6 Must-Do Experiences in Barbados

Although Barbados spans just 166 square miles, it offers an abundance of both relaxing and adventurous activities for visitors. Renowned for its lush golf courses and cricket fields, there are numerous other pursuits that cater to those seeking non-sporting fun. Wander through stunning botanical gardens, embark on an underwater adventure in a submarine—whatever piques your interest, boredom is not an option. Continue reading for our curated list of the top six activities to enjoy in Barbados.

Surfing lessons from an Olympian

For those eager to hit the waves, DeAction Beach and Surf Shop on the south coast of the island is the ultimate destination. Whether you’re into traditional surfing, kite surfing, or windsurfing (and stand-up paddleboarding too), this is the place to be. Founded 25 years ago by Brian Talma, a professional surfer who represented Barbados in windsurfing at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, the shop has been a hub for surf enthusiasts. With his expert team, they’ve dedicated themselves to teaching customers the art of surfing. You'll easily spot the surf shop with its vibrant tin-roofed structures right on deAction beach.

Experience a submarine adventure

Favored by families, Atlantis Submarines Barbados submerges guests 150 feet underwater in a 65-foot-long, battery-operated submarine. Here, adventurers can discover the underwater wonders: shipwrecks, colorful coral reefs, and marine life like parrotfish and sea turtles. The 45-minute journey is narrated by crew members, and the vessel is equipped with full air conditioning for a comfortable experience.

Discover St. Nicholas Abbey, a historic 17th-century estate

Don’t let the name fool you: St. Nicholas Abbey is not a place of worship. This 400-acre plantation and ancestral home was constructed in 1660. Today, visitors can delve into its rich history through guided tours of the estate. Begin your journey with a stroll through the 17th-century Jacobean-style Great House, one of only three left in the Western Hemisphere. Then, uncover the stories of the enslaved individuals who labored here at the Moore Hill House. Discover the rum-making process at the estate’s distillery, which still utilizes sugarcane grown on-site. And be sure to take a ride on the Heritage Railway, a diesel locomotive completed in 2018 that offers sweeping views of the majestic mahogany trees lining Cherry Tree Hill.

Discover Barbados' rich history at the Garrison Historic Area

For a deeper dive into Barbadian history, visit the Garrison Historic Area in the capital city, Bridgetown. Founded in 1705, this site was Britain’s inaugural permanent military outpost in the Caribbean, serving as a hub for transatlantic commerce and naval missions. Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it boasts numerous attractions, including the Garrison Savannah racecourse, St. Ann’s Fort, and George Washington House, where George Washington and his brother resided for two months in 1751 during his brother’s recovery from tuberculosis.

Be sure to check out the Barbados Museum and Historical Society: Housed in a former military prison, it showcases over 500,000 historical items from across the island, including vintage furniture and archival photographs.

Experience the thrill of riding a dune buggy or ATV through the countryside

After enjoying a leisurely day on one of Barbados’ 80 stunning white-sand beaches (Crane Beach in the southeast is a favorite), rev up your excitement with a thrilling four-wheel adventure filled with dirt trails, speed, and plenty of fun at Off Road Fury Barbados. Experienced instructors will lead you on an ATV or dune buggy tour through sometimes muddy paths in the southeastern countryside. Be prepared to encounter sugarcane fields and get a little dirty along the way.

Explore the Andromeda Botanic Gardens

Located just half an hour from Bridgetown, Andromeda Botanic Gardens invites visitors to wander through a stunning collection of over 500 plant species, immersing them in beautiful tropical and subtropical flora. Established in 1954 by Iris Bannochie, one of the island’s renowned botanists, the eight-acre garden is home to monarch butterflies during certain seasons and features orchids, palms, and plant species exclusive to Barbados.