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Sian Victoria © - Bathsheba beach, Barbados

Barbados travel guide, tourist attractions

Barbados is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Sensational sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and gorgeous sunshine all-year-round account for just some of the incredible things that draw in tourists from across the globe. It's easy to see why this paradise is so popular.

As well as being able to experience beautiful culture and the mouth-watering flavours of local cuisine, the climate in Barbados couldn't be more idyllic. With temperatures reaching up to 90° F in August, you can soak in the summer rays as you please.

December to April may be the best time to visit Barbados as its dry season – but even in the rainy season from July to November, rainfall is followed up by the gorgeous sun, meaning you can visit whenever is most convenient for you and still experience the sensational tropical weathers.

Flights to Barbados from the UK tend to be just under 9 hours. So, the long-haul flight isn't too long to get to this small Caribbean island. And there's certainly no shortage of things to do in Barbados, so why not have a read of this cultural travel guide to discover the many reasosn to visit this enchanting island.

You’ll also be in for a culinary experience too with some great places to eat in Barbados. From water sports and snorkelling among turtles to sipping Caribbean rum on your choice of more than eighty beaches, your holiday will be nothing short of incredible.

1. Go on a rum crawl with locals

Sian Victoria © - St. Nicholas Abbey Rum Distillery

Sian Victoria © - Mount Gay Rum, Kermitt's Bar

Sian Victoria © - Rum punch, Sand Dollar Cafe

As Barbados is often referred to as the birthplace of rum, why not visit local rum distilleries? In most bars across the island, expect to be given a rum punch. It's the drink of choice amongst locals and worth trying when holidaying there – after all, nowhere does rum-like Barbados. So, you’ll find plenty of rum discovery tours to take you to all the best places for rum in Barbados.

Oistins on the south coast is populated with bars and rum shops, with Kermitt's Bar being a standout - not only for its eye-catching neon green exterior but for its selection of drinks, too. Visit the bar or experience a Mount Gay Rum tour to taste toasted sugar and oak rum flavours. It's the oldest commercial rum company across the globe and was created in the beautiful country, still being a favourite of local Barbadians to this day. Each geographic location has a distinct rum flavor so why not try the unique rum flavour of Barbados.

Continue your rum crawl and have a bite to eat at the Sand Dollar Café. A favourite amongst tourists and locals, you know you can trust this eatery to give you an unforgettable dining experience. With reasonable prices and an extensive menu catering to vegans, vegetarians, and meat lovers. There's no shortage of delicious dishes on offer.

You may be surprised to know that their most iconic dishes happen to be their salads. Unlike the standard salads you may be used to, this café creates unique and distinctive salads bursting with flavours.

2. Enjoy watersports & tranquil waters on a catamaran cruise

Sian Victoria © - Jammin Catamaran Cruise

Of course, it wouldn't be a trip to Barbados without testing out the pristine waters. Barbados is considered one of the best islands in the Caribbean to enjoy watersports. The island offers a variety of catamaran cruises that are designed to entertain all the family.

Whether you fancy a spot of snorkelling and seeing the tropical fish and corals up close or just want to have a moment of tranquillity under the Barbadian sun while sipping on a cocktail. I recommend booking onto a cruise while you're on the island to make the most of your visit.

Hopping onto a Jammin' Catamaran cruise is a must. One of the most popular cruises on the island, the Sun Blast cruise is $190 BDS for adults and $80 for children, with the price including an incredibly extensive array of activities as well as round-trip hotel transfers.

The 5-and-a-half-hour Catamaran Cruise from Bridgetown is jam-packed, with unlimited drinks for the adults to treat themselves to and a sensational buffet.

Entertain the children while you sunbathe on the boat with 3 stops across the cruise where you're free to swim in the glimmering waters of the island, snorkel with the turtles and see a historic shipwreck.

If you're planning a holiday in Barbados, I'd highly recommend booking an all-inclusive Jammin' Catamaran Cruise. With so many activities from dancing on board, swimming and snorkelling to even spotting Rihanna's waterfront mansion, you’ll be spoilt with unique experiences.

