Fun Things to do in Barbados

Discover the enchanting side of Barbados during your time on this picturesque island. We’ll make it easier for you to plan your days and nights so you may experience as many activities as you want to. Entertainment and leisure activities on water and land abound on this island. Whether you’re new to Barbados or returning, finding the right activities for you will make your stay far more enjoyable and fun.

Exploring Barbados: Tradition, Pride, Warmth in 166 Square Miles

Barbados is 166 square miles of absolute splendor. The island is about tradition, pride, and history, blended with excitement, temptation, and adventure. It is well-known for its sound infrastructure, development, sophistication, and people who are acknowledged as the warmest and friendliest to be found anywhere and happy to share their island with you. There are many characteristics about this island that make it unique; much of it is seen in the people who embrace their past traditions as they cherish the future. So, discovering the many sides and secrets of Barbados can be an unimaginable treat. It’s a small island with a big heart and an allure that keeps visitors coming back again and again. 

The ultimate underwater experience

Start your adventure with the Atlantis Submarine Day Dive, where you can safely view the spectacular underwater with varieties of fish, fascinating coral and underwater life through large viewing windows in air-conditioned comfort.    
The submarine glides silently 125 ft below the surface over naturally formed reefs, displaying the captivating beauty of Barbados underwater.  It is a fun time for the entire family. But that’s not all. The Atlantis Submarine Night Dive is a whole new experience. The stunning views of Barbados underwater become even more dramatic at night with the eye-opening discovery of sea life below magnified by the submarine’s lights, exposing the beauty from a different perspective.

Unique things to do in Barbados

• The Harrison’s Cave Monkey Zip Line -  Set amidst a field of trees, is an exhilarating fun activity for families, couples, or friends with its breathtaking views along the way.  
• If you enjoy a challenge, then the Harrison Cave Gully Challenge Course Adventure will be just right for you. Compete against friends or loved ones to make it even more enjoyable.
• Relax and connect with nature at The Pride of Barbados Nature Trail and Bird Aviary at Harrison’s Cave. Stroll at your leisure among the thousands of adult trees and flora, take pictures, and interact with various bird species that have made this park their home. 

The Barbados Rum Story and Rum Tours

Barbados has an extraordinary rum story to tell. It’s an embedded part of the culture and high on the list of exciting things to do in Barbados.

• Mount Gay Distillery with its historic original well, dug in the 18th century, and its distillation technique of over 300 years. This rum tour is popular for rum connoisseurs and rum amateurs. Explore the estate, witness, and sample some of the finest blends of rums in the world, aged to perfection.
• The Mount Gay Visitors Centre, situated within walking distance of the Cruise Terminal, is a delightful way to spend the day. Savor the flavors of the various blends, sample rum cocktails, learn about Mount Gay traditions, and enjoy a sumptuous lunch.
• Foursquare Rum Distillery and Heritage Park – This eight-acre former sugar plantation is now an environmentally friendly award-winning rum factory and museum, where some of the island’s finest rums are distilled with precision under a very controlled environment. The popular rum brands of Doorly’s Old Brigand and ESA Fields are blended here, and you’ll see the stages of the rum blending. The plus here is the Heritage Park. Revisit the past with a tour of the colonial architectural building and folk museum. You’ll leave with a full understanding of the history of sugar and rum and, of course, sample some exquisite rums at the bar at the end of the tour.
• The Barbados Rum Shop - Rum shops abound in Barbados. They are an institution and play an integral part in the social fabric of the island. These uniquely designed structures are dotted across the entire island and can be seen in almost every neighborhood. Rum shops provide much entertainment and discussion about current social and political issues, often over a game of dominoes. As you move around the island, take a moment to drop in and “fire a rum.” It’s a must-do activity and a great way to connect with the community.

Barbados Family Fun things to do!

