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Visit Barbados

barbados Travel Guide Discover the Gem of the Caribbean

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Welcome to Barbados, a Caribbean island best known for its flavorful cou cou and flying fish, Crop Over, and mega-star Rihanna. This island’s high-spirited culture is best reflected in its people, who welcome visitors with open arms. Just a short flight from some of the major North American cities, Barbados presents a mix of British culture and Caribbean flair. And, from Sandals’ all-inclusive resorts in Barbados, you can explore the island’s best attractions (stunning beaches included!) and dance along to the catchy Bajan beats.

Best of Barbados

Best things to do in Barbados Discover barbados with our resorts as your home base

Get set for an all-inclusive vacation in Barbados. Start your exploration in historic Bridgetown (the capital), then venture out on a snorkeling adventure. A catamaran coastal cruise can be up next, or perhaps, a dip in the crystal clear waters of Dover Beach. With Sandals Resorts as your launching pad, you can immerse yourself completely in the beauty and culture of Barbados!

Catamaran and Snorkeling Cruise At Carlisle Bay

From Carlisle Bay, you can head out on a catamaran cruise that includes snorkeling, refreshments and swim stops along the way. This is a great opportunity to see unique marine life up close!

Wonders of Barbados Underwater Submarine Day Tour

It's a whole new world beneath the ocean. See for yourself during the Barbados Underwater Submarine Day Tour. Beneath the ocean, you’ll scope all types of colorful coral formations and sea creatures of all kinds.

Harrison Cave, Zipline & Obstacle Course Experience

Harrison’s Cave on its own is exciting, but it’s now possible to combine this tour with an exhilarating zipline and obstacle course adventure. Barbados’ natural beauty meets adventure for this one-of-a-kind excursion.

Barbados Historical Rum Tour

Rum is said to have originated in Barbados and you can find out all about this with a historical rum tour. This is a guided tour to historic distilleries that includes rum tasting sessions.

Luxury Catamaran, Snorkel and Dining Experience

There are different levels to boat cruises in Barbados. The Luxury Catamaran, Snorkel and Dining Experience is among the more indulgent. This tour includes snorkeling and a special dining experience.

Wonders of Barbados Underwater Submarine Night Tour

Seeing marine life by day is one thing, but at night, the experience is unlike any other. As part of this tour, you can witness the magic of the undersea in a whole new way, inside a submarine!

Views of Barbados

Getting to the best viewpoint in Barbados takes expert guidance. You can have just that as part of the Views of Barbados tour. This tour is a great way to see some of the most scenic spots in Barbados. Take lots of photos!

Barbados Obstacle Course & Zipline Experience

Are you any good at navigating obstacle courses? You’ll certainly find out during the Barbados Obstacle Course & Zipline Experience! Safety gear and expert guidance are included in this tour.

Electric Bike Bajan Sightseeing Experience

Ride along dirt trails through sugarcane and cotton fields on an electric bike. This eco-friendly guided tour includes stops at scenic viewpoints like the Monkey Jump lookout. Refreshments are included.

Hunte’s Gardens

Created by Anthony Hunte, these gardens are exotic, colorful, and home to a diverse collection of tropical plants and flowers. Located near a sinkhole in the heart of Barbados, the gardens are a half hour drive from Sandals Barbados.

Carlisle Bay

With the possibility of beach horseback riding, water sports, and some of the best scuba diving, Carlisle Bay is one of the beaches you won’t want to miss out on while in Barbados.

Bottom Bay

On some days, it might just be you and your beach buddy at the secluded Bottom Bay beach in Barbados. But, even better to soak up the exceptional seaside views, especially at sunset.

Enterprise Beach (Miami Beach)

Enterprise Beach is loved for its tranquility and beauty. Watching the sunset from this beach at the end of the day is sure to be spectacular.

St. Nicholas Abby

Constructed in 1658, this is a plantation house, museum and rum distillery where you can learn about Barbados’ role as a sugar cane producer in the islands. Excursions to St. Nicholas Abby are available from Sandals Barbados.

Animal Flower Cave

Located on the northern tip of Barbados, Animal Flower Cave is the island’s only accessible sea cave. Once there, you can enjoy fantastic views and even dip into the tidal pools.

Dover Beach

With a sprinkling of beach bars nearby, Dover Beach is on the south coast of Barbados. This beach is on the larger side and the views are impressive. Dover Beach is an 8-minute walk from Sandals Resorts in Barbados.

Bathsheba Beach

The dramatic rock formations at Bathsheba Beach are a magnet for explorers, while the powerful surf on this east coast beach draws in photographers and surfers. Bathsheba Beach is a half hour drive from Sandals Barbados.

Mount Gay Distillery

You can learn all about the history of rum making in Barbados at the Mount Gay Distillery. This distillery is a half hour drive from Sandals Barbados.

George Washington House

At 19, George Washington is said to have spent 2 years in this house which now serves as a museum. George Washington House is a 15-minute drive from Sandals Barbados.

Harrison’s Cave

Prepare for one of the most exciting tours in Barbados: an underground tram ride that brings you up close to stunning geological features. Excursions to Harrison’s Cave are available through Sandals Barbados.

Crane Beach

There's almost always someone willing to cut you a coconut at Crane Beach. That alone can be an invitation, but so are the sugary white sands, warm seas, and the lush surrounding greenery. Crane Beach is a half hour drive from Sandals Resorts in Barbados.

Garrison Savannah

Horse racing season is an exciting time at Garrison Savannah, particularly during the opening season, between January and April. Garrison Savannah is a 15-minute drive from Sandals Barbados.

