle Bar & Grill, one of the Thai restaurants that can be found in Saint James Parish, which is a short distance from The Sandpiper Hotel. During your visit, be sure to check out St. James Parish Church (0.1 mi), which is a popular attraction within walking distance of the hotel. Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure or both, The Sandpiper is sure to make your visit to Saint James Parish one worth remembering.
Simply beautiful
Reviewed By MiaNicollIt’s our final day at the sandpiper and we simply don’t want to leave. This really is a heavenly tranquil place to stay. In our case it was for part of our honeymoon choice and we leave for sugar hill today to experience villa life. We stayed in the Wimbryl suite which is elegantly furnished and has the comfiest bed ever with a beautiful large well equipped bathroom. The outdoor area of the suite is super private with your own dining and bar area and plunge pool. Some days we’ve not moved. The whole hotel is elegantly furnished but in a low key kind of way. There are really so many aspects that make the Sandpiper a beautiful choice for any holiday I’m Barbodos but here’s what stands out for us - 1. Location - located on a beautiful Sandy beach and within walking distance to Holetown for the shops and restaurants. It’s gated and private, secluded and safe. 2. Staff - without doubt the staff are truly happy wonderful people. Obviously employee satisfaction is very high and they are respected and cared for by the management team. Shaunette, Colin, Ricardo, Jamal, Jason are just some of the people who’ve helped make our stay memorable - helpful, happy, respectful, fun. 3. Food and service - outstanding quality and impeccably presented. Breakfasts are incredible. From the crisp white linen, to the iced water, fresh fruits, coconut, pastries, eggs, fresh juices - everything is truly fabulous. Lunch we often had in our suite - can highly recommend the shrimp Caesar salad and dinner in the restaurant is romantic and tastefully managed. Low lighting, flame torches light the perimeter of the restaurant, large colonial wooden fans keep you cool. I would not hesitate to return. X
9. The House by Elegant Hotels
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 836 reviews
The House experience begins when guests enter along an enchanting private driveway, with lily ponds and walls of blossoming bougainvillea, which capture the essence of tranquillity and the promise of pure indulgence ahead. Guests are treated to stunning views of its white sandy beach and the glistening Caribbean sea all while receiving spoiling 24/7 personal ambassador service. Included in each stay is daily champagne breakfast, 30 minute jet lag massage, afternoon tea and evening canapés along with daily bespoke activities, WiFi, water sports and the ultimate location to take in the most unforgettable sunsets.
Marmite (you’ll love it or….)
Reviewed By aesurgI wasn’t going to write a review but having emailed management directly and received not even an acknowledgment then I thought I’d submit a review instead since they appear to comment on reviews. I guess there are 2 or 3 things which I’d highlight as being positive. But equally several things (in my opinion) which are negatives. As many have said, most of the staff are very good, friendly and try their best to be helpful. The location of the hotel is great - literally step out of the hotel and you’re on the lovely West coast beach. It’s located within a short walk of the sister hotels (Tamarind and Treasure Beach) which is great when you want to eat elsewhere some evenings. And you will want to! The water taxi is a lovely experience and a great way of getting to other parts of that side of the island. The buffet style breakfast we felt was great. No issues with what was offered. And now to the negatives. Our main issue was with the “Ambassador” system the hotel operates. For some, it works. For us and several other guests, it didn’t work. My understanding is that any ambassador is empowered to assist you; deal with queries; book things and generally make it feel like you’re staying in their house. Our experience wasn’t quite like that. We arrived and no one was there to greet us. There’s no reception or front desk. Eventually someone came to us. With very little welcome we were shown to our room and that was it. No explanation of how the hotel “works”, no welcome pack. It was only by us asking other guests and eventually cornering one of the ambassadors the next day that we got the welcome and information we should’ve got on arrival. Not the best of starts. The jet lag massage we were given a booking for day 3 of our stay. A great massage and definitely worth having but…..jet lag?? The rooms, bathrooms and hotel in general are not luxury or 5 star. They are fine and comfortable. But not the standard we’d expected. Similarly the sun loungers. They need replacing. And yes - you do need to get down at sunrise if you want one round the pool! There was no hot water for 24hrs in our room. And no shower gel. Both issues were raised with ambassadors more than once before being fixed. Similarly, housekeeping was very hit or miss. Some days coffee cups were washed some days not. Some days coffee pods, minibar was restocked. Some days not. The evening meal provided at the hotel wasn’t of a standard we were expecting. And I think the very poor attendance at dinner would suggest others shared our opinion. Yes, you can use the restaurants at sister hotels. That has to be booked in advance….via the ambassadors. We did that 3 times. Once the booking was not at the time we’d requested and the other twice, the restaurant had no record of our booking. But on all 3 occasions the food was better and worth making the effort to visit their restaurants. One Saturday afternoon we wanted some assistance with the umbrella on the poolside but ALL the staff were busy watching football on the tv. So, lots of little niggles and (with no management in sight) things which couldn’t be mentioned at the time or resolved. As I said, reviews would suggest lots of people loved the place but we didn’t. Nor did several guests we spoke to while we were there. We loved Barbados and had a great time. But I think that’s more in spite of our experience at The House than because of it. If we went back to Barbados we’d stay elsewhere.
