Things to Do in Barbados
These are a few of our favorite things.
** The Barbadian dollar is pegged at BBD$2 to US$1. When looking at prices on the linked websites, note which currency they are displaying **
Relax on the Beach
Barbados is famous for its pristine beaches and nearby snorkeling. What would a trip to the island be without ample time soaking up the sun?
All beaches in Barbados are public, so don't be afraid to explore any patch of paradise that suits you!
While it's hard to go wrong, we prefer the beaches on the south and west coasts, including:
- Accra Beach: The side closest to Tiki bar is protected by a jetty, and is great for swimming with little ones. (sit near the Tiki Bar and keep the rum punches coming).
- Brownes Beach at Carlisle Bay: Jamilah's Dad's favorite and an absolute must see if it is your first time on the island. It's a great place to snorkel!
The east coat of the island is rocky and dramatic, but dangerous to swim in.
Surfing & Surf Lessons
Ever wish you could hang ten like a California babe? Here is your chance:
Barbados' wild eastern coast is home to several international surf competitions each year, and is considered a destination for expert surfers.
Lucky for most of us, the southern and western parts of the island also boast perfect waves for both first-timers and more experienced surfers.
Jamilah learned to surf in Barbados and blames her consistently novice skills on being distracted by the sea turtles. She learned with Boosy's Surf School, but there are many good options!
Welchman Hall Gully
Take a self-guided walk in the gully and enjoy shaded trails that run through a tropical forest, complete with exotic flowers and a troop of 30 green monkeys.
We're told that if you sit very quietly, you may get to see them up close!
If you need more immediate gratification, visit during their feeding time (10:30 and noon, last time we checked) and they will approach you looking for snacks.
Submarine Tours
Offered during the day, evening or night, the submarine tours are a great way to see tropical fish if you aren't up for snorkeling.
The submarines dive 150 feet and feature large windows for better viewing.
While a day time ride is great for kids, the evening trips usually include an above water sunset experience, and the nighttime trip focuses on corals, colors and "night predators."
St. Nicholas Abbey
One of the few remaining working plantations and distilleries on the island, St. Nicholas Abbey is located on the northern side of the island, a short drive away from scenic Cherry Tree Hill.
According to its website, "St. Nicholas Abbey’s 350-year history is filled with colourful tales of murder, love and intrigue; its owners have played pivotal roles in both Barbadian and American history." St. Nicholas Abbey’s great house, built by Benjamin Berringer in 1658, is one of just three Jacobean style mansions remaining in the Western Hemisphere, and one of the finest historic sites in Barbados.
The Abbey consists of a distillery, Great House and gardens, and holds special significance to Onny & Jamilah: it is where we went to celebrate after getting engaged last January! We even bought one of the distillery's famous bottles of rum and had the glass etched as a keepsake.
We loved getting to hear all about the history of rum on the island while sipping a rum punch and meandering through the massive mahogany trees!
Oistin's Friday Night Fish Fry
Oistins is the ultimate place to unwind after a day of relaxing.
Small kiosks sell the day's fresh catch, and groups of friends can catch-up while listening to local karaoke divas. This is a lovely way to spend and evening, and take in some local charm.
The best night to go is Friday; word on the street is you may be able to find the bride at Oistins the night before the nuptials!
NB: If you see "Dolphin" on a menu, don't fret, its the same fish often called Mahi Mahi in the north. Also, be alert when ordering the snapper, unlike other items, it is often sold by the pound and you must ask for the price before ordering.