Barbados is a beautiful island in the Caribbean, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, but if you want to explore beyond the tourist hotspots and discover some hidden gems, here are 10 cool experiences you can have in Barbados.
Taste the island’s favourite beverage
Rum is the Caribbean drink of choice, and Mount Gay, the world’s oldest rum distillery, has been making the smooth libation in Barbados since 1703. Take a tour of the Mount Gay Visitors Centre, just north of Bridgetown, to learn about the history of rum-making, the process, and the equipment…and then head for the tasting room.
Swim with friendly sea turtles
Hawksbill and leatherback sea turtles feed and nest in the clear, calm waters along the west coast of Barbados, and a number of tour operators will take you offshore to swim with these marvelous, friendly creatures. You can also snorkel over coral reefs and shipwrecks and enjoy a delicious lunch on board.
Explore the underground world of Harrison’s Cave
One of Barbados’s most unique experiences is exploring the subterranean world of Harrison’s Cave, an extensive (2.3 kilometers long) limestone cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites and crystal-clear streams. You can take a tram ride through the cave, or opt for a more adventurous walking or crawling tour.
Join the party at Oistins Fish Fry
Every Friday night, the fishing village of Oistins turns into a lively street party, where locals and visitors mingle over plates of freshly caught fish, grilled or fried to perfection. You can also enjoy live music, dancing, craft stalls and a fun atmosphere.
Wander in the gorgeous Flower Forest
If you love nature and tranquility, you’ll love the Flower Forest, a botanical garden located in the heart of Barbados’s rainforest. You can stroll along scenic trails, admire colorful flowers and plants, spot birds and monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of the island.
Sea the fishes by diving in a submarine
For a different perspective of Barbados’s underwater world, you can board an Atlantis Submarine and dive to depths of up to 45 meters. You’ll see coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles and even a sunken shipwreck through large viewing windows. It’s an exciting and educational experience for all ages.
Visit the lush oasis that is Hunte’s Gardens
Hunte’s Gardens is a hidden oasis created by horticulturist Anthony Hunte in an old limestone sinkhole. You can explore the lush garden filled with exotic plants, statues, fountains and birdsong. You can also meet Mr. Hunte himself and enjoy his hospitality and stories.
Discover a sea cave plastered with anemones
The Animal Flower Cave is a natural sea cave located at the northern tip of Barbados. It’s named after the sea anemones that live in its pools, which look like flowers. You can enter the cave with a guide and see the rock formations, fossils and views of the ocean through openings in the walls.
Step back in time at St. Nicholas Abbey
St. Nicholas Abbey is one of the oldest and most historic plantation houses in Barbados, dating back to the 17th century. You can tour the house and see its antique furniture, paintings and artifacts. You can also visit the rum distillery on site, the sugar cane fields and its beautiful gardens.
Relax in a beautiful fishing village
Bathsheba is a picturesque fishing village on the east coast of Barbados, where you can enjoy the rugged beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. You can watch the surfers ride the waves, see the dramatic rock formations and soak in the natural pools formed by coral reefs.
