As with any Caribbean destination, the platinum coasts’ white sand beaches often steal the show in Barbados. But tempting though it is to spend all day by the sea, sipping local rum cocktails and topping up that tan, Barbados also offers a wealth of exciting historical, natural, and adrenaline infused attractions that simply have to be explored.

No trip to Barbados should end without visiting the capital Bridgetown. Host to many of the landmarks and cultural features which make Barbados unique. As a historical port, the colonial architecture of Bridgetown is standout, particularly the parliament buildings on National Hero’s square and Garrison which dates back to the 17^th century. Aside from the buildings, Bridgetown also has fantastic golf courses, hotel resorts, a horse racing track, multiple ship wrecks off the shores of Carlisle Bay, and an elegant yacht club along the beautiful Browne’s Beach. Those seeking the nightlife can enjoy the lively St Lawrence Gap, and the town is busy with fantastic bars, restaurants and shops, including local markets. Carlisle Bay is easily one of the nicest beaches on Barbados perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and water sports. Lined with beachfront luxury resorts offering holiday packages, Bridgetown is an excellent base any Barbadian adventure.

St James Parish, another popular base, is home to the smaller hubs of Holetown. Boasting a fantastic beach and array of watersports, as well as a fantastic range of restaurants and bars (hit 1^st and 2^nd street in the evenings for a good time), Holetown is also an excellent spot to browse for local products and souvenirs with some fantastic crafts shops and markets. Over in Christ Church is the former fishing village of Oistins, famous to this day for it’s fantastic seafood as well as some excellent bars and shops and a favourite with tourists looking for a real island vibe.

For something a little more serene, head up to the Northern tip of the island, Animal Flower Cave is a site well worth the trip. A stunning coastal cave, accessible only via steps carved into the very cliff face, you are rewarded for your courage with a magical pool in which to paddle. If you want a day away from the beach, visit the Flower Forest botanical gardens for some green fingered fun, or take the Tram to magical Harrisons Cave, an underground limestone cave complete with stalagmites, stalagtites, streams and pools.  

Whether your idea of holiday heaven is nights out, fancy living, beach bumming or exploration, Barbados has exactly what you ordered.

If you like your meals to be accompanied by stunning views of the ocean, Champers in Christ Church is a must-visit. The food is almost as sensational as the coastal panoramas which are waiting to greet you. For something a little quirkier, try Surfer’s Café in Oistins, where the food, but not the location, is straightforward. Sampling the local seafood is one of the finest things to do in Barbados, so if you’re in Bridgetown, be sure to order one of the specialities at Cuz’s Fish Shack. For something a little different, the Sahara Arabic Grill is also worth a visit. This part of the world also boasts some of the best cuisine across the globe, with world-class restaurants and rustic beach bars showcasing a medley of flavours and delicious dishes. Influenced by the food and traditions of England, Portugal, Spain and West Africa, you’ll find fusion food like no other. Sample traditionally cooked Pepperpot, a hearty spicy pork dish popular with the locals or try Bajan Candied Sweet Potatoes for an authentic taste of Barbados – delicious!

With cuisine this varied and delicious, an all inclusive hotel with a stunning menu can help you through the dizzying amount of dishes on offer. If you’re keen on luxury and Caribbean food, look no further.

There are many things to do in Barbados that will appeal to all the family. With cheap flights and great family-friendly hotels, Barbados should be your Caribbean island of choice. One of the most impressive locations to head for is Welchman Hall Gully Tropical Forest, a place that gives adults and children alike a chance to discover more about the flora and fauna of beautiful Barbados. Many resorts in Barbados have children’s crèches included with qualified child care and entertainment to give you a bit of a break.

Therapy Charters offer boat tours that include swimming with turtles which children will love, the company are set up to accommodate children so you can be sure everything will be taken care of. For a slightly pricier but unforgettable experience, take a trip in a real submarine with AtlantisAdventure and witness underwater spectacles. Or take a thrilling ride on the Jolly Roger where children can dress as pirates and experience a pirate adventure on a real boat.

If you’re keen on a comprehensive Bajan holiday that takes in the beaches, an all inclusive hotel on the coast might be just right for you. All inclusive resorts offer a range of kid’s activities, leaving you more time for all the luxury facilities. Spa, anyone?

A journey on the Atlantis Submarine is perhaps the most impressive of all attractions of breathtaking Barbados. Barbados is beautiful from all angles, and is particularly iconic from beneath the waves. Everywhere you go in Barbados, you will see highly exciting water-sports which are waiting to be enjoyed.  If you’re having trouble picking, get the concierge at your all inclusive hotel to help you out! Scuba-diving is perhaps the most enjoyable of all, if only because the local waters are crystal clear and perfect for diving. There are even some shipwrecks here which provide the perfect environment for undersea discovery.

