11 of the best things to do in Barbados

30.04.2024 - 13:15 / lonelyplanet.com

When you think of Barbados, dreamy images of sun, sea and sand probably come to mind.

And to be honest, you’re not wrong. Barbados is home to stunning crystal-clear waters, velvety white sand, and it’s almost always very hot. If you’re in need of a truly tropical escape and a slower pace, then this is definitely where you want to be. 

While Barbados is best known for its beachy landscape, we locals like to say that the island has something for every kind of traveler. From the foodie to the historian to the thrill-seeker, we promise Barbados has a place for you.

 If you need a little inspiration for your next Bajan getaway, here are a few fun-filled experiences to try. 

There are few things more “Bajan” than a fish cutter, so make sure you don’t leave the island without trying one.

The difference between a sandwich and a cutter is that a cutter is made with a traditional Bajan salt bread. Our salt breads (which are not salty at all) are freshly baked bread rolls, with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft, fluffy inside.

You can have a cheese cutter, a ham cutter, even a butter cutter — locals all frequently enjoy these.

But in Barbados, we are known for our delicious fish, and Cuz’s Fish Shack, located in the car park of the famous Pebbles Beach, is one of the best.

Enjoy a delicious, flaky grilled cut of fish sandwiched between a soft salt bead with a dash of Bajan pepper sauce and just, like that, you’re dining like a local.

Local tip: If you head down to Pebbles Beach early in the morning, you’ll be able to see local trainers giving racehorses their baths in the sea. It’s a dreamy experience like no other and a wonderful way to start your day.

If you’re a member of the Rihanna Navy (and let’s be honest — aren’t we all?), then you won’t want to miss this. In 2017, Rihanna’s childhood home became a national monument and attraction officially opened to the public.

If you want to see where this global superstar was born, all you have to do is take a five-minute drive just outside the capital city of Bridgetown, to what was formerly known as Westbury Rd, now known as Rihanna Drive. 

There you’ll find a colorful green and yellow house that you can take photos of outside. For the superfans, the home has recently been listed on Airbnb, so you can actually spend the night there.

Local tip: After you’re finished touring, be sure to enjoy an ice-cold beer or sample our local rum at Wilmar’s rum shop at the end of the street.

It goes without saying that there will be no lack of beachy escapades when you’re in Barbados. Due to its limestone geology, Barbados is home to some of the world’s most stunning coral reefs.

Keep it surface level by snorkeling with the turtles on board a blissful catamaran cruise, or go a little deeper