Set on Barbados’ St James coast, The Sandpiper feels close to the island’s best life yet stays calm. You reach historic Holetown in two minutes for chic shops and an easy night out. Bridgetown sits 20 minutes away from markets and rum heritage. Grantley Adams International Airport takes about 45 minutes by car. Back at the hotel, seven acres of seafront gardens frame soft sand and clear water. Sunsets arrive, and the sea stays gentle.

Choose from 50 rooms and suites in lush gardens, some with a plunge pool. Pick a Garden View Room for calm shade, or upgrade to One or Two Bedroom Suites with a kitchen and patio. Tree Top Suites offer sea views, a wet bar, a plunge pool, and a media centre. Beach House Suites are on the oceanfront for sunsets. Each stay includes air conditioning, a fridge, a docking station, a safe, and a hair dryer.

Days at The Sandpiper suit the sea. Enjoy free non-motorised water sports, then drift back for a mid-morning sorbet on the beach. Book a session with the tennis coach Monday to Saturday. Plan a round at Sandy Lane, Royal Westmoreland, or Apes Hill, all within ten minutes. Join the Thursday garden tour for a fresh view of the grounds. Finish with the weekly poolside cocktail party and sunset talk over ice and lime.

Start the day by choosing between two freshwater pools, then visit the Fitness Centre for a light session. Later, Harold’s Beach Bar offers a relaxed spot for lunch by the sand. WIFI keeps plans smooth. The boutique and hairdressing salon are next door at Coral Reef Club, along with the award-winning spa for Natura Bissé care and weekly yoga. Families can use the Coral Reef play house for ages 2 to 8.

Food at The Sandpiper feels fresh and light. The alfresco restaurant serves modern plates with local produce, catch, and fine meats. Enjoy breakfast on your terrace or at the buffet. Lunch is at Harold’s Bar for beachside bites and a sundowner. Dinner offers changing specials and an à la carte list. Room service costs no extra. Sundays feature a barbecue. Wednesdays offer a buffet. You can swap meals with Coral Reef Club.

Celebrate a birthday or anniversary with polished touches at The Sandpiper. Begin with breakfast on your terrace, then have lunch at Harold’s Bar. Choose a Tree Top Suite for a wet bar, starter bar, and plunge pool. Let the personal concierge shape your evening. Beach House Suites can link with Tree Top Suite Curlew to create a three-bedroom villa for your group. New Year’s Eve calls for smart dress at dinner.