Curator’s statement
When we think of the Caribbean, Barbados isn't usually top of mind. In fact, a Rihanna song may first pop into your head when you think of the island. Yes, its the birthplace of one of the biggest pop stars (and seeing the tiny street she grew up on, it really is quite an amazing story). But more than that, it is a beautiful, safe and friendly country that has those turquoise waters you dream about, plus a vibrant culture that makes this more than just a tourist town. Here are some fantastic things to do and see as this Caribbean island becomes one of your must-do family destination trips.
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Things to do in Barbados
Snorkel in Holetown Beach - Sea turtles are the draw at this spot, and whether you spend a day there at the Calma beach club or hire a boat to bring you over, this is the spot to swim with the turtles, sting rays and some truly gigantic fish!
Visit St. Nicholas Abbey & Distillery - A spot away from the beaches, this has a little of everything and for everyone. History, nature, monkeys, rum and a steam railway!
Spend Friday night at the Oistins Fish Fry - THE spot to get a real local feel of the island. Dancing, music and SO MUCH FISH. The grills start firing up around 6 pm and it's a little tricky finding a table, but sometimes chaos can be a good thing — especially when the drinks kick in and you start dancing to those island drums!
Animal Flower Cave - Check out the rocky coast on the northern part of the island, take a tour and swim in a cave as the waves come crashing down below. Easy enough for kids and the grandparents! But pro tip: bring your Crocs! And stay for lunch after.
Harrison Cave Eco Adventure Park - A real day trip full of activity. Explore the cave in the signature tram tour, go zip-lining, swing on the ropes course, take a dip in the pool and even have a rum tasting. Definitely good for when you need a break from the ocean!
Have a rum punch (or two or three) at the Pier One Restaurant swim-up bar. You don't need to be a member of this club to dine and swim at this very cool spot while watching the boats go by. You can even jump or step down off the dock and swim in the water to shore.
Book a catamaran or private boat to see the island at its best — on the water! Cat & Fiddle has both shared catamarans and private charters.
Try water sports on the many beaches! At the various beaches in Barbados there will be plenty of locals who have speedboats and fishing boats of their own to take you out tubing, waterskiing or wakeboarding. They take cash on the beach and were all super helpful and friendly. Some also rent out paddleboards and kayaks.
Do a walking tour of historic Bridgetown, which is also on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Shop, visit Rihanna Drive (although it's really just a street) and see all the colorful buildings around town.
Catch a cricket match at the Kensington Oval!
Places to eat & drink in Barbados
La Cabane - A perfect spot to settle in for a sunset and watch some surfers. Beachside, chill music, hammocks and swings with string lights and a wonderful ambiance. They even played some old movies on a large screen once it got dark!
Sea Shed - Book ahead of time for a spot on Mullins beach, where you can relax and hang while ordering delicious food and drinks for the day. Or just visit for a cleaned-up meal at sunset.
Local & Co - Another fantastic spot on the beach in Speightstown for more upscale food and dining. Other spots on the beach are a bit more low-key with music if you want to have a happy hour post swimming. There's also a cute local shop and a great gin bar attached to this restaurant!
The Fish Pot - Specializing in — what else — seafood, housed in a 17th-century fort. A little further up in Clinketts and definitely worth the trip up north.
Lone Star - Located in the exclusive St. James part of the island, this chic restaurant has a brilliant breakfast, lunch or fancy dinner overlooking the gorgeous turquoise water.
La Baguette, French bakery - Great local bakery in Holetown, with freshly baked croissants, breads and quiches.
JuJu's Beach Bar - Laid-back beach hut for lunch or cocktails. Cash only.
Fusion Rooftop - Rooftop dining in Holetown with excellent views and yummy sushi!
Deia Beach - If staying or visiting the Christ Church area, this is a great beach club spot to hang, eat and drink while enjoying the day!
Need to know
Barbados is part of the Commonwealth, so they drive on the opposite side of the road as they do in England and have a lot of English brands in their stores, but they will take American dollars!
Travel Advisor
Kim Zwecker
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Barbados page.