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7 February, 2022
The Ultimate Guide To The Best Foodie Destinations In The World
Discover the boundless beauty of the Caribbean: our guide to Barbados
Published
29 April, 2022
Edited
4 May, 2023
Known for its silken white sand beaches and aquamarine ocean, there is so much more to breathtaking Barbados than just beautiful stretches of sand and sea. Scratch the surface of this magical Caribbean paradise and you’ll find a rich tapestry of culture, adventure, art, cuisine and history just waiting to be discovered.
Nature lovers will adore exploring the wealth of natural beauty both above and below the waves, while keen foodies will savour the abundance of freshly caught seafood which forms a key part of the island’s menu. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or indulgence, or a mix of all three, Barbados is the perfect destination for your next trip.
Breathtaking seascapes & bustling city streets
This small but mighty island offers a unique and varied itinerary suitable for visitors of all ages and interests. Culture lovers, leisure seekers and adventure fiends alike will be enchanted by the array of activities available during their vacation in Barbados.
Soak up the sights of the Atlantic Coast from Farley Hill
Experience the most breathtaking vistas from Farley Hill National Park in Barbados. Blanketed by mahogany trees, this scenic hillside was once part of the grounds of a regal mansion which at the time was considered to be one of the most impressive on the island. Now, only its ruins stand - transformed throughout the year into a unique stage for music events and celebrations.
Paddle in the cool waters of Animal Flower Cave
Set within the parish of Saint Lucy on the most northern corner of the island, Animal Flower Cave boasts some of the best ocean views in Barbados. Its name originates from the sea anemones that live in the pools of the cave - many of which are deep enough to have a paddle or a swim in. Just above, there’s a breezy rooftop restaurant serving classic Caribbean cuisine.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Bridgetown
Set off on a private tour of the serpentine streets of bustling Bridgetown, Barbados, the island’s Unesco World Heritage-listed capital, marvelling at the unique blend of modern and colonial architecture. From exploring the town’s 17th-century garrison to a rum tasting at one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean, simply inform your onefinestay concierge of your group’s interests and they can use their local knowledge to organise you a personalised city tour with an expert local guide.
Beautiful Barbados beaches
Boasting some of the world’s very best beaches, Barbados is heaven for sun worshippers and surfers alike. From soft sands and calm water to windy shores and larger swells, you’ll find plenty of variety when travelling around the coastline of this 34 km long patch of paradise.
Gibbes Beach
Families will love the soft golden sand and sense of seclusion which characterise Gibbes Beach over on the west coast. The path to this peaceful bay is hidden between two villas and easily missed, but those who do spot the trail will be rewarded with a quiet place to enjoy an afternoon of bathing or snorkelling in the crystal clear waters.
Mullins Beach
Meanwhile, the neighbouring Mullins Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island, with calm waters ideal for swimming and a beer shack for all your refreshment requirements. The swimming areas are safely roped off from boats and jetskis, making it a good choice for those with little ones who can’t wait to make a splash.
South Point & Brandon
Surfers head to South Point and Brandon's for the best surf and most consistent breaks, while wind and kite surfers congregate at exposed and breezy Silver Sands. Planning on picking up a board during your stay? Some of the best months to surf in Barbados are between November and June.
Crane Beach
For anyone searching for a photo op, the pink-tinged sands, lush palm trees and soaring cliffs of Crane Beach promise a picture-perfect backdrop. The waves are particularly strong along this stretch of coast, making it an excellent destination to try out some boogie boarding.
Bottom Bay
A little further along the coast, the coral crags and panoramic views of Bottom Bay make it the ideal picnic spot. Hidden between two cliffs, this peaceful bay is one of the quieter beaches on the island - you won’t find any restaurants or bars close by, but the stunning sea vistas more than make up for this.
Dover Beach
Any list of Barbados’s loveliest beaches has to include Dover Beach. This expansive stretch of white sand is a popular spot with watersport aficionados and sunseekers alike, making it the perfect option for a group with mixed interests and varying energy levels.
Enterprise Beach
Finally, if you’re seeking a tranquil oasis for your daily jog, dip or yoga session then Enterprise Beach is a firm local favourite. This popular beach is perfect for families too, its powdery sands lined with picnic tables and Casuarina trees for plenty of shade.