Gun Hill Signal Station

In Barbados, you can learn all about Gun Hill Signal Station, the largest historical military outpost on the island. This attraction is a half hour drive from Sandals Barbados.

Welshman Hall Gully

There are many places in Barbados where you can spot the mischievous and playful Green Monkeys. Welshman Hall Gully is one of them. This attraction is a half hour drive from Sandals Barbados.

Carlisle Bay

With the possibility of beach horseback riding, water sports, and some of the best scuba diving, Carlisle Bay is one of the beaches you won’t want to miss out on while in Barbados.

Bottom Bay

Scenic and secluded, the stunning cliffs and clear waters of Bottom Bay might bring precisely the level of peace you need in Barbados.

Enterprise Beach (Miami Beach)

Enterprise Beach is loved for its tranquility and beauty. Watching the sunset from this beach at the end of the day is sure to be spectacular.

Dover Beach

Go for a swim or lounge on sandy shores all day. Or, if the mood strikes, fit in some water sports. There’s lots to look forward to at Dover Beach, including the amenities.

Bathsheba Beach

The dramatic rock formations at Bathsheba Beach are a magnet for explorers, while the powerful surf on this east coast beach draws in photographers and surfers.

Crane Beach

There's almost always someone willing to cut you a coconut at Crane Beach. That alone can be an invitation, but so are the sugary white sands, warm seas, and the lush surrounding greenery. Crane Beach is a half hour drive from Sandals Resorts in Barbados.

Paynes Bay Beach

With gentle waves lapping, and sand that feels like baby powder, Paynes Bay Beach is a favorite for visitors to Barbados. The calm waters here are excellent for snorkeling.

Accra Beach

Rent a sunbed and spend the day at the lively Accra Beach in Barbados. The soft white sand, vibrant atmosphere and nearby conveniences can really set the tone of your beach day.

Silver Sands Beach

Windsurfers and kitesurfers consider this beach a haven, and the conditions almost always seem to be just right for some action. This beach is great for watersports.

Mullins Beach

Convenience and calm seas are both good reasons to visit Mullins Beach in Barbados. Located on the west coast, the scenic views are part of its appeal.

Best places to stay in Barbados

Which area of Barbados to go?

Sandals All-Inclusive Resorts in Barbados

View Resorts

Best time to visit Barbados

Average climate in Barbados

Average climate in Barbados Average climate in Barbados

Average precipitation in Barbados

Average precipitation in Barbados Average precipitation in Barbados

Peak season

Peak season is the best time to travel to Barbados. This includes the months of December to April. The weather is usually exceptional during this time, and the island is more lively too. Peak season is the ideal time for a beach vacation in Barbados. Book early for availability.

Shoulder season

Barbados’ shoulder season months are May and June. During this time, you can still enjoy the best of the island, often with low rates for flights and accommodation. During the shoulder season, there’s usually less crowds on island than you’d find during peak season.

Low season

July to November are low season travel months for Barbados. The island is usually less busy at this time, and this extends to the beaches and other attractions. Low season can be a great time to get deals on flights, accommodation, and tours.

Non-stop flight service

to barbados

Non-stop flights make it possible to get to the sparkling shores of Barbados much sooner. Direct flights to this island from some of the major North American and European cities arrive via the main Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI). Once you arrive to Barbados, make your way to the Sandals Resorts desk or lounge right outside the Immigration and Customs area for your complimentary resort transfer.

Barbados travel tips

Dos, don’ts, and other useful information

  • LANGUAGE

    Most people in Barbados speak English, which is the official language. For most visitors, it’s easy to communicate with the locals on this island.

  • CURRENCY

    The main currency used in Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD). US Dollars (USD) can also be used and are accepted in most places. When leaving your resort, keep some small bills on hand for tips and local purchases, and keep an eye on conversion rates.

  • ELECTRICITY

    Barbados uses the standard voltage of 115V and Type A and B electrical outlets. This means North American visitors usually don’t need to worry about travel adapters.

  • GETTING AROUND

    The safest and easiest way to get around in Barbados can be via taxi. It’s also possible to rent a car or take a public bus. With Sandals Resorts, you won’t need to worry about transportation as airport transfers are included in your vacation package and tours (including transportation) can be arranged through your resort.

  • TIPS AND GRATUITIES

    In Barbados, a 10 - 15% tip is the norm for good service at restaurants and bars. Tipping is not allowed at Sandals Resorts as with the exception of butlers and spa staff, tips are included in the cost of your vacation package.

FAQs About Barbados

  • Barbados is known for many things, including its beaches, nightlife, culture, and inviting all-inclusive resorts. The friendly locals and historic rum distilleries are also among things this island is known for, and you can explore these and more during your vacation.

  • U.S. citizens will need a valid passport to visit Barbados. Travelers should also ensure that their passport will be valid for the duration of their stay. Visas are not required for tourist stays up to 90 days.

  • Cou cou and flying fish is at the top of the list for foods to try in Barbados, as this is the island’s national dish. During your vacation, don't miss a chance to try the island ’s famous fish cakes, the local rum and other local treats.

  • Absolutely! Barbados is a great destination to learn scuba diving, with skilled instructors and high-quality equipment available. Both Sandals Resorts in Barbados offer certified divers complimentary scuba expeditions on a daily basis.

  • Yes, beach weddings are popular, and it won’t be hard to make arrangements for a wedding in Barbados. This island is naturally beautiful, and this extends to the beach scene. Sandals Resorts offers various destination wedding packages and locations that can help make your beach wedding and honeymoon a reality.

Destinations

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