If you’re staying on the West Coast and fancy a seafood lunch with your toes in the sand, Lobster Alive on the South Coast is well worth the 20-minute drive from Holetown. Perched on the beachfront next to The Boatyard, this open-air restaurant in Carlisle Bay serves up freshly flown-in lobster in a setting that combines beachy charm with live music and relaxed island vibes.
On our recent visit with the Hammerton Barbados team, we were chauffeured from our villa by our favourite driver, Dave, which was the perfect way to ease into the laid-back atmosphere. The restaurant sits directly on the sand, with casual seating both indoors and outdoors under cover. Every table has a sea view, and the picturesque backdrop is enhanced by live music drifting through the air. Local singer Trotty played in the background, adding to the atmosphere without overpowering conversation.
The menu, as you’d expect, revolves around lobster, but there’s plenty of variety even if you’re not the biggest shellfish fan. Our team tucked into popular dishes including lobster Thermidor, lobster pasta, and a lobster crepe that earned clean plates all round. To drink, we had a crisp rosé, refreshing Bajan lemonade, and a couple of enjoyable cocktails.
What makes Lobster Alive truly special is its backstory. Owner Art Taylor flies a small single-engine plane several times a week to Bequia in the Grenadines, bringing back live Caribbean spiny lobsters to the restaurant’s huge holding tank. Art is often around for a friendly chat, adding a personal touch that’s become part of the charm.
Is Lobster Alive worth the drive from the West Coast? Absolutely. Despite its casual setting, the quality of the food, not to mention the unique origin story, makes the experience feel special from start to finish. Yes, the prices reflect the freshness and logistics involved, but the beachside location, warm service, and relaxed island atmosphere more than make up for it. Our whole team agreed it was one of the most enjoyable staff meals we’ve shared.
If you’re planning a visit, we recommend going for the popular Sunday jazz lunch, where the atmosphere shifts into a relaxed beach party with live music and a buzzy but still laid-back crowd. Just be sure to book ahead, especially if you’d like a table on the terrace. It’s a great spot for groups too, and some guests even arrive by boat to make the most of the beachfront location. After your meal, take a stroll along the beautiful Carlisle Bay, the perfect way to round off an indulgent and memorable lunch.
Whether you’re craving a luxury lobster lunch or simply want to soak up the beachside buzz, Lobster Alive is a Barbados dining experience not to miss. Also, if you’re looking for seafood closer to your villa, we love SeaCat on the West Coast for a more low-key but equally fresh, fish-focused experience. Other standout seafood spots include The Fish Pot and La Cabane, and our concierge team is always happy to recommend the perfect option to suit your style and location.
We can arrange everything for you!
When you book your villa or apartment with Hammerton Barbados, our friendly concierge team are on hand to help make your pre-arrival restaurant reservations.
