Carlisle Bay
Address: Upper Bay Street, St. Michaels Hours of Operation Open Hours Brownes Beach is one of the largest of Barbados' beaches, stretching from The Boatyard in the north to Needham's Point in the south. Located just on the outskirts of the capital city Bridgetown, the waters here are very calm making it ideal for swimming and sea bathing. A lifeguard is on duty at the beach. The white sandy beach is the perfect place to catch the rays of the sun. Beach umbrellas are available for rent. There are several beach clubs where you can get a day pass including beach chair & umbrella, drinks, showers, etc. Brownes Beach overlooks the lovely Carlisle Bay which is often dotted with small boats and catamarans. But it's what's beneath the surface that's really interesting! The bay is home to many shipwrecks which in turn are home to tropical fish, starfish, seahorses and more! If you're a scuba diver be sure to visit Carlisle Bay. Several catamaran cruises also stop at Carlisle Bay for snorkeling.
Rockley/Accra Beach
Address: Rockley, Christ Church Hours of Operation Open 24 Hours The southern end of the beach is perfect for smaller children, as there is a pool-like area protected by rocks that break the force of the waves. For older children the thrill of boogie boarding on the crested waves awaits! Relax on a chaise lounge or on the soft white sand, under the shade of a casuarina or sea-grape tree, or enjoy one of the many watersports activities that are available from the beach such as windsurfing, Hobie Cat rides and body surfing. Beachgoers frolicking in warm turquoise waters at Rockley/Accra Beach Enjoying the warm turquoise waters Browse the colorful kiosks for tropical clothing & local jewelry and handicraft. Or head to the small restaurant kiosks for a refreshing Banks Beer or tasty fishcakes, a Bajan specialty! For a great lunch and wonderful rum cocktails stroll to Tiki Bar at the southern end of the beach. Or hop across the road to Quayside Centre for a great lunch (grilled fish, Chinese, pizza, pasta, ice cream) and to shop for local craft, giftware and beachwear. Rockley Beach is also a popular hang out spot for viewing amazing colorful sunsets!
The Richard Haynes Boardwalk
Address: Warrens, St. Michael Hours of Operation Open 24 Hours The Boardwalk on the south coast of the island was created amid some debate. There were concerns about the environmental impact on habitat, reefs and beaches, as well as the effect on homeowners along the proposed site. Several changes were made including making the boardwalk a few hundred yards shorter than planned. The end result is admired by Bajans and visitors who enjoy the walk by the ocean, complete with panoramas, seats and retreats.
Grantley Adams International Airport
Address: Christ Church Hours of Operation Open Hours Grantley Adams International Airport was once a destination for British Airways Concorde which flew to the Barbados airport weekly during the winter season. The Concorde fleet has now been retired and Barbados is proud to be the home to one of these magnificent aircraft. Visit the Barbados Concorde Experience Museum right next door to Grantley Adams International for a once in a lifetime experience!.
George Washington House
Address: Bay Street, St. Michael Hours of Operation ⏰ Mon- Thurs: 10am - 10pm ⏰ Fri to Sun: 10am till late George Washington House in Barbados is a historic house where the future first U.S. President George Washington is alleged to have stayed in 1751. History He was 19 years old at the time and traveling with his half-brother, Lawrence Washington, who was suffering from tuberculosis. George Washington contracted smallpox during his stay, and was nursed back to health at the house. Barbados apparently was the only country outside the present United States that George Washington ever visited. According to researchers at Founders Online, part of the U.S. National Archives, it is unlikely that this house was the one George Washington and his brother visited, as "it bears no resemblance to the architecture of the mid–1700s. Even if it had been standing in George Washington’s time, it could not have survived the devastating hurricanes of 1780 and 1831, which nearly destroyed Bridgetown and brought havoc to the entire island. Some credence was given the legend when an official historic sites committee in 1910 referred to the building as Crofton’s House and associated it with Washington. Tourist literature still designates the place 'The Washington House,' but the question of its authenticity has been disposed of by local historians." The researchers cite an article by Neville Connell, 'Historic Sites Re-Visited: Crofton’s House', in Vol. 12, pages 208–11 of The Journal of the Barbados Museum and Historical Society (1945) as a reference. In 1997, during an official visit to Barbados with her husband, President Bill Clinton, First Lady Hillary Clinton unveiled a plaque outside the house that reads: On the occasion of his visit to Barbados this plaque was presented by President William Jefferson Clinton to The Right Honorable Owen S. Arthur, Prime Minister, and to the People of Barbados in a spirit of friendship and goodwill which binds our two countries and in recognition that George Washington, the first President of the United States of America, lived in this house during his visit to this fair country in 1751. In 2011, the property was designated as a UNESCO protected property within the World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison area. The house is owned and maintained by the Barbados National Trust.