• Swimming with the turtles is exhilarating for the entire family. There are several operating Catamaran cruises that provide this opportunity while anchored in the warm and inviting waters on the south and west coasts of Barbados. This is a wonderful and life-memory experience for kids and adults.
• Barbados Wild Reserve is a self-guided, at-your-leisure tour that allows you to stroll through the reserve and watch the friendly fauna at close range in their natural habitat. You’ll see Bajan Green Monkeys, deer, and a variety of birds, including peacocks and parrots. Caged snakes add to the attraction, as well as iguanas, turtles, and tortoises. Enjoy another exciting day filled with family-friendly activities in Barbados.
• PEG Farm and Nature Reserve – This is a really cool experience for the entire family. The picturesque and rural setting on the eastern side of the island is a treat for those interested in a wholesome lifestyle. The fresh air from the eastern breezes provides the backdrop to reconnect with nature, where everything grown is organic. Take a hike on the compound and meet the friendly feathered birds freely roaming the grounds. To cap it all off, savor a fresh and healthy farm-to-table meal at the farm restaurant.

Nature's Best Barbados things to do

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the astonishing beauty of forests and gardens where exotic flora punctuate the lush grounds. The island’s beauty extends to its central and northern areas, where you can explore the natural wonders of its two most popular caves.  Whether underground or above ground, one thing is for sure, you’ll be amazed by some of our nature’s best.  

• The Flower Forest - situated in the middle of the island in the parish of St Thomas, where you can stroll the gardens at your own pace via the trails, stopping at the many Kodak moment locations with incredible views.
• Orchid World and Tropical Flower Garden – Hit the trails on this six-acre paradise and the awe-inspiring display of over 1000 orchids and tropical flowers, including some very rare flora. This is a plant lovers' paradise, and cameras are essential.
• Andromeda Gardens - These eight-acre gardens are located near the popular Bathsheba area, well known for surfing in Barbados. You’ll discover a wide variety of tropical plants, flowers, and trees. If it’s tropical, you’ll find it here. Don’t forget your camera.
• Harrison’s Cave – This natural wonder is deep in the middle of the island with mesmerizing caverns of unusual stalagmites and stalactites which are harmonized by pools and waterfalls.
• Animal Flower Cave – Located at the northernmost tip of Barbados, this awe-inspiring creation of nature highlights unique formations along the walls of the cave, refreshing pools, and openings with spectacular views. The surrounding cliffs provide breathtaking views of the mighty Atlantic waves crashing onto the northern tip of the island.

Great Houses and Museums 

The rich history of Barbados is rooted in its plantocracy past when opulent plantation Great Houses occupied the island's landscape. Today, many of these houses have become part of the Barbados product offering for locals and visitors alike. 

• St Nicholas Abbey - This plantation's sugar production dates back to the early 18th Century. It is steeped in history and has an incredible story to tell. It is one of the only three Jacobean-style houses of that era still standing in the Western Hemisphere. The tour is a family treat, which includes the elegant Great House and a documentary. Rum is also distilled here, so you can double up with a rum tour as well and sample their special rum blend.
• Barbados Museum and Historical Society – Once a British Military prison, it became the home of this national museum in 1930. The historic building houses some of Barbados’ most historical treasures and artifacts. It also serves as a backdrop to many cultural events held in Barbados.
• George Washington House – Named after the first President of the United States as this is where he stayed in 1751 for two months, recuperating from illness. Barbados was the only place George Washington ever visited outside the United States. Currently managed by the Barbados National Trust, it houses substantial artifacts that tell the story of the former President’s visit. You’ll also discover some eye-opening historical facts and trivia about that era. Valuable lessons for adults and children.

Adventurous fun things to do on land and water 

If you’re looking for exhilarating activities that will get your heart pumping, Barbados is a perfect place for you. On the other hand, if you’re keen on outdoor activity at a slower pace but still adventurous, you’ll find quite a few options.

