Barbados is a gem in the Caribbean, offering more than just stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. This island is a vibrant mix of British and West African cultures, with a rich history and a laid-back vibe that makes it a perfect getaway. Whether you’re into history, food, or just soaking up the sun, Barbados has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the top 7 areas to stay in Barbados and what makes each one unique.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: O2 Beach Club & Spa All Inclusive by Ocean Hotels
- ✨ 5-Star: Cobblers Cove
- 🏨 4-Star: Sugar Bay Barbados
- 🛏️ 3-Star: South Gap Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Meridian Inn
- 🏢 Apartment: Kelly’s Studio Apartment
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Coconut Court Beach Hotel
- 🏩 For Couples: Fairmont Royal Pavilion
One of the things I love most about Barbados is its diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re seeking a lively beach vacation filled with watersports and nightlife, or a more tranquil getaway focused on relaxation and cultural immersion, this island has something for everyone.
Quick Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Barbados
- 🏛️ For history: Bridgetown
- 🥂 For nightlife: St. Lawrence Gap
- 🏖️ For a bit of everything: The South Coast
- 💎 For luxury: The West Coast
- 🌿 For nature: St. Philip
- 🏄 For adventure: The North Coast
- 🐟 For local flavor: Oistins
1. Bridgetown: Vibrant Capital of Barbados 🏛️
🏛️ Rich History: Bridgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage site, brimming with colonial architecture and historical landmarks. The city’s Parliament Buildings and the Garrison area offer a glimpse into its storied past.
🏖️ Beautiful Beaches: Carlisle Bay, with its soft white sands and clear waters, is a major draw. It’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.
🛍️ Shopping and Dining: Bridgetown is a shopper’s paradise with duty-free shops on Broad Street and local markets like Cheapside Market. The city also boasts a vibrant dining scene, offering everything from street food to fine dining.
🌟 The Best Sights in Bridgetown
Bridgetown is packed with fascinating sights that offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some must-visit attractions:
- Carlisle Bay: A stunning crescent-shaped beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.
- Barbados Garrison: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring historic buildings, museums, and the George Washington House.
- Parliament Buildings: The neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings are among the oldest in the Commonwealth, dating back to the 17th century.
- Nidhe Israel Synagogue: The oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, built in 1654, now housing a museum showcasing the island’s Jewish heritage.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Champers Restaurant: A popular restaurant known for its fresh Barbadian cuisine, stunning sea views, and romantic atmosphere.
- Cuzz’s Fish Stand: A local favorite serving the best fish cutters (sandwiches) on the island, located near Pebbles Beach.
- Mustor’s Restaurant: A family-owned establishment offering authentic Bajan cuisine in a casual setting.
- Lobster Alive: A unique dining experience specializing in fresh Caribbean spiny lobsters, caught and flown in daily.
🚌 Well-connected: Exploring Bridgetown is easy, with a well-organized public transport system, including buses and taxis. Walking is the best way to discover the downtown area, while visitors can also rent cars to explore further afield.
Where to Stay in Bridgetown
Expensive Hotels
- Sugar Bay Barbados: An oceanfront hotel with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.
Mid-range Hotels
- Coconut Court Beach Hotel: A family-run beachfront hotel with an outdoor pool and restaurant, located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Budget Hotels
- Blue Orchids Beach Hotel: Located on Worthing Beach, offering studios with terraces, a gym, and an outdoor pool.
- Coral Mist Beach Hotel: Set on Worthing Beach, featuring studios with balconies, a gym, and an outdoor swimming pool.
2. St. Lawrence Gap: The Heart of Nightlife 🌃
🎉 Party central: If you’re looking for the ultimate party destination in Barbados, look no further than St. Lawrence Gap, or simply “The Gap” as the locals call it. This mile-long strip on the south coast is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants that keep the energy high well into the wee hours.
🍽️ Diverse Dining Options: The Gap is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from casual street food to fine dining. You can savor local Bajan cuisine, fresh seafood, and international dishes, all within walking distance.
🏖️ Beautiful Beaches: With its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, Dover Beach is a highlight of St. Lawrence Gap. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing.
🏖️ The Best Sights in St. Lawrence Gap
- Dover Beach: A stunning beach with soft white sand and calm waters, ideal for a relaxing day by the sea.
- Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary: A peaceful retreat where you can enjoy bird watching and explore the mangroves.
- St. Lawrence by the Sea Church: A quaint church offering a glimpse into the local culture and history.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Cafe Sol: A lively Mexican restaurant known for its delicious tacos and margaritas.
- Primo Bar & Bistro: Offers fresh Caribbean seafood and international dishes with a stunning oceanfront view.
- The Gap Burger Lady: A must-visit for a freshly grilled burger, loved by both locals and visitors.
- Harlequin Restaurant: Known for its seafood, grilled specialties, and vegetarian dishes.
- Bliss Cafe: Perfect for breakfast and lunch, serving up local favorites like macaroni pie and flying fish.
🚍 Getting Around: St. Lawrence Gap is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore other parts of the island. Buses and taxis are readily available, and the area is also pedestrian-friendly, so you can easily walk to nearby attractions and restaurants.
Where to Stay in St. Lawrence Gap
Expensive Hotels
- O2 Beach Club & Spa: Known for its amazing food, welcoming staff, and breathtaking views.
- Southern Palms Beach Club: Offers a blend of traditional charm and modern facilities, right on Dover Beach.
Mid-range Hotels
- Yellow Bird Hotel: Located on the beachfront with an outdoor pool and a poolside restaurant.
- South Gap Hotel: Features an outdoor pool and stunning sea views from every room.
- Rostrevor Hotel: A lovely beachfront hotel with a sun terrace and gym.
Budget Hotels
- Meridian Inn: A simple, affordable hotel located just a short walk from the beach.
3. St. Philip: Captivating Parish 🏝️
🏖️ Hidden gem: If you’re looking for a taste of the real Barbados, away from the bustling tourist hotspots, St. Philip Parish on the island’s southeast coast is the place to be. This laid-back area is known for its stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and some of the best beaches on the island.
🌴 Secluded paradise: One of my favorite spots in St. Philip is Bottom Bay, a secluded stretch of white sand framed by towering palm trees and rugged cliffs. It’s the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon soaking up the sun and listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore.
🏯 Colonial charm: For a glimpse into Barbados’ colonial past, head to Sunbury Plantation House, a beautifully restored 17th-century mansion that now serves as a museum. The house is filled with antique furniture, artwork, and artifacts that offer a fascinating insight into the island’s history and culture.
🏰 Must-see attractions
- Sunbury Plantation House: Step back in time and explore this beautifully preserved colonial mansion, which boasts an impressive collection of antiques and artifacts.
- Bottom Bay: Discover the picturesque Bottom Bay, known for its pink-tinted sand and stunning cliff-side views.
- Crane Beach: Relax on the famous Crane Beach, renowned for its soft sand and turquoise waters.
- Foursquare Rum Distillery: Learn about the island’s rum-making history and sample some of the finest rum at this historic distillery.
🍽️ Delicious dining
- Cutters Bajan Deli: Savor local favorites like flying fish sandwiches and rum punch at this charming deli.
- Marco Polo Bar and Grill: Indulge in delicious international cuisine while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
- Le Shack Restaurant and Bar: Experience a unique dining experience at this rustic, open-air restaurant serving French-inspired Caribbean dishes.
🚗 Easy transportation: St. Philip is easily accessible by car or taxi, with most attractions and accommodations located along the southern coast. Public transportation, such as buses, is also available for those looking to explore the parish on a budget.
Where to Stay in St. Philip
Expensive Hotels
- Larimar - Luxury Ocean Front Villa: This luxurious villa is situated directly on the pristine white sands of Reed’s Bay, offering stunning ocean views.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Fortescue Cherry Blossom Apartments: This apartment in St. Philip is located 2.2 km from the following attractions: Skeetis Bay Beach. It offers free Wi-Fi, free private parking, and garden views.
Budget Hotels
- Mari Sol: Located just steps from the beautiful Dover Beach in St. Lawrence Gap, Mari Sol offers comfortable and affordable accommodations.
- Manderley Villas: Located in the peaceful Inch Marlow area, Manderley Villas offers spacious and well-appointed villas with private pools and lush tropical gardens.
