Holidays to Barbados

Barbados travel guide

• When is the best time to visit Barbados?

  With year round sunshine and warm weather, Barbados is great to visit all year round. The driest time of year (and peak season) is December to April with temperatures averaging 29°C. The wet season runs from July to November, the island does experience some spectacular tropical rainstorms, which are heavy but short, so dry up quickly. There is also risk of hurricanes at this time of year but happen rarely due to Barbados' easterly Caribbean location.

• Top 5 things to do in Barbados

  Oistins Bay Gardens

  Friday nights at Oistins Bay Gardens are a must! Renowned for its spectacular seafood and atmosphere, it’s a great place to get to soak up the Bajan lifestyle.

  Harrison’s Cave

  One of the islands most popular attractions, the natural wonder of Harrison’s Cave is full of surprises.

  Sample the world's oldest rum

  One of the most popular island tours, head over to the Mount Gay Rum Tour for a fascinating history of how rum came to be Barbados' fine drink of choice.

  Catamaran cruise

  Spend a relaxing day on the beautiful Caribbean Sea on board a catamaran. Soak up some rays or jump into the clear waters for upfront views of tropical fish and sea turtles.

  Historic Bridgetown

  From visiting the Unesco World Heritage Site Garrison to shopping and the port, a trip to Historic Bridgetown is a great day out.

• Barbados lifestyle and culture

  Barbados boasts a rich and interesting history. It became independent in 1961, and has since developed as one of the best holiday destinations in the world, attracting millions of couples and families every year.

  In much of the art, crafts and literature produced in Barbados, you'll see a heavy African influence. It is an island full to the brim with artistic talent, and this is evident in the handicrafts, artwork, pottery, poetry, fashion and jewellery on offer in its gift shops and boutiques.

  Barbados has a rich heritage which is displayed in many of its well preserved and restored historic buildings. Take a trip back in time and visit a plantation house or explore the wonderful towns that are an important part of Barbados' past and present.

  A great way of discovering Barbados is on a guided tour. Learn about the island's culture and history from an experienced and knowledgeable Bajan tour guide. Choose from eco and nature tours, jeep safari tours, arts and crafts tours, black culture tours and more.

• Barbados food and drink

  Most Barbados hotels take dining very seriously, and boast some truly amazing restaurants. Barbados seafood is some of the best in the world, and there are many 5 star fine dining restaurants to enjoy. If you fancy something a bit more laid-back, there are just as many beach-side restaurants, where you can eat in a casual atmosphere and enjoy one of the best views in the world: a Caribbean sunset.

• Barbados shopping

  Bridgetown has many shops and markets, where you can stock up on tax-free souvenirs to take home, many are crafted locally, and are of a high standard. There are craft fairs throughout the year.

  Barbados's tax-free shopping selection is extensive. You'll find anything from the world's finest china to beautiful cashmere, from sparkling crystal to electronic equipment and liqueur.

  Barbados boasts a booming clothing industry thanks to local designers and their fabulous tropical-look one-off pieces, as well as a successful t-shirt industry and unique hand-painted pieces. If you're looking for a souvenir of Barbados, local craftsmen and women make wonderful carvings, weaves, paintings and jewellery - perfect gifts or mementos of your time in Barbados.

  And, of course, don't forget to take a bottle of rum home with you - if you've got any left!

• Barbados sports

  With over 100 kilometres of stunning coastline, Barbados has a deserved reputation as a top beach destination. The west Caribbean coast has the best beaches with quiet calm seas, but if you're looking to surf, your best bet is to take your board over to the Eastern Atlantic Coast, where there are fantastic waves throughout the year. The South has a combination of both, and is a great place to windsurf and snorkel.

  The National sport is cricket, and the game is played everywhere by groups of men in white. The West Indies as a whole is a test playing nation, and if it's possible to time your visit to the country with a cricket tour, it's definitely worth watching some first class matches.

  Barbados has 4 major golf courses (including the world famous Sandy Lane), all of which offer rounds to tourists and are reasonably priced. You can also enjoy polo at many places on the island.

  Most hotels offer a variety of water sports to tempt you into the sea, in a safe environment with good instructors. Scuba diving off the coast is good, and an excellent way to get out of the sun for a while. Many hotels have their own diving school or can recommend one nearby.

  Sandy Lane Golf Course is widely considered to be one of the best in the world, and is challenging even for the professionals. A highlight of a trip to Barbados for golf fans is a chance to play a round on this legendary course. It is vital to book in advance, as the course is busy throughout the year.

  St Lawrence Gap is the nightlife centre of Barbados, where clubs compete with each other to attract clientele with a heady mix of rum and music, from Calypso to Reggae. The party goes on until dawn with the friendly Bajans enjoying themselves as much as the tourists.

• Barbados events - what's on when?

  With an exciting calendar of events, Barbados is ready for action... are you?
  
  

  April – Barbados Reggae Festival

  This week-long festival at the end of April hosts live performances from some of the best names in reggae, from local to international acts. Attracting reggae fans from around the world, it’s a must for reggae lovers.

  May to August – Crop Over Festival

  Celebrating a 200 year tradition honouring the end of the sugar cane season, this festival is a lively one! For 6 weeks the festival celebrates all things Bajan with dusk till dawn parties, arts and craft markets and fantastic food fares.

  August - Grand Kadooment

  To celebrate the end of the Crop Over Festival, Grand Kadooment Day is a grand finale not to be missed! This special events sees 15,000 colourful revellers parade through the streets of St. Michael with the Soca/calypso music pumping loud. Expect dancing, feathers, sequins, music trucks and moving bars!

  September - Sol Rally Barbados

  Attracting drivers from all over the world, for 3 days, Sol Rally Barbados has the most dynamic rally driving in Barbados where locals and visitors go head to head on and off road.

  October – Barbados Food & Rum Festival

  Get those taste buds tingling and ready for action at the 5 day Barbados Food & Rum Festival. Expect colourful and flavoursome dishes and experience sophisticated gastronomic art… yes, really… from acclaimed international & local chefs, wine experts and mixologists.