Top 12 Things To Do In Barbados
If you’re wondering what to do in Barbados, just know it’s calling out to you with its intoxicating mix of sun-kissed beaches, luscious landscapes and Caribbean hospitality. Take a second to think about waking up to serene views of the ocean in front of you, your days spent frolicking in the ocean, before spending balmy evenings under the palm trees. This kind of pampered living is exactly what Barbados is all about. Whether you’re looking to dive into the local culture or spend your days lounging on the beach, you’ve got it all at the tip of your toes.
1. Sun and surf at Dover Beach & St. Lawrence Gap
Dover Beach sits along the lively south coast and is our first location on the list today, thanks to its soft white sands and gentle eastern waves that are ideal for light surfing and swimming. The St. Lawrence Gap strip is just inland, and buzzes as a true slice of Bajan nightlife with colourful bars, street cafes and music. This is the spot to relax on a lounger or join in paddleboarding and jet-ski rentals. When it’s time to unwind Dover Beach Hotel is just a few steps from the dunes.
2. Snorkel shipwrecks and sea turtles in Carlisle Bay
Carlisle Bay Marine Park is a snorkeller’s dream, sits just west of Bridgetown and is one of the best things to do in Barbados. Here, you’ll have the chance to dive six different sunken ships, namely the Barge, Cornwallis, Berwyn, Bajan Queen, C-Trek and Eilon. All three lie in shallow enough water for most divers and are ready to explore! One of the most spectacular things about Carlisle Bay is the number of green and hawksbill sea turtles that glide through it. Up to 20 turtles can be spotted on a single snorkel trip, some over a metre long. On calm days, you can swim from shore to see them. For a nearby stay, Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados is a stunning getaway.
3. Chill on the pristine Mullins Beach (West Coast)
If you’re looking for postcard-perfect sunsets and the ultimate in tranquillity, Mullins Beach along the West Coast is an absolute must-see and one of the best Barbados things to do. This powdery sand and calm water crescent is loved for swimming, sunning and snorkelling. The lovely Mullins Grove hotel is a short bit away and offers everything you need, including luxury loungers, fully equipped kitchens, water sports, adventures and much more. Spend the day lounging on the beach or kayaking along the coast, then sip rum cocktails as the sky turns vibrant orange and pink overhead.
4. Eat, dance and mingle at Oistins Fish Fry
Friday nights are the talk of the village, and quite well should be the talk of the country, because it’s when Oistins comes alive and locals and visitors flock to the Oistins Bay Gardens for the famous fish fry. The fish fry is an exuberant outdoor feast of fresh grilled seafood, with tables heaped with flying fish, tuna, marlin, lobster or chicken, sizzling on open grills. Bands play reggae and calypso, and dancing sparks jump from table to table. When you’re done filling your bellies, Coconut Court is a short trip away in Christ Church. It’s a stunning hotel with 102 rooms overlooking the breathtaking Caribbean Ocean.
5. Explore the mystical Harrison’s Cave
Mystery awaits if you’re prepared to head a little inland and sacrifice the call for the ocean for a few hours. Harrison’s Cave is a limestone cavern system, draped with stalactites and stalagmites around crystal-clear streams that flow along the marble-like floors. You’ll get to jump into an electric tram and venture deep into the cave while looking at the emerald pools and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Once you’re done exploring the cave, head back to a luxury hotel like Sugar Bay Barbados and enjoy an all-inclusive resort with ocean views.
6. Cruise, snorkel and swim with turtles
Ready for one of the most thrilling experiences on the island? Jump on a catamaran cruise from around Bridgetown or along the south coast and out into the bay. You’ll be able to snorkel along vibrant reefs with turtles and reef fish swimming right next to you and the boat. The green turtle is a popular sighting on these trips, even if you’re only doing a simple reef snorkel. To make it extra romantic, some cruises offer sunset sails with champagne on deck. After a day at sea, slip back ashore to Beach View Barbados to dry off and dine at leisure.