Garrison Savannah
Address: Upper Bay Street, St. Michael The Caribbean is still full of secrets. One revealed is that Barbados has the world's rarest collection of 17th century English iron cannon. It was decided to create a National Ordnance Collection of all the old guns on the island and to date more than 400 have been unearthed. "The island is littered with old cannon", said Major Michael Hartland, the driving force behind this collection's acquisition. "We have found them in gardens, cellars, on beaches, embedded in the sides of buildings and buried under fortifications", he informed me as I sat in his roomy office which is located in the historic Main Guard House which sits in the Garrison Savannah. It's an elegant Georgian building (Circa 1802) with a graceful clocktower and is now the headquarters of the Garrison Committee of which Hartland was the secretary. The Caribbean is still full of secrets. One revealed is that Barbados has the world's rarest collection of 17th century English iron cannon. It was decided to create a National Ordnance Collection of all the old guns on the island and to date more than 400 have been unearthed. Historic Cannon in Barbados "The island is littered with old cannon", said Major Michael Hartland, the driving force behind this collection's acquisition. "We have found them in gardens, cellars, on beaches, embedded in the sides of buildings and buried under fortifications", he informed me as I sat in his roomy office which is located in the historic Main Guard House which sits in the Garrison Savannah. It's an elegant Georgian building (Circa 1802) with a graceful clocktower and is now the headquarters of the Garrison Committee of which Hartland was the secretary. Main Guard House at the Garrison Savannah He went on to tell me that the reason there were so many guns on the island was that during the 17th & 18th centuries Barbados was an important military base which the British used to protect their interests in the southern Caribbean. When a nucleus of cannon had been collected, Charles Trollope, an English apple farmer (who also happens to be a world authority on ordnance), was invited to come to Barbados and catalogue the collection. He arrived armed with copies of the Royal Armory archives now stored in the Tower of London. The British, like the Spanish with their bullion, kept meticulous records of all cannon shipped to and from the West Indies. To everyone's surprise, a treasure trove of ordnance was revealed. More than half the cannon were cast in the 17th century. The oldest cannon found was cast in 1620 and the youngest, dated 1870 is one of the rarest: called the Victoria Gun is the first rifled muzzle loader made in England. Not all the cannon found were English, with Dutch, Spanish and Swedish cannon coming to light. Let me show you the gem of the collection", said Hartland leading me out onto the broad verandah which surrounds the Guard House. Here covered with a green tarpaulin was yet another gun. As I helped him unwrap it he told me it was the rarest cannon of its kind ... a Commonwealth Cannon. Only one other is known to exist and it can be found in the Tower of London. What makes it so rare? Following the death of Oliver Cromwell, King Charles II instructed that all cannon with Cromwell's Coat of Arms embellished on them be struck off so that all official traces of Cromwell's rule (he had executed Charles II's father) would be removed. It is a cannon of extreme historical importance. Twenty-six of the most important pieces in the collection are mounted in front of the Main Guard House and make a fine photographic display.
Morgan Lewis Windmill
Address: St. Andrew, Barbados (near Cherry Tree Hill) Coordinates: 13°16′06″N 59°34′30″W Hours of Operation ⏰ Tues - Sat: 11am - 4pm 📞 Phone: (246) 622-4039 Standing proudly in the rural parish of St. Andrew, Morgan Lewis Windmill is Barbados' only intact sugar mill, and is the fourth of Barbados.org's Seven Wonders of Barbados. From its perch overlooking the rugged east coast and the rolling Scotland District, the mill offers both history and breathtaking views. This landmark is one of just two restored sugar mills in the entire Caribbean, the other being at Betty's Hope Estate in Antigua. Its towering sails and stone walls reveal stories of Barbados' sugar heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time. The windmill is featured on the Barbados $2 bill. Grab a Bite With sweeping vistas of the east coast and lush countryside, the on-site cafe is the ideal spot to pause for a drink or light bite. Choose from refreshing cold beverages or comforting hot options, alongside sweet and savory treats. Sugar Cane Grinding The Barbados National Trust periodically brings the mill to life with sugar cane grinding demonstrations. Watching the process unfold is fascinating, and the fresh cane juice is as delicious as it is authentic. To catch this experience, contact the Barbados National Trust for upcoming dates: Barbados National Trust Tel: (246) 426-2421 E-mail: info@barbadosnationaltrust.com How To Get Here Many island tours include a stop at Morgan Lewis Windmill, but if you'd like more time to explore, consider visiting on your own by car or taxi. It's an easy addition to a day spent touring the north and east of Barbados, just check your island map or GPS before heading out.
