3 Best Sights in Crane and the Southeast, Barbados

Popular for fashion and travel-industry photo shoots, Bottom Bay is the quintessential Caribbean beach. Secluded, surrounded by a coral cliff, studded with a stand of palms, and blessed with an endless ocean view, this dreamy enclave is near the southeasternmost point of the island. The Atlantic Ocean waves can be too strong for swimming, but it's a picture-perfect place for a picnic lunch on the shore. Park at the top of the cliff and follow the steps down to the beach. Note: because of the seclusion, it's not advisable for women to go to this beach alone; going with a group is much safer. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; swimming; walking.

This exquisite crescent of pink sand on the Southeast Coast was named not for the elegant long-legged wading bird but for the crane used to haul and load cargo when this area served as a busy port. Crane Beach usually has a steady breeze and lightly rolling surf that varies in color from aqua to turquoise to lapis. It's great for bodysurfing and there are lifeguards. Access to the beach is either down 98 steps or via a cliffside glass-walled elevator on The Crane resort property. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); toilets. Best for: swimming; walking.

This is the location of East Coast Light, one of four strategically placed lighthouses on the island; it's not open to the public. Although civilization in the form of new homes is encroaching on this once-remote spot, the view of the entire Atlantic coastline is still spectacular—and the cool ocean breeze is refreshing on a hot day.