Barbados is a small island in the Caribbean. Barbados is known for its beautiful beaches, but  there is so much more to do and see. Here are seven awesome things to do while you’re visiting this beautiful little island

1. 4×4 Island Safari around Barbados

If you want to see as much as possible one of the best ways is to hop on one of the Island Safari jeeps and explore. You can join one of the tours where they will take you all over the island with some off road adventures. There is also an option to charter your own jeep and driver for as long as you want. This means that you can customize your own tour, and see all the places that you want to see. Most of these tours vary from about 3 to 6 hours, and it’s a fantastic way to spend your day. A definite must do on these tours is the East Coast, you get to see so many amazing spots which are perfect photo opportunities. The tour guides are knowledgeable and very friendly so ask them anything. Don’t forget to try the rum punch which is included with these tours. It’ll be a day you won’t forget unless you drink too much rum punch of course.

2. Segway Tour

Cove Bay is hidden away in St. Lucy; it is an gorgeous location. It is very difficult to find so instead of getting lost trying to find this spot on your own, book a Segway tour. These Segway tours take you all around Cove Bay and Little Bay. You can meet the tour guides at St. Lucy parish church and follow them to the site if you are planning to drive there. You can also book your transport with the company in advance, and you won’t have to worry about anything. The tour guides know a lot about the area, so you will learn so much on this hour and a half long tour. There are so many photo opportunities here as well so don’t forget your camera. At the end of your tour, you will get to enjoy some rum punch (Barbadians love their rum!).

3. Oistins Fish Fry

On Friday and Saturday nights, Oistin’s has its famous fish fry. Friday is the more popular night to go, and it has become quite a tourist attraction. Here you will have many stalls to choose from all serving a variety of Bajan (Barbadian) cuisine. Here at Oistin’s fish market you must try the fried dolphin (Mahi Mahi) or flying fish with some macaroni pie or peas and rice. You can’t get much more local than that. Along with the good food, there are many drinks specials including the popular 4 for $10 beers. Grab your food and a Banks beer and sit and enjoy the music.

4. Take A Surf Lesson

You cannot come to the Caribbean and not try surfing. One of my favorite instructors is Christian Boos from Boosy’s Surf School. Boosy is very passionate at what he does and is determined to make sure everyone loves their surf lesson as much as he loves teaching them. He can usually be found teaching at Freights Bay or Surfer’s Point around the South Coast, depending on the waves. Make sure to book your lesson early because he only takes a limited number of people per lesson and he is usually quite busy.

5. Catamaran Cruise

One of the best ways to spend the day is laying on a boat sipping rum punches. These catamaran cruises leave from various locations along the west coast. It is a fantastic way to spend the day. One of the more popular catamarans is Cool Runnings; they offer an amazing lunch and great staff that take care of you all day. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, they also have their Cool Runnings Luxury catamaran as well. Another amazing cruise to check out is R&R Cruising, they do a variety of high-end cruises. Their food is delicious, and the staff is also so friendly and helpful. All the catamaran cruises serve lunch, and the stops usually include a shipwreck for the people who want to snorkel, swimming with the turtles and then a separate stop for lunch and a swim. Drinks are always included, and most catamarans have their own version of Barbados’ famous rum punch which is always worth a try.

6. Beach Day at Pebbles Beach

Pebbles Beach is a popular beach located on the south coast just before the Hilton. This spot is fantastic. There are so many activities offered here by the Cruising Club as well. You can go scuba diving, paddle boarding, surfing, or sailing; it’s up to you. You can rent chairs and umbrellas for the day from the boys on the beach. You have access to the Cruising Club’s bar where you can buy beers by the bucket. You can also have lunch at the Cruising Club or go to Cuz’s Fish Shack in the car park where you can grab a fish cutter (sandwich). Don’t forget your sunblock; there is no shade on this beach unless you have an umbrella!

7. Party at Harbor Lights

This is one of the most popular night clubs on the island. They have local floor shows with stilt men and limbo dancers on a Wednesday night which continues to a free drinks party until about 2 am. Fridays are the more popular night with the locals, and it’s free drinks until 3 am. Harbor Lights is located on Bay Street just a few minutes South of Bridgetown. It is definitely worth checking out if you love a good party, and the free drinks parties are only $30US.

8. Find accommodation in Barbados

Where to Stay in Barbados

Best Budget Hotel in Barbados – All Seasons Resort

This property is 5 minutes walk from the beach. Located 300 m from Sunset Crest Beach. Folkeston and Holetown are within 2 km of the All Seasons, while Grantley Adams International Airport is a 30-minute drive away.

All Seasons Resort features an outdoor swimming pool and cottages with terraces. Set in large gardens, it offers a free shuttle service within a 3 km radius. Each spacious, air-conditioned Cottage at All Seasons Resort has simple, traditional décor. There is a seating area with a sofa, and the kitchenette comes with an electric hob and a fridge. The All Seasons Resort’s restaurant serves a range of local Bajan dishes. There is also a poolside bar and free WiFi in public areas.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Barbados – Coconut Court

This property is 4 minutes walk from the beach. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown & Garrison Area. The hotel has a picturesque beachfront setting, a short walk from South Coast Boardwalk. Saint Lawrence Gap is 4 km from the hotel, while Bridgetown is a 10-minute drive away.

Each air-conditioned room at the Coconut Court Beach Hotel features tiled floors and wooden furniture. A microwave, fridge and coffee facilities are included, and free Wi-Fi and cable TV are also provided.  Guests can relax in the lounge chairs on the beach or the sun terrace. The beach bar offers views of the sea, and there is also a picnic area on the beach.

Best Luxury Hotel in Barbados – Hilton Resort

This property is 3 minutes walk from the beach. Located next to the Caribbean Sea and featuring two beaches, this five-star hotel in Needhams Point offers three tennis courts, on-site dining and infinity pool complex. Every room offers an ocean view balcony.

Hilton Barbados guests can enjoy the oversized tropical outdoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. They can also work out in the fitness center or have a massage at the spa. The property features a 17th-century fort that is part of the UNESCO heritage of Barbados. The resort offers meeting and convention facilities. Rockley Golf Course is a 6-minute drive from the hotel. Folkestone Marine Park and Museum and Harrisons Cave are within a 23-minute drive.

Cable TV with HBO, a minibar, and coffee maker are provided in the yellow, contemporary rooms. There are floor-to-ceiling windows along with a desk and armchair. Room service is available 24 hours a day. Barbados Hilton guests can enjoy fine dining at The Grille or casual dining at Lighthouse Terrace. Careenage Bar features live entertainment while Water’s Edge has a beachside bar.

About the Writer

Stacey is a 28-year-old personal trainer who obtained her Chemistry degree from the University of the West Indies in Barbados. She has always loved traveling, and two years ago her passion for travel was renewed on a trip to Morocco and since she has been to South Africa, Peru, New Zealand and Iceland. Follow her adventures at Wandering Bajan.

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