Looking for sun, surf, and rich Caribbean culture? Head to Barbados! This beautiful island blends white-sand beaches with vibrant music, historic sites, and world-famous rum. Whether you're diving reefs, exploring colonial towns, or relaxing seaside, Barbados delivers unforgettable tropical vibes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Barbados is from December to April, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and warm. June to November is the wet season, but it's quieter and often more affordable, with occasional showers.
How to Get There
- By Air: Fly into Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI), with direct flights from major U.S., Canadian, and European cities.
- By Cruise: Barbados is a popular port on Caribbean cruise itineraries, with the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal near the capital.
- By Car: Rent a car to explore the island, but note they drive on the left side of the road.
Where to Stay
- Sandy Lane – Iconic luxury resort on the west coast known for elegance and impeccable service.
- O2 Beach Club & Spa – All-inclusive beachfront escape with upscale amenities and ocean views.
- Little Arches Boutique Hotel – Adults-only boutique stay steps from Enterprise Beach.
Top Attractions
1. Take a tour of Harrison's Cave
Harrison's Cave, a magnificent natural wonder, is situated in the central uplands of Barbados in the heart of the country. This crystallized limestone cave is distinguished by its deep pools of transparent water, flowing streams, and towering columns. Visitors will be mesmerized by the white flow stones and the speleothems that decorate the cave. Guests can experience this incomparable underground oasis on one of several tours offered, including a 1-hour tram, walk-in, or scenic gully tour. They also offer a 3.5-hour Eco-Adventure Tour, which is the most intimate of the choices, where guests can trek through the cave utilizing head lamps, helmets, and knee pads.
Welchman Hall, St. Thomas, Barbados Take a tour of Harrison's Cave, a crystallized limestone cave is distinguished by its deep pools of transparent water, flowing streams, and towering columns.
2. Admire the plants of Andromeda Gardens
A significant part of Barbados cultural history, Andromeda Gardens is the legacy of renowned Barbados horticulturalist Iris Bannochi, who established the garden in Foster Hall. The garden is named after the mythological Greek princess Andromeda, because its beauty is seemingly “chained” to the coral stone of the eastern coast. During her lifetime, Bannochi won numerous awards for the bounty displayed in her garden. Visitors will discover a unique collection of tropical and sub-tropical plants across 6 acres of gardens. Entrance fees provide unlimited visits for the three weeks following ticket purchase to allow guests time to freely explore and study the gardens.
Foster Hall, St. Joseph, BB, Phone: 246-433-9384
Discover a unique collection of tropical and sub-tropical plants across 6 acres of Andromeda Gardens.
Attractions for Couples
3. Take a guided tour of the Animal Flower Cave
Animal Flower Cave, named for its abundant sea anemones in the cave’s pools, is located on the northernmost tip of the island in Saint Lucy parish. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cave and explore the cave pools, and even wade into the larger ones. The cave walls are a colorful collection of oxidized minerals, some taking the shape of living organisms like a human hand, lizard, and turtle. Openings in the cave offer picturesque views of the Caribbean; one particularly large opening resembles the map of Barbados on its side. Above ground, visitors can stand, or sit on a ring of benches, and admire the panoramic views.
North Point, St. Lucy, BB, Phone: 246-439-8797
Take a guided tour of the Animal Flower Cave, named for its abundant sea anemones in the cave’s pools, is located on the northernmost tip of the island in Saint Lucy parish.
4. Learn about local history at the Arlington House Museum
In the heart of historic Speightstown in St. Peter parish, the Arlington House Museum offers guests a glimpse into the island’s past.
The restored 18th-century former home of a wealthy merchant is now a three-story museum with engaging interactive and educational exhibits. The Speightstown Memories exhibition tells the story of the island’s first settlers, the Plantation Memories exhibition explores colonization and the plantation system, and Wharf Memories delves into the town’s maritime significance as a Caribbean port for sugar and sugar byproducts – rum and molasses. Kids will enjoy the talking pirate and other interactive features, and the whole family will learn something new about the island’s heritage.
