Ocean Spray Beach Apartments

The Ocean Spray Beach Apartments has an elegant reception with arched doorways and wooden doors that open to floor-to-ceiling white stone, wooden and wicker seating, and a small lending library. Other than the lobby, common areas include a small open-air restaurant area, a water sports center for surfing and kiteboarding rentals and lessons, and a lovely lawn area with funky sun loungers next to the water. The ocean views are gorgeous from multiple vantage points, including some rooms, and this part of the coast gets a steady breeze. Notably, the resort tries to offset their carbon footprint with recycling and compost bins, and food served in the restaurant comes from their garden. The affordable prices and laid-back vibe attract travelers who prefer a quiet setting over proximity to dining, shopping, and nightlife. The area's many surfing schools and excellent surf spots unsurprisingly also bring in lots of surfers. 

The Ocean Spray Beach Apartments are on the southern coast of Barbados in the parish of Christ Church -- about a 15-minute drive to the airport in one direction and a 15-minute drive to Bridgetown (the capital) in the other. For those who rent a car, there is a free parking lot, otherwise most choose to take a taxi from the airport and use the local bus system to get around. 

The surrounding residential area is quiet with little in the way of restaurants and nightlife, though there are a few secluded beaches within a 10-minute walk. North of the hotel are several more excellent beaches such Crane, Bottom’s Bay, and Harrismith (the staff can help with directions) and several beaches along the south and west coasts. It takes about a five-minute walk to get to the nearest bus stop, which costs just $1 and travels to several areas in Barbados such as Oistins (10 minutes) for their popular weekly fish fry. Guests can also connect to other buses heading to Holetown -- a lively hub of Barbados with chic restaurants and shopping plazas for groceries, clothing boutiques, and banks.

A small shop within a 10-minute walk of the property sells grocery basics, but larger supermarkets will require a drive or bus ride.

This small property has 25 units that range from studios to three-bedroom units, all of which have pleasant but varying furnishings. Rooms have either terra-cotta or stone tiling, wooden or wicker furniture, and white walls. Though some furnishings are dated and in general show wear and tear, island-inspired artwork and decorative objects such as painted plant-motif plates give the spaces a cozy vibe. All rooms have balconies or patios with a table and chairs and full or partial sea views. Studios have kitchenettes and two-person dining tables, while apartments have full kitchens and living areas with ample seating. All kitchen areas are equipped with fridges, stovetops, ovens, cookware, and dishes.

Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms have walk-in showers and basic toiletries, and both bath and beach towels are provided. Three-Bedrooms Apartments add dishwashers and dining tables that can seat up to eight people. 

Though the ocean views are sensational from the resort, guests should know that the hotel's particular stretch of coast is rocky and lacks sand, and there's no pool. There is, however, a pretty lawn area with a few different varieties of loungers facing the turquoise waves. Guests who want to swim can walk five to 10 minutes to nearby beaches that are more suitable for swimming, or take the bus to Miami Beach near Oistins. All beaches in Barbados are open to the public. 

Many come to Ocean Spray for the surfing since it is located directly in front of Surfer’s Point. Additionally, there are some great beginner spots nearby such as Freight’s Bay. Next door to the property is Zed’s Surfing Adventure for lessons and rentals, while nearby Silver Sands has windsurfing and kitesurfing available in the winter months. Ocean Spray has a seasonal kiteboarding school on-site, which also offers surfing and paddleboarding. An open-air yoga pavilion is available for self-practice, and there are occasional group classes.

The on-site restaurant Mamu's Cafe prepares a continental breakfast buffet every morning for a fee, while lunch consists of salads, sandwiches, and burgers. During select nights, the restaurant serves a themed dinner such as Indian or barbecue; guests have to reserve spots in advance. The resort's garden provides much of the fruits and vegetables for the restaurant.

Wi-Fi is free but unreliable in certain areas.