Barbados Travel Guide

When I first traveled to Barbados, I came expecting breathtaking beaches. What I found was so much more – colorful colonial architecture, lively culture, incredible food, and a warmth in both the sun and the locals that made me fall in love with the island almost instantly. It’s clean, safe, dining is exceptional, and the variety of experiences makes it ideal whether you’re after a relaxing getaway or a lively escape.

After exploring the southern coastline near Maxwell Beach all the way to Bridgetown and Oistins, I crafted this Barbados travel guide to help you plan your trip like a local or like a seasoned pro.

Barbados Travel Guide: Skip Ahead

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Quick Barbados Tips:

  • Barbados offers postcard-perfect beaches with calm, turquoise waters protected by offshore rock breaks
  • Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados, both located in St. Lawrence Gap, let you enjoy two resorts in one stay – 21 restaurants, 11 pools, even a rooftop bar and bowling alley
  • The southern coast near Maxwell and Dover Beach is ideal for romance, food, and relaxation
  • Culture-rich festivals like Crop Over and local music scenes make the island feel alive, but it’s also peaceful and safe
  • Activities range from scuba diving and kayaking to exploring botanical gardens, local rhythms, and foodie hotspots
  • Accommodations are upscale but flexible – you can splurge on beachfront suites or enjoy a comfortable base and use savings to explore

Best Time to Visit Barbados

Barbados Island Map

While I fell in love with the island (I was there during the shoulder season), I also learned a few things about timing your trip. 

Here are some of the best times to visit Barbados:

  • High Season (Mid-December to April) – Sun-soaked days, little rain, and perfect water conditions. Expect full resorts and higher rates, especially over holidays and festivals like the annual jazz and other events.
  • Shoulder Season (Late April/May or October/November) – Still warm and green, lighter crowds, special rates, and lush landscapes. Ideal balance for weather and affordability.
  • Low Season (June to September) – Hotter, with occasional tropical showers and higher humidity. Resorts run promotions, so expect smaller crowds and lower prices.
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Where to Stay – Sandals Royal Barbados and Sandals Barbados

Barbados Travel Guide

If you’re wondering where to stay while traveling to Barbados, Sandals is the go-to choice. I stayed at both resorts, and the experience felt like a clever two-for-one deal. Both resorts sit side‑by‑side in the St. Lawrence Gap area, so you can easily walk between them. 

Here’s what makes each Sandals Resort in Barbados stand out:

Sandals Barbados

  • Classic, lush beachfront resort with soft white sand
  • Around 222 rooms across, starting around $320 per person, per night for entry rooms
  • Full access to 11 restaurants, plus access to Royal Barbados next door

Sandals Royal Barbados

  • Opened in 2017, sleek and modern, with a rooftop infinity pool and private bowling alley
  • Everything is suites, many with ocean views or swim-up access
  • Shared access means you get 21 dining venues and 11 pools between the two resorts

Beaches, Pools, and Dining

Because of the amazing beach, you can enjoy a natural lagoon perfect for snorkelling, paddleboarding, and beach walking. The sand is exceptionally soft and white. Even though it’s close to public spots, there’s privacy, especially if you have butler service. The Tiki Bar on the beach makes tropical cocktails – sounds amazing, doesn’t it?

Now let’s talk pools and dining. See the pool options below:

  • The Main Pool by Barbados resort has a swim-up bar, daily DJs, and views of the ocean
  • Lagoon Pool spread along swim-up suites
  • A calmer European Pool near garden areas for a more peaceful lounging
  • Royal Barbados has a rooftop infinity pool – perfect for sunset views
  • Each resort has whirlpools near the shoreline
  • In total, guests have access to 11 pools across both resorts, plus poolside service, fresh towels, and plenty of loungers.

Together, the two Sandals Resorts in Barbados provide 21 dining venues, from fine dining and beachfront grills to teppanyaki and seafood. You can enjoy sushi, surf-and-turf, elegant Italian, and themed cuisine. Add seven unique bars – including pool bars, beach bars, and rooftop spaces – and you’ve got variety.

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What to Do in Barbados

Sandals Barbados Resorts

On-Resort Activities

  • Water sports – Complimentary snorkelling, scuba diving sessions, paddleboarding, kayaking, and Hobie cats
  • Golf and Fitness – Tennis, water aerobics, paddleboard yoga, fitness center open 24/7, and themed evening entertainments, retro nights, reggae love theme nights
  • Relaxation – Red Lane Spa treatments, private cabana rentals, or just lounging in quieter garden sections

Off-Resort Adventures

If you feel like leaving the resort:

  • Visit Bridgetown, just 15 minutes away, for shopping and colonial architecture
  • Explore Hunte’s Gardens, a magical sunken botanical garden in Saint Joseph
  • Sail a Catamaran Cruise in Carlisle Bay with snorkelling stops and food on board
  • Visit rum distilleries or find local rum shops for Bajan bars and games like dominoes
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FAQ

Is Barbados safe for couples or solo travellers?

Absolutely. Barbados is clean, and the locals are welcoming. Resorts like Sandals maintain high standards. Women walking in town feel safe, even after dusk.

What should I pack when traveling to Barbados?

Light, breathable clothing for day and smart casual evening outfits for upscale restaurants. Reef-safe sunscreen is a must, and comfortable shoes if you plan to do garden and cultural tours.

What local Barbados dishes should I try?

You must try coucou and flying fish, the national dish. On top of that, you can also enjoy jerk meats, curries, seafood, and sweet plantains – you will find them on menus around the island.