10. Tamarind by Elegant Hotels - All-Inclusive
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1536 reviews
Tamarind rests on a premium West Coast beach and features premium guest rooms, an intimate spa and relaxation space, and two restaurants. Contemporary sun loungers, day beds, and decks transform outdoor spaces into outdoor 'living rooms' providing flexible spaces for dining, drinking, relaxing, and events. Complimentary features include motorized and non-motorized watersports, daily buffet breakfast, WiFi in rooms and throughout property, fitness center and classes, and water taxi to other Elegant Hotels' west coast properties.
A fantastic hotel in a breath-taking location
Reviewed By amyhR6725RGAfter reading a few negative reviews about The Tamarind on Trip Advisor we were slightly nervous about our holiday and I even spoke to our travel agent about swapping to another hotel. I am SO glad we stuck with The Tamarind. From its perfect West Coast location on a stunning beach with its very own coral reef, to the beautiful outside dining area where you can enjoy the spectacular Barbados’ sunsets, this hotel definitely exceeded our expectations. It has a very chilled out vibe, but with two family-friendly swimming pools, my young children had an awesome holiday alternating between playing in the pools and swimming in the calm and crystal clear seas. They also liked popping into the Kids’ Club for an hour or two of chill out time in the afternoon. During our stay we made the most of the hotel’s dine around programmes and visited two of its other hotels for lunch, Crystal Cove and Turtle Beach. Visiting these hotels made us so glad that we’d stuck with The Tamarind! While Crystal Cove is a lovely hotel it felt a lot more crammed in and we weren’t so keen on the feel of the restaurants. Turtle Beach really was a disappointment, and it felt more like a cheap Spanish hotel than a premium Barbados one. The buffet lunch had huge queues and half the food had run out and hadn’t been refilled, while the other half was cold and soggy. The beach is lovely and big, but the water is often too rough to venture into. Back to The Tamarind, and another well-used highlight for us was the inclusive water sports. The team were really helpful and even got my 7-year-old son water skiing - which he was ecstatic about. We also took out the sail boats and tried the banana boats, rings and wakeboarding. When we went it was very easy to book a slot with lots of availability. Through the hotel you can also book a boot trip to snorkel with turtles and both my children (and us) had an unforgettable morning, made even better by an entertaining captain and guide. The only reason for giving the hotel 4 stars, instead of 5 was that we felt the food and drinks could’ve been better. In general it was good, but it felt like more buffets than I was expecting and it would’ve been nice to enjoy more A La Carte dinners. Also on the drinks front, the cocktails felt very weak compared to what you bought at an actual bar. We ended up buying a nice bottle of rose and some beers from the garage across the road. That being said, I think this is all fairly standard for an All Inclusive holiday. What I would recommend is that you make the most of being able to book into The Positano restaurant next door to the hotel. The food is lovely and the service fantastic. Overall an amazing holiday and we’ll definitely be returning to The Tamarind.
