Bequia

Not surprisingly given the pristine white sand and crystal clear waters, much of Bequian life revolves around the island’s stunning beaches.  Here is a list of some of the best, but you can also charter Frienship’s powerboat to explore the area's lesser known beaches.

Friendship Bay

Closest to home, at the foot of the villa, this peaceful spot enjoys its own steady rhythm with fisherman landing their boats here and the occasional person enjoying a stroll or a swim in the calm shallows. The Bequia Beach Hotel with its cocktails and candlelit meals is only a two minute walk along the beach.

Princess Margaret Beach

Even on an island where superlatives regularly trip off the tongue, this beach, with its breathtaking views of Admiralty Bay, is truly special. Framed by cedar, almond and palm trees, it has been historically quite hard to access and, although it’s now be reached via a walkway from town, it remains unspoilt. Snorkel safely here and afterwards check out Jack’s Beach Bar which sits in glorious isolation and is ideal for grabbing a bite over a rum punch.

Lower

Livelier but no less lovely, round the headland from Princess Margaret Beach, you’ll find this stretch of sand that offers slightly more in the way of action. Music from the handful of bars drifting on the breeze is the soundtrack for an afternoon spent swimming and kayaking.

Port Elizabeth

This scenic natural harbour beach is populated with people happily going about their boat-related business and makes a nice diversion after a saunter through the nearby open-air market.

Belmont

The Bequia Plantation hotel at the southern end of the beach is reached via the Belmont Walkway and is perfectly positioned to make the most of the picturesque views. Take in the scenery and tuck into one of the pizza’s from their wood fired oven.

Crescent Beach (also known as Industry Bay)

Located on the east of the island, the sea on the Atlantic side is choppier than the more tranquil waters you’ll find elsewhere on Bequia but this beautiful beach is protected from the rough waves by the reef so it’s a good bet if you want to snorkel.  The restaurant Sugar Reef, which is nestled within a coconut plantation, is also on the same stretch of sand and worth including as a pitstop.

Spring Bay

Right next door to Crescent Beach, the turquoise waters and lush vegetation continue on this pretty palm-fringed beach.

Hope Beach

Also on the east side, this beach is often deserted and because of the Atlantic waves, it’s a great for people who want to make the most of the breakers and hit the surf.

Ravine Bay

This peaceful beach is characterised by its sweeping arc of sand, rocky outcrop and huge waves.

Adams Bay

Head south, away from the airport, and you’ll find this idyllic beach with white, white sand. For swimmers who like company, the waters  are often visited by manta rays.

Bars & Restaurants

Hospitality is in Bequia’s DNA. From Port Elizabeth’s buzzing harbour front to the sleepier shores of Friendship Bay, here’s a list of the best bars and restaurants that will develop a taste for island life.

Mac’s Pizza

A favourite, Always busy, people flock here for pizza and tapas whether it’s to eat in or takeaway. Bag a table on the candlelit terrace overlooking the boardwalk and sea. Try the generous lobster pizza and delicious meatball tapas. 

Jack’s Beach Bar

An institution on the island, this hip spot overlooking the tranquil waters of Princess Margaret Beach has been given a recent facelift but its bohemian charm remains a big draw. Try the tuna salad and the grilled Mahi Mahi.

Papas

Live music is a regular feature in this spot where the views over Admiralty Bay are as delicious as the food. Take a break from fish and try the steak.

Fernandos

Caught and cooked by Fernando, catch of the day served at this hillside restaurant nestled above Lower Bay is a must. Try the calaloo soup and grilled barracuda. We’d always recommend reserving a table.

Plantation House

Pull up by boat or walk along Belmont Walkway to this restaurant set within the Bequia Plantation Hotel at the southern end of Admiralty Bay. Try their wood fire pizzas and cocktails.

Porthole

Head here for the low-key, friendly vibe and traditional Caribbean dishes. Full of West Indian flavour, Mrs Taylor’s roti and rum punch are the best on the island. Just the place for a quick but tasty lunch.

Bagatelle at Bequia Beach Hotel

Cocktails or a candlelit dinner are on your doorstep with this waterside restaurant which is only a short stroll down the beach from Friendship House. They  serve international cuisine with classic Caribbean influences.

Keegans

This barefoot beachside bar was made for whiling away afternoons over piña colada and chicken. Saturday night’s BBQ “Mingle” is always a hit too.

Sugar Reef

Flanked by a coconut plantation and the beach, this beautiful restaurant serves mouthwatering local bites and is the perfect excuse to head to the north of the island, particularly if teamed with a trip to Crescent Beach. 

Firefly

Sister to an equally popular hotel on Mustique, the BBQ and Creole nights are wonderful. This traditional plantation restaurant focusses on ingredients that are home grown, locally sourced and is a favourite with both visitors and local island residents for breakfast, lunch and dinner.