56 Adventurous & Fun Things To Do In Barbados

Though most tropical vacations revolve around the premise that all vacationers want to cocoon themselves in a palm tree haven complete with gorgeous beaches and a laid-back lifestyle, there are many islands which offer more activities, and more to do, which many travelers are open to.

Barbados is one such island. On the 432 square mile tropical paradise, vacationers can be as busy or free as they would like, and if they choose the former, there’s lots to do around the island including fishing boat tours, snorkeling and scuba diving excursions amid ancient shipwrecks, explorations of old churches, relaxing on sandy shores, and if you’re a foodie, partaking in a wide range of culinary experiences. In addition to that, there are a number of festivals happening throughout the year including the world famous Crop Over in August, The Barbados Food and Rum Festival in November, The Oistins Fish Festival during Easter, the Barbados Reggae Festival in April, and other events.

Though there’s plenty of things to do in Barbados, you’ll also find yourself with more time on your hands (island time), so much so that you’ll have no issues finding the perfect mix of rest, relaxation, and fun!

Just in case you need help finding things to do while in Barbados, here are our top 50 picks.

If you’re planning on visiting but not sure when’s a good time, check out the best time to visit Barbados.

56. Take a bite out of a Flying-Fish sandwich

Made with the freshest fish, you can hardly go wrong when choosing to try a Flying-Fish sandwich in Barbados. The popular Barbadian flying fish is small and thin and its name has something to do with its ability to “fly” long distances in the water. In Bridgetown, be sure to stop by the Waterfront Café on the Careenage to try out this delicacy. Cuz’s Fish shack, also in Bridgetown, is great for authentic Bajan meals.

55. Walk along the Barbados Boardwalk

Just about four miles south of the island’s capital, Bridgetown, is the Barbados Boardwalk. It stretches a mile across the coast and connects the Accra and Camelot beaches. The boardwalk is usually frequented by families and people looking for a peaceful place to unwind or workout. Access to the boardwalk is free of charge and along the way there are bars and restaurants, and benches to rest on if you get tired.

54. Rediscover the Project HARP Space Gun

In the 1900s, British engineer Gerald Bull and his partner, Donald Mordell obtained financial assistance from McGill University, the United States Army and the Government of Canada to fund a test project in Barbados. The project (Project HARP) revolved around a space gun; the idea was to use guns to propel objects into space. Though it was abandoned in 1967 (6 years after it was built), the remnants of this test project still stand today and can be accessed (with permission) at the site in Foul Bay, St. Phillip.

53. Experience Barbados’ nightlife at Saint Lawrence Gap

For a small island, Barbados has a pretty jumping night life. St Lawrence Gap in Holetown in particular is one of those places where you can go and literally dance all night. “The Gap” as it is usually called, is lined with clubs and bars located in close proximity to hotels and restaurants in the same area. These hotspots come alive at night for an authentic Bajan experience for both locals and tourists.

Insider Tip: Guests get unlimited cocktails (and other drinks!) at both Sandals resorts in Barbados, located on the beach at Saint Lawrence Gap.

52. Stroll through the historic city of Bridgetown

Bridgetown, a vibrant, modern city bustling with commercial activity and attractions was named a World Heritage Site in 2012. Visitors can browse through the colorful stores in Broad Street and Swan Street to view a variety of clothing, jewelry, shoes and even local fruits and vegetables. Some notable sites in Bridgetown include Barbados’ Garrison, Parliament Buildings, St Michael’s Cathedral and the statue of Admiral Lord Nelson in Trafalgar Square.

51. Go hiking

Get up close and personal with the island by embarking on a hiking trip. You’ll get to see a variety of plant species, native animals such as the Antillean Crested Hummingbird, and historical sites like forts. You can take a hike and an educational tour with the Barbados National Trust or go on a four-hour long hike to Bath Beach and Culpepper Island with Xtreme Hikers Barbados. Either way, be sure to wear light clothing, bring water a hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes.

50. Learn about the Baobab Tree

Plant lovers can visit Queen’s Park to see the outstanding baobab tree that has stood tall in this park for possibly more than one thousand years. There is another of its kind in Warrens, St. Michael, believed to be more than 300 years old. Baobab tree trunks are the widest of many other species in the region. As history would have it, the ocean currents brought this West African tree to Queen’s Park where it has now blossomed into a 91-foot-tall wonder.

