Caribbean island with coral reefs, white-sand beaches, and rum distilleries. Home to historic Bridgetown and Harrison's Cave. Known for cricket and Crop Over festival.
Barbados, the easternmost Caribbean island, is known for its pristine beaches and rich history. You can relax on the white sands of Paynes Bay, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bridgetown, or surf the challenging waves at Bathsheba Beach. Visit Mount Gay Distillery to taste the island's famous rum, or join the annual Crop Over festival to experience Barbadian music and dance. For underwater adventures, head to Carlisle Bay Marine Park to snorkel among colorful marine life.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Barbados has over 70 miles of coastline. On the west coast, known as the "Platinum Coast," you'll find calm waters at Paynes Bay and Sandy Lane, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The south coast beaches, including Dover Beach, are more active and ideal for water sports. If you're a surfer, head to the east coast's Bathsheba Beach, where you can ride large waves near rock formations called the "Soup Bowl."
Exploring Bridgetown
As you walk through Bridgetown, Barbados' capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll encounter colonial architecture and historical landmarks. Visit St. Michael's Cathedral, a 17th-century Anglican church with beautiful stained glass windows. Learn about the island's past at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, housed in a former British military prison. Cross the Chamberlain Bridge to explore the bars and shops in the Careenage area, once used for ship maintenance.
Natural Wonders
At Harrison's Cave, you can take a tram tour through a crystallized limestone cavern. You'll see flowing streams, deep pools, and tall columns, with stalactites and stalagmites forming intricate patterns. For a different outdoor experience, visit the Andromeda Botanic Gardens in St. Joseph parish. This six-acre garden contains a wide variety of tropical plants and offers panoramic views of the east coast.
Barbadian Cuisine
Barbadian cuisine, often called "Bajan" cuisine, reflects African, Indian, and British influences. Try the national dish, cou-cou and flying fish, typically served with spicy gravy. For a quick snack, sample fish cakes or "cutters" - sandwiches filled with various meats or fish. On Friday nights, join locals at Oistins Fish Fry for freshly grilled seafood in a lively atmosphere. To learn about Barbadian rum, visit Mount Gay Rum Distillery, which produces the world's oldest commercial rum brand and offers tours and tastings.
Getting Around
You can easily navigate Barbados using its extensive public transportation system. The blue government-operated buses cover most of the island and are economical. For a livelier ride, try the privately-owned yellow buses or the white "ZR" vans, which often play music. Taxis are readily available, but remember to agree on the fare before starting your journey. If you prefer to drive yourself, you can rent a car. Keep in mind that in Barbados, people drive on the left side of the road.
