10 Budget-friendly Things to do in Barbados That You Shouldn't Miss

December 21, 2021 Rosalyn Ihle

Romance and adventure are in the air on this lush West Indian island in the Caribbean, depending on your coast. To the west, you'll find calm waters and good swimming. To the east, there are massive, competition-caliber waves. Wherever you stay, expect turquoise waters, fine soft sand beaches, catamaran cruises and delicious island fare.
Restaurants in Barbados

1. Hunte's Gardens

Highway 3A Barbados +1 246-4333333 [email protected] https://www.huntesgardens-barbados.com/
Excellent
90%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 4,253 reviews

Hunte's Gardens

You might hear this garden before you see it, its delightfully eccentric owner, Anthony Hunte BCH, plays classical music throughout the garden. This is the working end of old Castle Grant plantation, where sugar cane was once processed into syrup. Step through the gate and you'll soon tread on the old weigh bridge, where loads of cane were tallied. Just past the old stone outbuildings, where statues lurk among exotic plants, you'll find yourself on the lip of a great, hemispherical sinkhole in the limestone substrate. Steps lead down and paths branch out through an exquisite profusion of flowering plants, with towering trees around the edges. Both here and farther along the top are a series of small secret gardens, where you can sit to absorb the serenity and enjoy a picnic. Be sure to climb the upper level steps to Mr. Hunte's house, a transformation of the old stables. He'll invite you for refreshments-including his legendary rum punch or freshly made lemonade (for sale).

Reviewed By kinchmode - Birmingham, United Kingdom

Hunte's Gardens is a beautiful location, lovely plants, trees and flowers very relaxing with calming music been played could have stayed all day Anthony Hunte was very welcoming and was great having a chat and rum punch with him, Tyrone Kinch

2. Carlisle Bay

Bay Street, Bridgetown Barbados +1 246-265-7107 http://www.barbadosholidayplanner.com/2017/10/16/carlisle-bay-brownes-beach-bridgetown-st-michael-barbados/
Excellent
72%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2,629 reviews

Carlisle Bay

This bay is best known for its calm, sheltered waters, perfect for swimming and scuba diving.

Reviewed By Gavinlawrence79

Visited a few times now, the most incredible beach with the most fantastic snorkelling, forget the organised trips and just swim out to see the turtles in their own environment, very little tide to think about and crystal clear water. We were lucky enough to see a Stingray out there too this year, amazing.

3. Bathsheba Beach

Sandy Beach, Bathsheba Barbados
Excellent
58%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,375 reviews

Bathsheba Beach

This beach offers spectacular views of the island, but watch out if you want to go swimming - strong undercurrents can make swimming here dangerous.

Reviewed By mountholly827 - Charlotte, United States

Bathsheba is a must visit to see the Atlantic side of Barbadios...where there are very different scenic views...lots of hills and rock formations..its a well kept secret ,,,,But the beaches are covered with sargasso seaweed which inhibit you from really enjoying a swim..and the smell of the washed up seaweed is noxious!!!

4. Flower Forest

Richmond Plantation St Joseph, Barbados, BB Barbados +1 246-433-8152 [email protected] http://www.flowerforestbarbados.com
Excellent
62%
Good
28%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 419 reviews

Flower Forest

Rain Forest botanical paradise: the flowers and plants in this garden will take one's breath away, fantastic views from hill top looking out east over the Atlantic and the 'Scotland District of Barbados, benches for resting in secluded shady spots, the peace that one wishes, missing from one's work life is here. Worth more than money, relax and restore the soul...

Reviewed By Badger20152 - Chantilly, United States

We weren't planning on stopping at this attraction, but so glad we did. They provide a laminated map that tells you about many of the flowers you will see along the pathways and of course, the different paths you can take. Very well maintained. Employees are very friendly. Took us about an hour at a leisurely place.

5. Crane Beach

Union Hall Barbados http://www.thecrane.com/the-resort/crane-beach
Excellent
55%
Good
27%
Satisfactory
10%
Poor
4%
Terrible
4%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 945 reviews

Crane Beach

Eighty-foot cliffs overlook this beach, making it one of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

Reviewed By Hoppie1987

Stayed at the Crane and loved such easy access to one of the best beaches in the world, Great place for families to enjoy waves in shallower water, as well as bigger waves a bit further out for body surfing and bobbing

6. Animal Flower Cave

North Point Barbados +1 246-439-8797 [email protected] http://www.facebook.com/animalflowercave
Excellent
58%
Good
29%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
2%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,474 reviews

Animal Flower Cave

NOTE : THE CAVE IS A NATURAL SEA CAVE - IT IS SLIPPERY, IT IS WET, IT IS A SEA CAVE. WE DO SEND A GUIDE WITH EACH TOUR TO AIDE PEOPLE AS NEEDED. WE DO ADVISE THE ELDERLY AND THOSE NOT FIRM ON THEIR FEET TO STAY 'UP TOP'AND ENJOY THE SCENERY AND MAYBE A RUM PUNCH OR TWO! A Natural Wonder of Barbados not to be missed. Located at the most northerly tip of the Island is the Animal Flowr Cave where the coastal scenery is spectacular. The cave got its name from the tube worms that are found in its many rock pools, these are seasonal however so not always in residence, regardless the cave itself is still well worth a visit. You can even swim inside the largest rock pool inside the cave which a fantastic adventure all by itself. Make sure you bring your swim wear and towels. The views from the naturally formed windows out to the ocean are fabulous so bring your camera too. There is now a new restaurant on site and seating area with panoramic sea views, there is a children's playpark too so plan to spend some time with us enjoying the cool sea breezes and the fabulous views that we love to share with you all. NOTE : THE CAVE IS A NATURAL SEA CAVE - IT IS SLIPPERY, IT IS WET, IT IS A SEA CAVE. WE DO SEND A GUIDE WITH EACH TOUR TO AIDE PEOPLE AS NEEDED. WE DO ADVISE THE ELDERLY AND THOSE NOT FIRM ON THEIR FEET TO STAY 'UP TOP'AND ENJOY THE SCENERY AND MAYBE A RUM PUNCH OR TWO!