49. Visit Barbados’ National Heroes Gallery

The Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown do not only serve as a venue for parliamentary procedures, but also double as the home of the Barbados Museum of Parliament and the National Heroes Gallery. The gallery affords visitors the opportunity to learn about the great men and women who made significant strides in Barbadian history to develop the country and ultimately pave the way for others today. Information at the museum is delivered through different sculptures, murals and screens.

48. Take a “Jeep” Tour

Embark on a jeep safari tour that will take you on an exciting journey through the sometimes rocky, sometimes flat terrain of Barbados. These off-road tours will bring you to the exciting hot spots in Barbados while a knowledgeable guide provides you with the historical details. Refreshments are served in between as you stop off at places like Bathsheba, Edge Cliff in St. John and Little Bay in St. Lucy before enjoying a buffet lunch at the end of your tour. Island Routes offers exciting safari tours.

47. Bask in the essence of Orchid World & Tropical Flower Garden

This tropical garden consists of six sprawling acres with more than 1,000 orchids as well as many other varieties of flowers and plants typically found in the Caribbean region. The orchid garden, which sits about 810 feet above sea level, offers an excellent view of the countryside below. Your visit will take you through a windy path, past a waterfall and then through five orchid houses where rare plants such as Phalaenopsis and Ascocendas can be found. The gardens are open throughout the week and are wheelchair accessible.

46. Learn about plantation life

During the 17th and 18th century, the sugar industry in Barbados was booming. To this day, the island still produces sugar. Many relics and plantation houses still exist and are open for viewing. St. Nicholas Abbey in St. Peters is one of them, with all the makings of a Jacobean style plantation house. It is currently used as a museum and rum distillery and attracts thousands of visitors annually. Featured in the picture above: the Sunbury Plantation House, featuring mahogany antiques and a unique collection of horse-drawn carriages. This is the only great house with all rooms available for viewing.

45. Play a round of golf

Barbados has not one- but five PGA Standard golf courses to choose from. Among these is the Barbados Golf Club in Christ Church as well as the 18-hole Apes Hill Golf Course in St. Peter. St. James is also home to several 72 par golf courses such as Royal Wetsmoreland’s, Sandy Lane Country Club and the authentic Sandy Lane Green Monkey.

44. Go back in time at Barbados Museum & Historical Society

In 1930, the Barbados Museum & Historical Society opened its doors in Garrison, St Michael, in what was once a British Military prison. The main attractions are the galleries, including sections featuring African and Jubilee collections, artifacts from the early settlers and an assortment of historical maps. The museum is open to the general public from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Mondays- Saturdays. Though it is closed on public holidays, the museum is open every Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

43. Party and eat at the Oistins Fish Fry

A Barbados vacation is incomplete without going to a Fish Fry. This type of event is popular in the Caribbean, but Barbados takes it to new heights particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. The Oistins Fish Fry is one of the most buzzing events of this kind, and once you get there you’ll find fresh catches like marlin, mahi mahi and lobster sizzling away with lively music setting the tone for an epic Caribbean party. All you have to do is make your way to the streets between Welches Beach and Miami Beach on the south coast to get in on the fun!

Tip: The Island Routes Oistins Tour will allow you to take in this experience in an authentic and unforgettable way.

42. Visit Farley Hill National Park

During the best part of its existence, Farley Hill was an extraordinary mansion owned by a rich planter known as Sir Graham Briggs. A year after this 17th century building was destroyed by fire; it became a national park. That was the same year (1966) when the island gained its independence from Britain. Fast forward to present day, many stop by Farley Hill to take in the breathtaking view of the eastern coast of Barbados. Weddings, church activities, picnics and even concerts are also held here.

41. Visit the Caribbean Wax Museum

The Caribbean wax museum is the product of two Barbadians; Arthur Edwards and Frances Ross, who sought to have a museum that featured life size wax models of great Caribbean people. Notable figures such as Barbadian soca artist Allison Hinds and music and business mogul, Rihanna can be found here, as well as models of Errol Walton Barrow, the island’s first Prime Minister and Jamaican athlete, Usain Bolt. This museum is located in the Norman Centre on Broad Street, Bridgetown.

