Barbados was for a long time on the top of my Caribbean travel bucket list, right next to Aruba. Now that I’ve finally visited, I can confidently say — yes, Barbados is worth visiting!
In this short guide, I’ll walk you through the pros (and cons) of why is Barbados worth visiting, with highlights on who should go and who might prefer to go someplace else instead.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BARBADOS:
• Meridian Inn (I stayed here)
• Southern Palms Beach Club (top location on Dover Beach)
• South Gap Hotel (on the beach and close to Gap)
• Sugar Bay Barbados (great location and close to Carlisle Bay)
• OceanBlue Resort (I stayed here)
TOP EXPERIENCES and TOURS IN BARBADOS:
• Turtle and shipwreck snorkeling (my favorite)
• Catamaran cruise with lunch and snorkeling (top-selling tour)
• Harrison Cave tour (I did this)
• Barbados food tour (incredible food tour)
• St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway (I did this)
If you’re a fan of gorgeous white-sand beaches, rich history, rum, and vibrant energy, then Rihanna’s home island will be perfect for you. But if you’re seeking complete seclusion or ultra-budget travel, it might not be your first choice.
Below, you’ll find reasons why Barbados might be the perfect destination for you or why you should skip it.
FRIENDLY REMINDER
Never leave for a trip without travel insurance. Unexpected issues can arise so I suggest using insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy this travel insurance even if you are already abroad.
Visiting Barbados
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● Discover why Barbados’ gorgeous beaches, vibrant marine life, and karst landscapes make it a dream destination for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.
● Explore the island’s unique cultural experiences and laid-back vibe, making it a must-add to your Caribbean travel wish list.
● Find out which types of travelers might not find Barbados to be the right fit for them.
📌 No time to read? Pin it for later!
Why visit Barbados
Barbados is the birthplace of global superstar Rihanna and the home of world-famous rum. The island’s culture, music, beaches, and history make it one of the most appealing destinations in the region.
It is a top Caribbean island for honeymooners, family vacations, and even luxury-seekers, with options ranging from boutique hotels to world-class resorts. It is a popular winter escape destination and a celebrity hotspot. Barbados is also one of the safest islands in the Caribbean.
The island offers something for everyone. You can enjoy delicious food, relax with rum punch under a palm tree, surf, snorkel, or find your adventure in one of the best things to do in Barbados.
Find out why everyone should visit Barbados at least once in their lifetime!
One-of-a-kind Caribbean landscape
Barbados has a distinct landscape that sets it apart from other Caribbean islands.
Unlike the surrounding volcanic islands, Barbados is made of coral limestone. It filters rainwater to create natural underground reservoirs and provides the island with drinkable water, a rarity in the region.
Limestone also shapes the island’s natural features. Besides cliffs, white-sand beaches, and green inland hills, Barbados is also home to impressive caves. The famous Harrison’s Cave is an underground system with clear streams, stalactites, and stalagmites.
Unique wildlife
Barbados might be small, but it’s home to a variety of fascinating species.
The Barbados Wildlife Reserve offers the chance to see green monkeys, one of the island’s most iconic animals, along with iguanas, tortoises, and exotic birds. In the surrounding waters, you can swim with turtles in their natural habitat. A bucket list thing to do in Barbados.
In addition, Barbados’ coral reefs and forests also host an incredible range of marine life and tropical creatures, making it a great destination for those who love wildlife and nature.
Beautiful beaches
Barbados is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure.
On the west side of the island, known as the “Platinum Coast,” you’ll find calm waters and soft white sand beaches. This area has the best beaches to swim in Barbados. The south coast has lively spots offering in mix of swimming, spotting sea turtles, like in Carlisle Bay and Dover Beach, and is popular for water sports.
For those seeking a rugged charm, the east coast’s Bathsheba Beach is a surfer’s paradise, with dramatic waves and picturesque rock formations.
Birthplace of Rum and Rihanna
Barbados is the birthplace of two iconic exports: Rum and Rihanna.
The island is home to the world’s oldest rum distillery, Mount Gay, established in 1703. You can visit the distillery where you can learn about the history of rum and enjoy rum tastings. You will be able to taste rum punches all across the island, as the love for rum is woven into Barbados’ culture.
It’s also the hometown of global superstar Rihanna, known for hits like Umbrella. Fans can visit her childhood home in Bridgetown and stroll along Rihanna Drive, a street renamed in her honor.
A rich history and UNESCO sites
Barbados doesn’t just celebrate its cultural heritage through music and spirits; its rich history is deeply shaped by both its colonial roots and African heritage.
The island has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The capital city, Bridgetown, is known for its well-preserved 17th-century architecture, colorful markets, and the iconic Chamberlain Bridge.
Just nearby, the Garrison area offers a glimpse into Barbados’ military past, including the yellow George Washington House, where the future (former) U.S. president stayed in 1751.
Amazing adventures, snorkeling, and water sports activities
While the island is famous for its stunning beaches, rum, and Rihanna it also offers a variety of opportunities for adventure and outdoor fun all around Barbados.
