Barbados Guide : Things to know about Barbados
We loved our time on the island, the iconic Caribbean destination is famous worldwide, but there are a few things you should know before visiting Barbados. In this Barbados guide, we summarise everything you should know about the island making your holiday easy and smooth. Barbados, known as “Bim” by locals, is an island country located in the Lesser Antilles of the Caribbean. It is known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, rich history and culture, and warm and welcoming people.
This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the essential information you need to know before planning your trip to Barbados. From where to spend your nights out to exciting ways to meet the local culture, our guide about Barbados is filled with unique things. A special section about the festivals in Barbados, specially selected by month, will guide you in choosing the best time to visit the island. It’s now time to start the interesting guide about all you should know before visiting Barbados.
Things to know before visiting Barbados
Is Barbados a safe place to visit?
Yes! We felt super safe; there was no time that we felt unsafe, and the locals were so friendly. We often left unattended items in the pool or beach, and nothing was happening.
Furthermore, we felt safe after visiting the Oistins fish fry market on Friday, surrounded by many people. The market is often overcrowded, but we always felt safe. However, always apply general common sense rules avoiding walking alone at night in isolated areas and sticking to the resort area at night.
Do I need a visa to visit Barbados?
Not necessarily. Citizens of the United States, Canada, and most European countries can enter Barbados for up to 90 days without a visa. However, they must have a valid passport and a return ticket or onward travel documents to be granted entry. The required visa depends mainly on the duration of your stay in Barbados. Check the updated requirement to enter Barbados.
What currency is used in Barbados?
The official currency of Barbados is the Barbadian dollar (BBD). It is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 2:1, meaning that two Barbadian dollars are equivalent to one US dollar.
Most businesses and services in Barbados accept both US dollars and Barbadian dollars, although the exchange rate may vary slightly depending on the shop.
Credit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted; however, if visiting markets or the Oystin Fish Fried Market, you should carry cash with you as no card is accepted. ATMs are also widely available throughout the island. We always withdraw cash at the National Bank “Light Blue Sign“, but it is recommended to check with your bank regarding any potential fees or restrictions for international transactions.
What language is spoken in Barbados?
The official language of Barbados is English. It is widely spoken by everyone, as it is a former British colony, gaining complete independence in 2022.
However, Bajan Creole, a creole language based on English, is also widely spoken by many Barbadians. It is often used in informal settings and is a unique part of the island’s cultural identity.
When is the best time to visit Barbados?
The best time to visit Barbados is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny, warm, and dry, with low humidity and little rainfall. As a result, the average temperature is around 28-30°C (82-86°F), perfect for enjoying the island’s beaches and outdoor activities.
The summer months from June to November are considered the off-season or the wet season. Higher humidity, occasional rain showers, and a higher chance of tropical storms and hurricanes characterise this period. However, the off-season also presents some advantages, such as lower prices, fewer crowds, and more lush vegetation.
Also, consider Barbados a popular destination for holiday travellers, especially during the Christmas and New Year periods. Prices tend to be higher during this time, and accommodations may book up quickly, so it is advisable to plan and book ahead if travelling during this period.
The East Coast is for surfers
We toured the island, driving in every direction that there was land to discover. To Be honest, we got lost a couple of times, and one of them was very pleasant as we found a hidden surfer cove. The East Coast is famous among surfers worldwide, who find the best waves and sea conditions here to enjoy the days. The Soup Bowl in Bathsheba is the best surfing spot in Barbados. The Atlantic concentrates the best waves ideal for beginners and inexperienced surfers, but also the location of international tournaments for experienced surfers and professionals.
Essential guide to Barbados
Barbados Travel Insurance
Nowadays, booking travel insurance is becoming part of the travelling plan. However, it’s just a precaution, and you should consider it even if you are an experienced traveller. Barbados is a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, and you want to avoid surprises.
This Travel Insurance includes activities like diving, surfing and snorkelling, and it’s essential to have travel insurance. However, this is not just indicated because medical problems might occur, but also because of the connection between train and flight if your luggage gets lost.
In addition, many Rental car agencies will lower the cost of car insurance if you have your Travel insurance, or this might cover the costs of car accidents or damage to the car entirely. So for us, having Travel Insurance is the way to enjoy our vacation with peace of mind.
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A guide to Barbados
History and Culture
Among the many things to know about Barbados, definitely on top, there is this island’s interesting culture and history. Barbados is a fascinating small island with a rich history and vibrant culture. The former British colony is today a unique country with a blend of traditions and cultures.