3. Get followed by wild monkeys in their natural habitat

Sian Victoria © - Green Monkeys, Welchman Hall Gully

Sian Victoria © - Caves, Welchman Hall Gully

For wildlife lovers, Welchman Hall Gully in Barbados is the place to be for seeing wild green monkeys in their natural habitat.

In this truly beautiful tropical forest, you can experience nature like never before. The forest stretches ¾ of a mile and you'll immediately be transported into an enchanting world. The gully is positively bursting with sensational wildlife and plants and trees native to Barbados, such as bamboo and banana trees.

If you're visiting with high hopes of seeing the monkeys, the best time to visit is in the mornings as they're fed bananas for breakfast in the heart of the gully. There is a monkey feeding and Harrison cave tour available if this is what you’d love to do. Where you can walk with the monkeys and observe their interactions with one another and take a snapshot of them to remember this amazing experience.

I adore monkeys, so I was over the moon when a group started following us with their long tales up in the air. Although be careful not to walk directly under one in the trees as the cheeky monkeys may just decide to pee on you.

Though seeing the monkeys is one of the main attractions of the gully, the sensational forest has plenty more to offer. The collapsed caves throughout the forest reveal the history of the gully and how it was formed through the roofs of caves collapsing.

Through the gully, you can get to Harrison's Cave; a unique and must-see historical attraction containing beguiling waterfalls and captivating stalagmites and stalactites. It's not a sight to miss.

4. Eat authentic Bajan cuisine with a spectacular view

Sian Victoria © - Waterfront Cafe, Bridgetown

Sian Victoria © - Food on Jammin Catamaran

Sian Victoria © - Atlantis Historic Inn, Bathsheba

When completing all of these Barbados activities and seeing the many sights in this paradise, you're sure to work up an appetite, so why not try some of the delectable flavours of the Caribbean with a foodie tour of Barbados. You’ll be spoilt for choice on where to eat. The Waterfront Café in Bridgetown, the buzzing capital of Barbados, and the Fisherman's pub in Speightstown are just two of the many places I recommend visiting.

As the name suggests, the Waterfront Café allows you to enjoy tasty local cuisine right by the water. In the heart of the capital city, you can stop for a bite to eat at this vibrant eatery after visiting the beaches of Carlisle Bay in Bridgetown.

Try delicious authentic dishes while overlooking the harbour and sip on a rum punch. The café even holds a host of live jazz and steel pan music, alongside regular events, so there's no shortage of entertainment even when stopping for a quick bite.

Another spot popular amongst both locals and tourists is the Fisherman's Pub in Speightstown, the second-largest city in the country. Choose from the extensive menu of delicious local cuisine. The reasonable prices make this eatery a great choice, and you can enjoy your meal while listening to live Bajan steel pan music while overlooking the tranquil waters.

5. Admire unusual native plants

Sian Victoria © - Banana tree, Welchman Hall Gully

As well as boasting simply sensational cuisine and beautiful sunshine, Barbados is also home to a variety of native plants. Particularly, the Welcham Hall Gully is the place to visit if you're keen to see the botanical attractions, providing a natural environment for endangered plants to thrive through the Native Plant Project. Observe over 150 unique species throughout your trip to the gully, from the hibiscus and palm plants to the coconut and bay leaf tree.

If you're eager to see more plant life, there are plenty of botanical gardens dotted about Barbados for you to visit – most, free of charge. In the gorgeous countryside, the Flower Forest is a horticultural attraction containing vibrant plants and tropical trees that you can explore as you please, strolling through the forest.

The Andromeda Botanical Gardens are also a popular choice for nature seekers – stretching across 6 acres and created back in the 1950s, this organic garden is home to beautiful greenery and plant growth that's worth checking out.

If you’re not sure how to get to these places and would prefer a guided tour to learn more about the nature and popular scenic spots there are full-day tours in Barbados available taking you to the country’s must-see attractions.

