The thought of an authentic island getaway conjures images of sensational beaches fringed by palm trees, lapped by clear blue waters, and luxury resorts. All this can be found in Barbados, and if you love a perfect island getaway, keep reading our Barbados travel guide to plan an awesome holiday!
While Barbados seems relatively tiny, there’s so much more to this island than you could imagine. With idyllic beaches, verdant rainforest, and a plethora of natural spectacles, it’s not a surprise that Barbados is a popular holiday destination.
Located in the Caribbean Seas, Barbados is as dreamy as it looks in a picture. Read our Barbados Travel Guide to make the most out of your holiday.
When to visit & climate in Barbados
A holiday in Barbados normally offers eight hours of daily sunshine and warm sea temperatures that stay between the mid-70s and mid-80s. However, the climate in Barbados is tropical, and you could anticipate rainfall at any time.
The ideal time to visit Barbados is between July and November. Although this falls during the hurricane season, a hurricane rarely hits the Island.
The peak season occurs from late December to mid-May; this is when the island holds the driest weather.
Why you should visit Barbados
We get it – Barbados looks too good to be true! But luckily, you don’t have to take our word for it! Here in this Barbados travel guide, you’ll find the best reasons why you should visit Barbados.
- Beaches in Barbados
I’m sure you’re with me on this one; Barbados has some of the most breath-taking crystal-clear beaches that you’ll ever see. Many holidaymakers keep returning for the spectacular shores and brilliant waters laden with natural coral reefs and marine life.
- Barbados’s Nature
As a matter of fact, Barbados is one of the lushest islands in the Caribbean, filled with myriad flora and fauna; plus, you’ll find plenty of ways to get close to nature.
- Restaurants and nightlife in Barbados
You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to the restaurants and vibrant nightlife in Barbados. The island boasts glamourous fine-dining restaurants, food shacks to bars and nightclubs.
This means that when the sun sets, it’s time to get together and enjoy a full-blown party.
- Barbados cuisine
From glitzy restaurants to ordinary fish shacks, the food served in Barbados is exciting and diverse. In addition to beer and other beverages, we cannot forget Rum, the islands pride and the tipple of choice of drink.
- History and culture of Barbados
Moreover, Barbados unearths a layered history that’s well worth exploring. If you’re a culture vulture or history buff, there’s plenty of historic and cultural properties on the island.
- Shopping in Barbados
Our Barbados travel guide offers a glorious variety of shopping experiences. May it be local crafts or international designer brands and not forgetting duty-free shopping – you can find it all here. You can choose to shop in bustling downtown locations and lively shopping malls or even indulge in luxury shopping in upscale shopping centres. In Barbados, everything is priced to entice.
Things to do in Barbados
The next part of our Barbados travel guide takes you to the things you can endure on the island. So, get ready to enjoy most of your island getaway with some serious fun!
- Snorkelling
Snorkelling in Barbados is an incredible experience, with infinite opportunities to spot vibrant reefs teeming with multi-coloured fish and turtles. The best part is that you don’t need to book a separate tour to do it!
- Diving
Plunge deep into the sea to dive amongst some impressive diving spots. This is the perfect to-do activity to do while on holiday in Barbados!
- Paddle Boarding and Kayaking
Cruise the shoreline on a paddleboard or kayak. It is the perfect way to see the natural beauty of the island. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of freedom as you drift across brilliant turquoise waters.
- Island Safari
Here’s a dose of extreme fun! Tour around the island to get an overview of what Barbados is like. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn geography, history and culture, of the island.
- Harrison’s Cave
Harrison’s Cave is another reason to travel to Barbados. A hidden gem that is often overlooked but well worth a visit. Deep in the heart of Barbados is Harrison’s Cave. Engage all five senses with its beauty and uniqueness.
Things to do in Barbados for foodies
This Barbados guide is filled with inspiration, enthusiasm and fun! So, next up on our list is something for the avid foodies. It’s time to eat and drink your way around Barbados. These food activities are guaranteed to make you drool!
- Mount Gay Rum Tour
It’s a fact that there’s going to be a fare-share of Rum involved any time you’re in Barbados. Rum was born on the island, and you’ll soon learn that almost anywhere you go, you’ll be served a killer Rum-punch!
However, a Mount Gay tour will provide you with information, fun and tastings. Just what you need to lift your spirit.
- Agapey Chocolate Tour
A quaint chocolate shop located in Bridgetown. It is certainly worth taking a chocolate tour to gain insight into chocolate processing.
- Oistins Fish Fry
Yes, you guessed it! Oistins Fish Fry is a must when you visit Barbados. A gala time is guaranteed to feel the island’s beat. Every Friday, hundreds of people gather for a giant street party. Here, you’ll see that there are mountains of food, an endless flow of Rum and tonnes of fun!
Wait, there’s more!
Like mentioned at the beginning of this Barbados travel guide, this tiny island is jam-packed with things to do, places to see and much more! Without further ado, let’s take a look at some things you could add to your itinerary!
- Visit St Nicholas Abbey
- Enjoy a Gospel Breakfast at The Crane
- Drop by Rihanna Drive
If you need some R&R, then Barbados is the place to be! So, sit back and relax as you sip on a cocktail by the gorgeous beach!
- Take a trip on a Catamaran
- Rejuvenate at a calming spa
- Relax and unwind at the gorgeous Hunte’s Gardens
Did I mention that the beaches here are amazing? Well, it’s worth repeating. If you want to relax in authentic island style, then lazing on the beach is the perfect way to do it! And the beaches in Barbados are better than what you’ve heard!
Where To Stay in Barbados
It’s the final point of our Barbados travel guide. Where to stay in Barbados? That’s a question that pops into the mind of any traveller.
Barbados has been a big name in travel and is home to several classic beach resorts with lavish abodes along with countless amenities. Set within manicured gardens, offering fabulous food and great kids’ facilities, for couples or families looking to unwind in style.
However, the island offers down-to-earth living in fantastic Caribbean accommodation, including hotels and resorts to match every mood and budget of any type of traveller including,
- Couples
- Families
- Golfers
- Foodies
So, there you have it, our extensive Barbados travel guide. If you are looking for a great time in Barbados, this will make it easier. What’s more, if you need to book and get more information, our team at Travel Center will be glad to assist you too!