Endless activities
As well as an abundance of beaches, Barbados is also home to plenty of exciting activities and adventures - ideal for the more energetic members of the group. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the spectacular local surroundings by foot, bike or boat, meanwhile thrill-seekers will want to try their hand at kitesurfing or scuba diving.
Catch some surf on the island’s southern tip
Thrill-seekers will want to take to the water and try their hand at windsurfing, snorkelling, surfing, SUP and kite surfing. Due to its small size and location, the coast of Barbados offers a range of varied conditions, ideal whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. The tranquillity of the west coast is best for swimming, snorkelling and SUP, while the more lively south coast offers great opportunities for kayaking and boogie boarding. The windswept southernmost tip is the top spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, meanwhile, the excellent swell along the east coast makes it a surfer’s paradise.
Dive into the underwater world of the S.S. Stavronikita
Travel a little further off the coast and you’ll find the S.S. Stavronikita, one of the most popular dive sites in the whole of the Caribbean. Having sunk around 50 years ago, this historical shipwreck is now home to vibrant coral reefs, schools of barracuda and drifting sea turtles. The ideal place for scuba divers wishing to explore the magical underwater world.
Explore Barbados’ sparkling waters with a private yacht charter
Those who prefer to stay above the waves can charter their own private yacht or catamaran for the day and set off on a cruise to explore the surrounding seascape. You might even spot some larger marine life from the deck, such as striped dolphins, reef sharks and flying fish. Whether you’re dreaming of a sailing, scuba diving or surfing adventure, your onefinestay concierge can arrange your boat and equipment hire, as well as a local guide and shuttle service.
Hike, cycle, or hone your golfing skills at the Barbados Golf Club
Back on land, there's plenty of opportunity for adventure as well. From hiking and biking to horseback riding and caving, there's something for everyone. Keen golfers will be delighted to hear there is a wealth of top-class golf clubs on the island. Take your pick from the endless array of courses, from Barbados Golf Club, Rockley Club, Royal Westmoreland to Sandy Lane (home of the Green Monkey Golf Course), Apes Hill and Almond Beach Resort, to name a few. Fancy swapping some time on the beach for a day putting on the green? Simply speak to your onefinestay concierge and they can book you in for a session at one of the island’s most prestigious clubs.
Barefoot beach bars & elegant eateries
Foodies rejoice - a trip to Barbados is a treat for the tastebuds too. With an array of elegant fine dining eateries, laidback beach bars and sophisticated sunset lookout spots, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to eat next.
La Cabane
For laidback beers on the sand or cocktails under the stars, we’d head to La Cabane on Batts Rock Beach. Run by two French friends, you'll find excellent wines selected by local sommeliers on the menu, perfectly paired with delicious Meditteranean style dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients. La Cabana marries European elegance with the deliciously laidback atmosphere of the Caribbean, resulting in a carefree chic beach bar, which you will return to time after time.
Champers
If you’re searching for fine dining, then Champers is an excellent option. Perched on a terrace overlooking the waves, enjoy exquisite food amidst a charming backdrop of white tablecloths, wicker chairs and azure ocean views. If you’re not too full to move after dinner, then the adjoining local arts and crafts gallery curated by the restaurant owner is well worth a visit.
The Cliff
Arguably Barbados’ most famous restaurant, The Cliff is the ideal spot to splash out on a special occasion or long overdue date night. As its name suggests, the restaurant is situated atop a cliff with stretching sea views and spectacular sunsets. Sip on expertly-crafted cocktails and excellent wines, enjoying the soothing sounds of the ocean beneath your feet. When the food arrives, you won’t be disappointed. Bursting with fresh seafood and creative flavours, the menu here is sure to delight even the most seasoned gourmands.
The onefinestay experience
The onefinestay experience
Whether you’re after relaxation, adventure or pure foodie indulgence, here at onefinestay we know exactly what it takes to make your getaway special. With our incredible range of exclusive concierge services, you’ll have a host of sumptuous experiences at your very fingertips. Relax with your very own in-home spa experience, feast in the comfort of your villa with your own personal chef or else explore the oceans in style in a gleaming private yacht. What’s more, it can all be booked and organised by your concierge pre-stay, meaning all you have to do when you get there is sit back and relax.
Craving a blissful break in Barbados?
SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR TRAVEL ADVISORS TO BEGIN PLANNING YOUR BARBADOS GETAWAY TODAY. WE’LL FIND THE PERFECT VILLA FOR YOU AND CRAFT THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME.
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