No country has offered me as much as Barbados did. From its local fare to its fantastic weather, you and your friends will never regret making it your next vacay destination!
If someone asked you what you were looking for in your dream vacation with your girlfriends, what would you say? Would you admit that you’re looking for a warm and inviting tropical retreat, one that’s complete with gorgeous beaches, friendly locals, and seriously incredible food? If your idea of a good time is jetting off to an island in the heart of the Caribbean, then you seriously need to set your sights on Barbados. Not only is this country the perfect paradise for you and your besties, but it’s also arguably the most fantastic vacation hot spot you could ever hope to visit.
1. Admire the views at Hunte’s Gardens
If you’re looking to soak up the splendor of the natural foliage found on this island retreat, then you need to make sure you schedule a stop at Hunte’s Gardens. Created in the 1950s by a talented horticulturist, Hunte’s Gardens are a lush and breathtakingly beautiful depiction of the flora in Barbados. When you enjoy a leisurely stroll through these gardens, you won’t just be seeing colorful flowers, you’ll also be able to admire the local birds and animals that call the gardens their home, too.
2. Explore Harrison’s Cave
While early literature notes that this limestone cavern was first discovered as far back as 1795, it was found again by a modern explorer in 1970. No matter who discovered it, though, their discovery means a brand-new place for you to explore! Harrison’s Cave features crystal-clear waters, impressive stalactites and stalagmites, and gently meandering streams running throughout it. I totally recommend booking a tour so you can really dig deep (no pun intended!) into the fascinating history of this natural wonder.
3. Tour the historical St. Nicholas Abbey
Tucked away in Saint Peter, St. Nicholas Abbey is so much more than just a historic Jacobean mansion. It’s also a museum and a distillery, too! While its name implies that it has a religious affiliation, St. Nicholas Abbey has always been a secular building. It was initially a plantation, but it was finally converted into a museum, educating visitors about its somewhat scandalous history. Today, though, it acts primarily as a distillery, putting the sugarcane that is still grown there to good use by serving up drinks for locals and tourists alike!
4. Go surfing at Bathsheba Beach
We’re going to be honest with you here: if you’re looking for a beach with gentle waters that you can go dipping in, Bathsheba Beach is probably not the one for you. However, that said, it’s legit the perfect beach for walking up and down the warm sand and admiring the impressive waves cresting on the beach. As one of the most picturesque beaches on Barbados, Bathsheba Beach boasts stunning views, sheer cliff faces, and – if you’re feeling brave – a little bit of surfing, too.
5. Enjoy a swim at Crane Beach
We’d be remiss to dangle the promise of beach time while in Barbados without actually mentioning a swimming beach. That’s where Crane Beach steps in. This idyllic stretch of coast has pink sand, turquoise waters, and plenty of lifeguards on duty. Gather up your girlfriends, slip into your bathing suit, and make sure you don’t miss this beach. Not only is it highly exclusive – it’s only accessible by a single staircase – but it is also protected by a coral reef, making it arguably the most perfect beach on the entire island!
6. Experience the culture of Bridgetown
As the capital of Barbados, Bridgetown is both a thriving metropolis and a designated UNESCO point of interest, too. If you’re a fan of fast-paced cities, people-watching, shopping, and seriously amazing food, then Bridgetown is going to check all of the boxes for you. Stock up on your souvenirs while you’re here, as this city is actually completely duty-free. You’ll also want to check out the numerous street vendors that line the streets. Whether you pick up the perfect accessory to complement your outfit or you find a meal that hits the spot, Bridgetown has everything you need.