- Kelly’s Studio Apartment: This budget-friendly apartment complex is conveniently located near the Grantley Adams International Airport and offers easy access to local amenities and public transportation.
4. West Coast: Platinum Coast 🌊
🏝️ Platinum paradise: If you’re dreaming of pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a laid-back luxury vibe, look no further than Barbados’ stunning west coast. Known as the “Platinum Coast,” this stretch of shoreline is home to some of the island’s most beautiful beaches, high-end resorts, and world-class restaurants.
🏖️ Sandy perfection: One of my favorite spots on the west coast is Sandy Lane Beach, a breathtaking crescent of powdery sand flanked by the iconic Sandy Lane Hotel. Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can still access the beach and rent sun loungers and umbrellas. Trust me, it’s worth it for the postcard-perfect views and tranquil swimming conditions.
🐠 Underwater wonders: As you explore the west coast, be sure to check out some of the area’s other attractions, like the Folkestone Marine Park, an underwater park with excellent snorkeling and a museum showcasing Barbados’ marine life. You can also visit St. Nicholas Abbey, a stunning 17th-century plantation house that now produces its own rum.
🏝️ Best Sights
- Paynes Bay Beach: A stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing and water activities.
- Holetown: A historic town with excellent shopping, dining, and the annual Holetown Festival celebrating the island’s heritage.
- Limegrove Lifestyle Centre: A luxury shopping complex featuring designer brands, art galleries, and a cinema.
🍽️ Top Restaurants
- The Cliff Restaurant: An upscale dining experience with stunning ocean views and a menu featuring fresh seafood and international cuisine.
- Daphne’s Restaurant: An elegant beachfront restaurant serving Italian-inspired dishes and cocktails.
- The Tides Restaurant: A fine-dining establishment in a beautiful coral stone building, offering a menu of fresh seafood and Caribbean flavors.
🚌 Transportation Options: Public transportation on the West Coast is reliable and affordable, with government-owned buses and privately-operated mini-buses and vans serving major routes. Taxis are also readily available for those seeking a more personalized mode of transportation.
Where to Stay in West Coast
Expensive Hotels
- Cobblers Cove: Located in the middle of an exotic garden, in a quiet location next to the beach. Water sports such as windsurfing, sailing, and water skiing are offered free of charge.
- Fairmont Royal Pavilion: It is a luxurious 5-star property situated on the stunning St. James beachfront. This elegant resort features spacious rooms and suites with private balconies, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Coral Reef Club: It is a sophisticated 5-star hotel nestled on the pristine west coast of Barbados. This family-owned property boasts beautifully landscaped gardens, two outdoor pools, and direct access to a white sandy beach.
- Waves Hotel and Spa by Elegant Hotels: It is an all-inclusive, eco-chic resort located on the picturesque Platinum West Coast of Barbados. This contemporary hotel offers stylish rooms and suites with stunning ocean views, as well as a wide range of activities and amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Ferron House: It offers comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a shared lounge area for guests to relax. The property is conveniently situated just a short drive from popular attractions like Carlisle Bay and the Barbados Museum.
- The Legend Garden Condos: Provides spacious apartment-style accommodations in Holetown, Barbados.
Budget Hotels
- The Palms Resort: It is a lovely vacation rental property located in Holetown, Barbados. It offers well-appointed apartments with modern amenities, including air conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi.
- Westskye: It is a delightful vacation rental property situated in the parish of Saint James, Barbados. It offers comfortable and well-appointed accommodations with amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen.
- A Home Away from Home: It is a cozy and inviting bed and breakfast located in Bridgetown, the capital city of Barbados. The property offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, making guests feel right at home.
5. South Coast: Lively Atmosphere 💥
🏖️ Beach paradise: If you’re a beach lover like me, you’ll fall head over heels for Barbados’ stunning south coast. This vibrant stretch of coastline is dotted with wide, white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of opportunities for water sports and relaxation.
🌊 Lively shores: One of my favorite spots on the south coast is Dover Beach, a lively stretch of sand that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. The beach is backed by a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars, so you’ll never be far from a refreshing drink or a tasty meal.
🏄♀️ Surf’s up: Another must-visit beach on the south coast is Accra Beach, also known as Rockley Beach. This wide, sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming and body surfing, thanks to its gentle waves and shallow waters. There are plenty of beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent, as well as a variety of food and drink vendors.
