Oistins – a corruption of the name Austin – is the main urban centre along the South Coast, with a population of around 2,300. It’s a major fishing port (with a village feel), whose maritime heritage is celebrated in the annual Easter Festival.

The few tourists that pass through during the day are likely to note its tranquillity and pleasant beach, strewn with fishing vessels of various sizes and in various states of repair.

Come the weekend, however, the place transforms into party central, as folk converge from all over Barbados, the streets become congested, and the volume’s pumped up for the Friday night fish fry (pictured above). The Bay Gardens – a collection of fish stalls next to the fish market – are at the centre of the action.

Practical Info

By car: Oistins is 7 miles (11.3km) SE out of central Bridgetown along the South Coast road (Highway 7).

By bus: Oistins is the transport hub for the South Coast, with a central bus station. There are frequent connections with Bridgetown – on the #12A, #12D and #12F buses (20min), for example, from Fairchild St Bus Terminal. The infrequent number #27 bus connects Oistins with the airport, to the east, and also Speightstown, via Holetown and the West Coast. Check the bus timetables.