Barbados has more to offer than endless beaches and luxury resorts. It’s the jewel of the Caribbean with more attractions and sights per square mile that any of the other islands. Here’s our guide on some of the best places to visit on your next trip.
Bridgetown
This UNESCO World Heritage site is crammed with historic sights nestled amongst an impressive selection of shops and sprawling street markets. For the culture vulture, this is the perfect town to explore on foot. You can visit the Parliament buildings, St Michaels Cathedral or Lord Nelson’s statue in National Heroes Square. The charming harbor is the best spot to rest your legs, enjoy the sunset and sip on a cocktail.
Speightstown
Located on the west of the island, this once bustling port shipped tobacco, cotton, and sugar far and away. Now it remains a much-visited tourist attraction for its fascinating insight into the island’s history. To learn more, you can visit Arlington House Museum. This 18th-century house has three floors of interactive exhibitions covering everything from the island’s sugar cane production to its slave history to some of its infamous Pirates. You can grab the perfect gift at a souvenir shop and enjoy a light lunch at the museum café.
Hastings
Many travel to Barbados for their own slice of paradise under the Caribbean sun. There’s no better place than the beach town of Hastings, home to palm-fringed white sands and crystal waters. It’s also the perfect choice for families with a child-friendly, gently sloping shore. The town itself offers a lively mix of gourmet restaurants, relaxed bars and you can even find a couple of shopping centers.
Rockley
Once you’ve explored Hastings, you can visit the quiet neighborhood of Rockley. An impressive beach has everything you could need with fresh, fried seafood from the many bars — best enjoyed with a cold, Banks beer. Thrill seekers will enjoy the plentiful offerings of water sports from windsurfing to sailing. There’s also a great choice of vendors selling locally produced jewelry and colorful clothing.
St Lawrence
Famed for its lively nightlife, this spot has become the party mecca of the island but still remains a relaxing destination. Dover Beach offers the most scenic stretch of coastline, with white powdery sands and plenty of great seafood restaurants. You can spend an afternoon watching the local cricketers at the playing field which backs onto the beach. To fully enjoy the rich and diverse sea life, head to St Laurence Bay, where you can wade out in knee-deep water to a tropical reef. When the sun goes down, you can enjoy a rum or two at St Laurence Gap. This small stretch of road is lined with bars, clubs and restaurants pumping out dancehall and reggae into the early hours.
Barbados is the island that has it all, whether you’re looking for fun in the sun or fascinating cultural gems. Its laid-back style, friendly locals, and serene beaches will leave you wanting more.
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