Location and Coordinates
Barbados, a stunning island nation, is located in the eastern Caribbean region, specifically in the Lesser Antilles. As the easternmost island in the Caribbean, it lies at approximately 13.1939° N latitude and 59.5432° W longitude. This strategic location places Barbados outside the principal hurricane belt, offering it relatively stable weather compared to other Caribbean islands.
Proximity to Other Landmasses
- About 100 kilometers (62 miles) east of the Windward Islands chain
- 168 kilometers (104 miles) east of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- 400 kilometers (250 miles) northeast of Trinidad and Tobago
- 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) southeast of Miami, Florida, USA
| Location | Approximate Distance |
|---|---|
| Venezuela | 434 km (270 miles) |
| Trinidad | 373 km (232 miles) |
| Miami, USA | 3,150 km (1,960 miles) |
Physical Geography
Barbados covers approximately 430 square kilometers (166 square miles), shaped like a pear or leg of mutton. The island's dimensions are:
- Length: 34 kilometers (21 miles)
- Width: 23 kilometers (14 miles) at its widest point
The island's diverse landscape includes:
- Coastal Plains: The 97-kilometer (60-mile) coastline features calm, sandy beaches on the west coast and rugged cliffs on the east coast
- Central Highlands: Rolling hills and elevated terrain, with Mount Hillaby as the highest point at 340 meters (1,120 feet)
Notable Beaches
- Carlisle Bay: Popular for swimming and snorkeling
- Payne's Bay: Known for calm and clear waters
- Crane Beach: Picturesque beach with pink sand
- Bathsheba Beach: Popular surfing spot
Climate
Barbados enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:
- Dry Season (December to May): Less rainfall and cooler temperatures
- Wet Season (June to November): Increased rainfall and humidity
The average temperature ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F). The island's position influences its climate through:
- Consistent trade winds from the northeast
- Protection from most hurricanes due to its easterly position
Natural Features and Resources
Barbados is renowned for its natural beauty, including:
- Coral Reefs: Surrounding the island, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities
- Caves and Gullies: Including Harrison's Cave and Welchman Hall Gully
- Botanical Gardens: Such as the Andromeda Botanic Gardens
Additional natural resources include:
- Freshwater springs
- Fertile soil suitable for agriculture
Maritime Significance
The first port of call for many European vessels during the Age of Sail A crucial navigation point for ships entering the Caribbean
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