At a glance
A few of my top picks for where to stay in Barbados
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Modern oceanview in St. Lawrence Gap
Adults-only in Oistins near Miami Beach
5-star luxury resort on the west coast
Explore the best places to stay in Barbados
Whether you’re looking for a quiet bungalow on the rugged East Coast, a luxurious resort on the platinum West Coast, a casual surf apartment on the South Coast, or something in between, the links below can help you get started.
Best Barbados Hotels and Resorts
Barbados has tons of amazing hotels and resorts across the island. These guides have some of my top recommendations based on what kind of vacation you’re planning.
Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Barbados
Looking for an all-inclusive experience? There’s plenty to choose from! Most all-inclusive resorts in Barbados are on the South or West coast, and here are some top picks.
Best Villas and Beach House Rentals
If you want a bit more space and privacy, a villa or apartment rental could be a good fit. For longer visits, I usually book an apartment rental for the majority of my trip so I have a kitchen, washing machine, and other comforts of home. Barbados also has some incredible villas and beach houses that work well for larger groups and families traveling together.
Where to Stay on the South Coast
The South Coast of Barbados is my favorite place to stay on the island because it has a laid-back vibe and there are great surf spots, beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and things to do. You can surf Freights Bay explore the Oistins Friday Night Fish Fry, party in the Gap, and listen to live music any night of the week.
Where to Stay on the West Coast
The West Coast of Barbados is known for pristine beaches, calm waters, and upscale shopping, dining, and resorts. You can vacation in style on the West Coast (also called the Platinum Coast) and you’ll have easy access to Holetown and Speightstown, two of the bigger towns on the island.
Where to Stay on the East Coast
The East Coast of Barbados is best for people who want to get away from it all. It’s the most rural and rugged place to stay, and you’ll have peace among nature and the ocean. This is also the best place to stay for advanced surfers who want to surf the iconic Soup Bowl wave in Bathsheba.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where’s the best place to stay for surfing?
For surfing in Barbados, stay on the south coast or east coast of the island. On the south coast, Oistins or Atlantic Shores will give you the best access to waves (Freights Bay, South Point, and Surfers Point) but you can also look for spots in Worthing near Drill Hall Beach across from the Garrisson.
For more advanced waves, you can also stay in Bathsheba on the east coast (for the Soup Bowl break), but you’ll need a car since this side of the island is much quieter. There are not many restaurants/grocery stores/amenities on the east coast, but it’s really nice for a relaxing getaway surrounded by nature and waves.
Where’s the best place to stay for families?
I recommend the south coast is or west coast for families. Both of these areas have a lot of resorts with kid-friendly amenities (kids clubs, water sports), as well as apartment and house rentals so you have more space and comforts of home. Both have calm water for swimming.
Where’s the best place to stay for nightlife?
St. Lawrence Gap is the best place to stay in Barbados for nightlife. I recommend South Gap Hotel for being right in the heart of the action, or look at some of the resorts by Dover Beach if you want to be a short 5-10 minute walk away from the main party street.
Where’s the best place to stay for a honeymoon?
For ultra luxury, head to one of the 4 or 5 star resorts on the west coast like Cobblers Cove or The Sandpiper. For an adventurous honeymoon, I recommend the adults-only Little Arches Boutique Hotel in Oistins, or The Crane for a cliffside resort on a pink-sand beach.