Mount Gay Visitor Centre
Address: Mount Gay, Saint Lucy Hours of Operation ⏰ Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm 📞 Phone: (246) 227-8862 Mount Gay Rum is as an iconic embodiment of the island's rich history and vibrant culture. With roots dating back to 1703, it proudly boasts the title of the world's oldest commercial rum distillery, crafting a legacy that transcends time. The brand is a symbol of Barbadian identity and global appreciation for quality spirits. Guided tours of the Distillery offer an intimate look at the rum-making process, while the Visitor Centre is a wonderful introduction to their spirits with tastings. Mount Gay Visitor Centre Rum-loving visitors are invited to the Visitor Centre for fun-filled tours that immerse you in all things Mount Gay! Take a captivating journey into the world of rum-making and the rich history of the island, enjoy tastings of signature rums, and craft your very own cocktails! Located just a short stroll from the cruise port, this is a great activity if your cruise stops in Barbados. Mount Gay Distillery Journey through centuries of craftsmanship at the historic Mount Gay Distillery, nestled in the Barbados countryside. The distillery blends tradition with innovation, as age-old copper pot stills share the space with modern facilities dedicated to producing a spectrum of exquisite rums. After a welcome drink, you'll explore the grounds of the sugar estate, and tour the distilling house and aging bonds as you witness firsthand the transformation of sugarcane into rum, the golden elixir that has enchanted palates for generations! Learn how local water from an artesian well, filtered by the island's limestone, combines with the finest molasses from Barbadian and Caribbean sugarcane, to create the unique flavors of Mount Gay Rum. Of course, no distillery visit would be complete without some rum tastings! From the fiery intensity of the Eclipse expression to the complex depth of the XO Reserve, each sip is a voyage into Barbados' past and an invitation to savor the present moment.
Harrison Point Lighthouse
Address: Harrison Point Hours of Operation Not open to the public Built in 1925, Harrison Point is the youngest of Barbados' four lighthouses. It stands 26 m (85 ft) tall. Although no longer in active use, the Harrison Point lighthouse has a focal plane of 193ft / 59m with two white flashes every 15 seconds. Other Barbados lighthouses are located at South Point, Ragged Point and Needham's Point. Harrison Point lighthouse is not open to the public.
Bathsheba Park
Address: East Coast Hours of Operation Open 24 Hours Bathsheba Park is a small beachfront park located in the seaside town of Bathsheba on the east coast of Barbados. This is a wonderful place to stop for a picnic lunch under the shade of the trees with the tradewinds cooling you off. If you don't have lunch with you don't worry as there are several small eateries in Bathsheba serving local dishes and snacks. The scenery at Bathsheba Park is simply magical as the Atlantic rollers break, creating wonderful conditions for surfers. You may also spot local children and adults engaging in a game of cricket on the manicured lawns of the park! You'll also likely notice colorful clothing (shirts and wrap skirts) blowing in the wind! Stop by the stalls to browse and purchase clothing and local jewelry. The shore along this stretch of beach is quite rocky but you can often find unique and curious rocks and shells along the shore... a one of a kind reminder of your trip to this beautiful place. Please note that this park is quite busy on weekends, so if you prefer a quieter atmosphere you may wish to visit during the week instead. Washroom facilities are also available at Bathsheba Park.
St Nicholas Abbey and Stream Railway
Address: Cherry Tree Hill St. Peter Hours of Operation ⏰ Mon- Sat: 10am - 5:00pm 📞 Phone: (246) 422-5357 Tucked away in the lush hills of St. Peter, St. Nicholas Abbey isn't just a heritage site, it is a living story. Built in 1658, this Jacobean mansion, on a working sugar plantation, is one of only three of its kind in the Western Hemisphere, and Barbados proudly claims two: St. Nicholas Abbey and Drax Hall. It's a grand plantation home with curved Dutch gables, coral stone finials, and a Chinese Chippendale staircase that feels straight out of a period drama. Inside, you'll find antique furniture, fine china, and even a rare 1930s home movie that captures life on a sugar estate. A collection of Amerindian artifacts reveals that these indigenous peoples of Barbados lived in the forests and gullies in the area. 🚂 All Aboard the Heritage Railway Don't miss the narrated train ride on the authentic Victorian steam railway that winds through the estate and up to Cherry Tree Hill. The views are stunning, the breeze is pure magic, and there's a charming market at the top where local vendors showcase handmade crafts and treats.
