Barbados Beyond Beaches

While Barbados' beaches are definitely worth a visit, read this 4-day itinerary so you don't miss out on what else this island has to offer.

Barbados is the easternmost island in the Caribbean and not to be confused with the Bahamas. Originally inhabited by indigenous Amerindian peoples, it was later colonized by the British in 1627. The island's fertile soil led to the development of a prosperous (for the British) sugar plantation economy, driven by the forced labor of enslaved Africans. In 1966, the island achieved full independence from the United Kingdom, becoming a sovereign nation. Today, Barbados celebrates its vibrant culture, blending elements of its colonial past with a unique Caribbean identity, making it a captivating destination for travelers worldwide.

This beautiful country is know most known for its world-class beaches that epitomize paradise. The island's coastline is adorned with some of the most famous stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters in the Caribbean. If you want to know about the beaches of Barbados, make sure to read this post here! However, there is much more to Barbados than just it's beaches.

When to visit Barbados?

The best time to visit Barbados is during the dry season from December to April. This period offers the ideal weather for a tropical getaway, with sunshine, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak tourist season, so prices for accommodations and flights will be higher. If you prefer a more budget-friendly option and don't mind the occasional rain shower, the wet season from June to November might be best for you.

How to get to Barbados?

Direct flights are available to Barbados from many large cities, including Toronto and Montreal. However, if you choose to go in the rainy season to save on costs you might have a harder time getting a direct flight. You'll want to grab a window seat on this flight so that you can enjoy the view of the island and the Caribbean vibrant blue waters as the plane descends. The Grantley Adams International Airport is small, but welcoming. You'll have plenty of food options on both sides of the gates, even a duty free alcohol shop to get your local-made rum on arrival or departure.

How to get around Barbados?

Navigating Barbados can be difficult if you're not used to driving on the left hand side of the road, but renting a car will offer the most flexibility and accessibility. If you're not renting a car then you should choose to stay in a main area so the busses will be accessible to you. There is a public bus system, distinguished by their blue and yellow colors, that provide an affordable means to explore the island. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed or booked in advance, but the cost will add up quickly. You can walk to explore within towns and along the coast, but with the hot sun it's not feasible for all day exploring.

What to do in Barbados?

Day 1: Bridgetown

Bridgetown, the capital and largest city of Barbados, is a vibrant and historically rich destination. Located on the southwestern coast of the island, this charming city offers a delightful blend of colonial architecture, white-sand beaches, and a lively atmosphere. Start your day by exploring the local shops and markets. This is a great area to find fresh local fruits to try like guava and plums, as well as crafts, and souvenirs to bring home. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some unique items. If you get hot while wandering, try some freshly squeezed golden apple juice or a frutee soda.

Once you've worked up an appetite from shopping make sure to stop by Chefette, a popular local fast-food chain where you can try both local and international menu options. My favourite is their vegetable roti, a twist on the Jamaican classic!

Make sure to try a sno cone from one of the bicycle or van vendors - I recommend combining cherry and coconut, or you can go for the more local tamarind flavour. You can stroll along the scenic waterfront and soak in the city's charming architecture. This is also a good spot to watch the sunset, with the lights along the riverbanks creating a picturesque setting. For dinner, don't forget to indulge in a classic Barbadian dish - fish and chips, which you can find at local restaurants and vendors throughout the city. If you're not a fan of the typical greasy battered and deep fried fish and chips, you'll love the fresh grilled version here.

Day 2: Boat Cruise

A trip to Barbados wouldn't be complete without enjoying it's marine life. I recommend going on a half-day catamaran cruise out to enjoy the sun, sea, and Caribbean splendor. You'll get to snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and hopefully swim with turtles.

Lunch and drinks will be included on your cruise, giving you a chance to try some local classics like macaroni pie. The tour will also provide life jackets and snorkels, but I always recommend bringing your own snorkel for sanitary reasons. We also choose to travel with our own infant life jacket, as most tours don't provide these. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or simply seeking relaxation, a catamaran cruise in Barbados is an ideal way to capture the essence of this island.

Day 3: North Tour

Exploring Barbados is an adventure filled with historical and natural wonders. Begin your day in Holetown, where you'll find the island's oldest settlement. This coastal town is home to the historic St. James Parish Church, built in 1628, and the Holetown Monument, commemorating the first English landing in Barbados in 1625. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Caboose and try a traditional Barbadian fish cutter or fish sandwich, at this unique beachside shack. Rumoured to be one of the best fish cutters on the island, you won't be disappointed.

This side of the island is known for having a much rougher coastline, making it less common for popular beaches and more common for sightseeing. The rougher waves also make it a popular destination for surfers. A visit to Bathsheba allows you to witness the dramatic beauty of nature, and watch the surfers if you're not going to give it a try.