🦀 Local flavors: For a taste of local culture, be sure to check out Oistins Fish Fry, a weekly event that takes place every Friday and Saturday night. Here, you can sample delicious, freshly caught seafood, listen to live music, and mingle with locals and tourists alike. It’s a lively, fun-filled experience that shouldn’t be missed.
🌴 Water adventures: When it comes to water sports, the south coast has plenty to offer. Some of the top activities include:
- Surfing: Head to Freights Bay or South Point for some of the best waves on the island.
- Stand-up Paddleboarding: Rent a board from one of the many vendors along the coast and explore the calm, clear waters at your own pace.
- Snorkeling: Take a boat trip to nearby reefs and shipwrecks to discover the colorful underwater world.
- Jet Skiing: Rent a jet ski and zip along the coast, taking in the stunning views and feeling the wind in your hair.
🍽️ Culinary delights: Of course, no trip to the south coast would be complete without sampling some of the delicious local cuisine. Some of my top picks for restaurants and bars include:
- Champers: This elegant waterfront restaurant serves up delicious Caribbean-inspired dishes and has an extensive wine list. The views of the ocean are simply stunning.
- Tapas: Located in the heart of Hastings, this lively restaurant offers a variety of small plates and creative cocktails. It’s the perfect spot for a night out with friends.
- St. Lawrence Gap: This bustling strip is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, making it the perfect spot for a night out on the town. Don’t miss the famous “Gap Burger” at the Crave Restaurant.
Where to stay in the South Coast
Expensive Hotels
- Bougainvillea Barbados: It is a luxurious oceanfront property situated on the pristine white sands of Maxwell Beach, Barbados. The resort offers spacious and elegantly appointed rooms and suites, each featuring a private balcony or terrace with spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Butterfly Beach Hotel: It is a delightful beachfront property located on the stunning south coast of Barbados.
- Plover Court Apartments: It is a comfortable and affordable accommodation option located in the vibrant St. Lawrence Gap area of Barbados.
Budget Hotels
- Glynver Apartments: It is a charming and affordable accommodation option located in the parish of Christ Church, Barbados.
- Gemini House Bed & Breakfast: It is a friendly and affordable accommodation option located in the parish of Saint Michael, Barbados. The property offers simple and comfortable rooms with essential amenities like air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
6. North Coast: Rugged Beauty ⛰️
🌊 Quiet place: The North Coast of Barbados is known for its rugged and unspoiled beauty, with dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. This area offers a peaceful escape from the busier tourist hubs, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s natural splendor.
🏞️ Fishing villages: The coastline is dotted with picturesque fishing villages, where you can witness the daily routines of local fishermen and experience the authentic Bajan culture. The rolling hills and lush greenery of the interior provide a stunning backdrop to the coastal scenery.
🐢 Outdoor adventures: The North Coast is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, surfing, and exploring the island’s unique flora and fauna, including the chance to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.
🏞️ Top attractions:
- Animal Flower Cave: A stunning sea cave with unique rock formations and crystal-clear pools, once home to a colony of colorful sea anemones.
- Bathsheba Beach: Known for its dramatic rock formations and powerful waves, this beach is a popular spot for surfers and photographers alike.
- St. Nicholas Abbey: A beautifully preserved 17th-century plantation house that offers a glimpse into Barbados’ colonial past and produces its own rum.
🍽️ Culinary delights:
- The Fish Pot: A casual-chic restaurant located in Little Good Harbour, offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
- La Salsa: A cozy restaurant in Speightstown, serving delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
- Catch-22: A laid-back beach bar in the north, known for its tasty rum punches, grilled fish, and live music on weekends.
🚗 Getting around: The North Coast is easily accessible by rental car or guided tours, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. Public transportation is also available, but may be less frequent in some of the more remote areas.
Where to Stay in North Coast
Expensive Hotels
- Little Good Harbour: It is a cozy and affordable bed and breakfast located in the northern parish of St. Lucy, Barbados. The property offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with amenities like air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a shared kitchen area.
