The alluring Caribbean island of Barbados is a sensational holiday destination brimming with things to do and explore.

While you might be able to drive from one side to the other in under an hour, you’ll be amazed by the abundance of activities and attractions on offer for families, couples and groups of friends. From discovering the fascinating history to indulging in tantalising flavours and local rums, the vibrant Bajan culture oozes at every turn. Thrill-seekers will delight in the aquatic realm of adventures above and below the waves of the Atlantic Ocean, while beach lovers will feel right at home on the satin sands. Whether you wish to unwind in the privacy of your luxury resort or embrace energetic Caribbean life exploring what the island has to offer, there is something for everyone in Barbados.

Here are our top 5 things to do in Barbados.

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Explore Bajan Culture

Unveil a rich tapestry of age-old traditions, vibrant music, and fascinating history that are unique to Barbados. If you choose to visit in British summer time, you may get to experience the spectrum of glowing colours at the Crop Over festival, with its roots in celebrating the end of the sugar cane harvest. Grand Kadooment Day brings joyful street parades with flamboyant costumes, bass drums, and traditional dances. Discover the island’s rich history in the capital city, Bridgetown, with a series of significant buildings and enriching museums, such as George Washington’s House. St Nicholas Abbey is another top attraction to see, as it is said to be one of the oldest Jacobean mansions in the western hemisphere. Experience the warm kindness and epic tales of the locals to understand their amazing culture.

Wake Up To Sensational Beaches

Barbados is the perfect place for ultimate rest and rejuvenation, surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring beaches in the Caribbean. From the dramatic cliff backdrop of Bottom Bay to the pristine shores of Crane Beach, this island offers a diverse array of coastal landscapes to explore. A wide variety of luxury resorts are dotted along the coastline, providing guests with mesmerising views of soft sands and the azure Atlantic Ocean from your private balcony. If you need a short break from the glistening sunshine, these heavenly resorts often boast air-conditioned fitness centres, sparkling swimming pools and revitalising spa centres. For digital nomads seeking a remote work paradise, Barbados provides top-notch facilities amidst a tranquil beach setting. Whether you’re lounging on soft sands with your partner, paddling with the little ones or enjoying a game of beach volleyball with your closest friends, spending time on the magnificent beaches of Barbados is a must.

Discover Natural Landscapes

Aside from its phenomenal coastlines, you can embark on a journey through Barbados’ breathtaking beauty with a host of timeless natural landmarks. Harrison’s Cave, a subterranean marvel adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, captivates many visitors with its underground rivers and shimmering pools. Venture off on a morning boat trip or sunset catamaran cruise to unveil coastal gems like hidden coves and wondrous cliffsides, whilst gazing at endless hues of blue along the way. For a diverse array of tropical flora from around the world, take a peaceful stroll around some of the island’s charming botanical gardens with your special someone. Wherever you go in Barbados, you will always be surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery

Indulge In Mouthwatering Cuisine

Lose yourself with a kaleidoscope of flavours in Barbados, where culinary excellence awaits at every turn. Along the west coast in Saint James, a realm of high-class dining experiences amongst well-known celebrities can be found in world-famous restaurants, including The Cliff, The Lone Star and The Tides Restaurant. These gourmet restaurants are nestled along the Platinum Coast, offering an idyllic setting for a romantic evening. For an entertaining night of tasting the island’s freshest seafood and national dish, Cou Cou and Fried Flying Fish, head to the lively Oistins Fish Fry in Christ Church. Don’t forget to wash these tasty flavours down with a drink of rum, the very spirit that originated on this enchanting island. Holidaymakers who prefer to discover the delights of their resort’s restaurants will be in their element, as Barbados features a myriad of fabulous all-inclusive hotels.

Aquatic Adventures

Whether it’s above or below the waves, get your heart racing and create lifelong memories in Barbados. From jet skiing to banana boat rides, there’s an abundance of beachfront excitement for the whole family, with a world of thrilling watersports at your fingertips. As well as other great sites like Holetown, Dover Beach and Drill Hall, Carlisle Bay is widely recognised as a top spot for snorkellers and divers. All provide opportunities to swim with majestic turtles and uncover amazing marine life, such as parrotfish, yellowtails, lionfish and so much more. Barbados has been referred to as ‘The Shipwreck Capital of the Caribbean, being home to seven fascinating shipwrecks, including Stavronikita, the largest and one of the deepest wreck diving sites in the island's waters. If you are an avid surfer, head to the east coast for the biggest waves and choppiest waters.

Best Time To Visit

Boasting over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually and a delightful year-round tropical climate, Barbados is a paradise for those seeking sunshine and luxury in the Caribbean. The dry season, from December to May, is the most popular time for visitors to the island due to minimal rainfall and an average daily temperature of 30°C. This makes it an ideal destination for a winter sun holiday or an Easter break with the whole family. Barbados experiences its wet season during the months from July to November. Despite rain showers being more common in this period, this is a brilliant time to experience Barbados’ best sights and festivals. Winds are higher along the southeast coast, making this a top spot for windsurfing and kite surfing, while the west coast enjoys calmer sea water.

“You will be blown away by Barbados’ unparalleled coastlines. Whether you are looking for calm waters to paddle in with little ones, big waves for top-notch surfing, or just a pristine stretch of sand to sunbathe, Barbados has got it all.

“Immerse yourself in Bajan culture by discovering the long history of the nation and its communities. The island capital, Bridgetown, is a hub of enchanting landmarks.

“You can spend your evenings watching mesmerising sunsets before tasting tropical cocktails and mouthwatering cuisine amongst rhythmic music and exotic dancers. This island is a vibrant spectrum of colourful culture.

“For true luxury, head to the famed West Coast and you won’t regret it. Dotted with an abundance of expansive resorts, opulent hotels and world-class dining experiences, Saint James offers an unrivalled escape.”

Sandals Barbados

Succumb to heavenly moments at Sandals Barbados, an adults-only sanctuary of tranquillity ideal for couples who crave a slice of romance. This paradisiacal resort is nestled along pristine sands that overlook turquoise waters and offers a fabulous all-inclusive concept with a range of top-notch dining and drinking options, all-day entertainment, and unlimited land sports. Treat yourself to a luxurious spa treatment, hit the waves with an abundance of water sports, and bask in the sunshine beside glistening swimming pools.

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Sandals Royal Barbados

Experience a sophisticated adults-only escape at Sandals Royal Barbados, a fantastic all-inclusive hotel located just across from Sandals Barbados in Christ Church. Choose from a wide array of opulent suites, all complete with deluxe amenities and flawless vistas. Enjoy extra club benefits such as exclusive access to Club Sandals Lounge, step foot into a realm of fun with a variety of leisure activities, and indulge in mouth-watering flavours from around the world.

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The Sands Barbados

Discover a fabulous family-friendly retreat along the island’s south coast at The Sands Barbados, located directly between Bridgetown and Christ Church, just moments away from St Lawrence's Gap and Oistins. Step foot onto the soft sands of Worthing Beach and enjoy a host of water sports, indulge in a soothing spa session, and surround yourself with the delightful white and turquoise decor of this all-inclusive resort while catching a glowing tan.

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