When you think of Barbados your mind automatically drifts off to a glorious Caribbean beach that can only be described as paradise. But as well as offering a beautiful peace haven for those wishing to escape to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, a Barbados holiday can offer many other luxurious and hugely enjoyable pleasures.
Beaches
Those that are fortunate enough to travel to this tropical hotspot will no doubt be drawn to the greatest attraction this island has to offer – its beaches.
The coral island is home to more than 70 miles of beaches and is filled with glorious strips made up from finely ground coral which form a clean, fine grain. Most beaches are filled with breathtaking white sand although some pink sanded beaches can be found.
The west coast offers calm waters ideal for gentle swimming and sunbathing next to, as well as clear waters and gently swaying palm trees. True paradise.
The east coast offers a contrast with impressive coral sculptures, Atlantic winds and thunderous waves, creating one of the top surfing spots in the world.
The south coast again offers something different with flawless sandy beaches and reef protected waters which make for an ideal habitat for snorkeling and swimming.
The northern coast of Barbados is not generally recommended for swimming but does offer some panoramic views of breathtaking scenery. Huge waves can be seen crashing against ragged sandstone cliffs which rise straight out of the sea and are up to a hundred feet tall. With sea mist and foam in abundance you might like to seek respite within the calmer coves and bays which surround this area but if you’re tired of the quiet beach life this area is certainly worth a visit.
Activities
Barbados is not just a place for relaxation and tranquility and the abundance of popular water sports available is testament to this. Jetskiing, surfing, kayaking, windsurfing, kitesuring and boogie boarding are all popular sporting activities amongst tourists. Due to the island’s captivating marine life, coral reefs and sunken ships, scuba diving and snorkelling are also popular activities. Catamaran cruises are also widely available for those seeking to explore the island’s beautiful waters.
If high end shopping is more your sort of holiday activity head to one of the island’s duty free shopping malls which are filled with designer stores. Two notable choices include the Broad Street Mall in Bridgetwon as well as the smaller Holetown mall.
Attractions
The beauty of Barbados is not just found in its beaches. Caribbean paradise can also be found on the island in the form of the Andromeda Botanical Gardens, its Flower Forest and the Orchid World which all offer a glimpse of the island’s tropical beauty.
Another attraction for the more adventurous tourist includes the island’s crystallised limestone caves. The Harrison Caves have been described as one of the wonders of the world and promise waterfalls and flowing streams filled with crystal clear water as well as captivating rock formations.
Those seeking out the history of the island should also visit the Barbados Museum and Historical Society which allow you to explore the rich history and heritage of the island.
Hotels
Barbados offers some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The most notable and renowned 5* hotel in Barbados is of course the Sandy Lane Hotel which comes complete with a Golf Club and promises glorious exotic settings.
Other five star hotspots include the Tamarind Cove Hotel known for its inviting blend of Mediterranean design and Caribbean charm and The House Barbados which offers a sophisticated yet refreshingly simple retreat.
A destination for everyone
The beauty and fun loving spirit of Barbados is something that can be appreciated by everyone. It is an ideal spot for those wishing to relax and appreciate its magnificent surroundings. Having said that, Barbados does offer enough attractions and activities to keep every holidaymaker occupied.