Reviewed By courtneyc375

This was just amazing! You have to visit the animal flower caves if you're in Barbados. One of the only places to go cave swimming on the island. The views out of the cave "windows" of the Atlantic ocean meeting the Caribbean sea are breathtaking, and who could pass up the opportunity to jump into a 10ft deep natural pool! Note that access is somewhat challenging, several steep stairs down into the cave, and once inside the ground is rocky and very slippery. The guides recommended proper shoes/trainers rather than flip flops, and to take as little baggage with you as there is a risk you could slip on the rocks. The caves here unlike Harrison are not mobility friendly and would be unsuitable for very young children that need to be carried.

7. Andromeda Botanic Gardens

3 Hwy, Bathsheba Barbados +1 246-433-9384 [email protected] http://www.andromedabarbados.com
Excellent
60%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 659 reviews

Andromeda Botanic Gardens

Described by a Royal Horticultural Society judge as 'one of the most unique and outstanding gardens in the world', Andromeda is the original garden of Barbados and provides visitors with an authentic garden experience. Created as a private family retreat, Andromeda has a wonderful collection of plants with a relaxing pond at the heart of these historic and organic gardens. Comprised of about 20 different but connected gardens, the variety of plants and experiences is incredible. There are over 500 different plant species, including over 150 trees and palms. Enjoy the wildlife - bees, birds and butterflies add so much to the enjoyment! Journey through these gardens at your leisure and marvel at the vision of its creator, the multi-award winning Iris Bannochie (three Gold medals at the Chelsea Flower Show, Silver Crown of Merit by the Barbadian government and much more). Andromeda Botanic Gardens, 'the best garden in Barbados by far', is also an accredited training provider.

Reviewed By jennyf792 - Rochester, United Kingdom

Was delighted to visit this beautiful garden on International Women’s Day 2020 and hear all about the inspiring story of Iris Bannochie and how the garden has developed over the last 40 years. A true cultural gem, and as an RHS partner garden was lucky enough to gain free entry as a member. Sharon is highly knowledgeable and runs the whole site extremely well. We spend nearly 2 hours here admiring the plants, the story, enjoying a rum punch and local treasures in the small gift shop. Add Andromeda to your must-visit list, set against the stunning backdrop of Bathsheba.

8. The Boatyard

Bay Street, Bridgetown Barbados +1 246-436-2622 [email protected] http://www.theboatyard.com/home.html
Excellent
65%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
7%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,477 reviews

The Boatyard

The Boatyard offers unbeatable beach facilities enhanced only by the natural white sandy beach and calm azure water. Upon entering The Boatyard, a beach package is offered which ensures you a day filled with fun and pleasure in paradise. Come and enjoy our many amenities which include:- lounge chair, shared umbrella (while stocks last), Ocean Trampoline, Iceberg Climb and Slide, dive platform, rope swing (ask for scheduled times), fresh water showers, restrooms, pool table, WiFi, beach-side restaurant, bar and lively music. Be sure to ask about our turtle and snorkel tour available on select days throughout the year. *Please note that ID may be required for entry*

Reviewed By Sunnyhols08 - Leigh, United Kingdom

This was my second visit to the boatyard , but first time doing the snorkel trip that was included in my 25 dollars admission price plus free drink and sun bed love this place gorgeous white sandy beach and turquoise blue sea . The guys on the snorkel trip where great and put me at ease whilst I was trying to sort out my snorkel equipment we snorkelled over a ship wreck and there where fish stingrays and turtles and free shuttle back to our cruise ship highly recommend for a chill out day and will definitely return

9. Garrison Savannah - Barbados Turf Club

Garrison Rd, Bridgetown Barbados +1 246-626-3980 https://www.barbadosturfclub.org/historic-garrison-savannah/
Excellent
57%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 458 reviews

Garrison Savannah - Barbados Turf Club

Alongside Barbados Museum, site of former British soldier barracks, now used for horse racing.

Reviewed By kevinwE4265BY - Oldbury, United Kingdom

Went to watch the Gold Cup at Garrison Savannah racecourse. It's the biggest event of the year there. Terrific atmosphere all day, lots of tourists and lots of local as well. Music, a parade, dancing - racing Caribbean style. You can watch the races for free around or inside the track, and the grandstand seats were not too expensive either. Plenty of places serving food and drinks, we had some quite good chicken and pork. You can bet at the pari-mutuel sheds but be prepared for slow and lengthy queues. It was certainly well worth a visit, a big difference from being at an English racecourse in March!

10. Folkestone Marine Park & Visitor Centre

Church Point, Holetown Barbados +1 246-536-0648 [email protected] http://www.barbados.org/folkstone.htm
Excellent
48%
Good
38%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 306 reviews

Folkestone Marine Park & Visitor Centre

Reviewed By AndreasZillig - Guntramsdorf, Austria

Public Beach and no need to book or make an excursion by boat or Kajak. Free Parking and just few meters from shore lots of fisch and corals to see. Shower public also on site. Good experience and adventure for free

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