BARBADOS
Where the Atlantic meets the Caribbean in a perfect, salty embrace
Welcome to Barbados, the easternmost island of the Caribbean - Famous not only for its Rhum or for being Rihanna’s hometown, but for being . Whether you are looking for some peaceful and resting days on a shadow of a coconut tree or you are driven from excitement and spirit of adventure, Barbados is a safe pick to be astonished by nature and culture.
Join us as we discover a true jewel of the Caribbean, where crystal-clear turquoise waters embrace golden shores, the rhythms of calypso and reggae fill the air, and a vibrant culture—shaped by history, hospitality, and heart—welcomes every visitor like family.
Where to stay: This beautiful Airbnb is what you don’t want to miss out on! The island is not as big, and it takes 1.5-2 hours to drive from one side to the other. Going around by car will get you the chance to visit the best beaches and enjoy unforgettable sunsets.
Day 1 - Straight to the beach
Settle down in your place and get ready to explore the island.
First stop will be on the West Coast, at Mullins Beach. On the way there, you can stop in Speightstown, where you can find local and small stores and farmers markets and grab some fresh fruits for the beach. From Mullins, you can reach Gibbes Beach walking on the bay. On the way there, there is the perfect spot for a lunch (or dinner) by the water: Sea Shedoffers a wide choice of dishes that satisfy all palates.
Day 2 - From sunrise to sunset
Today is going to be a long and remarkable day; set your alarm before the sunrise (usually around 6am) and go to Cattlewash beach. Be sure to be there 15 minutes before the actual sunrise to appreciate all the different colors that paint the sky. Trust me: it’s worth it! The bay is very long and wide, with huge stones on the shoreline and it’s one of the most preferred destinations for surfers.
The East side of the island is the most authentic part with a lot of locals and non-touristic attractions: driving through the different parishes, you can enjoy scenic views and local activities. Stop at PEG Farm and Nature Reserve for a coffee, lunch or just to visit the farm and then reach St. John's Parish Church, an historic building from 1800 a.C.
It’s now time to discover some of the bays on the south-east coast of the island: first stop will be Bottom Bay, Harrismith and finally Shark Hole, a very small and intimate beach with breathtaking colors.
If you feel like it, in a 30 mins ride by car, you reach one of the most scenic and elegant restaurants of the island: at The Cliff the atmosphere is clean, the service is impeccable and the view -especially at sunset- is stunning. Make sure to check the dress code on their website.
Day 3 - Beach-hopping the South of the island
First stop will be Artsplash Cafeto start the day. Coffee, matcha and smoothies are offered here as well as savory, sweets and healthy options for the best breakfast. Right there, you can buy some fresh products from the Hastings Farmers Market: fruits, local nutmeg and seeds.
Let’s start from the southern beach of our itinerary: Dover Beach. Here you can rent umbrellas and benches or spend some time experimenting your skills in windsurfing, paddle boarding, sailing or with the jet-ski.
Next one is Worthing Beach which speaks for itself: a very long bay with white sand and infinite shades of blues in the water.
A toast with the local Banks beer, gazing at the sun disappearing in the water and chasing the green spot at La Cabane is mandatory: the vibe is very casual, just perfect after a day spent on the beach. You will find a lot of locals enjoying the music and some food at the best time of the day.
Day 4 - Exploring nature and the West Coast of Barbados
Your last full day on the island reserves for you some unforgettable beaches… again! Before heading to the beach, spend some time at the Andromeda Botanic Gardens: 8 acres of tropical magnificence with a unique and unparalleled collection of more than 600 native plants.
Sandy Lane Beach will be your next stop. It’s redundant to say that you will be impressed by the color of the water. Between one dip and another, enjoy your book on the shadow of some trees or listen to the podcast of the moment gazing the horizon.
Café Bar Carizma Chattel Villageoffers small plates to share, salads, smoothies, coffee and a big assortment of desserts; sounds the best spot for your lunch.
Time to go back to the beach and explore another location: this time it’s Paynes Bay Beach. Watch out because you might able to glimpse some sea turtles and a lot of fishes while swimming and living your best time on the island.
End your day at QP Bistro(the little sister of The Cliff restaurant); with its tables directly on the cliff, it is the perfect spot to enjoy your last sunset on the island. They offer pre-fixed menus throughout the day (they also have the Sunset menu!) but also a la carte options and a variety of cocktails.
Day 5 - One more dip!
Before your flight back home, treat yourself to a nice breakfast at Epic Surf Cafe and to a last dip in the irresistible water of Barbados of Miami Beach.
Our practical suggestions for you
How long: 5 days
Season: Best between December and April
How to travel through the islan: Self drive with a rental car.
Practical advice:
Remember that Barbados follows the British road rule of driving on the left lane!
Most of the places accept USD even though the legal currency is BBD (1BBD$=0.5 USD$).
