At only 167 square miles, Barbados is a relatively small island, even by Caribbean standards. However, this island offers a rich culture and a vibrant landscape with a variety of attractions for the traveler to enjoy despite its size.
Barbados was formerly a British colony and despite gaining its independence in 1966, it retains much of that heritage. Cricket is a popular sport and the island has lots of Anglican churches. The small size of Barbados is actually a good thing in that you can see many of its attractions without spending your entire vacation in a vehicle. Here are a few of the ones that you should definitely not miss:
Bathsheba Beach
The island's location out in the Atlantic creates an excellent environment for surfers. One of the best places to go surfing is at Bathsheba Beach on the east coast. Not only does this beach provide huge surfer-friendly swells, there are scenic rock formations here as well so that you will still enjoy the trip even if you are not a surfer. The beach is free and open to the public at all times of day.
Mount Gay Rum Tour
Mount Gay Rum dates all the way back to 1703 and this tour provides you with the opportunity to explore the facility where it is made. You will learn about the rum's history along with the ingredients and craftsmanship that go into making it. As you may expect, you will also get the opportunity to taste the rum before the tour takes you to Mount Gay's own bar and lounge. While at the lounge, you will be able to sample cocktails made with Mount Gay Rum by expert bartenders. The cocktails will be followed by a buffet, which is also rum-themed.
Oistins Fish Fry
This fish fry is a Friday night tradition in Barbados. The Oistins fishing community is located on the south coast and is an exciting place to hang out on weekend nights; you will be able to sample locally caught seafood like marlin, mahi-mahi and flying fish. Experienced travelers to Barbados often recommend that you forego the more formal dining options in favor of this opportunity to dine outdoors and listen to Caribbean music as you eat.
Harrison's Cave
This is one of the more popular attractions on the island and therefore tours get booked quickly. Harrison's Cave is popular because it features one of the more rare sights in the Caribbean: a 40-foot subterranean waterfall. Yes, an underground waterfall. Along with your tour, you will get a video presentation on the cave. The tour itself is conducted via a tram and takes an hour.
Hunte's Gardens
Located in the hills of St Joseph's parish, Hunte’s Gardens provide you with the opportunity to explore the natural flora and fauna of Barbados. The gardens are located in a sinkhole in the heart of a rain forest so that you will be able to see rare and exotic plants growing on different levels, including in the heart of a dense tropical jungle. There is a path running through the gardens, with numerous smaller gardens along it; benches are provided along the way so that you can rest while on your tour.
Image Credits
Mount Gay Rum by Mary Beth Kurspahic
Bathsheba by Jack Says Relax
Hunte's Gardens by Alex Dixon
Oistens Fish Fry by Benjamin Haas
Harrison's Cave by Clint Mickel
Barbados Beach by Berit Watken