The island was inhabited by the indigenous Amerindian tribes long before the Europeans got on the land. But in the 17th century, Barbados became a British colony and developed a thriving sugar industry that relied heavily on slave labour.
You can clearly see the legacy of the British Colonisation Era, and in some ways, it is well mixed with the local culture, architecture and cuisine. Despite this challenging past, Barbados gained independence from Britain in 1966 and has since become a symbol of Caribbean resilience and creativity. The island is known for its lively music scene, colourful festivals, and friendly locals. Some of the most popular cultural events include Crop Over and the Oistins Fish Fry.
Best places to visit in Barbados
Of course, the first things that come to mind while planning the holidays in Barbados are the fantastic tropical beaches. With miles of soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, Barbados is truly a beach lover’s paradise. We are still comparing every single beach we visit the ones we experienced in Barbados, and only a few tick all the spots.
One of our favourite beaches in Barbados is Heywood Beach, which is relatively unknown, as travellers prefer the sand of Crane Beach or the popular and easy to reach Carlisle Bay. However, Heywood is a must-see place in Barbados because of the nice corals you can find on the beach, the secluded area and the nice calm turquoise water.
We couldn’t experience Batsheeba beach at its best because of the typical seaweed of the wet season. However, driving down the east coast, you can find lovely beaches even in the low season. Apart from the nice beaches, there are many other activities in Barbados, from rum tasting at the Mount Gay Distillery, or hopping on a locomotive that is still in time at St. Nicholas Abbey. We also suggest going off the beaten path and exploring gravity hill, a quirky activity that takes you out of control of your vehicle, taking you up to the hillside. Kind of scary but fun too.
For sure visiting Barbados, you are looking for a beach experience more than others. So, below, you will find our unique list of the best beaches in Barbados and must visit shores. Continuing, you will find some of the best things to do in Barbados to enjoy an entire week in the Caribbean.
Best Beaches in Barbados
Bridgetown the Capital
On our second day in Barbados, we decided to visit Bridgetown, the tiny capital of the fantastic island. Bridgetown is the central city and is located on the island’s southwest coast.
Enjoy a walk on Broad Street, and admire the colonial architecture and coloured buildings. Another great thing is to pass on Chamberlain Bridge, surrounded by the marina and learn something about the history of this little state.
Bridgetown is a Unesco world heritage site, protecting the old town and Garrison.
On the backstreets of Bridgetown, every day, you can find a lively market selling everything from goods to fruit and vegetables. Reach Swan Street, and meet the intersections with James St. and Spry Street. Semple some tasty Bajan food and meet the locals.
You can also pop into the local duty-free shop (There are real tax-free bargains) and buy souvenirs from Barbados at a fraction of the price. On the top floor of the Duty-Free shops, there is a food court serving local dishes; if it is lunchtime, we suggest you get a bite here.
Sip the best rum in the world at Mount Gay Distillery
You will find the Rum word many times in this post. After sipping the Barbados Rum, your buds will turn into fine Rum testers. The famous drink that originated in Barbados is the Rum Punch, and we had quite a few with a nice view of the ocean. A Barbados itinerary is something with a rum tour. You can check some we suggest here.
The Caribbean Islands are well known for this refreshing drink, but Barbados has something extraordinary more than others, Mount Gay Rum. The unique rum is produced on the island and by other brands but is well known to be the best on the market. Try and let us know in the comments. Go on a distillery tour at Mount Gay Production.
Oistin Fish Fry Market on Friday
On the way back to our hotel in Bridgetown, we passed by Oistins to check out the little fisherman village, famous for the Friday Fish fry. We stopped our car at the parking lot close to the fish market and walked to the restaurant areas. Even though Oistin is famous for its Friday atmosphere, it is nice to visit on a regular day. The restaurants and bars are open daily, serving fresh food and daily catch. Check out Chillin and Grillin and Uncle George, which are our favourites in Oistin.
TIPS | If you want to experience Oistins Fish Fry with a local guide, learn traditions and explore the markets, we suggest booking this private tour.
Carlisle Bay for snorkelling
After our first rum punch, it was time to enjoy the sun and soft sand. Staying in Bridgetown Hilton Hotel was perfect for enjoying the beaches daily, without using the car, and just walking. Carlisle Bay is the busiest place on the island, and even on Sunday, you will be metres apart from other people. We didn’t find Barbados crowded at all, and it was pleasant.
