Map Of Barbados Parishes
Explore the Best of Barbados
Barbados is a beautiful island nation located in the Caribbean. The country is divided into 11 parishes, each with its own unique charm and attraction. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, history buff, or foodie, Barbados has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of all the top attractions, hidden gems, and must-visit places in each parish. Read on to discover the best of Barbados.
Top Attractions
Barbados is home to some of the most breathtaking attractions in the Caribbean. In St. Michael parish, you’ll find the historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. St. James parish is home to the famous Sandy Lane beach and the Folkestone Marine Park. Meanwhile, St. Peter parish boasts the stunning Speightstown and the Animal Flower Cave.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences, Barbados has plenty to offer. In St. Philip parish, you’ll find the serene Bottom Bay beach, which is perfect for a quiet day out. St. Lucy parish is home to the tranquil Cove Bay, a secluded beach that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Meanwhile, St. Joseph parish is known for its scenic hikes and stunning vistas.
Food Scene
Barbados is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of local and international cuisines on offer. In St. Michael parish, you’ll find the famous Oistins Fish Fry, where you can sample some of the island’s best seafood. St. James parish is home to some of the island’s top restaurants, including The Cliff and Tides. Meanwhile, St. George parish is known for its street food scene, with vendors serving up local favorites like fish cakes and conkies.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Barbados can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all the island has to offer. Consider staying in self-catering accommodation, which can be more affordable than hotels. Take advantage of happy hour specials at bars and restaurants, and look for free or low-cost activities like hiking and visiting public beaches.
Outdoor Adventures
Barbados is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of activities to enjoy. In St. Andrew parish, you can hike through the stunning Scotland District, which offers breathtaking views of the island. St. Philip parish is home to the Barbados Golf Club, which boasts an 18-hole championship course. Meanwhile, St. James parish is known for its water sports, with activities like surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking on offer.
Historical Landmarks
Barbados has a rich history, and there are plenty of landmarks and sites to explore. In St. Michael parish, you can visit the historic Parliament Buildings, which date back to the 1630s. St. John parish is home to the stunning St. John’s Church, which offers panoramic views of the island. Meanwhile, St. George parish is known for its colonial architecture, with buildings like the St. Ann’s Fort and the Gun Hill Signal Station.
Family-Friendly Activities
Barbados is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids of all ages will love. In Christ Church parish, you can visit the Barbados Concorde Experience, where you can learn about the island’s aviation history. St. Peter parish is home to the Animal Flower Cave, where kids can explore the stunning rock formations and sea caves. Meanwhile, St. James parish is known for its kid-friendly beaches, like Mullins Beach and Paynes Bay.
Natural Wonders
Barbados is a beautiful island with plenty of natural wonders to explore. In St. Thomas parish, you can hike through the lush Welchman Hall Gully, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. St. Joseph parish is known for its stunning vistas, including views of the rugged east coast. Meanwhile, St. Lucy parish is home to the famous Animal Flower Cave, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean.
Vibrant Nightlife
Barbados is known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. In St. Lawrence Gap in Christ Church parish, you’ll find some of the island’s top nightlife spots, including the famous Harbour Lights nightclub. St. James parish is home to the trendy Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, which is home to a range of bars, restaurants, and shops. Meanwhile, St. Michael parish is known for its street parties, like the famous Crop Over festival.
Local Markets
Barbados is a great destination for shopping, with plenty of markets and shops to explore. In St. James parish, you’ll find the trendy Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, which is home to a range of high-end shops and boutiques. St. Michael parish is known for its local markets, like the Cheapside Market, where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Meanwhile, St. George parish is home to the historic Bridgetown Market, which dates back to the 17th century.
Beaches and Mountains
Barbados is a beautiful island with plenty of stunning beaches and mountains to explore. In St. Philip parish, you’ll find the stunning Bottom Bay beach, which offers crystal-clear waters and soft sand. St. Andrew parish is home to the rugged Scotland District, which offers stunning views of the island. Meanwhile, St. Lucy parish is known for its stunning beaches, like Cove Bay and River Bay.
Cultural Immersion
Barbados has a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. In St. Michael parish, you can visit the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, which offers a fascinating look at the island’s history and culture. St. James parish is home to the famous Holetown Festival, which celebrates the island’s history and culture with music, food, and dance. Meanwhile, St. John parish is known for its traditional Bajan music, which you can experience at local bars and clubs.
Art and Music Scene
Barbados has a vibrant art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, museums, and music venues to explore. In St. Michael parish, you can visit the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, which houses a collection of local art and artifacts. St. James parish is home to the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, which hosts regular art exhibitions and events. Meanwhile, St. Philip parish is known for its music scene, with local bands and musicians performing at bars and clubs throughout the parish.
Walking Tours
Barbados is a great destination for walking tours, with plenty of historic sites and scenic vistas to explore. In St. Michael parish, you can take a walking tour of Bridgetown and its Garrison, which offers a fascinating look at the island’s colonial history. St. James parish is home to the famous West Coast Boardwalk, which offers stunning views of the ocean. Meanwhile, St. Andrew parish is known for its hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the island.
Architectural Marvels
Barbados is known for its stunning architecture, with plenty of historic buildings and monuments to explore. In St. Michael parish, you can visit the historic Parliament Buildings, which date back to the 1630s. St. James parish is home to the stunning St. James Parish Church, which features stunning Gothic architecture. Meanwhile, St. George parish is known for its colonial-style architecture, with buildings like the St. Ann’s Fort and the Gun Hill Signal Station.
Historical Sites
Barbados has a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. In St. Michael parish, you can visit the historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. St. John parish is home to the stunning St. John’s Church, which dates back to the 17th century. Meanwhile, St. George parish is known for its colonial-era buildings and monuments, like the St. Ann’s Fort and the Gun Hill Signal Station.
Biking Routes
Barbados is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. In St. Philip parish, you can bike along the scenic East Coast Road, which offers stunning views of the ocean. St. Andrew parish is home to the Scotland District, which offers challenging routes for more experienced bikers. Meanwhile, St. James parish is known for its flat terrain, which makes it a great destination for leisurely bike rides.
Wellness Retreats
Barbados is the perfect destination for a wellness retreat, with plenty of spas, yoga studios, and wellness centers to choose from. In St. James parish, you’ll find the famous Sandy Lane Spa, which offers a range of luxurious treatments. St. Michael parish is home to the Yoga Samudra Wellness Center, which offers yoga classes and wellness workshops. Meanwhile, St. Peter parish is known for its relaxing beaches and serene natural surroundings, which