40. Visit the Barbados Wildlife Reserve

Take a walk on the wild side to the Barbados Wildlife Reserve in St. Peter’s Parish where you will encounter macaws, green monkeys and gracious pink flamingoes. The Reserve is about four acres large and while there you’ll see animals roaming freely in a natural habitat. A good time to see the animals is 2pm, which is their feeding time. In addition to monkeys and flamingoes, you’ll also find iguanas and endangered turtles, parrots, peacocks, brocket deer, mara, and snapping caiman. A great thing about this tour is that once you pay you also have access to Grenade Hall which is located nearby. Grenade Hall dates back to the 1800s, and is more or less an old signal station that is interesting to explore.

39. Visit Folkestone Marine Park

The Folkestone Marine Park is quite an impressive place; in this area the Stavronikita, a sunken ship, can be found 120 feet underwater, about half a mile away from the shoreline. A diving expedition in this area is certainly not for beginners; only the most experienced divers should venture out from here. The guidance of a divemaster is highly recommended. Non divers can enjoy watersports such as paddle boarding and kayaking and snorkelers can explore the inshore reef where sea anemones and sponges can be found.

38. See the Emancipation Statue of Bussa in St. Michael

This statue is a representation of the island’s emancipation from slavery in 1834. The statue features Bussa, one of Barbados’ national heroes, with his hands held triumphantly in the air as busted chains hang from each of them. This serves as a physical depiction of this newfound freedom and Bussa, who is remembered for leading the biggest slave revolt in Barbados, is most fitting in this space.

37. Visit the Sugar Museum

During the 18th and 19th centuries, before slavery was abolished in Barbados, the island was a major producer of sugar cane in the Caribbean region. This sugar museum was the idea of Sir Frank Huston, who rightfully thought that preservation of the sugar machinery was crucial to the island’s history. Exhibits show the island’s role in the industry and during the reaping season from February to May, visitors can witness how sugar is made using cane juice.

36. See the restorative work at the Morgan Lewis windmill

This 1727 windmill was used in sugar cane production in the 18th and 19th centuries, until 1947 when all operations were ceased, and it was bequeathed to the Barbados National Trust. The Morgan Lewis windmill isn’t like others in the world; in fact, it is one of the only fully functional one in the Caribbean. This is due to major restorative efforts that were undertaken in 1999. Given its rich history, a visit to this landmark should be part of any visitor’s to do list – just head down to St. Andrew, particularly during the months of December to April, to catch a live demonstration of how sugar was produced back in the day.

35. Snap away at Andromeda’s Tropical Garden

Andromeda’s Botanical Garden is the handy work of Iris Bannochie, a horticulturist who founded it as an extension of her home. To this day, it is still located on the eastern parish of St Joseph, near to Bathsheba. You can book a free guided tour, during which you will be taken on a stroll through the six acres of this historical garden. Tour guides will teach you all they know about all the varieties of plants, flowers and the associated herbal remedies. In 1988, Bannochie bestowed this historical garden to the Barbados National Trust for preservation.

34. Visit the Green Monkeys at Welchman Hall Gully

This café and adventure park is tremendously popular in Barbados. The collapse of the roofs of a previously existing cave system resulted in the formation of the three-quarter mile long gully that can be found here. The gully has since blossomed into a tropical forest with a variety of plants and trees including bamboo and nutmeg. Here you can also spot the local green monkeys in their natural habitat, munching on bananas and other fruit. Take a look but be sure not to overstep; these monkeys can get a little wild!

33. Dig deep at Arlington House Museum

During the plantation era, this Speighstown museum was home to a rich merchant. Now, this newly restored building has been transformed into an interactive museum that offers visitors insight into the island’s history. Arlington Museum has three floors/stories which each offer a unique perspective; on the first (Speighstown Memories) you’ll learn about the life of the Amerindians while the second (Plantation Memories) has information on slavery and colonization. The third (Wharf Memories) focuses on Speighstown maritime history.