Note that all the beaches in Barbados are free, and there are no private entrances, but only services like surfboard rental and bars. Carlisle Bay is one of the longest beaches on the island and has the highest concentration of water activities, from diving to snorkelling with turtles.
Lawrence Gap for nightlife
No holiday is good without a few nights out. The best spot on the island to enjoy a few drinks, meet people and listen to music is St. Lawrence Gap. There is a high concentration of residences and hotels, which makes this place a recommended spot for nightlife in Barbados. Also, consider St. Lawrence Gap is a great place to stay in Barbados. Check out some of our favourite places.
Note down the Happy Days Cafe and Socialites to get a drink and enjoy your time in the Caribbean.
Some of the best activities in Barbados
- Snorkel with turtles
- Barbados tour coast-to-coast
- Diving among the coral reef
- Harrison’s Cave Tour
- Bajan Walking food tour
- St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway
- Catamaran Cruise (Better going in the afternoon, check this!)
- Mount Gay Signature Rum tasting in Barbados
- Adventure Safari
Best tours in Barbados
Events and Festivals
Our Barbados Guide can’t miss a glimpse of events and festivals on the island. As culture lovers, always looking for local traditional places and getting into the skin of a new country, we have found Barbados to be a treasure trove of exciting events and festivals throughout the year. Here is a guide to some of the best events and festivals in Barbados, organised by month:
Holetown Festival | January || This week-long festival celebrates the arrival of the first settlers in Barbados and features live music, street parades, and various cultural activities. The festival takes place in the town of Holetown, located on the island’s west coast.
Oistins Fish Festival | February || Celebrates Barbados’ fishing heritage with live music, dancing, and delicious seafood. The festival takes place in the town of Oistins, located on the island’s south coast.
Barbados Reggae Festival | March || This festival showcases some of the best reggae music in the Caribbean, with live performances by local and international artists.
Barbados Island Fit Games | April || This occasion celebrates fitness and healthy living with different competitions and activities for participants of all ages and fitness levels.
Gospelfest | May || This annual celebration celebrates gospel music and features live performances by local and international artists.
Crop Over Festival | June || This is the biggest festival of the year in Barbados, and it celebrates the end of the sugarcane harvest with live music, dancing, and colourful street parades.
Barbados Food and Rum Festival | July || This festival showcases the best of Barbadian cuisine and rum, with live cooking demonstrations and tastings.
Emancipation Day | August || This national holiday commemorates the end of slavery in Barbados and features live music, dancing, and cultural activities.
Barbados Cycling Festival | September || This event is a celebration of cycling, with various races and activities for cyclists of all levels.
World Heritage Festival | October || This festival celebrates Barbados’ UNESCO World Heritage Sites with live music, dancing, and cultural activities.
Barbados Independent Film Festival | November || This festival showcases the best independent film from around the world, with screenings and panel discussions.
Holders Season | December || This annual festival features live music, theatre, and dance performances at the historic Holders House in St. James.
Best photo spots in Barbados
- Animal Flower Cave | A fantastic spot for photography lovers. The Animal Flower Cave was once the shelter for pirates. The Natural cove offers a fantastic view of the Atlantic Ocean and its rugged coastline. The best thing is that you can swim here!
- Harrison’s Cave | Another stunning natural cave with pools of crystal-clear underground streams make this an excellent spot for unique and otherworldly photos.
- Bathsheba Beach | Known for its massive rock formations and powerful waves, this beach is perfect for dramatic and moody shots.
- Hunte’s Gardens | This tranquil and colourful garden is a photographer’s paradise with exotic plants, flowers, and art installations.
- St. Nicholas Abbey | The 350-year-old rum distillery offers guided tours of the plantation and the stunning gardens. It’s the perfect way to experience Barbados’ colonial past.
- Andromeda Botanic Gardens | These botanical gardens are filled with vibrant flora and fauna, offering endless photo opportunities.
- Shark Hole | This hidden beach in Barbados might be the smallest, but definitely unmissable and our favourite.
- Oistins Fish Market | The bustling market is a great spot for street photography, with its colourful stalls and lively atmosphere.
- Bridgetown Colourful Streets | The vibrant and colourful facades and doors found throughout the capital city make for great Instagram backdrops.
- Gun Hill Signal Station | This historic site offers stunning panoramic views of the island, particularly at sunset.
