The Best of Barbados

Activities 

Sea Kayaking 

Head to Carlisle Bay for a wonderful day on the water in a glass bottom kayak. I rented a kayak and started my trip at Harbour’s Lights on Carlisle Beach, where I paddled to a popular viewing location for Green Sea and Hawksbill Turtles. Afterwards, I journeyed to a shipwreck that was sunken close to shore. The clear bottom of my kayaks allowed me a great view of the ships and some of the surrounding marine life, such as colourful coral and small tropical fish. 

Hike Barbados 

A great local organization, Hike Barbados, offers the opportunity for travellers to explore the country’s landscapes and natural attractions. Hike leaders can take you through can fields, gullies, tropical forest, and coastal communities for a fun day filled with new friends and healthy exercise. Hike Barbados offers six different hiking paths of various difficulties, with each route taking approximately 3 hours. For a unique experience I recommend trying  the ‘moonlight walk’ on Sunday nights, which allows for a leisurely hike at a cooler temperature. The hikes are FREE but donations are welcome towards the work of the Barbados National Trust (preserving the built and natural environment). 

Catamaran Cruise 

One of the most popular tourism activities in Barbados, Catamaran tours are a fun filled way to spend the day. Most catamarans offer the opportunity to snorkel, kayak, and relax in the sun as they move along the coastline. Although the most popular time to go is in the morning and early afternoon, I opted for a sunset cruise that left later in the day. Along with a delicious dinner, we also benefited from the stronger breeze that usually appears later in the day. One of the most spectacular experiences on the island was when we went snorkeling with sea turtles right off of the boat!

Restaurants 

Fortunately, Barbados offers a wide assortment of fantastic restaurants and dining experiences. Some of the most renowned restaurants on the island include the Cliff, Champers, and the Tides. I highly recommend heading to Sea Shed for a delicious meal and fun atmosphere. The restaurant is one of the few that offers comfortable seating, including sofas and lounge chairs, on the beach. I was particularly impressed by my experience at Fishpot, which included delicious food (try the watermelon sorbet!), fashionable decor, and a breathtaking view. Other restaurants that come highly recommended are the bohemian La Cabane, the historic Round House, and the charming Lonestar Hotel.

Bathsheba

During a day trip along the East Coast of Barbados, I stopped in the small fishing village of Bathsheba in the Parish of Saint Joseph. The town is filled with colorful houses, quaint churches, rum shops, and a picturesque beach. Bathsheba is most famous as Barbados’ main surf beach, affectionately known as the “Soup Bowl”. I recommend heading to the Roundhouse restaurant for an upscale Bajan dining experience. Roundhouse’s patio allows guests to overlook the talented surfers on the beach below. 

Bath Beach

Also located on Barbados’ East coast is the family-friendly Bath Beach. Despite the Atlantic Coast’s notoriously rough waters, a coral reef shelf surrounding the bay creates a safe place for tourists to swim and relax near the shore. A public park filled with mature trees, picnic tables, a snack bar, and a playground provides a shaded area to enjoy lunch. If you’re looking for a quiet retreat, Bath Beach is a great place to visit on a weekday.

Just north of Bath Beach on Highway 3, there is a small organic farm run by a local Bajan named Regis. Regis uses sustainable methods to cultivate bananas, papayas, edu, tomatoes, and plantains, among other produce. His sign on the side of the road often attracts visitors passing by with its poetic verses. For those interested in gardening, the Bajan slow food movement, and organic permaculture- Regis is a great resource for further information. 

North Point 

Located on the most northerly tip of the island, North Point is a popular tourist attraction that offers spectacular views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. Although many visitors choose to explore the Animal Flower Sea Cave that leads to the beach below, the view from above is equally as spectacular. Guests can dine at a small cafe, browse the vendors’ stalls, or walk along the edge of the cliff and take photographs. This is a great stop as part of a larger day trip around the island. 

Clinketts, Colleton, & Six Mens 

As I slowly explored Barbados, one of my favorite areas to relax was the three small fishing villages of Clinketts, Colleton, and Six Mens located just north of Port St. Charles. Colourful houses, fishing boats, and quaint rum shops dotted the coast with a breathtaking view of the sea. I recommend grabbing a delicious lunch at Fishpot, an upscale bistro located in Clinketts. Then walk south along the road through Colleton and Six Mens. Along the way, stop to take photographs of the rustic boats and chat with local fishermen at Joan’s Snackette & Bar. If you’re looking for an early morning adventure, head to the area when the fish market is most active and then settle in for brunch. 

Holetown

Known as an upscale destination on the West coast, Holetown is home to great shopping and tasty beachfront restaurants. The Limegrove Mall is the most popular destination in the town, filled with upmarket fashion stores for both men and women. There are also some great restaurants located in the mall, including Fusion, the rooftop patio. After shopping head down a small street beside the post office, which leads to the beach. There you can find restaurants offering local cuisine that is popular with Bajans and tourists alike.