32. St. James Parish Church

This truly historic church is built on a site where the first English settlers landed in Barbados way back in 1627. While the exact date of the construction of the church has been lost over the years, according to the British Museum, there are references to the church which were made in 1629 and 1660. The church was destroyed in 1675, and again in 1780, but has since been reconstructed and remains a popular tourist attraction for Barbados. St. James Parish Church is the oldest church on the island. The area where it was constructed was initially known as Jamestown.

31. Dive deep with Atlantis

You can explore the magic of the undersea without getting even a splash of water on your face by way of the Atlantis. There’s no need for certification in order to participate in this experience, all you need is some courage, and a heart for discovery and you’ll be just the right kind of passenger to enjoy travelling on the Atlantis Submarine, which can dive as far as 150 feet into the ocean’s depths. Expect to see a variety of underwater sightings, including colorful fish, lively reefs, and even old ship wrecks. The 50-foot mini-sub can hold 48-passengers in all, but you’ll have to make your booking well in advance.

Tip: The Atlantis submarine experience is a family friendly one, but kids need to be at least 3 feet tall to enjoy the ride.

30. Start your day at Bliss Café

Bliss Café offers American, Caribbean, and British cuisine, inclusive of café specials. There are many vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options at the café, which can be rare for Caribbean islands like Barbados, at least when it comes to specialty cuisine. Bliss Café is located near Dover Beach at St. Lawrence Gap, and is a popular breakfast spot. Tasty menu items include waffles, Panini sandwiches, omelets, and other full breakfast options. Be sure to grab a coffee, or some fresh local juice to sip out on the terrace!

29. Holetown Beach

Holetown beach is beautiful, quiet, and loved by most visitors to Barbados. The golden sandy shores are complemented by lots of shady spots underneath the palm trees to spend the day or settle in for a picnic. The beach is on the west coast of Barbados, in the parish of St. James. Nearby you’ll find a post office, a police station, and closer to the beachfront, some restaurants and bars overlooking the ocean. If you’re there at the right time, you’ll catch an amazing sunset view.

28. Rockley Beach

The beach life is the irresistible attraction that draws visitors to the Caribbean; that and the warmth of the climate and people on the sunny shores. Rockley Beach is one of the more popular beaches in Barbados, and the perfect place for paradise seekers to bring their sun kissed dreams to life. You can rent out some chairs to take in the beach side ambiance, or just set up your beach towel underneath a beach umbrella and you’re well on your way to the perfect beach day. At Rockley Beach there are opportunities to try watersports and places to eat or grab a drink. Quayside Centre or Tiki Bar are great choices. You can also shop around at the sprinkling of kiosks on the beach for souvenirs to take back home. If small children are part of your group, the southern end of the beach is best; there you’ll find a natural kiddie pool, which is more or less a small pool protected by rocks that keeps out strong waves.

27. Enjoy some cricket at Kensington Oval in Barbados

This famous stadium has been used for numerous sporting events in Barbados, but it is more popularly known as a venue for cricket at the regional and international levels. The 2007 Cricket World Cup and the World Twenty20 finals were held here. When test matches are underway you can expect to see teams from as far as Pakistan, Australia and New Zealand. Kensington Oval is more than 12.5 acres in size and seats about 28,000 people.

26. Enjoy the bird’s eye view at Gun Hill Signal Station

This 1818 gun station in St. George was built merely two years after Bussa the slave, led the largest revolt on the island. This station served as a lookout for enemy ships and as a means of maintaining security inland. Today, it is a historical site protected by the Barbados National Trust. The rooms at the station contain an impressive collection of relics from this military period.

25. Experience the Magic of Crane Beach

Powdery white sand and crashing waves collide in the most captivating way at Crane Beach. Added to its organic beauty, the shores of Crane Beach are well maintained, so you can be assured that you’ll be in perfect comfort while enjoying your beach day. Sometimes the beach is a little too turbulent for swimming, but that doesn’t stop most of the locals; proceed with caution. Nevertheless, it’s not hard to enjoy the ambiance in this spot which also features a restaurant and hotel.

