Folkestone underwater park

If you visit to Holetown, make sure you plan a visit to Folkestone Underwater Park.  The marine park has something of interest for all visitors:

• Crystal clear turquoise water and excellent snorkelling
• A visit to the museum
• Tennis courts
• A playground for the young visitors
• Picnic tables for relaxing in the shade

and a fascinating view of the calm waters of the West Coast.

Admiring the artificial reef

Snorkellers and diving enthusiasts can swim up to the Stavronikita reef, an artificial reef created on a Greek ship that lies 120 ft under the calm waters. The ship burnt off the coast in 1976 and, two years later, the Bajan authorities deliberately sank it close to St. James.  A natural reef was created and became home for many types of coloured fish and coral. The place has become a popular spot among experienced snorkellers and scuba diving enthusiasts, and for visitors who feel less adventurous (or lack the skills to go down to 120ft) they can still enjoy the magnificent view from the safety of a glass bottom boat.

The calm waters at Folkestone make it the perfect destination for other water sports, such as kayaking and paddle boarding.

An educational experience at the marine museum

Folkestone Park also includes a marine museum and an aquarium, and from here, you can admire photographs illustrating life underwater, as well as many forms of rare marine life, including coral and sponges. After the educational visit to the museum, you’re free to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the shaded picnic areas. The park also hosts a large play area with see-saws, swings, slides, climbing frames, and resting areas for parents.

Folkestone Underwater Park is maintained by the National Conservation Commission; there is no need for permits or fee to visit, just an admission charge to enter the museum.