Ever wondered where the name Barbados comes from? When Portuguese explorers passed by in the 1500s, they noticed the island’s fig trees with long, hanging roots and called it Los Barbados—“The Bearded Ones.” But they never settled here, and for a time, the island remained untouched by European rule.

That changed in the 1600s, when the British claimed Barbados and turned it into one of the Caribbean’s biggest sugar-producing colonies. Sugar plantations made the island incredibly wealthy, leaving behind grand estate houses, historic windmills, and deep British influences still seen today. But with wealth came danger—pirates patrolled these waters, attacking merchant ships loaded with sugar and rum. One of the most feared, Black Bart (Bartholomew Roberts), was known to strike in these seas, making the waters around Barbados a risky place for traders.

Today, Barbados is known for its laid-back island life, but it’s also home to one of the liveliest festivals in the Caribbean—Crop Over. It started as a celebration of the sugarcane harvest and has turned into weeks of music, dancing, and colorful parades. If you visit at the right time, it’s something you won’t forget.

There’s no single way to experience Barbados. In Bridgetown, the capital, British colonial buildings stand next to lively markets filled with fresh produce and handmade crafts. Along the west coast, luxury resorts sit next to quiet fishing villages where time moves slower. And on the east coast, where the Atlantic crashes against the cliffs, the waves are wild, and surfers from around the world come to ride them.

Barbados isn’t just a postcard-perfect island—it’s a place with stories to tell.

Top Places to Visit in Barbados

For City Lovers

Bridgetown: The capital and the island’s historic and cultural center. Walk past British colonial buildings, browse the stalls at Cheapside Market, or visit St. Michael’s Cathedral, a peaceful escape from the busy streets. Down by the waterfront, the Careenage harbor is a great place to grab a drink and watch the boats. For history lovers, the Barbados Museum offers a deep dive into the island’s past, from its indigenous people to its sugar trade days.

Speightstown: Once a bustling trading port, still holds on to its old-world charm. You’ll find stone warehouses, colonial-era buildings, and a quiet, local atmosphere. Unlike Bridgetown, this town moves at a slower pace—fishermen haul in their catch, locals chat outside small cafés, and visitors soak in the laid-back vibe. Stop by the Arlington House Museum for a glimpse into the island’s past, then grab some fresh seafood from a street vendor and enjoy the sea breeze.

 

For Beach Lovers

Carlisle Bay: Just outside Bridgetown, this place is known for its calm, clear waters and hidden treasures beneath the surface. The bay is home to several sunken ships, making it one of the best spots in Barbados for snorkeling and diving. Sea turtles glide through the water, and colorful fish swim around old anchors and cannons. The beach itself is soft, white sand, perfect for sunbathing or a refreshing swim. Nearby beach bars serve Bajan classics like flying fish and rum punch.

Bottom Bay: If you want to escape the crowds, this is the place to go. Tucked away behind tall cliffs, this beach has a wild, untouched beauty. Palm trees sway in the breeze, waves crash against the shore, and the views from above are breathtaking. Swimming here can be tricky because of the waves, but it’s one of the best spots on the island to simply sit back and take in the scenery.

 

For Nature & Adventure Seekers

Animal Flower Cave : At the northern tip of Barbados, this sea cave is a place of raw, natural beauty. Inside, rock pools reflect the sky, and small openings in the cave walls reveal stunning views of the ocean. The cave gets its name from the tiny sea anemones (nicknamed “animal flowers”) that live in the water-filled crevices. On a calm day, you can even take a dip in the pools inside the cave. Above, the cliffs offer one of the most dramatic views on the island, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly before you.

Harrison’s Cave: Barbados also has wonders hidden underground. Harrison’s Cave is a massive limestone cave system, with tunnels, waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools. A guided tram tour takes you deep inside, where you’ll see huge stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years. The way the light hits the underground pools makes them glow in shades of blue and green, creating an almost magical atmosphere.

 

For Culture & History Enthusiasts

St. Nicholas Abbey: One of the oldest plantations in the Caribbean, St. Nicholas Abbey is a beautifully preserved 17th-century estate that feels like a time capsule from the island’s sugar industry days. Walk through the grand plantation house, see the old windmill, and tour the working rum distillery, where rum is still made using traditional methods. You can taste it straight from the barrel.

George Washington House: Not many people know that Barbados was the only country George Washington ever visited outside the U.S. Long before he became America’s first president, he spent two months here in 1751, staying in what is now known as the George Washington House. The museum inside gives a fascinating glimpse into 18th-century life on the island, with stories about Washington’s time in Barbados and what the world was like before the American Revolution.