24. Indulge in world-class dining at The Cliff

Food has a way of bringing people together, or at least it’s often part of the motivation for people traveling to various destinations. This proves true in Barbados, a Caribbean island known for its world-class dining. This is most seen in the number of modern, independent restaurants on island, and the abundance of upscale hotel dining settings that you can eat in on every night of your vacation. One of the most high-rated restaurants in this regard is The Cliff; however, you’ll have to book early to secure your reservation, especially if you want to eat out on the terrace. Expect spontaneous sightings of celebrities or the super-rich, who often pull up via the docks at The Cliff. Ask about The Cliff Beach Club, where you can also grab lunch and dinner.

Tip: Prefer to enjoy gourmet restaurants 24/7? Get unlimited food and (alcoholic) drinks at the 18 restaurants the Sandals resorts in Barbados offer. All included in your stay!

23. Get underneath it all at Harrison’s Cave

Probably one of the most popular attractions in Barbados, you are unlikely to be disappointed with Harrison’s Cave. Here you’ll be able to see signature cave features like stalagmites and stalactites up close, but that’s just the beginning of it. You’ll be able to explore the cave by way of a tram, and you’ll also get to walk through parts of it capturing photos of the unique geological formations that can be seen within. Harrison’s Cave is truly a natural wonder, and in Barbados you’ll be able to witness it firsthand.

22. See how George Washington lived in Barbados

In 1751, George Washington resided in Barbados for two months, where he stayed with his sick brother at the Bush Hill House at the Garrison in St. Michael. The house has since made history as the only one that Washington ever resided in outside of the United States. It is preserved in 18th century style and contains a museum, stables and a windmill. Guided tours are offered throughout the week along with a short historical film about the property.

21. Try windsurfing or kitesurfing

Long Beach and Silver Rock Beach are two of the best kite and wind surfing locations in Barbados, much due to the trade winds that create perfect conditions in those areas. Silver Rock on the southeast coast of Barbados, has small waves which are ideal for kite and windsurfing beginners. Though the trade winds usually work in your favor, the best time to visit would be from December to February for the best waves.

20. Go rum tasting at the Mount Gay Distillery

Rum tasting events are always a good time, and the Mount Gay Distillery is a great place to start. Described as “a rum lover’s paradise”, the distillery in St. Lucy, Barbados offers tours of their fully operational rum-making headquarters. Mount Gay has distilled rum for over 300 years, and it the oldest continuously running rum distillery in the world. The best part of course, is the samples you get to take home with you, and if that’s not enough, you can always stop by the souvenir shop to get more before you take off.

19. See the cliffs and waves of Bathsheba Beach

Bathsheba is a sight to behold with its striking coral rock formations and natural pools. Take lots of pictures as you explore what is possibly one of the most scenic spots in Barbados. Some tours include stops at Bathsheba Beach but you’ll probably only get to enjoy the rays there for about 30 minutes with the rest of the group. If you want more time to explore this location, it’s better to make arrangements to come on your own. Bathsheba Beach is perfect for adventurers, people looking for the perfect picnic grounds, and skilled surfers, who can test their skills at the Soup Bowl. Bathsheba tends to be a little rough at times, so swimming is not always advised. There’s a restaurant down the beach just in case you get hungry.

18. Walk the sands of Dover Beach

Dover’s Beach in St. Lawrence Gap on the south coast of Barbados is ideal for those who prefer less crowded beaches, with opportunities to try out watersports like sailing, jet skiing and windsurfing. This beach is quite large, and there is a noticeable difference in some parts which are calmer and others where there’s a bit more wave action. There are plenty of beach bars along Dover Beach where you can either grab a bite or some drinks as you settle in for the perfect beach day.

17. Fall in love with Animal Flower Cave

The Flower Cave features the island’s only accessible sea cave. The natural sea cave is located in St. Lucy’s Parish on the northern tip of Barbados. Once there, you’ll be able to take in fantastic views, and even dip into the rock pool inside the cave. From inside you’ll be able to look out of the naturally formed windows, right onto the ocean. If you’re not up for exploring the cave, you can always stay up top and enjoy the scenery, perhaps with a mood boosting fruit or rum punch in hand. There is a restaurant on site, and a seating area with panoramic views. There’s also a children’s play area, so if you’re travelling with family this is a great place to spend the day.

