Paynes Bay Fish Market

Just a few yards north of the memorial site for the Cubana Airline crash of 1976, and a stone's throw away from Payne's Bay Methodist Church, there is a small fish market located on Barbados' west coast. It is the Payne's Bay Fish Market.

 

This is a small intimate market, not as large as the Oistins or Bridgetown locations. The fishermen dock their fishing boats and offload the fish which is sold fresh to some of the hotels and restaurants. In addition, there are a number of regular customers who come down to stock up on their flying fish, dolphin, sea cat or king fish and wait patiently to be served.

 

The waters at Paynes Bay are crystal clear and usually calm. It is an ideal spot for bathing, just be careful crossing the road if you have to park or get dropped off on the other side.

 

On Friday and Saturday nights, this small area comes alive with a coal pot going and fish, pork and chicken being fried on the spot. The lines are sometimes long and parking is tight, but the patrons wait as the food smells and tastes good, especially the seasoning. Breadfruit, cole slaw and tossed salad are some of the side dishes on offer.

 

Any of the fish market locations in Barbados provide an opportunity for a full immersion into the island's food, politics and people. For a better appreciation of one part of the Barbadian culture, visit Payne's Bay Fish Market, Payne's Bay, St James.

 

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