Barbados Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Discover our ultimate guide to Barbados – arguably the most charismatic of the Caribbean islands.

This exotic gem boasts an exceptional luxury holiday experience for all kinds of travellers, whatever your age or interests. From the best hotels to the easiest ways to getting around, unmissable historic and cultural sights, plus general tips and need-to-know information, you can trust us to provide the most up-to-date, first hand information. What’s more, the weather is balmy all-year-round and we even have our own team on the island!

Read our Barbados guide to find out everything you need to know before you travel.

Discover the island of Barbados

The luxurious island of Barbados is a destination very close to our hearts. In fact, it’s where we first started sending our clients over 40 years ago, and we still have an island-based team today.

When you book with Inspiring Travel, you'll be able to discover the best hotels and most unmissable experiences in Barbados. Our expansive collection includes luxury hotels, family-friendly retreats and boutique hideaways perfect for couples’ escapes.

Your holiday in this must-see destination might include lazy afternoons soaking up the sun, swimming with turtles in crystal-clear waters, visits to acclaimed fine-dining restaurants, discovering history at Bridgetown and Garrison Savannah, or catching a cricket match at the Kensington Oval. You’ll also discover beautiful beaches, captivating local culture and natural wonders. 

"From organising private day trips, to reserving the best spot at your favourite restaurant or luxe beach club, I can arrange anything, exclusively for you. Sail the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea on a privately chartered boat or superyacht, stopping at the gorgeous white beaches for a swim or a snorkel at Cades Reef. Back on land, explore the island in comfort from an air-conditioned SUV. On a private tailored tour, visit key landmarks such as Nelson’s Dockyard, Shirley Heights and Devil’s Bridge, sample rare rums and discover the best hidden gems with our experts." Kerin, Barbados Destination Manager

The best time to visit Barbados

Barbados has been a long-standing favourite among British travellers looking for some winter sun because the weather in Barbados is the opposite of ours in the UK, meaning that while a Christmas here means cold, a holiday in Barbados at Christmas means nothing but sun, sea and sand.

The best time to visit Barbados is generally between December and April which is considered high season. However, the weather is warm all year round. During this time of the year, there is little chance of rain and daily temperatures typically hover around 30C, meaning that there is nothing stopping you from getting the most of the beach. But, because the weather is most dependable during this period, it’s also the busiest time to go.

Between June and September is also a good time to travel. Although this is during hurricane season, typically the worst of the weather doesn’t hit until September and October, and the afternoon rains generally don't last too long. Moreover – it’s less busy in this period and you’ll also be able to join Crop Over, Barbados’ biggest festival.

Our Barbados collection includes luxury hotels, family-friendly retreats and boutique hideaways perfect for couples’ escapes. Whatever kind of holiday you’re looking for, you’ll find the perfect place to stay amongst our Barbados collection.

Coral Reef Club – Best for personalised service

Family-owned for over 50 years, you can expect personalised service and a real home-from-home feel at Coral Reef Club. Fine dining is one of the hotel’s top priorities, with daily changing à la carte menus at the elegant waterfront restaurant. From garden tours amongst the lush twelve acres to a white sandy beach and watersports aplenty, you’ll savour every minute.

Colony Club by Elegant Hotels – Best for timeless elegance

Colony Club by Elegant Hotels is also on the list of our top picks. This luxury retreat is renowned on the island for its soaring palm trees, exotic blooms, and lagoon-style pools. You won’t be disappointed by its architecture either - the classic, colonial look of the property is a highlight. The hotel is realised in neutral tones, complete with dark wood furnishings for a decidedly mature aesthetic.

The Sandpiper – Best for a boutique stay

If you’re after something more intimate, why not stay at The Sandpiper? This coastal boutique hotel offers traditional charm coupled with an exceptional team. They offer an exquisite service that leaves many travellers coming back to this spot year after year.

Sandy Lane – Best for super luxury

Sandy Lane’s legendary style makes it one of the most prestigious resorts in the world. For those ‘get up and go’ days, three golf courses, watersports and tennis await. When indulgence and relaxation is all that is required, sun yourself at the beach or head to the spa for a massage. Meanwhile, your tribe will be enjoying pool parties and movie nights organised by the kids’ club.