You can surf at Bathsheba’s Soup Bowl or try kitesurfing at Silver Sands. You can swim with turtles, explore coral reefs and shipwrecks, take a dive with a submarine, or go on a sailing cruise.
On land, you can explore Harrison’s Cave or ride the heritage train at St. Nicholas Abbey through the island’s countryside. There are a few hikes and even zip-lining.
A year-round destination with delicious cuisine
Adventures and activities in Barbados are possible all year round.
Barbados is the most easterly island in the Caribbean and is located outside the hurricane belt. It enjoys warm tropical weather year-round, making it a great destination in any season.
Although hurricanes and rain do happen from time to time, they are a perfect excuse to relax and enjoy the island’s delicious Bajan cuisine. Try flying fish with cou-cou, fresh seafood, or street food at Oistins Fish Fry. Don’t forget to pair it with a glass of world-famous Bajan rum.
Perfect wedding and honeymoon destination
Barbados offers the ideal setting for a romantic escape with its dreamy beaches, turquoise waters, white sand, and luxury resorts. It’s no surprise this island is a top choice for couples looking to marry or celebrate their honeymoon.
During my visit, I saw three beautiful wedding ceremonies, and it’s easy to see why this island is a favorite. The gorgeous backdrops make it the perfect place to say “I do.” During daytime or at sunset on catamaran.
Golf legend Tiger Woods and Elin Nordegren also tied the knot here. The serene atmosphere likely influenced celebrities like Barbra Streisand and James Brolin to choose Barbados for their honeymoon.
Tropical paradise for everyone
Barbados is more affordable than many people realize, offering options for every budget.
While the island is famous for its luxury hotels and all-inclusive resorts, you’ll find plenty of choices that don’t break the bank.
If you’re looking to splurge, there are luxurious beachfront resorts on various parts of the island. But you can also find budget-friendly hotels close to St. Lawrence gap, charming guesthouses, or self-catering apartments in quieter areas of the island. I stayed in a resort and budget-friendly hotel, and it was perfect for a comfortable and cost-effective stay.
Who is Barbados not for
I’ve been to Barbados and think it’s an amazing destination. But I also believe it might not be the best fit for everyone. Below, I share who might not find Barbados to be their ideal travel destination and I also suggest places they could go instead.
Ultra budget travelers
Barbados can be pricey, especially regarding accommodation and dining. Budget-friendly options are available, but far from the ones in South America. Instead, consider traveling to Jamaica, or even Zanzibar, for more affordable lodging and food.
Solo Travelers
While Barbados is perfect for couples and families, solo travelers might find it less social. I was there alone and found it easier to meet people than in Seychelles. If you want to meet people easily, Mexico, or the Greek Islands might be better.
Nature lovers looking for seclusion
A unique karst landscape on a tropical island might not be enough. Consider visiting places like the Galápagos Islands, Iceland, or the Seychelles for more solitude and unspoiled nature.
Travelers avoiding tourist crowds
During peak season and when cruise ships are docked, Barbados’ beaches and attractions can get crowded, especially in popular areas like Bridgetown and Holetown. This is probably the reason I don’t want to go back. If you prefer fewer tourists, opt for quieter islands like St. Kitts, Dominica, or the Grenadines.
Marine life lovers
It is easy to snorkel with turtles in Barbados, but the waters here don’t have the same level of marine biodiversity as some other destinations. If you are searching for colorful marine life and coral reefs, consider heading to the Maldives, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, or the Red Sea in Egypt.
Cultural enthusiasts
If you’re looking for a destination with deeply rooted local traditions and history, Barbados has its share, but it might not be as immersive as other Caribbean islands like Cuba or Puerto Rico, which have a more evident cultural scene.
Verdict: Is Barbados worth it?
I believe Barbados is worth visiting as it has that special Caribbean charm. But, as any destination, it might not be the best choice for everyone.
You should visit Barbados if you love stunning beaches, colorful Caribbean culture, delicious cuisine, and unique natural features like Harrison’s Cave and green monkeys. It’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure in a tropical setting.
I liked my stay there, but I’ll be honest — it’s not on the top of my list of places I’d visit again. And that’s okay.
However, if you’re on a tight budget, craving seclusion, or prioritizing exceptional marine life, there are other destinations that might better suit your needs. For instance, Jamaica, Seychelles, or the Maldives may align more with your travel preferences.
If Barbados sounds like a destination you’d enjoy, I encourage you to explore it for yourself. When planning your Barbados holiday be sure to check out my other guides on the island, including where to stay, my Barbados itinerary, things to do, and travel tips. I recommend renting a car and driving all around the island for the ultimate experience.
➤ Read more Barbados travel guides
• One week in Barbados Itinerary
• Where is Barbados located? (+ Map)
• Is Barbados safe to visit? Everything you need to know
• Is it safe to swim in Barbados? All you need to know (+ Map)
• 101+ Barbados Captions for Instagram
📌 Like it? Pin it!