16. So much to discover at St. Nicholas Abbey

Built by Colonel Benjamin Berringer in 1658, this plantation house, museum and rum distillery opens its doors to visitors who want to know more about its transformation over the years. St. Nicholas Abbey remains one of three authentic Jacobean mansions in this part of the world, and on the extensive estate where the Plantation House is located; you’ll find a sugar cane plantation, the Moore Hill House, slave villages, flower and herb gardens, a courtyard, and more. The tour of the estate will also take you to the fully functional steam mill and rum distillery, the latter of which produces St. Nicholas Abbey Rum.

15. Experience pottery making

In Barbados, you can find many pottery makers displaying their craft at various locations around the island. Earthworks Pottery in Edgehill, St. Thomas is known for its unique blue and green plates, bowls and other kitchenware and domestic items that are featured in many businesses on island. Also, Chalk Mount Potteries in St. Andrew has been crafting their products for generations. Samples of their work can be purchased online.

14. Enterprise (Miami) Beach

Described often as “the perfect little beach”, Enterprise Beach is a great choice for a Caribbean beach adventure. There’s a cove on the north side, and waves large enough for surfers to ride on the south side. This makes it more than necessary to take some surf lessons while in Barbados to make the most of this stunning strand. Enterprise Beach is just two minutes from Oistins. There’s often a lifeguard on duty, lots of trees for shade, restroom facilities, beach chairs for rental, and pretty much everything you’ll need for your beach day. The beach is usually busier on weekends and holidays, and on most days you’ll be able to pick up a tasty treat or something cold to drink from the Mr. Delicious food truck.

13. Go on a Walking Food Tour

“Bajan culture, history, and food” in a nutshell, the Original Bajan Walking Food Tour starts at around US$72 and is a great option for a fun-filled tour where you’ll be able to eat like a local. On your own it might take some time to hunt down the best-rated traditional cuisine on the island, but with a tour like the one offered by Lickrish Food Tours, you’ll be able to try all different kinds of Barbadian treats and dishes you probably won’t find anywhere else in the world. The Walking Food Tour put visitors in the shoes of locals for the day, for a one-of-a-kind experience.

12. Sail away on a bajan day or sunset cruise

Tour companies like Island Routes offer activities that come with the opportunity to experience the best of Barbados; like a day or sunset cruise. Both types of cruises will take you along the west coast of the island. While exploring Barbados by sea, many tours include snorkeling excursions, breakfast, lunch, and some land tours. If you’re looking for a boating experience in Barbados that is slightly out of the norm, try a Jolly Roger pirate ship adventure. You can choose between The Jolly Roger Lunch Cruise, and a private cruise, but either way, this is one of the most exciting things to do in Barbados.

11. The Boatyard Beach Club

There’s always an adventure to be had at The Boatyard, no matter your age. Expect lots of adventure in this space, whether you’re coming off a cruise and want to kill some time, or you’re holidaying on island and looking for somewhere to spend the day. You’ll need to get a day pass beach package to access the amenities at The Boatyard Beach Club which include an ocean trampoline, iceberg climb and slide, a dive platform, rope swing, and more. There’s always live music, a restaurant (The South Deck) and bar (Sharkey’s), pool tables, restrooms and the works. The Boatyard also offers a popular turtle and snorkel tour, but you’ll need to call in advance to schedule. Bring along your ID just in case.

10. Walk around Speighstown

On the west coast of Barbados is the second largest town on island - Speighstown. This quaint community holds a significant part of Barbados’ history; the old architecture and town houses stand as proof of the wealthy traders who once lived there. Though it is relatively quiet, there are some shops, business centers and a fishing compound where you can get local fish. There are other vendors as well, selling souvenirs and local produce.

9. Have a picnic at Bottom Bay

If you venture into the south east coast of Barbados, you will find Bottom Bay just after Crane Beach and Sam Lord’s Castle. This secluded beach is marked by tall palm trees, rugged coral cliffs and a scenic view of the south of the island. Though it is a beautiful place, visitors are strongly advised not to go swimming in the waters due to the strong currents and large waves. Though you may have to limit your beach day to exploring the seashore, Bottom Bay is still a great place for a fun picnic with friends and family.