6. Experience a beachfront penthouse

Sian Victoria © - Penthouse balcony, o2 Beach Club & Spa

Sian Victoria © - Penthouse, o2 Beach Club & Spa

There's an abundance of hotels, villas, and accommodations in Barbados so you’ll be spoilt with plenty of places to stay. In 2018, while on my press trip in Barbados, I stayed at the 4* Ocean Two Resort and Residences now known as the O2 Beach Club & Spa.

At the O2 experience, a luxurious penthouse stay in this idyllic 7-storey hotel situated on the beautiful Dover beach, with mid-price ranges treating you to a whole host of amenities designed to give you the VIP treatment.

From enjoying spacious rooms with a balcony that offers panoramic views of the island to sunbathing by the poolside or taking part in on-site water-sport activities. This hotel should be a high contender when searching for places to stay in Barbados. To see more check out my O2 Beach Club & Spa review.

The resort even offers a sister hotel nearby named the Sea Breeze Beach Resort. Indulge in an all-inclusive experience right on the gorgeous beachfront and sip a cocktail while bathing in the sun. The 4-star lavish accommodation features 3 pools, Jacuzzis, a sundeck and a host of spacious rooms and suites featuring irresistible views of the water.

For foodies, the hotel hosts a multitude of restaurants serving traditional Bajan cuisine, with dishes created by award-winning chef Michael Harrison. When planning your trip, these hotels in Barbados should be considered if you want to make your holiday even more unforgettable.

7. Catch the waves at Bathsheba beach and eat at the Atlantis Hotel

Sian Victoria © - Atlantis Restaurant, Bathsheba

Bathsheba Beach sits on Barbados' east coast in the parish of Saint Joseph and is truly beautiful. The idyllic white sand stretches across the coastline against rugged rock formations and a breath-taking ancient coral reef and is a perfect spot for some peace under the Bajan sun.

The Bathsheba village is a hidden gem on the island – a quaint little fishing village that often goes missed by travellers – and is worth checking out if you're keen to take in some sensational views.

Though the rough waters and rock formations characterising the waters make this beautiful scenery unsafe for swimmers, the ‘Soup Bowl’ on the beach is a surfing hotspot amongst locals and travelling surfers. It's considered to be one of the best places to surf in the Caribbean, with consistent waves pushing in from the Atlantic. Perfect if you fancy an East Coast Adventure trekking and kayaking to the best scenic points.

After taking in the beauty of the beach, head on over to the family-owned Atlantis Hotel & Restaurant for a quick bite. In the heart of the untouched village, this eatery overlooks Bathsheba beach and gives you unbelievable views that you won't be able to get anywhere else. And you can take all this in while having a sensational dining experience. Enjoy dishes curated for all, no matter the dietary requirement, while listening to the waves crashing against the coast.

If you fancy staying on the east cost than the Atlantis Historic Inn at Bathsheba beach may just be the perfect escape.

8. Swim to a shipwreck and snorkel or dive with tropical turtles and fish

Sian Victoria © - Snorkelling in Barbados

Sian Victoria © - Shipwreck & fish, Snorkelling

If you're holidaying with children, they'll have an incredible time on the popular Jammin' Catamaran Cruise. As well as being able to soak in the rays of the Barbados sun, several stops along the 5-and-a-half-hour lavish cruise allow you to get into the stunning water. Snorkel alongside turtles and unique tropical fish in a glass bottom boat and, if you have an underwater camera, be sure to capture the moment.

Or, if you're partial to learning about history, you'll particularly enjoy the second stop on the cruise to gaze in awe at a shipwreck. The Carlisle Bay Marine Park in Saint Michael is home to six incredible shipwrecks that can be seen up close as you snorkel by and boast a rich history, which can be reached within a short swim.

Plus, it's just under 200 metres away from the white sandy beach, which would be a perfect spot to relax. Over time, the shipwrecks have become home to tropical wildlife, meaning you can see the deep-sea creatures from a new perspective and truly appreciate them up-close.

