From the rugged coastline and wild surf of the east coast to the relaxed luxury and calm Caribbean Sea in the west, there's something for everyone. Although tempting to stay by the beautiful beaches, inland there are delightful treasures to be discovered - old plantation houses, quaint villages with their Anglican churches and cricket pitches, beautiful botanical gardens, and colourful rum shacks. Read on to discover some of the unmissable island adventures to be had on this stunning island.
- One of the warmest and friendliest welcomes in the Caribbean.
- Hints of Home in a tropical paradise.
- Over 80 white sandy beaches.
- World-class sport including test cricket, sailing regattas, game fishing and horse racing.
- At 21 miles long by 14 miles at its widest point, you are never more than 20 minutes from the coast.
- The birthplace of rum.
- Fantastic food and restaurants and known as the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.
- Year round sunshine with an average temperature of 30.
Barbados is the best place for water sports in the Caribbean, offering fun and adventure against a stunning backdrop, surrounded by crystal clear waters and blessed with mile after mile of stunning beaches. Activities range from the adrenaline-fueled thrills of jet skiing, kite-surfing and parasailing to simply relaxing on the deck of a sail boat as it gently explores the coastline. If you're looking for more of a challenge, scuba diving attractions include natural reefs, shipwrecks and curious sea turtles where you can discover the natural underwater beauty of the island.
At the heart of Barbados lies one of its greatest wonders - the magnificent Harrison's Cave. Located in the central uplands of the island, this crystallized, limestone cave is characterized by flowing streams, deep pools of crystal-clear water and towering columns. Gaze in wonder at the white flow stones and in awe at the beauty of the speleothems which adorn the cave. Harrison's Cave is a massive stream cave system measuring at least 2.3 kilometres long and its largest cavern, the Great Hall measures 15 metres high and is a gem of an experience, so be sure to visit and unearth the adventure!
On the island's southeast coast there's a flight of steps that lead down to hidden Shark Hole - a small strand of white beach that's almost completely encircled by rocks. This secluded cove offers beautiful photo opportunities, with the gap in rocks revealing vistas of the reef beyond. This picture-perfect beach is also a great place for swimming as the reef keeps the waters calm and clear. It's also a favourite spot for the local kids pastime of taking acrobatic jumps off the rocks.
When touring the north of the island, make sure to stop at St Nicholas Abbey - a Jacobean-style mansion that is one of the oldest plantation houses in the Caribbean. There's the Great House, a rum distillery and gardens to explore. It's also a good stop for a light lunch as the café is perched on a deck that overlooks the forested valley, and before you leave make sure to stop at the gift shop for a bottle of single-cask rum made on-site.