There are surf schools in Barbados if you want to try your hand at learning, or if you are already a surfer this is an excellent place to catch some waves. Or you spend your holidays sailing with schools available to get you set up for a day on the ocean. If you want a tour of Barbados, Island Safari Barbados takes you by 4x4 on an informative and adventurous trip.

For a quick fix on all the action available around your hotel, ask your concierge at the desk of your all inclusive!

The only problem you have when it comes to blissful beaches in Barbados, is being spoilt for choice, so here are just a few of our favourites: Surfing enthusiasts should head for Bathsheba Beach on the East coast for the very best waves; while Bridgetowns’ Carlisle Bay is a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers thanks to its’ 6 shipwrecks and fantastic marine nature. The Soup Bowl, situated on the east coast, is another top place for keen scuba-divers and surfers, with the chance to catch a glimpse of the sea turtles that inhabit the area. Dive into the waters and you’ll discover striking coral reefs and more abandoned ship wrecks. Over near Oistins is the popular Miami Beach, a peaceful and romantic swimmers’ paradise with stunning sunsets. For the finest example of the “Platinum Coast”, Paynes Bay is cited as the locals’ favourite for a day of swimming in calm waters while also offering a whole host of watersports from jet-skiing to sailing. For a hidden gem off the beaten track, head to Sharks Hole beach (don’t let the name scare you off), for the ultimate desert island selfie. The list of fabulous beaches is virtually endless, but Rockley Beach is also worthy of mention. One of the longest on the island, Rockley Beach is a magnificent stretch of palm fringed sands forming a perfect crescent and the boardwalk stretches nearly 3km providing a lovely stroll into Hastings. Even compared to other tropical Caribbean islands, when it comes to sunny beach holidays, Barbados is a rung above the rest.

You're just a short flight away from Caribbean rum and the best nights of your 2017/2018. Pick from a range of hotels, next to places where the nights come alive, or where you can sip the rum in peace before heading out to town. The nightlife on Barbados has something to suit all ages, tastes and budgets. Evening cruises are perfect for those occasions when all you want is a relaxing meal and some spectacular scenery. As the sun goes down, there is no finer way to see the real beauty of during your idyllic 2017/2018 holiday to Barbados. Evening entertainment at the all inclusive hotels will capture all the local Bajan flair in a luxury setting.  Live music provides the background to many great Barbados evenings, so be sure to settle in to a comfortable seat with a cold drink and get ready for some tunes. Bay Street in Bridgetown is home to several venues, many of which specialise in reggae and calypso. Good times are always on the menu here. You will also find a great selection of dinner shows to give your evening meals an entertaining twist. Venues include Lobster Alive and Harbour Lights, both of which are in the St. Michael area.

Couple holidays to Barbados will include many outdoor activities, as well as romantic candlelit dinners. Make use of the perfect weather and have a picnic on the beach, while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean. The setting in Barbados is conducive to romance whatever you choose to do and for that reason many people go for honeymoons or even to get married.

More adventurous couples could go on

Couple holidays to Barbados will include many outdoor activities, as well as romantic candlelit dinners. Quick flights and Caribbean allure make Barbados a great option for any surprise holidays you might be planning. There are romantic hotels to choose from. An all inclusive hotel, beachfront, means easy living, spa treatments and a luxury room. The setting in Barbados is conducive to romance whatever you choose to do and for that reason many people go for honeymoons or even to get married.

More adventurous couples, looking for a buzz on their holidays, could go on a catamaran cruise, which includes cocktails and a buffet lunch. You'll have the option to snorkel with sea turtles and above ship wrecks, providing the two of you with an unforgettable experience to round off 2017.

Meander through the magnificent botanical gardens found on Barbados, which hosts a huge number of fauna from across the world and a wealth of information about the wonders within.

a catamaran cruise, which includes cocktails and a buffet lunch. You'll have the option to snorkel with sea turtles and above ship wrecks, providing the two of you with an unforgettable experience.

Meander through the magnificent botanical gardens found on Barbados, which hosts a huge number of fauna from across the world and a wealth of information about the wonders within.

Barbados's and Caribbean culture has been largely shaped by the islands turbulent history, and the numerous peoples who lived and settled here. The allure of a Caribbean island where pirates and well-dressed gentlemen once roamed is hard to miss when you spend your holidays here. Many customs and traditions are derived from West Africa, as most of the population is of African origin; however, since it was part of the British Empire for over 300 years, the British influence here is very strong and English is the national language.

Tuk bands are commonly encountered; a collection of local musicians playing a bass drum, kettle drum and a pennywhistle. Usually dressed in colourful clothes, and sometimes even traditional costumes, the band plays songs with an infectious rhythm which makes it impossible not to get up and dance!

The Barbados Landship is a huge part of local culture, and its origins trace back to the 19th century. A Landship is a theatrical group performing dances that reflect ships sailing through rough seas, and the activities which take place on board these ships.