8. Relax at Carlisle Bay

Carlisle Bay is known for its calm waters, which adds to its swimming and scuba diving appeal, making it one of the top things to do in Barbados. Carlisle Bay is a family centric spot, though thrill seeking types can also enjoy the abundance of water sports and other activities available here. After you’re done soaking up some rays at Browne's Beach and Pebbles Beach, you can try beachside horseback riding, or cool off in the water with some kayaks and jet skis. If you’d just like to take it easy, you can simply rent out an umbrella and a lounge chair and sip on the iciest and most delicious concoction available from any of the bars along this beach.

7. Try stand-up paddle boarding

If you want to try stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) around Carlisle Bay, try booking with Paddle Barbados, a company based in St Michael Barbados. Experienced paddlers can paddle on their own but the company offers lessons to those in need, which are provided by their trained instructors. Stand up Paddling can turn into a fun filled day at the beach inclusive of snorkeling, kayaking and swimming opportunities. Carlisle Bay is popular for sightings of sea turtles, so you won’t be disappointed while on a scuba or snorkeling tour.

Tip: Stand-up paddle boards and kayaks are free to use for guests of Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados along their respective beaches.

6. Explore underwater reefs and wrecks

Scuba divers are surely in for a treat when visiting Barbados. In the Carlisle Bay Marine Park, near Bridgetown, there are several shipwrecks to explore, with remnants of cannons and anchors rooted on the ocean’s floor. To the south of this bay lies a coral reef that is home to a variety of tropical fish and other marine life, with a few turtles swimming by. These spots are just two of the many excellent diving sites Barbados has to offer.

Tip: Many dive shops in Barbados offer classes and rental equipment to divers. The two Sandals all-inclusive resorts in Barbados, take this to a new level by offering guests who are scuba certified free scuba diving during their stay.

5. Catch some fresh fish

Leave from the Careenage in Bridgetown for a full or half day fishing trip that will probably be one of the highlights of your stay in Barbados. The months of January - April are best for this kind of excursion, and you can expect to make big catches like mahi mahi, marlin, tuna, kingfish, wahoo, and more during this time, and throughout the year. Ask your tour operator or charter operator about fishing license legislation in Barbados ahead of time.

4. Settle in for some horseracing at Garrison Savannah

This historical savannah, which can be found in the parish of St. Michael, was once frequented by British troops and wealthy planters who raced horses. This former military headquarters is still used as a horse racing site. In fact, it is one of the main attractions in the savannah today, with regular races taking place from January to April.

3. Learn to surf

Up for a surfing challenge? Learn to surf, or get better at it during your vacation in Barbados. There are a few surf schools on the island, like Barry’s Surf Barbados which offers beginner and intermediate classes, so whatever your skill level, you’ll be ready for the wave action in Barbados in no time. A two-hour surfing lesson starts at US$72 and includes a free surfboard rental for the day. Surfing is highly addictive, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself a repeat visitor just for some more time in Barbadian waters!

2. Witness Hunte’s Gardens in full bloom

Number one for a reason, while in Barbados you can enjoy one of the most amazing sights of your life at Hunte’s Garden, where nature’s ambiance also falls under the spell of Barbados resulting in a truly unique experience filled with blooming orchids, idyllic palms, and lush, magnificent greenery. You’ll want to take your time exploring Hunte’s Gardens, where you can in addition to a super sensory experience, learn about the flora and fauna that can be found in Barbados and the wider Caribbean.

Also read: 15 Incredible Things Barbados Is Known For

1. Snorkel with turtles

Turtles are among the gentlest sea creatures that you can swim with, and this opportunity should not be missed while in Barbados. You can do this on a private charter, or on a catamaran tour which will take you out into the ocean where you’ll be able to swim with hawksbill and leatherback turtles. First, you’ll need to suit up with snorkeling gear, and then dive in. The best spots for turtle sightings are along the west coast of the island, over the shipwrecks in Carlisle Bay Marine Park. Make the most of this experience by learning all you can beforehand so you’ll better understand the lives of the creatures swimming all around you!

That’s Barbados in a nutshell!

There are much more than 50 things to do in Barbados, but these are among the top of the list items you shouldn’t miss out on. Create a personalized list in advance for scheduling purposes!