Image: Main water canal with ships and shops in Bridgetown, capital of Barbados. Caribbean (photo via Fyletto / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
Image: Main water canal with ships and shops in Bridgetown, capital of Barbados. Caribbean (photo via Fyletto / iStock / Getty Images Plus)
Barbados Today: August 29, 10:46 PM 84°F Overcast Clouds

Barbados Travel Guide 

Barbados is an island paradise that excites travelers with its incredible beaches, crystal clear waters, and fantastic tropical climate. 

It is an excellent getaway for the romantic couple, families, and even the explorers. This island gem offers something for everyone. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming in natural pools, and endless possibilities for exploration. 

Barbados offers various modes of transportation for locals and tourists. Taxis and buses are readily available at affordable fares. The buses can become crowded over peak times, but they cover most of the island.

We recommend a rental car as the best option to get around the island at your own pace. Just keep in mind that driving in Barbados takes place on the left-hand side of the road. Also note that traffic may be heavy, especially in the capital city, Bridgetown.

If it's your first time in Barbados, we highly recommend booking one of the many excellent private tours. Many private tour operators on the island offer a range of tours, from historical and cultural tours to wildlife and nature tours.

Top Things To Do

Barbados offers a mosaic of endless recreational, cultural and extreme tourism activities. (Photo via BTMI).
Are you considering visiting one of the gorgeous islands in the Caribbean? We've got you covered. Barbados is a little island that has plenty to offer, from stunning beaches to world-class rum. In our guide, you can check out our top picks for the best things to do in Barbados.

Important Things To Know

Currency

The currency of Barbados is the Barbadian dollar (BBD).

Most businesses on the island accept US dollars, but you'll receive change in Barbadian dollars. Major credit cards are also widely accepted. 

Barbados offers a mosaic of endless recreational, cultural and extreme tourism activities. (Photo via BTMI).

Barbados offers a mosaic of endless recreational, cultural and extreme tourism activities. (Photo via BTMI).

National Languages

The official language of Barbados is English, so you'll be fine communicating with locals or getting around the island. 

Bajan Creole is also widely spoken and part of the island's cultural heritage. You may hear Bajan Creole spoken in informal settings or among locals. Still, most people are comfortable speaking English with visitors. 

Barbados has a rich cultural diversity. So it's not uncommon to hear other languages such as Spanish, Portuguese, or French.

Climate And Weather

Barbados has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and sunny skies throughout the year. The average temperature is around 81°F (27°C), with slight seasonal variation. 

The island experiences a wet season, which is also hurricane season, from June to November. However, it's rare for a hurricane to hit Barbados directly. The dry season runs from December to May, with less rainfall and slightly cooler temperatures. 

You can enjoy warm sea temperatures throughout the year, making it the perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

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When To Visit Barbados

The beaches of Barbados are ideal for water sports. (Photo via BTMI).
The beaches of Barbados are ideal for water sports. (Photo via BTMI).

Barbados is a great destination all year round. You can always enjoy sunny days and warm temperatures, even during the wet season.

Barbados' busiest season is from mid-December to mid-April. It's common to expect higher hotel and transport rates during this time. 

If you prefer a quieter time to visit, we recommend traveling during the shoulder seasons of May/June or November, when the weather is still pleasant but with fewer visitors.

Best Places To Stay In Barbados

rum, barbados, BTMI, Barbados Tourism Marketing, cocktail
Barbados is the birthplace of rum, a key ingredient in many tropical cocktails. (photo via BTMI) (Photo Credit: (photo via BTMI))

  • Bridgetown: Bridgetown is the stunning capital city of Barbados. We find it to be an excellent place to stay for history, culture, and shopping enthusiasts. It has many historical landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Garrison Historic Area. You’ll also find beautiful beaches and stunning natural attractions here.
  • Holetown: Holetown is a great destination for tourists to stay in Barbados. It boasts some of the most gorgeous beaches in the country, such as Sandy Lane Beach and Paynes Bay Beach. There is also a vibrant shopping and dining scene. We find that this town offers a great mix of relaxation, culture, and adventure.

  • Oistins: The fishing village of Oistins is a great place to stay for those interested in local culture and cuisine. It's home to the famous Oistins Fish Fry, a weekly event where you can enjoy fresh seafood and live music.

 

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Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

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Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me