Barbados
Barbados
Our notebook to help you plan your trip to Barbados: the right season, where to stay and our ideas to make the most of it.
White-sand beaches in the west, surf waves in the east, rum and the big Crop Over festival: Barbados is the Caribbean at its most stylish and festive.
Best weatherDuring the dry season: sunshine, trade winds and calm seas on the west coast. During hurricane season, go for a flexible booking.
A question?
Wéa answers about this destination: neighbourhoods, seasons, ideas.
When to go
Every season has its charm. Here's how to choose yours, depending on what you want to experience.
The dry season
Sunshine, trade winds and calm seas on the west coast: it's high season. In February, the Holetown Festival celebrates the island's history.
Crop Over time
It's hot and the island gets ready for its biggest party: Crop Over, which ends in early August with the Grand Kadooment parade. Hurricane season begins: go for a flexible booking.
The rainy season
More frequent showers and the heart of hurricane season: few visitors and lower prices, but go for a flexible booking.
Where to stay
The right neighbourhood depends on what you're after. Here are our favourite places to stay.
The west coast
Holetown and Saint James, the “Platinum Coast”: calm sea, sheltered beaches and luxury hotels.
The south coast
St Lawrence Gap, Dover and Oistins: lively beaches, restaurants, nightlife and hotels for every budget.
Bridgetown
The capital: the historic centre, the harbour and Carlisle Bay beach close by.
Speightstown
In the north-west: a quieter, more authentic little town by the water.
Bathsheba
On the wild, wave-battered east coast: dramatic rocks and a famous surf spot.
Our favourites
What we love there: its history, its landscapes, its flavours and its festivals. Take your time, it's all there to enjoy.
Bridgetown and the Garrison
Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. End your walk with a swim at Carlisle Bay.
Ideal for a first visit
Friday night in Oistins
Every Friday, this south-coast fishing village hosts its Fish Fry: grilled fish, music and a party atmosphere until late.
Ideal for party lovers
Rum
Barbados calls itself the birthplace of rum. Mount Gay, one of the oldest rum brands in the world, offers tours and tastings.
Ideal for curious minds
Bathsheba
On the east coast: huge boulders shaped by the ocean, waves for surfers and tropical gardens close by.
Ideal for nature lovers
Cou-cou and flying fish
The national dish: a cornmeal and okra polenta, served with flying fish in sauce.
Ideal for food lovers