Go on a tour to taste traditional Bajan food
We have often said that Barbados is a paradise for food lovers, with a unique cuisine that blends African, European, and Caribbean flavours. Traditional Bajan cuisine features flying fish and cou-cou, a cornmeal and an okra-based dish that’s a staple of the island’s diet. Other must-try Bajan dishes include pepperpot, a hearty stew made with cassava, meat, and spices, and macaroni pie, a delicious baked dish similar to mac and cheese.
When it comes to the best local restaurants, Barbados has plenty of options to choose from. We dined at some of the finest restaurants in Barbados, but we had some of the best food at local shacks or at Oistins. Barbados can be expensive, but if you stick with local food, you will love it, and your wallet will love you too.
The best way to explore the rich culinary traditions of Barbados is to go on a food tour. A few guided tours are taking place in Bridgetown and are worth every penny. Check this food tour in Barbados, and tell us what you think in the comments.
Where to stay in Barbados
Hilton Barbados Hotel and Resort
This is the perfect place to enjoy a week in paradise. The Hilton hotel in Barbados is strategically located at a walkable distance from Bridgetown and nestled between two marvellous shorelines.
If you are lucky, you can get a room with a perfect ocean view, ideal for sunrise and spectacular at sunset. The staff at the Hilton Hotel Resort was so supportive and made our stay in the Caribbean memorable.
Hilton Hotel Barbados
The hotel facilities are incredible, boasting two pools, a Jacuzzi facing the central area, a Spa, a Breakfast/lunch Terrazza and an excellent two-sided beach with all comfort. The rooms face the ocean, taking advantage of being in a corner.
Affordable stay in Barbados
£100 PER NIGHT
If you’re looking for an affordable but still fancy place, Coconut Court Beach Hotel is the right option for you. Not far from the important UNESCO site of Bridgtown, Coconut Beach Hotel offer a cosy one-bedroom apartment with easy access to the beach!
How to get around Barbados
LOCAL BUS
The blue buses are the local transport. These are the most common public buses that allow you to travel between cities and stop at bus stops along the sides of the roads. They are less regular than reggae buses and frequently arrive beyond their scheduled times. However, the cost is meagre, just about B$1.50, depending on where you are going, and you can pay once on board.
REGGAE BUSES
These exciting rides were our mode of transportation in Barbados. We love the atmosphere of the Reggae Buses, and it is one of the best things to know about Barbados. They are little vans, remodelled to fit as many people as possible, and are privately owned. Drivers load them as much as possible and stop everywhere.
The reckless driving style might put you apart from taking these vehicles, but it is fun if you are in the mood. You can board at any time, just hailing on the side of the road. Mind that every vehicle has a visible number that indicates the end destination and itinerary. The numbers 9 and 11 will take you from Bridgetown to Oistins. The cost for the ride is affordable and is just B$3.50
PRIVATE TAXI
Your hotel may provide a cab, which is highly dependable. The run cost varies, but from the Hilton Hotel to the Airport, for example, the fee was USD 30. They require payment in US currency but accept payment with a card.
VIP AIRPORT SERVICE
Receiving personalised services while on vacation is one of the nicest emotions. The VIP package will assist you with checked luggage, allow you to bypass customs formalities, and have a chauffeur waiting for you upon arrival. Begin your once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Barbados with VIP service.
Renting a Car in Barbados
One of the most exciting activities of our vacation was renting a car in Barbados. Even though we were initially hesitant and had not planned ahead of time, everything went perfectly. The finest chance was to explore more of the surrounding region while enjoying the wonderful Caribbean feelings.
Hiring a car immediately from your hotel is convenient, but you may also pre-book it. Prices may vary, but you may expect to pay anywhere from B$60 to B$100 each day, depending on the season. To drive into Barbados, you must have an international and local licence permit. Your rental place will supply the licence for the time you need at a little extra cost.
Best Time to Visit Barbados
You must thoroughly research the weather forecast to plan the ideal Barbados itinerary. Before visiting the island, you should know that the best season to visit Barbados is from December to April. This is the dry season since there is less probability of rain during this time. We spent a week in Barbados in May, and the weather was perfect, with only a few hours of rain each day and plenty of sunshine.
Apart from our personal experience, looking at data, Barbados has a lovely climate all year round, with temperatures ranging from 23 °C to 30 °C. So even if you visit Barbados in June, which is the warmest month, you may still enjoy the beaches and a few days away.
If you want to visit Barbados during the picking season, it will be crowded but never overcrowded. However, the biggest problem for budget travellers willing to explore Barbados in the high season is that prices are much higher, sometimes double the regular in the off-season.
