Day trips in Barbados for the whole family
When you think of Barbados you probably imagine perfect golden beaches and deep blue seas, with lazy days spent relaxing in the sunshine and soaking up the chilled out Caribbean vibes. But did you know there's a lot to keep the whole family entertained in Barbados away from the beach?
Day trips in Barbados: top six attractions and activities
From historical and cultural attractions to adventurous activities and days out exploring the beautiful island, there really is something for everyone in Barbados.
1. Catamaran cruising & swimming with turtles
Join a catamaran cruise for a fun day at sea. There are a few companies offering tours, and keep your eyes open for Jammin' Cruises, as these guys are especially good. You will cruise out to two of the best snorkelling spots in the area, and have plenty of time for swimming, splashing and exploring.
One of the scuba sites may even be an old shipwreck home to hundreds of tropical fish. You'll will swim to an area where you are almost guaranteed to see turtles and these friendly guys will swim just below your feet.
As you sail back to land the party atmosphere begins: the music is turned up and your skippers will have the whole family singing and dancing as you bounce over the waves.
2. Mount Gay Rum Tour
This is one for the big kids in your family as you taste some of Barbados's finest rums. Not only is Mount Gay Rum supposedly one of the oldest rums in the world, Barbados is also the birthplace of the sugary spirit.
The Mount Gay Signature Rum Tour takes you behind the scenes to learn all about the history and heritage, and how this delicious drink is made.
You will find out more about the distillation, ageing and blending techniques as you journey through the centre. And the best part of the tour? The tastings, of course.
3. Harrison's Cave
Harrison's Cave is one of the wonders of Barbados and an incredible attraction. The enormous cave is filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. The crystallised limestone cavern is illuminated with lights giving it a pretty and magical atmosphere.
Crystal clear water flows through the cave in streams and pools, and continues to mould the unusual shapes. A tram system takes you around the cave, and you are free to hop off and explore.
Make sure you save time to explore the gardens above the cave. The gardens are stunning as they're filled with tropical plants and flowers, native birds and green monkeys.
4. Stavronikita Shipwreck Dive
If you'd like to see more of Barbados's underwater world then you can't miss the opportunity to dive Stavronikita Shipwreck. This is one of the most popular dive sites in Barbados as it's created an incredible wreck and is a hive of activity.
Colourful corals now adorn the old ship and provide a home for barracudas, mackerels, sergeant majors, tangs, blue chromis, and you may even be lucky enough to spot turtles.
This is a fairly easy shipwreck to dive so it's suitable for beginners provided you are accompanied by a certified instructor. Children over the age of eight can learn to scuba dive, and Barbados is a great place to do this thanks to the calm warm water and abundance of sea life.
5. Hunte's Gardens
Nature lovers will love a trip to the beautiful Hunte's Gardens. Located in the hills of St. Joseph's, the gardens are picturesque and unusual with something to enchant the whole family.
Journey through the Caribbean jungle on a surprising path through mini gardens filled with exotic plants, birds and wild animals while gentle sounds of classical music are played through the trees.
Many people like to combine a trip to Hunte's Gardens with a visit to Welchman Hall Gully, a tranquil, tropical forest filled with caves and wild monkeys.
6. Dover Beach
No day trip guide to Barbados is complete without including at least one of the island's beaches. Dover Beach near the renowned St Lawrence Gap is the Caribbean beach you've been dreaming of.
Powder white sands and the bluest of seas make it one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados. There's plenty to do here but it still has a relaxed and peaceful vibe.
The sea at Dover Beach is often choppy but rarely has strong currents so it's the perfect place for watersports and playing in the waves. Try Hobie Cat sailing, jet skiing, body boarding and windsurfing while you're here.
There are plenty of bars, restaurants and shops within walking distance. Make sure you've got a good spot and a cold drink in time for the sunset as these views will not disappoint.
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