9. Eat mangos like the locals & enjoy fresh local food

Sian Victoria © - Cheapside Market, Bridgetown

As well as boasting a whole host of delectable dishes infused with the flavours of the Caribbean. Barbados is also home to markets selling some of the tastiest and most colourful fruits and vegetables. Most native to Barbados, especially bananas which we saw growing all over the countryside.

In particular, the Cheapside market in the island's capital, Bridgetown, offers up a variety of fresh, local produce – some of which, you may not have seen before. If you're eager to try making some Caribbean-inspired dishes yourself, it's worth heading down to this vibrant market and picking up some of the delicious produce sold by locals.

There are also plenty of spices and ingredients that you may be able to take home with you. So that you can take a little Barbados flavour with you and re-create the Bajan cuisines you enjoyed on your trip at home.

During our walk around Cheapside market, we were shown how to eat juicy mangos like the locals. As expected, messy I got into a sticky mess, so a flying fishmonger kindly provided me with tissues.

10. Fine dining at an oceanfront celebrity restaurant

Sian Victoria © - Lone Star Restaurant & Hotel

The Lone Star Restaurant & Hotel sits right on the west coast beach and will give you the VIP culinary experience like no other. Transformed from a 1940's garage into a 4-star resort visited by celebrities, the stylish bedrooms and restaurant embody the feeling of luxury.

In terms of the restaurant itself – it's clear to see why it's garnered such a reputation among some of the most popular names. You can take in the idyllic beachfront setting and try some of the best food on the island, where European and Caribbean flavours are fused to create sensational dishes.

The menu caters for all tastes, with plenty of seafood dishes and classics, such as Shepard's Pie, with options for those who are vegan and vegetarian, too. I enjoyed a Thai green curry packed with veggies during my evening visit. I’d love to go back and experience dining in the day too to see the gorgeous beach it resides on.

Experience dinner by candlelight and heavenly dishes that will make you feel like a VIP at this well-known restaurant located in the exclusive St James area a short drive from the Limegrove Luxury Shopping mall.

Or have an exceptional five-star stay at the Lone Star Boutique hotel in one of its many rooms, suites or beach houses surrounded by lush tropical gardens and watch the sunset over the west coast beach.

11. Explore the capital Bridgetown a UNESCO - World Heritage Site

Sian Victoria © - Port harbour, Bridgetown

Sian Victoria © - Chamberlain Bridge, Bridgetown

Sian Victoria © - Parliament Building, Bridgetown

If you're in Barbados, visiting the capital is a must. Frome experiencing beautiful beaches, buzzing nightlife and sensational restaurants to exploring Bridgetown's rich history, there's no shortage of things to do and see. If you enjoy history, then a historic walking tour of Bridgetown may be perfect for you.

Named as a World Heritage Site for the development of British colonies, the city is a historical landscape. National Heroes Square, in the heart of the city, boasted the Lord Nelson statue who visited the country in 1805 and was considered a hero for his battles against the French. The statue now resides in the Barbados Museum and Historical Society in the capital.

The galleries are housed in 19th-century military prison buildings, and if you're keen to discover more about the country's culture and heritage, it's worth a visit. You can also see the Parliament Buildings just opposite the square built in the late 19th century, that echo the history of the former British commonwealth.

You’ll also discover Chamberlain Bridge known as the Independence Arch in the heart of Bridgetown.

12. Visit a rum distillery and learn of the tragic history of the plantation houses

With rum's history being rooted in Barbados, it's no surprise that there's a whole host of rum distilleries around the country. Rum distillery and museum St Nicholas Abbey in Saint Peter is one of three Jacobean houses in the Western Hemisphere today. Making for a beautiful piece of historical architecture. It is also a plantation house, built back in 1658.

Though the architecture of the plantation is simply stunning and shouldn't be missed, its history is shocking as we found out in a video we watched in the museum. Slavery, love triangles and even tales of murder make up for some of the plantation's past - even after the abolition of slavery in 1833.

