Barbados is one of those places that gets under your skin in the best way. The turquoise water, friendly smiles, and warm breezes instantly make you wonder why you didn’t come sooner. It’s beautiful, yes, but it’s also easy, welcoming, and surprisingly stress-free, which is why so many travelers return again and again. This guide to Barbados breaks down everything you need to know to feel confident, safe, and completely at home on the island.
Why Barbados?
Barbados is located in the Lesser Antilles, east of the Windward Islands. It sits to the far east of the other Caribbean Islands so be prepared for 5am sunrises and 5pm sunsets.
Its west coast borders the Caribbean Sea while the rest of the island is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. This creates a vast difference in the activities surrounding the island and the waters along the coast.
Barbados may be small (21 miles long and 14 miles wide), but each coast has a unique personality.
Is Barbados Safe?
Barbados is considered one of the safest countries in the Caribbean. The Bajans are friendly, English is widely spoken and the island is very welcoming. However, as always when traveling, common sense should be exercised.
Barbados is also located just outside the main hurricane belt providing a lower risk of severe weather related incidents.
Things to do in Barbados
Here are some of the most popular touristic activities to enjoy while you are in Barbados. These are activities that I have done personally, and have enjoyed.
Harrison’s Cave
Harrison’s Cave is a major underground cave known for its crystallized limestone, active streams, and geological formations.
The caves are beautiful and large so they don’t feel as claustrophobic as some caves that we have visited in the past. You actually visit the caves in a trolley so there is no walking involved.
Outside there is a zip-line and obstacle course. These can be booked together as a package or separate. I would do this activity again if for nothing more than seeing the monkeys that are everywhere!
Mount Gay Rum Distillery Tours
This tour can be booked separate or as part of the Historical Rum Tour that we enjoyed. If you are short on time, I would visit Mount Gay. It is closer to town and doesn’t take as long to tour. The presentation is very informative and the samples are plentiful.
Mount Gay rum is one of the most famous rum brands on the market, and we often bring friends here if we are trying to pack in lots of activities in on a visit. Take a seat on one of the barrel seats, try each type of rum and enjoy!
4 x 4 Jeep Tour
The Discover Barbados 4×4 Jeep Tour half day tour takes you off road to explore amazing coastal views, hidden bays, and the history of Barbados. This tour is a great overview but not recommended for people with back or neck issues as it is an off road adventure.
You will get to incredible viewpoints, go off-the-beaten-path, and really get to see a side of the island that most resort-goers don’t. It’s also great for the thrill-seekers in your group!
Catamaran Cruise and Carlisle Bay
A catamaran cruise is one of my favorite ways to explore the coasts of the Caribbean. The ones in Barbados include a stop a Carlisle Bay – the most amazingly clear water you have ever seen. This is a great place to snorkel and swim with the turtles.
Choosing a late afternoon cruise provides some of the most beautiful sunsets you can imagine. Dusk is around when the turtles are often feeding, so it’s a great time to see them!
Guide to Barbados: By Region
Northern Barbados: Cliffs and Caves
The north coast of Barbados is less developed but naturally breathtaking. This area includes some of the old plantations and vintage railways and is stepped in history.
During the historical rum tour we visited the north coast, known as being the birthplace of rum from 1650. You can visit a 17th century plantation home, St. Nicolas Abbey, and take a ride on a vintage steam engine. As well as do a tasting at the distillery!
There are not many places to eat or lodging available in this area. However, the beautiful landscapes and drastic cliffs in this area offer amazing views of the ocean.
Southern Barbados: Lively and Fun
The south coast of Barbados is full of energy, nightlife and mid-budget hotels. Here you will find St Lawrence Gap, filled with restaurants, live music and beachfront bars. This area is very walkable and a fun way to get out and explore. The O2Beach Club and Sandals Barbados are two of our favorite properties here.
And there is no way you can visit Barbados without taking part in the Oistins Fish Fry! Every Friday night the fish market area turns into party central with every kind of seafood you can imagine. There is music, live entertainment, and TONS of food. The locals and tourists come together here every week in a lively festivity.
East Barbados: Wild and Untamed
The east coast of Barbados faces the rugged and rough Atlantic Ocean. This area is not for swimming but is home to many famous surfing competitions.
This area is perfect for those looking to get away from the crowds.
We enjoyed exploring Bathsheba. The rock formations and dramatic waves are such a stark contrast from the west coast. We had lunch at a small open air restaurant overlooking the ocean – it was delicious and the views were incredible.
West Barbados: The Platinum Coast
The west coast of Barbados is known for calm waters, luxury resorts, high end shopping and golden sunsets.
It is home to Sandy Lane, an over-the top boutique hotel where celebrities vacation.
The beaches here are turquoise clear and very calm. This was the first place I ever saw a flying fish while swimming in the ocean. Such a cool thing to see and very unexpected.
Catamaran cruises, submarine tours, swimming with the turtles and snorkeling are all very popular in this area.
Where to Eat in Barbados
There are so many fabulous restaurants in Barbados.
One of my favorites was Cocktail Kitchen in the St Lawrence Gap area. Make sure to ask to sit upstairs for the best views. The shrimp ceviche and flying fish tacos are out of this world.
For a more upscale indulgence, try The Tides located in Holetown on the luxurious west coast. They offer brunch, afternoon tea, and 2 and 3 course lunch and dinner options starting at $135BBD per person.
For the most casual and lively vibe, The Oistins Friday night Fish Fry is the way to go.
No matter where you dine, make sure to try some of the local specialities such as flying fish and cow-cou (the national dish), macaroni pie (Barbadian mac and cheese) and the famous rum punch.
Where to Stay in Barbados
When considering where to stay in Barbados, the south coast will offer the most value while the west coast offers over the top indulgence such as Sandy Lane.
For a boutique option, I would recommend The Crane Resort. This hotel is the oldest in Barbados dating back to 1887. The Crane is almost like a city all to itself offering shopping and entertainment.
If you are looking for an all inclusive option you should try Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados.
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