- Colleton Great House: It is a charming and historic plantation-style property situated in the parish of St. Peter, Barbados. This budget-friendly accommodation offers well-appointed rooms with traditional Caribbean decor, featuring amenities like air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Claurise Cottage: It is a delightful and affordable vacation rental located in the parish of St. Michael, Barbados. This cozy cottage offers a comfortable and well-equipped living space with a fully-furnished kitchen, air conditioning, and a private outdoor area.
- Seacruise Villa: It is a beautiful and well-appointed vacation rental property situated in the parish of Christ Church, Barbados. The villa offers spacious and comfortable accommodations with amenities such as a fully-equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a private outdoor pool.
Budget Hotels
- Green Monkey Cottage: It is a charming and inviting vacation rental located in the parish of St. Joseph, Barbados. This cozy cottage offers a comfortable and well-appointed living space with a fully-furnished kitchen, air conditioning, and a private outdoor area.
7. Oistins, Christ Church: Local Flavor 🏠
🐠 Fishing village charm: Oistins is a vibrant fishing village located in the parish of Christ Church on the south coast of Barbados. It’s famous for its lively Friday night fish fry, where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy fresh seafood, live music, and a festive atmosphere.
🏖️ Beachside bliss: The area boasts beautiful beaches like Miami Beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The historic Christ Church Parish Church, dating back to the 17th century, offers a glimpse into Barbados’ colonial past.
🎣 Seafood paradise: Oistins is also home to a modern fishing market, where you can witness the daily catch being brought in and skillfully prepared by local vendors.
🍴 Top attractions:
- Oistins Fish Fry: A weekly event every Friday and Saturday night, featuring delicious seafood, live music, and a lively atmosphere.
- Miami Beach: A stunning stretch of white sand beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Christ Church Parish Church: A historic church dating back to the 17th century, offering a glimpse into Barbados’ colonial past.
🍽️ Culinary delights:
- Oistins Fish Market: Get the freshest catch of the day, expertly prepared by local vendors.
- Surfer’s Café: A beachfront café serving up delicious local and international dishes.
- Café Luna: An award-winning rooftop restaurant with panoramic ocean views.
🚶♀️ Explore with ease: Oistins is easily accessible by public transportation or rental car. The area is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
Where to Stay in Oistins
Expensive Hotels
- Little Arches Boutique Hotel: It is a charming and intimate property located in the historic town of Oistins, Barbados. The hotel offers luxurious accommodations with a Mediterranean-inspired décor, featuring amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and private balconies with stunning ocean views.
- Oistins Bayview Apartments: The property offers self-catering apartments with fully equipped kitchens, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy easy access to the nearby Oistins Fish Fry, a popular local event where vendors sell fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Mid-Range Hotels
- ShkyBlue Suites: It is a cozy and affordable accommodation located in the parish of Christ Church, Barbados. The property offers well-appointed suites with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
- Private 3BR Tropical Paradise near Oistins: This newly renovated spacious bungalow in Oistins offers a comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation option in Barbados.
Budget Hotels
- Sue’s Homestay: It is a cozy and inviting accommodation option located in the parish of Christ Church, Barbados. The property offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a shared kitchen area.
- Jazz apartment: It is a well-appointed vacation rental located in the parish of Christ Church, Barbados. The apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a private outdoor area.
- Sasha’s Holiday Home: It is a comfortable and spacious vacation rental located in the heart of Oistins, Barbados. The property offers a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, and a private outdoor area.
Where to Stay in Barbados
No matter which part of Barbados you choose to stay in, you’ll be greeted with warm hospitality, stunning natural beauty, and a wealth of activities to enjoy. Whether you opt for the luxurious west coast, the lively south coast, the rugged east coast, or the historic capital city, your Barbadian vacation is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
🤔 Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Barbados?
The best time to visit Barbados is from December to April, during the dry season. However, the island enjoys a pleasant climate year-round.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Barbados?
Yes, the tap water in Barbados is safe to drink as it is filtered naturally through coral limestone rock.
What side of the road do they drive on in Barbados?
In Barbados, they drive on the left side of the road.
Do I need a visa to visit Barbados?
Visitors from the US, EU, and most Commonwealth countries do not require a visa for stays up to 6 months.
What is the local currency in Barbados?
The local currency is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD), which is pegged to the US Dollar at a rate of 1 USD = 2 BBD.
