Beautiful Barbados.

Barbados isn’t just another Caribbean island to me—it’s my birthplace. Whether you’re dreaming of white sand beaches, swimming with horses, snorkeling with sea turtles, or rum shops by the sea, I’ve got tips to help you explore Barbados beyond the resorts—solo, on a budget, or with a curious heart.

the crane beach in Barbados

Top Things to Do

  • Swim with turtles at Carlisle Bay
  • Explore the dramatic east coast near Bathsheba
  • Eat a fish cutter
  • Tour Harrison’s Cave
  • Sip rum at Mount Gay or St. Nicholas Abbey
  • Sunrise swim with horses at Pebble’s Beach
  • Take a surf lesson
  • Relax on any beach
st. nicholas abbey Barbados

View of the Crane Beach from the resort

Barbados Travel FAQs

east coast barbados

When is the best time to visit Barbados?
The island is warm year-round, but the dry season (December to April) offers the sunniest skies. That said, I’ve visited during the off-season too—May through November—and still had great weather with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Is Barbados safe for solo travelers?
Yes, especially for solo women. Like anywhere, stay aware of your surroundings, but Bajans are generally friendly and helpful. I go into more detail in this post about safety in Barbados if you want real-world tips.

Is it expensive?
Barbados isn’t the cheapest Caribbean destination, but it can be done on a budget.

Do I need a car to get around?
Not necessarily. The island has public transportation or you can book tours. You can also use taxis, but for the most freedom you should hire a car to really explore.

What’s the currency in Barbados?
Barbados uses the Barbadian dollar (BBD), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. The fixed exchange rate is $1 USD = $2 BBD, so conversions are easy.

Are the beaches public?
Yes! All beaches in Barbados are public, even the ones in front of fancy resorts. Some of the best are Carlisle Bay, Accra Beach, and Bottom Bay and the Crane—don’t miss the local beach bars either.

Want to Explore More?

Check out my Island Travel Guides or start planning your next adventure in the Americas!