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Barbados

While it's justifiably famed for its fantastic beaches, Barbados is an island that has it all. In addition to fine powdery sand and brilliant turquoise bays, you'll find smashing nightlife, a Unesco World Heritage–listed capital, a beautiful interior dotted with gardens, and wild surf on the lonely east coast, all inhabited by a proud and welcoming populace.

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Barbados.

  • See

    Parliament Buildings

    On the north side of National Heroes Sq are two stone-block, neo-Gothic-style buildings constructed in 1871. The western building with the clock tower contains public offices; the building on the east side houses the Senate and House of Assembly. At the museum learn about the island’s strong democratic heritage and visit the gallery of national heroes. When the assembly building is free, it's possible to take tours to check out the impressive stained-glass windows.

  • See

    Paynes Bay Beach

    Fringed by a fine stretch of sand, gently curving Paynes Bay is endlessly popular and its calm waters make it one of the west coast’s best spots for swimming and snorkeling (if you're patient enough there's a very good chance of seeing sea turtles). There are three public access points. The easiest is next to the fish market on the south side, where there are a couple of parking spots, but the bay is more picturesque further north. The middle access is a narrow alley between houses about 200m north of the Tamarind Hotel – blink and you'll miss it, there's no sign. The northernmost access is just alongside the north wall of the ultra-exclusive Sandy Lane hotel and resort – right next to Rhianna's villa. Have your paparazzi moment on the celebrity-studded beach in front.

  • See

    Barbados Synagogue

    Built in 1833, this small synagogue between James St and Magazine Lane, near National Heroes Sq, was abandoned in 1929 and beautifully restored in 1986. The entire block around the synagogue has been redeveloped to restore its colonial heritage and it's a pleasant place to spend a couple of hours. There's a little cafe in the old fire-station building.

  • See

    Cricket Legends of Barbados

    A must for cricket fans, this museum is the best of its kind in the Caribbean. The walls are plastered with press clippings and there are many interesting artifacts from the game. The rear wall downstairs features an impressive roll call of Barbados' many great cricketers. Large groups can even get one of the legends to show them around.

  • See

    Nidhe Israel Museum

    Housed in a restored 1750 Jewish community center, this museum documents the fascinating story of the Barbados Jewish community. Admission ticket also provides access to the synagogue.

  • See

    St Michael’s Cathedral

    The island’s Anglican cathedral was originally completed in 1665 to accommodate 3000 worshippers, but came tumbling down in a hurricane a century later. Today's structure dates from 1789.

  • See

    Carlisle Wharf

    A small commercial building that has benches on the waterside overlooking the harbor, and some interesting plaques chart the local maritime heritage.

  • See

    National Heroes Square

    This triangular plaza (formerly known as Trafalgar Sq) marks the bustling center of the city. It honors 10 Bajan heroes, from cricket greats to slave leaders but it's a bit rundown and there's no information of any type here.