Barbados Essential Guide: 7 Ultimate Highlights And Best Time To Visit

Barbados is a tropical paradise in the Caribbean renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historic sites. This post is an essential guide to Barbados with the 7 must-see highlights, best time to visit and how to get around.

During our 2-week Caribbean cruise in 2024, we also visited Barbados and fell immediately in love with it. The rugged coastline in the north, the breathtaking Bathsheba beach, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Bridgetown are just a few of the spots you should not miss.  

Whether you are after adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Caribbean culture, this island has something for everyone.

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Barbados Essential Guide: 7 Must-See Highlights

Carlisle Bay

Located a short distance from Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay is famous for its calm, turquoise waters and soft, white sand. The bay is also home to shipwrecks that are perfect for snorkeling and diving.

Swim alongside colorful fish and explore the fascinating underwater world. Alternatively, grab a snack and chill on one of the stunning beaches. Brownes Beach or Pebbles Beach, for instance, are a great choice.

Bathsheba Beach

Bathsheba Beach is our favorite spot in Barbados. Known for its dramatic rock formations and powerful Atlantic surf, it is a favorite spot for surfers and photographers.

The rugged beauty of Bathsheba Beach on the island’s east coast is must-see. While swimming is not ideal due to strong currents, the beach is perfect for a scenic walk or picnic.

There are some friendly vendors selling local crafts and souvenirs, if this is your last stop before heading back to the port or airport.

Visit Harrison’s Cave

Barbados is not only about stunning beaches and water activities. Venture inland to explore the natural wonder of Harrison’s Cave.

It is a massive underground cave system filled with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools. The guided tram tour will take you deep into the cave to marvel at the breathtaking formations.

Good to know!

Read the info below if you are visiting Barbados as a cruise passenger. On most cruise lines, you can book shore excursions directly with your cruise company. It is hassle-free and can be booked in a few minutes. However, the shore excursions offered by the cruise companies tend to be more expensive.

Since it was our first cruise, we wanted to play it safe and booked directly with Norwegian. We had a great experience touring around Barbados as part of “Let’s take a selfie, Barbados” shore excursion. Read all about the juicy details of this specific shore excursion here. (insert a link)

However, on platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide, you can find cheaper tours. Keep in mind the ship’s departure time before booking excursions. Cruise ships do not wait for the passengers who are late.

St. Nicholas Abbey

Visiting St. Nicholas Abbey is like stepping back in time. It is a historic plantation house and distillery that dates to the 17th century.

This historic site provides a glimpse into the colonial past of Barbados. Enjoy wandering through the beautiful gardens, tour the house, or sample the delicious rum produced on-site.

Since 2018, there is an added fun experience at St. Nicholas Abbey – the Heritage Railway. Enjoy a scenic ride with a guided tour on the heritage steam railway culminating at Cherry Tree Hill. Here you can enjoy panoramic views over the rugged Atlantic coastline of Barbados. 

Explore Bridgetown and the Garrison

Explore Bridgetown, the vibrant capital of Barbados and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic city is known for its colonial architecture, bustling markets, and lively atmosphere.

The most iconic landmark here is the neo-Gothic Houses of Parliament featuring a striking clock tower and stained-glass windows. The best way to explore Bridgetown is on foot. Grab a delicious snack and stroll through Bridgetown to discover landmarks like the Chamberlain Bridge and National Heroes Square.

The nearby Garrison area, once a British military outpost, houses well-preserved fortifications, cannons, and barracks. Dive into the island’s colonial history.

Animal Flower Cave

Located at the northern tip of Barbados, the Animal Flower Cave offers stunning ocean views and a unique natural cave experience.

Inside the cave, you will find small pools of water and sea anemones (often referred to as “animal flowers”). The cave’s openings also provide spectacular views of the crashing waves below.

Mount Gay Rum Distillery

Barbados is known as the birthplace of rum. So, a visit to the Mount Gay Rum Distillery is a must for spirit lovers. The guided tour includes a fascinating history of rum production on the island and a tasting of the distillery’s world-renowned rums.

Bonus Highlight: Oistins Fish Fry

If you happen to be on the island on a Friday, you are in for a treat. For a taste of local culture and cuisine, head to Oistins Fish Fry on a Friday night.

This bustling fish market transforms into a lively street party with music, dancing, and delicious fresh seafood. Mingle with locals and other visitors while savoring dishes like grilled mahi-mahi, flying fish, and lobster.

Barbados Essential Guide: Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Barbados is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. This period is ideal for outdoor activities like beach hopping, snorkeling, and exploring the island’s natural and cultural attractions.

However, if you want to avoid crowds and benefit from lower prices, head to Barbados during the shoulder seasons of May, June, or November. The weather is still pleasant, but you will find fewer tourists and better deals on accommodation and flights.

Hurricane season runs from June to November, but Barbados is typically less affected by hurricanes compared to other Caribbean islands. Read more about the best time to visit the Caribbean and which leeward or windward island is the best for you.

Barbados Essential Guide: How to Get Around

By Public Transport

Public buses are a budget-friendly way to get around. Blue government-run buses and yellow private minibuses operate on major routes.

Taking a bus is a great way to meet friendly Bajans while traveling between popular destinations. Buses are frequent and easy to use, especially if you are staying in or near Bridgetown.

By Car

Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island. It is normally quite expensive, but Barbados has a well-maintained road network, and driving allows you to explore remote beaches, caves, and plantations at your own pace.

Keep in mind that Barbadians or Bajans drive on the left-hand side of the road.

By Taxi

Taxis are widely available and can be hailed or arranged through your accommodation. They are not cheap but are the most stress-free and convenient option for getting around without the hassle of driving.

By Bicycle or Scooter

For the more adventurous traveler, renting a bicycle or scooter offers an eco-friendly way to explore the island. This is especially popular in the flatter, southern areas, but less practical in hilly regions.

By Ferry

While Barbados itself does not have inter-island ferries, it is a hub for Caribbean cruises. Many visitors arrive by cruise ship, and short boat trips around the island are popular for snorkeling or visiting nearby islands, like St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Conclusion

Barbados is a stunning island with natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting activities. Whether diving into the clear waters of Carlisle Bay, enjoying a night out at Oistins, or soaking in the stunning views from Bathsheba Beach, you will find countless reasons to fall in love with this Caribbean gem.