Speightstown, St. Peter, BB, Phone: 246-422-4064
5. Check out the galleries at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society
The Barbados Museum & Historical Society is situated in the former British military prison at St. Ann’s Garrison. The museum has eight galleries. The African Gallery explores African heritage and its creation of Caribbean society, and the Jubilee Gallery features 4,000 years of island history from Amerindian culture to pre-independent Barbados; both are must-see exhibitions. Other galleries include the Military, Aall, Harewood, Cunard, Warmington, and Children’s Galleries, all worthy of exploration. The museum also hosts poster exhibitions that include the History of Cricket, Jazz in Barbados, Ending the Trade, 375 Years in Holetown, and Symbols of Independence. The museum offers wedding and event space.
St. Ann’s Garrison, St. Michael, BB, Phone: 246-538-0201
Check out the galleries at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society to learn about the island's past.
Recommended Activities for Families
6. Take the kids to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is an excellent family-friendly, day-time activity where visitors can watch native animals play, eat, and interact with other animals in their relaxed natural environment.
It is just across the street from the Farley Hill National Park, nestled within natural mahogany woods in St. Peter’s northern parish. Guests will have the chance to view the Barbados green monkeys, which are free to roam, and walk through the aviary featuring flamingos, vibrant parrots, peacocks, and brown pelicans. Reptile enthusiasts will enjoy the iguanas, tortoises, turtles, and vast collection of caged snakes. There are also non-native animals in the reserve, including agouti, Brocket deer, armadillos, and caiman.
Farley Hill, St. Peter, Barbados, Phone: 246-422-8826
7. Relax with the sound of gentle rolling waves at Bottom Bay
Bottom Bay is a wide and expansive beach situated on the south coast just past Sam Lord’s Castle and Crane Beach.
It is a semi-enclosed beach due to towering palm trees and coral cliffs that boast panoramic views of the south shore. Gentle rolling waves soothingly crash onto the shore, adding to the peaceful tranquility of the bay, however the rip currents are extremely strong, so swimming is not recommended, although it is permitted for those willing to swim at their own risk. Bottom Bay draws those who enjoy a serene picnic in a beautiful setting where whale and turtle sightings are a common occurrence.
Harrismith, St. Phillip, Barbados
8. Enjoy snorkeling in Carlisle Bay
Enjoy snorkeling in Carlisle Bay, a natural harbor and bow-shaped bay on Barbados’s west coast.
It is the main harbor that connects to the capital city of Bridgetown.
Luxury yachts and catamarans are anchored here and a plethora of fun activities are just a few feet away. Among them is the marine park, a premier location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Six shipwrecks under the sea attract a multitude of marine animals like rays, tropical fish, turtles, and sea horses. Sunbathing and swimming at the various beaches and watersport activities at The Boatyard on the northern end of the bay are also big draws for visitors.
Bridgetown, St. Michael, Barbados
Where to Eat
- The Cliff – Fine dining perched above the sea, known for seafood and sunset views.
- Oistins Fish Fry – Weekly street party with grilled fish, music, and a lively local crowd.
- Champers Restaurant – Elegant oceanfront spot offering Caribbean-fusion dishes and wine pairings.
Local Events
- Crop Over Festival (July–August) – Barbados’ biggest cultural celebration with music, parades, and carnival vibes.
- Oistins Fish Festival (Easter weekend) – Celebrates Barbados' fishing heritage with food, music, and fun.
- Barbados Food and Rum Festival (October) – Showcases the island’s culinary talent and signature rums.
FAQ
-
Why is Barbados called the Land of the Flying Fish?
- Barbados has long been called Land of the Flying Fish, not just because the waters around the island teem with flying fish, but because it’s also the national dish.
-
What makes Barbados a top Caribbean vacation destination?
- From its UNESCO World Heritage capital to its hauntingly beautiful eastern coastline to its rich cultural ambiance, Barbados is one of the top Caribbean vacation destinations.
How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip