A quiet all-inclusive boutique hotel on the west coast of Barbados, just north of Bridgetown, Waves Hotel & Spa by Elegant Hotels caters well to couples with impressive service and a focus on wellness. The beach is narrow (its secluded feel partially makes up for it, but there isn’t much space; this is the only factor keeping the Overall Beach Resort Rating below the A range) and the fitness center isn’t much for a hotel that prides itself on wellness; but the property offers complimentary spa treatments (varies by length of stay and room selection), two swimming pool areas (including the adults-only spa pool across the street), two on-site restaurants (including the open-air Seascape, which has great ocean views), a coffee bar and deli, private dinners for two on the beach, and an excellent staff that consistently receives high praise from guests. Rooms come with a contemporary South Beach-inspired style, driftwood accents, upscale wood flooring, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and yoga mats; the rooms in the spa building across the street from the beach are for adults only. Activities include complimentary motorized water sports (including water skiing, banana boat rides, and tubing), kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, mixology classes, painting on the beach, yoga classes, jet skiing, and snorkeling tours with sea turtles. Guests have access to the restaurants and facilities of the sister properties in the area (a complimentary water taxi is provided).
All travelers to Barbados are required to present proof of a valid negative COVID-19 PCR test taken at a an accredited or recognized laboratory within three days prior to arrival. It is also necessary to complete your on-line immigration and customs form by going to www.travelform.gov.bb. The form should be completed 24 hours prior to arrival, and preferably include the upload of your negative COVID-19 PCR test result. Travelers will be required to retest with a COVID-19 PCR test 5 days (120 hours) after their arrival in the country. If the result of that second PCR test is negative, that traveler can now enjoy unrestricted movement to public spaces (including the beach). Guests from High and Medium Category countries (which currently includes the UK, the US and Canada) must quarantine in their rooms until the second test is negative.