Things to Know Before You Go – FAQ

Language & Currency

Do people speak English in Barbados?

Yes, English is the official language, so you won’t have trouble communicating. But you’ll also hear Bajan Creole, a local dialect that mixes English with African and Caribbean influences. It’s fast and rhythmic, and while it might be tricky to understand at first, Bajans are always happy to slow down and explain. (Bajan (pronounced "bay-jun") is the local term for anything related to Barbados—the people, culture, dialect, or way of life).

What currency is used in Barbados?

Barbados uses the Barbadian dollar (BBD), but US dollars are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. Most places list prices in both currencies, and the exchange rate is fixed at 2 BBD = 1 USD. Just keep in mind that if you pay in US dollars, you might get change in Barbadian dollars.

Can I use credit cards in Barbados?

Yes, credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. However, cash is essential if you’re shopping at local markets, buying from street vendors, or using public transport. ATMs are available in cities and tourist areas, but they may charge international withdrawal fees.

Best Time to Visit

When is the best time to go?

The best time to visit Barbados is during the dry season, from December to April. Expect warm temperatures, blue skies, and plenty of sunshine.

The rainy season runs from June to October, but it doesn’t mean rain all day. Showers are usually brief and heavy, followed by sunshine. This is also the hurricane season, though Barbados is outside the main hurricane belt, so direct hits are rare.

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting in May or November, when the island is quieter, but the weather is still great.

How to Get Around

What’s the best way to travel around Barbados?

• Taxis: There are no meters, so always agree on a price before getting in. They’re easy to find but can be pricey compared to public transport.
• Buses & Minibuses: Barbados has affordable public transport, with government-run blue and yellow buses that run fixed routes. Privately-run minibuses are more flexible, often play loud music, and stop anywhere along the way—it’s a fun (and sometimes wild) local experience!
• Car Rental: If you want to explore the island at your own pace, renting a car is a great option. Just remember they drive on the left, and rural roads can be narrow and bumpy.

Safety Tips

Is Barbados safe for tourists?

Yes, Barbados is one of the safest Caribbean islands, and crime against tourists is rare. That said, it’s always smart to take precautions, just like anywhere else.

What should I watch out for?

• Avoid walking alone on empty beaches at night. While serious crime is uncommon, petty theft can happen in secluded areas.
• Keep an eye on your belongings. Markets, beaches, and crowded areas can attract pickpockets, so keep valuables close.
• Use licensed taxis. Stick to registered taxis instead of accepting rides from unmarked cars.
• Drink bottled or filtered water in rural areas. The tap water in Barbados is generally safe, but if you’re heading outside tourist zones, bottled water is a safer bet.

Barbados is a welcoming and easygoing island, and as long as you take basic precautions, you’ll have a stress-free and unforgettable trip.

What to Eat in Barbados

Cou-Cou & Flying Fish – Considered the national dish, cou-cou is a mix of cornmeal and okra, served with flying fish in a tomato-based sauce.

Pudding and Souse – A Saturday tradition, this dish combines pickled pork (souse) with a side of spiced sweet potato pudding. If you want to eat like a local, this is the dish to try.

Cutter Sandwich – A simple but delicious sandwich made with salt bread, often filled with fried fish and Bajan pepper sauce. Perfect for a quick snack.

Macaroni Pie – The Bajan version of mac and cheese, but richer, cheesier, and often spiced up with mustard and hot sauce.

Souvenirs to Bring Home

Handmade Baskets – Woven from palm leaves and grasses, these baskets are both practical and beautifully crafted. You’ll find them in local markets, often made by hand using traditional weaving techniques.

Mahogany Wood Carvings – Barbadian artisans create stunning hand-carved mahogany pieces, from small figurines to elegant bowls and decorative masks. Mahogany is a native hardwood, making these carvings not just beautiful but also deeply connected to the island’s culture.

Pottery – Barbados has a thriving pottery tradition, with local artists crafting handmade clay pieces inspired by the island’s landscapes and heritage. Look for vases, plates, and decorative pieces that showcase unique Caribbean designs.

Jewelry – Whether it’s delicate sea-inspired pendants, handcrafted beaded necklaces, or elegant coral and shell earrings, Bajan jewelry reflects the island’s vibrant culture. Some artisans even use locally sourced materials like blue topaz, Barbados’ national gemstone.

 

Stay Connected in Barbados

Need fast and reliable internet during your trip? Get a Barbados JetSet eSIM before you travel and stay connected with friends and family wherever you go. No roaming fees, no hassle—just seamless connectivity across the island.