• Surfing – Ride the invigorating waves at Bathsheba on the East Coast, the home of the annual Surfing competition.  Whether you’re an amateur or professional, you’ll be sure to have a fun time. Enjoy a local Banks Beer at the end of the day’s activity at any of the many restaurants or bars in the area. 
• Hashing – If you enjoy running, these hashes take in amazing views along the route, and you’ll traverse some of the off-the-beaten tracks of the Island. Join the Hashing Club for a fun run any Saturday afternoon.  
• Biking – Go cycling on an organized tour, taking in some of the most astonishing sights in Barbados. Well-trained guides keep you safe as you ride along our roads.
• Fishing – Take a day out on a fishing boat cruise and have a whale of a time. It will make for a fresh dinner option at the end of the trip.
• Hiking – Associate with the Barbados Hiking Association and group hikes through gullies, cane fields, forests, and coastline areas with stunning views along the way. It’s a perfect way to exercise, meet new friends, and explore the topography of Barbados. Get your cameras ready for this activity. 
• Diving – First-rate wreck and reef dive sites await diving enthusiasts. Explore the most popular dive sites on the west and south coasts with shallow fringing and banking reefs. You can choose from the many professional dive operators who know the sites inside and out.   
• Pleasure cruises – Take a relaxing lunch or sunset catamaran cruise, dance with abandon, swim in the warm, pristine waters, delight in the Bajan food offerings, and consume beverages of your choice. One thing is for sure - a fun time is guaranteed. 

Things to do in Barbados during the Night and Evening

The setting sun signals the beginning of nightlife in Barbados. It’s a gentle rhythm at the start and grows as the evening evolves. You’ll find a diverse choice of restaurants serving tantalizing international, continental, and Bajan cuisine. You’ll find menus to suit every pocket and ambience to suit every mood. Dinner can be casual, formal, or a bit of both. After dinner, the rhythm grows with night spots featuring live music where you can dance the night away or enjoy the music with a cocktail or two. 

• Oistins Fish Fry at Oistins Bay  - This is one of the most popular activities in Barbados for visitors and locals. The location at Oistins is an active and popular fishing town, and it comes alive with a hive of activity every Friday night. The setting is very casual, with a variety of fresh local fish hot off the grill or freshly fried. If you prefer something other than fish, no worries; there’s also chicken and local lobster. Over by the bandstand, enjoy the DJ music and the sweet sounds of calypso, guaranteed to get you on your feet, dancing.  
• St Lawrence Gap – This street is for night owls and is one of the most popular spaces in Barbados for nightlife. Stroll the 3-mile stretch and take in the sights and sounds of nightlife in Barbados. Restaurants and bars are a dime a dozen, and patrons often hop from one to the other. Live music and Karaoke singing permeate the air, and Street Food vendors punctuate the array of activities.
• Harbour Lights  - Every Wednesday and Thursday, the Beach Extravaganza Dinner Show features the best of Bajan culture and entertainment with daring acts by stilt walkers, fire eaters, and costumed carnival dancers who light up the stage to the pulsating musical rhythms. The sumptuous Bajan-style BBQ dinner adds to the popularity of this activity, which is fun for the entire family.

Friday nights from 9 p.m., the Harbour Lights open-air nightclub comes alive, featuring two dance floors, a variety of free-flowing drinks, and local DJs serving up all the latest hits, including, of course, some reggae and calypso. All you need are your dancing shoes.

Travel Tips – Things you should know about Barbados.

• Remember to bring your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. We’re in the tropics, and it does get hot. A small hand-held fan may also be helpful.
• Don’t travel with any camouflage clothing. It’s illegal to wear it in Barbados.
• Take the same safety precautions you would in your hometown. Don’t leave your room door open or unlocked. Don’t carry around lots of cash. Use the safes in your room for cash and valuables. Use Debit and Credit cards more often. Most vendors accept them.
• Check with the restaurant before you go about their dress code and advise of any allergies.
• The island is blessed with gorgeous sandy white beaches and turquoise blue waters for your enjoyment. Most beaches are kid-friendly, but it’s best to choose a beach with a lifeguard station. There are several around Barbados. 
• There are no nude beaches in Barbados. It's illegal to be uncovered at the beach. 
• There are no private beaches in Barbados. Beaches are open to everyone.