The architectural beauty of this Jacobean house is undeniable, the interiors inside are a wonderful treat to see too. Take in the tranquil lush green grounds – a perfect spot for lunch – and go on a guided tour of the rum distillery. Learn all about the history of the drink and see how it's made, and even enjoy a tasting session. All this can be enjoyed on a group tour of St. Nicholas Abbey.

The property also boasts a Heritage Railway, where you can be taken through the grounds on a quaint steam train to have a chance to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings. As well as the scenic abbey grounds the Heritage Railway ride takes you to Cherry Hill for Atlantic views where you’ll experience one of the best panoramic viewpoints on the island.

It’s here by Cherry Hill where you’ll also see the Morgan Lewis Windmill. Built-in 1727 to produce sugar it is the only intact windmill of its kind in the Caribbean.

13. Go on a culinary experience at BBC Masterchef Jason Howards restaurant

Sian Victoria © - Rum cocktail, Speightstown beach

During my time in Barbados, I had the pleasure to go on a culinary experience with an evening hosted by BBC MasterChef Jason Howard at his Top Deck restaurant located on the beachfront in Speightstown.

Before this, we went shopping with him for fresh local ingredients at Cheapside Market which he then later used in the unique and beautifully presented dishes he had made for us.

Jason Howard shares his time between London and Barbados and is on a mission to create the first Caribbean restaurant awarded a Michelin star by modernising Caribbean cuisine and using native ingredients in innovative and flavoursome ways.

You’ll find a carefully curated menu by Chef Jason Howard at Noir, a rooftop restaurant at The Sands Hotel in Barbados.

14. Check out the colourful buildings in Speightstown

Sian Victoria © - Fisherman's Pub, Speightstown

The second largest town in Barbados, Speightstown is over 350 years old and sits along the northwest coast and is home to beautiful architecture, rich history, and idyllic beaches. As it's further north, the beaches in Speightstown, while still being just as sensational, tend to be less busy.

One of the stand-out attractions of the city is the rows of traditional, vibrantly coloured buildings. Be sure to head to Speightstown if you want to take in the beautiful character of this architecture.

The town is also filled with restaurants serving delicious local Bajan food, markets to purchase fresh produce and historical architecture that highlights Speightstown as a piece of British colonial history. If you're looking for somewhere new to explore on your holiday to Barbados, I recommend exploring this town.

15. Find the Barbados flag in Bridgetown

Sian Victoria © - Barbados Flag, Bridgetown Market

While you're busy discovering the colonial history, rich culture, and architecture of Barbados in Bridgetown, why not take a quick photo with the country's flag for the gram. Just past the Parliament Building opposite the National Heroes Square and near the outdoor markets, you'll spot the flag.

As I experienced myself during my trip. Bajans are very friendly and welcoming so it’s no surprise to find that Barbados is one of the safest islands in the Caribbean. So, if you’re travelling solo, you shouldn’t have any problems asking for directions or kindly asking someone to take your photo.

Most people I had the pleasure to meet with spoke English so that shouldn’t be a problem either. Although I certainly would recommend learning a few local terms and phrases to truly immerse yourself in the unique Bajan culture.

16. Explore 70 miles of beautiful beaches

Barbados has over 70 miles of gorgeous beaches to discover and they are considered some of the best in the Caribbean. So, if you’re looking for a beach holiday, Barbados is the place to be. On the platinum coast west of the island, you’ll find soft white sand and calm heavenly crystalline waters. Mullins Beach, Paynes Bay Beach, Reeds Bay and Gibbes Beach are among the most popular beaches.

Whereas on the East side of the Atlantic coast you’ll be treated to crashing waves, rugged coastline, and rock formations in the sea. The west side is more urbanised making it a popular tourist spot and where you’ll find most attractions.

But if you’re looking for rural, countryside scenic views head east or simply drive along the entire coastline to see it all. As Barbados is a relatively small island you can drive along the island’s scenic coastline within three hours.

