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Activity intensified in the South Friar’s Bay area shortly after Tuesday night’s deadline passed for several beach bars ordered to vacate, as physical measures were taken to restrict vehicular access to the popular strip.
Residents and patrons observed that just after midnight, a trench had been dug across one of the main access roads leading to the beachfront establishments, effectively preventing vehicles from entering the area. Signage identifying some of the bars was also removed by Wednesday Morning.
A second access route near Carambola Beach Club was similarly disrupted. As of press time on Wednesday, that road remained blocked to vehicles, with access limited to pedestrians.
By Wednesday morning, at least one branded sign identifying a bar location had been reinstalled, although another sign remained absent.
When this publication visited the scene, more than a dozen vehicles were seen parked along the outskirts of the restricted roads. Patrons were observed leaving their vehicles and proceeding on foot to bars that remained open after the deadline.
The developments follow a government directive ordering operators of several well-known beach bars at South Friar’s Bay to vacate the area by midnight on Tuesday, April 7.
Those affected include The Godfather Bar, The Discovery Bar, and The Shipwreck Bar & Grill. The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis indicated that businesses could be removed if they fail to comply with the notice.
According to officials, the move is part of a broader plan to facilitate a major tourism development project in the area.
Authorities stated that the operators were first formally notified as early as November 10, 2025, that the lands they occupy fall within property earmarked for development. Officials further noted that continued operation on Crown land or private property without proper authorisation could not be permitted.
Despite the directive, the government allowed the establishments to operate throughout most of the 2025–2026 peak tourism season in an effort to reduce disruption and provide additional time for relocation.
Officials also indicated that efforts were made to assist the bar owners in finding alternative locations, including proposed sites along the Frigate Bay Strip and at Cockleshell Bay. Meetings and site visits were reportedly facilitated as part of the transition process.
The government have noted, however, that they do not own lands in the area.
As of Wednesday, the situation on the ground remained fluid, with some businesses continuing operations and patrons still frequenting the area despite restricted access.
A new sign for a new route
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