All beaches in Barbados are public. Every stretch of sand on the island is accessible to everyone, regardless of what hotel or private estate fronts it — access routes are legally required. This is one of the things that makes Barbados stand out from more stratified Caribbean islands.
The character of the beaches changes dramatically depending on which coast you're on.
West coast (the Caribbean side) has the calm, clear water and fine white sand that feature in most of the postcards. Currents are gentle, snorkelling is good, and the water temperature is warm year-round. This is where the big luxury hotels cluster — Sandy Lane, The Sandpiper, Coral Reef Club. The beach in front of Sandy Lane is impeccably maintained and open to all; it's not exactly a crowd-free experience but the water is excellent.
South coast has more energy. The Atlantic rollers wrap around the island's southeastern tip and produce consistent surf suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. Accra Beach (also called Rockley Beach) near Bridgetown is one of the most popular and well-serviced beaches on the island, with beach chairs, bars, and watersports rentals. Worthing and Dovecot beaches are quieter alternatives nearby. The St. Lawrence Gap area is walking distance from several south coast beaches and has the island's liveliest nightlife.
East coast is exposed to the full force of the Atlantic. The waves are powerful and the currents are strong — swimming is dangerous and not recommended at most east coast beaches. What you get instead is dramatic scenery: crashing surf, rocky outcrops, and green hillsides running down to the shore. Bathsheba, a small village on the east coast, is the spiritual home of Barbadian surfing; the large mushroom-shaped rock formations offshore are iconic. Surfers come for the Soup Bowl, a world-class break just north of the village.
Crane Beach on the southeast coast is consistently rated among the most beautiful on the island. Sheltered by cliffs, with pinkish-tinged sand and turquoise water, it's accessible via the Crane Resort (which charges a fee to non-guests for use of their facilities, but the beach itself is free).
Bath Beach on the east coast is one of the few east coast beaches where swimming is safe — a shallow, reef-protected bay with calm water. Lifeguards are on duty. There are changing facilities, picnic tables, and a small restaurant.