A beautiful Caribbean island, with great weather all year round and a guaranteed warm welcome from the locals, Barbados is renowned as an exclusive holiday location. It is also an island with a wealth of interesting things to do during your trip. Here we look at ten of the best tourist attractions in Barbados and why you should visit them.

Harrison’s Cave

Located in the central uplands of Barbados, Harrison’s Cave is a natural wonder that has been attracting visitors for decades. The cave system features a series of underground chambers and streams, with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that are millions of years old. Visitors can take a tram tour through the caves or explore on foot with a guide.

Bridgetown

Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history. It is home to a range of historical landmarks, including the Parliament Buildings, National Heroes Square and St. Mary’s Church. You can also shop for local crafts and souvenirs at the Pelican Craft Centre or take a stroll through the bustling Broad Street.

Animal Flower Cave

Located at the northernmost point of the island, the Animal Flower Cave is a stunning natural cave system that is filled with crystal-clear pools and breathtaking rock formations. Visitors can explore the caves and even take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters. The name Animal Flower Cave comes from the beautiful sea anemones that live in the pools. Remember to take your phone if you go, as the mouth of the cave, which opens to the sea, offers the most stunning selfie opportunity on the island.

Mount Gay Rum Distillery

Rum originated in Barbados and has been distilled here since the 1600s. Mount Gay Rum Distillery is the world’s oldest, and its visitor centre is a must for rum enthusiasts. You can take a tour of the distillery to learn about the rum-making process, discover how to mix your own cocktails and sample some of the finest rums in the Caribbean.

Bathsheba Beach

Bathsheba Beach, located on the east coast of the island, is known for its rugged beauty and massive, otherworldly, rock formations. It’s a popular spot for professional surfers and photographers who want to capture its dramatic scenery, especially the enormous barrel waves that roll in from the Atlantic and crash into the rock formations.

Oistins Fish Fry

Oistins Fish Fry is a weekly event that takes place on Friday nights in the fishing village of Oistins. One of the island’s most popular attractions for both visitors and locals alike, you can sample freshly caught fish and other Bajan dishes, dance to live music, wander through the arts and crafts stalls and soak up the party vibe.

Andromeda Botanic Gardens

The only RHS Partner Garden in the West Indies, Andromeda Botanic Gardens are a must-visit for nature lovers. They are home to a vast collection of tropical plants and trees, including orchids, palms and bromeliads, as well as to a wide range of insects and animals, including monarch butterflies, hummingbirds and tropical dragonflies.

Carlisle Bay

Carlisle Bay is a beautiful beach with calm waters and soft white sand. It’s a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing, as well as diving the shipwrecks in the bay that have been purposely sunk to create coral reefs. If diving is not your thing, you can always take a trip on the island’s tourist submarine which is based in Carlisle Bay or take a catamaran cruise from the bay to explore the coastline and enjoy the Caribbean sea.

St. Nicholas Abbey

St. Nicholas Abbey is a historic plantation house that dates back to the 17th century. Built in 1658, it is one of only three Jacobean mansions left in the western hemisphere. Visitors can take a tour of the house and learn about its fascinating history, which includes sugar cane production, rum making and even a connection to George Washington. You can also explore the beautiful estate by steam train, on the newly completed Heritage Railway.

Mullins Beach

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the exclusive west coast, Mullins Beach is known for its crystal clear waters, soft white sand and calm, serene atmosphere. Some of the main attractions at Mullins Beach are the Royal Westmoreland Beach Club, the Mullins Beach Bar and the nearby Singita Wellness Centre.

In addition, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as jet skiing, snorkelling and paddleboarding. Alternatively, you can rent a chair and umbrella, enjoy a refreshing drink, chill out with a good book or simply watch the world go by.

Where to stay

Looking for a luxury Barbados resort, with the ultimate holiday experience? Royal Westmoreland, the island’s most exclusive private resort, offers just 250 luxury villas, townhouses, and apartments dotted across its stunning 750-acre estate, providing the perfect escape for discerning visitors.

At Royal Westmoreland, guests can expect world-class amenities, including a championship-standard golf course with glorious views of the Caribbean coastline, a modern, well-equipped gym, flood-lit tennis courts, and a variety of dining options, including the colonial-style Club House, the Rum Shak and the aforementioned Beach Club at the nearby Mullins Beach.

Guests can enjoy unrivalled personal service, including a housekeeper, private chef service, and a well-connected concierge who can assist with everything from organising a babysitter to advising the best places to go and arranging for you to get there.

Visit Royal Westmoreland’s Holidays Page for more information, or, if you are considering a visit during June or July, check out their Taste of the Caribbean offer.