Silver Point Hotel

A drive through the sparse residential area of southern Barbados eventually arrives at Silver Point Hotel, which straddles two sides of the road with two white three-story buildings. On the beach side, the hotel unfolds down a timber boardwalk framed with lush palms and landscaped gardens past the main building where the reception (and any formalities) are aptly hidden out of the way. The boardwalk culminates at the hotel’s main chilling area -- where the jellybean-shaped sky blue pool; two-story open-air restaurant and bar; and ocean front rooms wrap around a giant sundeck set right over the water. Neon green accents (like planter pots), mature palms, and white canopy daybeds for two, line the deck with a tropical-boutique vibe that feels more Bali than Barbados. Guests (many kite-surfers), appreciate the calmness of this place -- it’s the perfect chill zone for those craving time out, and the ultimate action spot for wind-seeking water-sporters. There’s not a lot of action at the hotel itself, but guests appreciate the nonstop colorful activity out front as wind and kite surfers (en masse) dance across windswept aqua waters. The party crowd, and those seeking nightlife and restaurants should head farther north or be prepared to drive/catch cabs -- but those keen to unwind away from it all will revel in the tranquility here.

Silver Point Hotel is located right on Silver Point Beach, on the southern edge of Barbados, 15 minutes from Grantley Adams International Airport. It’s around a 10-minute drive to Oistins, which comes alive every Friday night for the famous weekly “Fish Fry”; and 15 minutes to the island’s nightlife hub, St Lawrence Gap. There’s not much within walking distance, other than the beach -- that is gusty and more suited to kite-surfers and wind-surfers than sun bathers and swimmers. On-site parking is provided, and reception will organize cabs if required. The hotel is quite out of the way and hard to find given lack of signage, so those driving themselves down should get a clear idea of where to go in advance, and guests seeking transport could consider booking the hotel's taxi to avoid getting lost. 

The hotel offers a range of One and Two Bedrooms, Studios, Lofts, and Suites in Ocean Front or Part Ocean View categories. Simple yet stylish interiors blend contrasting dark browns and fresh whites in flooring, furniture, and fabrics. Higher categories have living areas with sofa beds, and all rooms open onto furnished balconies or terraces. Bedrooms feature blackout curtains, comfortable king beds, and air-conditioning -- conducive to a good night’s sleep. Living areas don’t have AC, which may annoy some guests. However, most rooms can pick up a good, refreshing breeze by simply pulling back the doors. All rooms feature flat-screen cable TVs, DVD players, iPod docks, hairdryers, and safes. Bathrooms offer stand-up showers finished with frameless glass, travertine marble tiling, marble vanities with floating basins, and a selection of free individual toiletries. Kitchenettes feature thick granite benches and are equipped with stainless steel microwaves, large refrigerators, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and basic dining implements. 

Silver Point's features aren't extensive given its pearl category, but they do add to its atmosphere. The property offers two pools -- the larger of which neighbors the restaurant and bar (on the beach side), while the small one (really just a kids’ pool), is located across the road at the other side of the hotel. A sweeping sundeck set along the water, with direct beach access, is scattered with loads of loungers and canopied daybeds perfect for couples (or singles who like to sprawl). The deck steps right onto the beach, and while it’s fine to take a shallow dip, the water can be rough, choppy, and there are all of those kite-surfers to contend with, so beach swimmers may become frustrated. For kite surfers, the place is heaven, with accommodation right over the ultimate playground. The hotel's restaurant unfolds over two open-air levels with views across the water and resort grounds. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an emphasis on Caribbean cuisine, but reviews are mixed and some complain the menu is pricey. Having said that, we were served incredible bacon and eggs here. The property also features a manned 24-hour security entrance, free on-site parking, and free Wi-Fi -- but it only works in common areas.