Sunbury Plantation Great House
Address: Sunbury, St. Philip Hours of Operation ⏰ Mon- Sat: 9:00am - 4:30pm 📞 Phone: (246) 423-6270 Step back in time as you explore this magnificent Barbados plantation house located in the southern parish of St. Philip. History Sunbury Plantation House was built around 1660 by Matthew Chapman, an Irish/English planter, one of the first settlers on the island. He was related to the Earl of Carlisle and through this association, was granted lands in Barbados. Sunbury Plantation House is over 300 years old, steeped in history, featuring mahogany antiques, old prints, antique porcelain dolls and a unique collection of horse-drawn carriages. The original name of Sunbury was Chapman’s Plantation, then Branker’s Plantation. During the ownership of the Barrow brothers, then to "Brothers Plantation" and finally Sunbury Plantation, named after their home in Britain. This is the only great house with all rooms available for viewing in Barbados. Weddings and Events A perfect location for any occasion, we invite you to come and have your wedding or event at Sunbury which could include your marriage ceremony in the multitude of spectacular settings all including the tropical ambiance of Sunbury. You can then continue with your wedding reception or event in a range of stunning spaces within the property, These include the expansive garden area, the old Bell House, or the covered Pavilion. There is also a rare opportunity to host a fine dining experience in the Great House around the 270 year old, 30 seater, historic mahogany table.
Harrison's Cave
Address: Allen View, Welchman Hall Hours of Operation ⏰ Mon- Sun: 8:30am - 4:30pm 📞 Phone: (246) 417-3700 One of the Barbados Tourism Encyclopedia's "Seven Wonders of Barbados" is this spectacular cave which is one of our island's most famous attractions. A unique phenomenon of nature, Harrison's Cave is an amazing gallery of stalactites hanging from the roof of the cave, and stalagmites that emerge from the ground, with streams of crystal-clear running water that drop from breathtaking waterfalls to form deep emerald pools. The stalactites and stalagmites were formed over thousands of years and in some places the stalactites have reached down to the stalagmites and a spectacular pillar has been formed. The tram tour is the most popular, with visitors driven in electrically operated trams down through the extensive system of caves. Excellent tour guides give historical information on this cave along the way. At the lowest level point in the cave, visitors are invited to leave the tram and walk alongside a spectacular waterfall which plunges into a deep pool below .... this is truly an awesome wonder! A special Early Explorers tour for the adventurous who wish to climb & crawl through the cave is also available. And there's so much more to explore! In addition to the stunning cave, there are lots of other activities to enjoy! Zipline over the treetops, meander along the nature trail, check out the bird aviary, relax in and around the pool, take on the challenge of the high-rope obstacle course, and kick back in the Rum Lounge with the world’s oldest rum! Tram Tour Climb aboard the electric tram and embark on a journey to this enchanting underground world brimming with scenic streams, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring stalactite and stalagmite formations. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, delve into the hidden wonders of the cave as they reveal its captivating secrets!
Animal Flower Cave and Restaurant
Address: North Point Gardens, Saint Lucy Hours of Operation ⏰ Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 4:30pm 📞 Phone: (246) 439-8797 Tucked away at the northernmost tip of Barbados, in the charming parish of St. Lucy, lies the enchanting Animal Flower Cave - a natural wonder just waiting to be explored. Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a unique experience, this stunning cave is a must-visit on your Barbados trip. So, why the name Animal Flower Cave? It's all about the sea anemones that call this place home. These fascinating creatures, often referred to as "animal flowers," can be found shimmering in the cave's natural rock pools. And guess what? Some of these pools are deep enough for a refreshing dip! Imagine swimming in a crystal-clear pool surrounded by ancient cave walls - it's like stepping into another world. As you wander through the cave, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean through natural openings in the rock. The cave walls themselves are a masterpiece of nature, adorned with stunning green and brown formations created by the oxidation of copper and iron. Keep your eyes peeled for fun shapes like lizards, turtles, and even a hand - nature's own art gallery! Colorful formations in the cave's walls But the adventure doesn't stop there. After exploring the cave, head up to the clifftop bar and restaurant, where you can sip on the best lemonade in Barbados or treat yourself to a refreshing cocktail. Feeling peckish? Dig into some mouthwatering local dishes, including their famous cutters - a Bajan specialty you won't want to miss. Clifftop dining There is a large children's playpark as well as stalls selling locally made jewelry, art, and crafts. And let's not forget the views! The cliffs surrounding the cave offer some of the most dramatic scenery on the island. Watch in awe as the mighty Atlantic waves crash against the rugged coastline - it's a sight you'll never forget. The cave has been featured in singer Billy Ocean's music videos and in the soap opera "Bold and Beautiful".