We suggest you look at the off season, as prices are lower, but the weather is still pleasant. In fact, storms and hurricanes are unlikely to impact Barbados because the island is well outside the hurricane belt. However, if you are worried about this eventuality, you should avoid the season that goes from June to September. While visiting the island during this time, expect tropical storms and excessive humidity.
ALSO READ | Full guide when is the best time to visit Barbados
When is Rainy Season in Barbados?
Barbados’ rainy season lasts from June to November. However, you likely have just sporadic storms of a few hours per day. On average, Barbados’s climate is sunny, with eternal spring. We visited Barbados in May, and while there were periodic storms, they lasted no more than an hour before the sun returned.
What is the Best Month to Visit Barbados?
Many people refer to the finest months from March to the end of April when the island is at its busiest. The weather is good; however, locals advised us to visit Barbados in May, which we did.
That may include cheaper airfare and lower lodging costs. We stayed at the Hilton Hotel Resort, which was ideal.
How Long to Stay in Barbados
There is never enough time in paradise. A week in Barbados is the ideal amount of time to tour the island, appreciate local traditions, and relax on the beach. However, it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to discover such a place, so if you can, try to squeeze in about 10 days in Barbados. The extra days can give you time to relax after enjoying a thousand activities you can do on the island. If you are lucky and can carry the work with you while on “holiday”, why don’t you think of going for a workation in Barbados?
Also Read: Best destinations for a workation in Europe
Conclusion | Barbados Guide for first timers
Just to wrap up this excellent guide to Barbados, we will leave you with some final thoughts. Barbados is a stunning island with a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As a first-time visitor, it’s essential to know the basics before you arrive, such as the best time to visit, the local currency, and the must-visit attractions.
With this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore all that Barbados has to offer, from its pristine beaches to its delicious cuisine and vibrant nightlife. If you are into surfing, you should base yourself on the East Coast, which is very rough and perfect for surfers. Remember to bring your camera and capture all the amazing moments you’ll experience on this unforgettable island. So pack your bags, relax, and prepare for an incredible adventure in Barbados!
Q&A Barbados Guide
What are interesting facts about Barbados?
- You can surf all year round
- Barbados is the birthplace of rum
- Rihanna is the most known person in the world from Barbados
- Barbados was home to the feared pirates
- Flying fish is a famous catch in Barbados
- Crop Over is the colourful Caribbean Festival
- You should take home the delicious Bajan seasoning jars
- Enjoy the Tamarind Balls
What money is best to take to Barbados?
The local currency in Barbados is the Barbados Dollars; however, the US Dollar are widely accepted in shops and restaurants. If you are coming from the US, carry with you some spare dollars, as you can pay for the taxi from the Airport and other amenities. Often prices are written in both currencies, US dollars and Bajan.
What language is spoken in Barbados?
The official language in Barbados is English, but locals also speak Bajan. The local language is English based, with heavy influences from West Africa.
What is Barbados’s most common food?
Barbados’ national food is Cou Cou and Fried Flying Fish, referred to as Bajan food.
Is Barbados tourist friendly?
Yes. Barbados is tourist friendly and a fantastic destination safe to visit. Barbados is ideal if you want the perfect beach vacation or planning your honeymoon. The local people, referred to as Bajan, are warm, friendly and welcoming. You will make a lot of friends and get into engaging conversations quickly. They are chilled and open to chatting with tourists.
What is the coldest month in Barbados?
The coldest month in Barbados is February. However, the temperatures in the Caribbean island never go below 25°C. Therefore, the sea water is always warm so that you can enjoy the beach all year round.
Why is Barbados so expensive?
A vacation in Barbados tends to be expensive. One of the main reasons is that there is little production on the island, and everything tends to be imported, mainly from the US. In addition, the high standards of living in Barbados, compared to other Caribbean Islands, make this one of the most expensive places to stay in the area. However, if you focus on local products and stick with them, you can have a cheap vacation in Barbados.
Is Barbados safe for solo female travellers?
Barbados is safe for solo travellers. It is an internationally high-standard vocational destination and is generally safe. If you are travelling alone or a solo female traveller, stick with general roles and visit beaches and resort areas. There are very dark pathways at night that you should avoid, even though there are no cases reported of incidents occurring to solo travellers.
Is Barbados a luxury destination?
Yes, Barbados is recognised as a luxury destination to have a once-in-a-lifetime vacation in the Caribbean. The hotels have high standards, and the beaches are pristine with the typical tropical vibes.