Next up you can visit the unique Animal Flower Cave. This seaside cave gets its name from the "animal flowers," or sea anemones, that can be spotted in the tidal pools. Here you can pay to enter the sea caves and even go for a swim in them. Or for a more budget friendly option, take a walk along the cost and enjoy the cliffside view.

Take a break from the ocean views and have a historical interlude by visiting Codrington College, the oldest theological school in the Western Hemisphere. This college was established in 1745 and has a prestigious history training Anglican clergy. You can stroll through its serene grounds and appreciate the heritage and legacy of this educational institution. The grounds also offer some great photo opportunity, like this palm lined drive. Bring some bread, bird seed or fish food as there is a large pond at the front with ducks, geese and fish seeking some treats.

For the last stop of the day, I recommend Andromeda Gardens, a botanical haven featuring an impressive collection of tropical plants and flowers. Established in the 1950s by the renowned horticulturist, Iris Bannochie. It features a remarkable collection of tropical plants and flowering trees set in a lush, enchanting landscape. The gardens are named after the mythical princess Andromeda and have since become a popular attraction, captivating visitors with their beauty and biodiversity. It's a peaceful setting to unwind and reflect on the beauty and diversity of Barbados' natural world. If you're lucky you'll even see a green tailed monkey or a giant hermit crab.

Day 4: South Tour

For the first stop of the day, you can make your way to Bottom Bay, a stunning coastal area with golden sands and rugged cliffs. This is one of our favourite places to visit in Barbados for it's breathtaking views. Make sure to bring some cash as you'll pass by several souvenir stalls where you can by local handmade goods, like coconut shell bowls or carved mahogany animals.

It is possible to walk down to the beach and take a dip, but we prefer to walk along the top of the cliff for the view. This is also a nice place for sunset photos, even though the sun sets on the other side you can get fantastic colours and lighting here.

One of my favourite places to visit on the island is Paradise Nature Park, a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. This serene park, set in the tranquil parish of St. Andrew, offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the island's lush tropical beauty. A leisurely stroll along the well-maintained trails unveils a diverse array of native plants and vibrant wildlife. The park is also home to picturesque ponds and vibrant birdlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching.

After a busy day, head to Oistins Fish Fry, a vibrant cultural experience and a local tradition. Fridays are particularly lively, with live music, dancing, and mouthwatering seafood. It's a fantastic way to engage with the island's lively atmosphere, enjoy delicious cuisine, and mingle with both locals and fellow travelers.

Day 4: Historical Tour

If you love nature and botanical gardens, you'll have plenty to visit in Barbados. Welchman Hall Gully is a lush tropical forest filled with fascinating flora. The Bearded Fig Tree found here is a botanical marvel, known for its impressive aerial roots and unique growth pattern. Every branch that drops to the ground will actually form roots, spreading quickly and overtaking the area. The trees needed constant maintenance to keep them from overtaking their gardens. The story goes that the island actually got it's name from this tree. When the Portuguese arrived they saw the tree and called it "Los Barbados" or the bearded one. It's also known in Barbadian folklore, as the Tree of Knowledge, representing enlightenment and wisdom.

From here, it's a short drive to visit the Morgan Lewis Windmill, the island's largest and only working sugar windmill. This historic structure provides insight into Barbados' sugar industry heritage. The windmill dates back to the early 19th century and played a pivotal role in the island's sugar industry. The windmill was instrumental in grinding sugar cane, a critical step in the production of the island's most important export during the colonial era. Today, it offers a glimpse into the island's past, allowing visitors to appreciate the ingenuity and labor that went into producing one of the world's most sought-after commodities. Morgan Lewis Windmill is a cherished piece of Barbados' history and a living tribute to the island's agricultural legacy.

Another favourite spot of mine is Cherry Tree Hill, a renowned photo spot that provides a stunning panoramic view of the island's eastern coast. The lush scenery and the cool Atlantic breeze make it an ideal location for capturing the beauty of Barbados. This can also be a great place to grab some handmade souvenirs as the pull off is lined with vendors. Or if you need to cool down, grab a fresh coconut to drink.

Here, you can also explore St. Nicholas Abbey, a historic plantation house and rum distillery. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history, and don't miss the opportunity to ride the heritage railway for a unique perspective on the estate.

Wrap up your day at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, where you can observe local animals, including green monkeys, tortoises, and agoutis, in a natural, open habitat. It's a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with the island's wildlife and immerse yourself in its diverse ecosystems.

Bonus: Speighstown

Visiting Speightstown in Barbados is a journey into the island's historical and cultural heritage. This charming town, one of the oldest in Barbados, is steeped in history, with colonial-era architecture and a rich maritime past. One of its standout attractions is the Speightstown Mural, a magnificent piece of public art that encapsulates the town's historical significance. The mural, created by local artist Don Small, vividly depicts scenes from Speightstown's past, including sugar cane production, trading ships, and the island's unique flora and fauna. It's a living testament to Barbados' colorful history and a must-see for anyone visiting.