Since Barbados is made of 11 parishes or ‘states’ all home to unique things to see and do. You’ll obviously want to stop and explore each one to truly experience the rich culture and warm friendly hospitality that Bajan people are known for. So, I’d recommend creating an itinerary to ensure you don’t miss the many landmarks, tourist attractions and sightseeing places in Barbados.

17. Dance and enjoy the Bajan nightlife

Sian Victoria © - Dining on beach, o2 Beach Club & Spa

Bajans love to party, and they sure do love to dance. A party bus went passed us as we ate alfresco at Sand Doller Café, and it looked like they were having an amazing time. So, if you fancy letting your hair down while on holiday. I’d certainly recommend checking out the nightlife in Barbados. It’s been said that ‘Barbados wakes up when the sun goes down'.

The ‘Caribbean Island is one of the best places for nightlife'. But if drinking and partying isn’t your thing you can still enjoy a little boogie onboard the Jammin Catamaran Cruise. After swimming with turtles and eating Bajan cuisine the boat turned into a dance floor and everyone was having a wonderful time while sailing the crystal waters.

Alternatively, you could enjoy beachfront views with the sand beneath your feet at a sunset beach BBQ surrounded by delicious food, drink, crashing waves, music and twinkling lights. Perfect if you’re on a romantic escape in Barbados. Enjoy until the sun goes down and gaze at the stars.

18. Soak up the cultural sounds of sunny melodies

Sian Victoria © - Steel pan drummer, Fisherman's Pub

To take your cultural experience in Barbados to the next level let yourself stroll to wherever you hear the sound of music to really immerse yourself into the authentic vibrant, rich and sunny melodies of the Caribbean.

Whether that’s stopping to listen to live performances on the bustling market streets of Bridgetown or the rhythm of reggae, spouge, Soca, Calypso, jazz, and dancehall being played in the many beachfront restaurants and bars. I recommend just stopping for a moment to listen and appreciate. As that’s what a holiday is all about. Making unique experiences in a destination that can’t be truly experienced anywhere else.

For me listening to a gentleman playing the steel pan drums while dining in The Fisherman’s Pub in historic Speightstown while watching the calming waves was the moment it hit me, I’m in the Caribbean. It was lovely.

Barbados has events and carnivals all year round. The largest and most popular is Crop Over festival starting on the 27th of July to the 2nd of August. It is here that you are likely to find the true Queen and National Hero of Barbados, Rihanna who was brought up in Bridgetown, the capital. You’ll see her ‘shine like a diamond’ in the parade where revellers dress up in colourful masquerade style outfits with feathers and jewels.

It’s something that shouldn’t be missed if you’re visiting that time of year.

19. Admire the Jacobean architecture of the oldest building in Barbados

Sian Victoria © - Jacobean architecture, St. Nicholas Abbey

Sian Victoria © - Carlisle House, Bridgetown

Strolling through the historic port town of Bridgetown is where you’ll discover the Parliament Building built in a Gothic Revival architecture style and buildings influenced by the British Colonial empire. As well as the pink Carlisle House along the harbour that gives Miami beach art deco vibes.

The St. Nicholas Abbey plantation house built in the 1650s is one of the oldest buildings in Barbados and was ultimately my favourite of them all. The interior and exterior of this Jacobean mansion is picturesque and a treat to wander.

The Caribbean Georgian architectural style was established by the fusing of British colonial and West African design influences and the use of local natural building supplies such as blocks of coral to provide tough structural support to the island buildings.

The brightly coloured Chattel Houses with wooden structures set on blocks of coral are the types of homes you’ll discover all over the island. They are full of character and each feature a unique ornate fretwork with shutter windows. These moveable homes were often owned by sugar cane workers who lived on the land of the plantation houses.

To conclude

And there we have it. Just some of the incredible attractions the sensational country of Barbados has on offer. From rich architecture and history to mouth-watering flavours of the Caribbean and beautiful sea views, there's certainly something for you to see and do if you decide to holiday here.

It is a country I’d love to visit again one day. Let me know if you visit as I'd love to see what you get up to.

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