Condé Nast TravelerJul 19, 2026
The Best Things to Do in Barbados, and Where to Stay and Eat While You're There
Including scuba diving, horseback riding, and boat trips to Rihanna's supposed top dining spot.
23 things in this story
- Sandy LaneHotelIsland's top dog, pulling in an exclusive clientele.
- Cobblers CoveHotelPink pastel main house and breakfast terrace dotted with young.
- Blue Monkey Hotel & Beach ClubHotelFresh and vibrant stay with a hint of rock and roll.
- AmaraRestaurantBarbados's first Lebanese restaurant with exceptional flavor.
- Coral Reef ClubHotelOwned by O'Hara family since mid-1950s; still entertains guests.
- The SandpiperHotelSmaller, more intimate affair appealing to families and couples.
- Limegrove Shopping CenterSightA 10-minute walk from The Sandpiper hotel.
- O2 Beach Club & SpaHotelUnpretentious, all-inclusive, perfect for families.
- Breezy DaysPlaceOffer private catamaran excursions with a private chef.
- Garrison SavannahParkHistoric stables where thoroughbred racehorses are kept.
- Ocean Echo StablesPlaceOffer intimate, guided trips on former polo horses.
- Hunte's GardensGardenVision of horticulturist Anthony Hunte, grown out of a sinkhole.
- Rum & Food FestivalFestivalAnnual event showcasing gastronomic and distilling talent.
- Dis Ole HouseRestaurantServes simple, tasty Bajan dishes in chilled surroundings.
- EcoLodgeRestaurantWellness-inspired open-air restaurant utilizing farm-to-table practices.
- The CliffRestaurantGastronomic grande dame with tables on cliff edge.
- Browne's BeachSightLocation for fish cakes and flying-fish cutters from trestle tables.
- ZR busesPlaceGovernment-run buses that scuttle the island regularly.
- Premium Chauffeur ServicesPlaceService for private chauffeur situations; ask for Karon.
- Elsewhere
- Reefers & WreckersPlaceSpeightstown, BarbadosDive shop led by island legend Phillip Mahy.
- Cocktail KitchenRestaurantSt. Lawrence Gap, BarbadosEasy, cool atmosphere with high-quality takes on Bajan classics.
- La CabaneBarSt. James, BarbadosSolid spot with local menu, excellent staff, on the sand.
- Oistins Fish FryMarketOistins, BarbadosWeekly event with dozens of stalls serving fresh seafood.