7. Visit historic Bridgetown and rum distilleries
A trip to Barbados wouldn’t be complete without immersing yourself in some of the local culture and learning a thing or two along the way. Bridgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage city and is brimming with Georgian architecture and museum charm throughout. One of the things you could do is stroll the Careenage harbourfront and visit the Parliament Buildings and Nidhe Israel Synagogue. Nearby, you can sample world-famous Barbados rum at the Mount Gay Rum Distillery or explore the old plantation house at St. Nicholas Abbey, which, incidentally, still makes its own rum.
8. Wander through Andromeda Botanic Gardens
Escape the hustle and bustle of any city by heading out to the lush hills in the parish of St. Joseph and discover Andromeda Botanic Gardens – eight acres of tropical splendour that was planted by orchid pioneer, Iris Bannochie. There’s bright hibiscus, massive banyan trees and exotic orchids lining the gentle paths, and it offers up a peaceful retreat amid flowering vines and koi ponds. Though not a typical tourist attraction, gardeners and nature lovers around the world rave about it.
9. Shop the Champs-Élysées of the Caribbean at Bridgetown
Bridgetown’s Broad Street and Fort Streets form a bustling shopping district with everything from duty-free boutiques to local crafts and rum cakes. You can browse vibrant markets and malls during the day and check out Harbour Lights or The Boatyard in the evening for beachfront dining and reggae music. For convenience, stay at Butterfly Beach after your city outing, just a short drive from Bridgetown.
10. Romance and recreation at The Crane
Whether you’re honeymooners or just someone looking for some elegant solitude, The Crane resort is an absolute must. It’s set high above a stunning pink-sand beach that’s often rated among the world’s best and easily blends historic architecture with five-star amenities. The suites are ultra-spacious, with ocean-view balconies or private plunge pools, and all come with those majestic views. You’ll be dining on fine cuisine overlooking the waves or pampering yourselves at the spa, we’re sure of it.
11. All-Inclusive bliss at Sandals Royal Barbados
Newly opened on the south coast, Sandals Royal Barbados is an adults-only, all-inclusive couples resort that’s tailor-made for romance. It boasts Sandals’ first-ever rooftop pool and bar, a craft beer pub and even a bowling alley and a gourmet doughnut shop. All accommodations have luxe amenities, with club or butler service included. And as with all Sandals, every meal, snack and premium cocktail is included in the offer, so you can feast and toast endlessly without worrying about added costs. Here is where you really start to feel like royalty, with the coral reef lagoon only a snorkel jump away.
12. Peaceful luxury at Cobblers Cove
Tucked away in Speightstown on the quiet Northwest Coast, Cobblers Cove Barbados offers an intimate boutique escape for anyone who wants it. This 40-room, family-owned hotel is known for romance and tranquillity for all its travellers. Each room has a private veranda that overlooks lush gardens or the Caribbean Sea. Cobblers Cove takes a personalised approach to romance, where you can picnic on deserted beaches, snorkel with turtles or lounge with champagne in hand. Its on-site restaurant is famous for gourmet island-inspired cuisine.
At the end of the day
If you’re wondering what to do in Barbados, there really is very little you can’t do. Barbados delivers on its island promise, from sunrise beach strolls to jungle-adventure trams and everything in between. You’ll leave with a heart full of memories and a suitcase full of rum cakes, and each activity pairs ideally with a resort or hotel to make sure you have the best stay imaginable.
FAQs
What’s the best thing to do in Barbados?
If you have to pick one, take a catamaran out of Bridgetown and snorkel with turtles over shallow wrecks in Carlisle Bay. The warm water, easy conditions and unforgettable photos are everything you can imagine. Friday night at Oistins Fish Fry, with smoky grills, music and pure local energy, is a close second.
Is Barbados a luxury destination?
Absolutely. The Platinum Coast, as it’s often called, gives you high-end stays, fine dining, private yacht charters, spa days and championship golf, all within a stone’s throw from each other.