Fairmont Royal Pavilion – Best for beach

Set right beside half a mile of golden sand on the island’s coveted Platinum Coast, Fairmont Royal Pavilion has arguably one of the best beaches on the island. Here, you’ll have the unrivalled luxury of stepping out of your suite and onto the sand for a dip in the Caribbean Sea.

Things to do

Your Barbados holiday might include lazy afternoons soaking up the sun, family swimming adventures with turtles in crystal-clear waters, romantic visits to acclaimed fine-dining restaurants, discovering history at Bridgetown and Garrison Savannah, or catching a cricket match at the Kensington Oval. 

Enjoy Rum Tours

Being the birthplace of rum, many of our tours are based around distilleries. 

• Mount Gay Rum Tour - Premium Rum Flight Experience
• Mount Gay Rum Cocktail Workshop

Go on a Luxury Cruise

Explore the pristine Platinum Coast of Barbados on a private day boat cruise.

• Barbados Private Luxury Day Sail
• Barbados Private Epicurean Sunset Sail
• Barbados Luxury Pardo50 Yacht Charter

Food and drink

Bajan cuisine combines a love of chilli and seafood with British, Indian, Creole, Portuguese and African influences to create dishes that are bursting with colour and flavour. Staples include fresh seafood such as flying fish, mahi-mahi, conch and swordfish, to meat, rice and vegetables including cassava, plantain and breadfruit. Barbados’s national dish is Cou Cou, made from a mixture of cornmeal and okra traditionally served with flying fish and gravy. Other specialities include pudding and souse traditionally eaten on Sundays, Macaroni Pie and of course, rum. 

We can make reservations at some of the best restaurants on the island. At Sandy Lane, the Bajan Blue restaurant marks the pinnacle of beachfront dining. Our excellent concierge team, offering their services both here in the UK and over in Barbados, are ready and waiting to handle all your reservations at Bajan Blue, along with any other of Barbados’ best restaurants.

Getting around

Barbados is the most easterly island in the Caribbean and is approximately 20 miles long and 15 miles wide. Flights come into Grantley Adams International Airport, where you will be met by our representatives for your transfer to your hotel; by car or helicopter depending on your preference.

Given Barbados’s size, it’s easy and quick to get around. Hire a car at the airport if you plan on exploring nearby towns and beaches at your own pace. Otherwise, taxis are available once you land – check for the yellow sticker on the side of the cab before hopping in. A fun way to get around is by hiring an open-air ‘Moke’. 

Nothing provides a peek into Bajan culture quite like hopping on a city bus, however our hotels offer luxury vehicles for those who want private transfers. 

Nightlife and entertainment

Barbados is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. The island offers a variety of options for tourists and locals alike, ranging from nightclubs and bars to live music venues and cultural events.

On the West Coast, head over to Holetown to soak up the nightlife on the lively First and Second Street. For a quieter evening soaking up the pink and orange sunsets, one of our favourite beach bars is Harold’s Bar at The Sandpiper the perfect spot for foot-in-the-sand snacks and delicious rum cocktails.

Affectionately nicknamed the 'Fun Coast', the south coast is certainly the liveliest area of this diverse Caribbean Island and one of the best places to stay for nightlife. St. Lawrence Gap, known to locals simply as ‘The Gap’, is a street that runs along the beachfront with run shacks and bars, restaurants, and cafés at every turn. It’s perfect for people who want to be in the heart of the action. It’s also easy to walk from bar to bar here, making it one of the easiest and safest areas to visit in Barbados.

If you’re in the area on a Friday or Saturday evening, soak up the atmosphere at local institution, Oistins Fish Fry. Dine on grilled swordfish and plantain washed down with ice-cold bottles of Banks and dance the night away.

We'll plan your perfect holiday

With a wealth of different activities available across the island, there’s never a dull day on a Barbados holiday. To start planning your luxury Caribbean getaway, speak to one of our Travel Specialists for more information and insider tips.