For travelers dreaming of a tropical escape, the Caribbean offers an array of islands for every kind of vibe.
However, with more 7,000 islands, islets, reefs and cays, it may be hard to choose which shoreline to explore first.
If you vacation on Barbados, the Caribbean's easternmost island, you'll find yourself immersed in natural beauty, welcoming Bajan culture and rich history. While this charming island is small in size, it offers a long list of things to do.
Here are 10 unforgettable ways to experience Barbados on your next tropical vacation.
1. Day Trip to Harrison's Cave
One of the most famous landmarks in Barbados is Harrison's Cave. Take a day trip and immerse yourself in its pools and waterfalls. Then, explore the underground systems of tunnels, where you can tour the natural mineral formations covering the top and bottom of the caves.
2. Stroll Through Hunte's Garden in St. Joseph
Explore this tranquil lush garden nestled in the heart of a tropical rainforest, is centrally located in the hills of St. Joseph. It offers nature-lovers one of the finest experiences in the East Caribbean islands. Enjoy refreshments, including rum punch, teas, coffees and cakes, as you roam the garden paths.
3. Plan a Bajan-Style Beach Day
The beaches in Barbados offer an amazing variety of shorelines, featuring sugar white sand and tranquil turquoise waters to rugged and rocky vistas. Your day at the beach can include a number of fun water sports, including kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, swimming with turtles and snorkeling your way through colorful coral.
Spend a day at Bottom Bay, where you'll enjoy a secluded beach under a canopy of palm trees. Then venture to Ragged Point for arguably the best sunsets on the island, and views of five historic parishes.
4. Shop Like A Local In Bridgetown
From craft marketsto farmer's markets and shopping malls, you'll have no problem finding the perfect souvenir. The main shopping area is on Broad Street in Bridgetown, featuring duty-free shops and department stores.
5. Experience Animal Flower Cave In St. Lucy
You'll find the Animal Flower Cave at the northernmost point of Barbados in the parish of St. Lucy. Wear your hiking sandals to explore this accessible ocean cave with steps leading inside. You’ll discover the coral floor, sea anemones and natural rock pools, some of which are deep enough to swim in. Enjoy ocean-side dining as well as wintertime whale watching.
6. Head Out and Enjoy the Nightlife In St. Lawrence Gap
Be sure to pack your dancing shoes. Barbados is home to some of the best nightlife in the Caribbean, and there's something for everyone. Dance the night away in one of St. Lawrence Gap's nightclubs, and embrace Barbadian culture as you jam out to authentic Caribbean reggae.
If dancing isn't your scene, visit Oistins seaside fish market on Friday night to experience an island-style fish fry — come ready for the best nighttime street party in the tropics.
7. Discover Historic Bridgetown
Bridgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a capital city brimming with history. Visitors will appreciate cultural buildings, shopping malls and street vendors. Finally, Bridgetown Boardwalk is an ideal place to soak in the sunset and the constant parade of sailboats. If you're looking for history, visit National Heroes Square, the Jewish Synagogue and the Parliament Buildings.
8. Attend an Event at Kensington Oval Barbados
Established in 1882, Kensington Oval is Barbados' oldest cricket ground. Despite its historic nature, Barbados has expanded and upgraded the site to the extraordinary sporting complex that it is today.
Beyond cricket, the Oval hosts visitors and locals for events, such as various sporting and cultural events and concerts. Among the many musical artists to perform at the Oval, a hometown favorite is Barbadian Rihanna.
9. Swim with Sea Turtles and Tour a Shipwreck
Venture just outside of Bridgetown to Carlisle Bay, and board a catamaran to enjoy the views of Barbados' south coast en route to a turtle sanctuary.
Slip into the bright blue water and swim with these gentle, graceful creatures.
10. Eat Like a Local
The cuisine in Barbados is top-notch. From Mahi-Mahi to macaroni pie, Barbados boasts unique, local specialties. Tour Mount Gay Rum distillery and enjoy a refreshing rum punch as well as fresh mangoes, coconuts and sugar cane. If you're more of a hands-on foodie, try a culinary class and learn to cook traditional Bajan cuisine.
Stay: Founded as Barbados' first hotel in 1887, The Crane, now Hilton Grand Vacations at The Crane, remains the oldest continuously operating resort in the Caribbean.
Discover the benefits of vacation ownership and make a vacation to Barbados a regular part of life.