Where to Stay in Barbados? Check below the best areas to stay in Barbados and discover why this is one of the most beautiful places in the Caribbean
Barbados is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean Sea. Learn more about the best places to stay in Barbados, a magical island that offers more than 70 miles of beaches.
With its stunning beaches, the island is a paradise for an easy going and relaxed vacation that everybody deserves from time to time. For more active holidays, one can choose to snorkel in one of the coral reefs, learn how to dive, swim in a cave or spend a day surfing on the East Coast.
Barbados is known for its capital city, Bridgetown. The island’s reach history can be observed while on tour in one of the restored plantation homes or scrolling through one of many popular gardens on the island. You can pay a visit to one of the rum or cigar factories as well.
Tourism in Barbados
The fact that Barbados is relatively close to the USA makes it an extremely popular destination for American visitors. Many of them come to the island to spend the winter holidays, retiring and even for their honeymoon. Barbados is easily accessible by the Grantley Adams International Airport, located near Christ Church province. The island is also a popular destination for local cruise ships, sailing through the Caribbean.
Besides the stunning seaside, visitors are usually impressed by the friendliness of the local people. The hospitality of Barbadians is one of the main reasons why Barbados has one a high rate of returning visitors.
If you are flying to the island check and compare flight on Jetradar. IF you are from the UK you can also check British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, as both have direct flights to the country.
Another idea to explore the island is renting a car. While car rentals are not exactly cheap in the Barbados, they might be a good option for some. Check and compare prices to rent a car in Barbados on RentalCars.com.
Best Places to Stay in Barbados
A vast majority of accommodations in Barbados are located on the South and South-West coast of the island. There are many interesting sleeping options in the busy capital city of Bridgetown as well. Some of the best beaches in Barbados like Silver Sands and Rockley Beach are also in the Southern part of the island.
The Southern part of the island, mostly part of the Christ Church Parish, is one of the best areas to stay in Barbados. It offers a number of beaches with great sport activities, kite surf included. It is also the where the Grantley Adams International Airport is located.
You can find some resorts on the Eastern, more quiet side of the island. However, tourists usually choose to stay next to one of the beaches in the southern or western part of the island.
Bridgetown
Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados and it is also its biggest city. While it is not the first option if you want to enjoy Barbados pristine beaches or a bustling nightlife, it is definitely worth the visit.
The capital city is especially a good location if you want to understand better the history of the country and its culture. The Garrison is definitely a point of interest worth checking, and it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Saint Lawrence Gap
Saint Lawrence Gap is probably the best place to stay in Barbados if you want to enjoy its nightlife and entertainment. It has the highest concentration of bars and restaurants in the island, with easy access to the sea and great views. Like in most of the country, in this area you can also enjoy the very best of the Caribbean Sea white sand beaches.
Budget Accommodation – $
Meridian Inn – A good budget option to stay in the Saint Lawrence area.
Salt Ash – another affordable option to stay in Saint Lawrence.
Reasonably Priced Accommodation in Barbados – $$
Yellow Bird Hotel – a reasonably priced option to stay in St. Lawrence Gap.
Courtyard by Marriott Bridgetown, Barbados – an excellent hotel to stay in Bridgetown, near The Garrison.
Luxurious Hotels in Barbados – $$$
St Peter’s Bay Luxury Resort and Residencies – one of the most luxurious hotels in Barbados.
The Fairmont Royal Pavilion Barbados Resort – a luxurious hotel in St James, Barbados.
Cost of travel in Barbados
Even if locals in Barbados still live a simple life, the prices are relatively high for tourism related services. In general, Barbados is not a cheap travel destination, but it is certainly worth its price.
The official currency in Barbados is the Barbadian dollar. However in most places they are happy to take US dollars as well.
There is a good public transportation, where a ride around the island will cost you just B$2. A good choice of transportation are the local taxis, which cost approximately the same as in the USA or in Europe. Of course, there are also more luxurious options available, it all depends on what level of comfort you are looking for.
The prices vary when it comes to food as well. It depends on if you choose to eat in a local budget meal or a fancy restaurant with a view. In general, a beer in a local bar will cost you B$4 and a decent dinner for two around B$70 in a popular restaurant.
When to visit Barbados
The location in the Caribbean Sea means that the temperatures in Barbados are warm and pleasant year-round. The sea is never too cold for a relaxing swim and the sun is always strong enough for sunbathing. However, from July to
November there is a hurricane season. Even if some of the neighboring islands are often hit by the hurricanes, they very rarely travel over Barbados. This is because this country is the most eastern island in the Caribbean. Meaning, if you are travelling during the hurricane season, the island is your best choice.
The high season in the island takes place from December to April. The sun shines the most and the sea becomes calmer during these months. Also, the prices double and the hotels are often fully booked. If you are looking to save some money, it is a good idea to travel at the beginning or at the end of hurricane season when there is less chance for cloudy days.
Other Resources for Traveling the Caribbean Islands
If you are traveling to the region you might want to check some of our guides to the Caribbean. Check where to stay in Aruba here.
Are you planning or have you visited Barbados recently? Leave your thoughts and questions in the comment box below.