When visiting Barbados, you’ll likely spend some time in the capital city of Bridgetown. This Bridgetown Barbados travel guide will cover some of the best things to see, do, and eat in the area to help you make the most of your trip.
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About Bridgetown Barbados
With rich history and colorful architecture, Bridgetown and the nearby Garrison is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Usually seen as the dividing line between the south coast and the west coast, Bridgetown is a great place to go shopping, enjoy calmer beaches, and learn about the history of the island.
By car, Bridgetown is 20 – 30 minutes from Grantley Adams International Airport.
Things To Do In Bridgetown Barbados
Bridgetown has tons of interesting things to do! Whether you’re looking for a day on the water or just need to run some errands in town, Bridgetown has it all.
Arriving by cruise ship and short on time? Check out these guides for cruise excursions and beaches near Bridgetown:
- What are the Closest Beaches to the Barbados cruise terminal?
- Best Barbados Shore Excursions for Cruise Ship Passengers
1. Swimming at Brownes Beach and Pebbles Beach
Bridgetown has beautiful beaches where you can rent beach chairs, sunbathe, or go for a swim in gentle waters. Brownes Beach and Pebbles Beach are close to downtown and popular among locals and visitors alike, especially on the weekends.
2. Snorkeling in Carlisle Bay
Carlisle Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots in Barbados. You can see several shipwrecks and even sea turtles all within a few meters of the shore. The water is clear and generally calm, making this a great place to explore the magical underwater world of Barbados. To go snorkeling in Carlisle Bay, you can either bring your own snorkel gear, rent gear, or go with an organized tour.
3. Boatyard Beach Club
Boatyard Beach Club is one of the top places to spend a beach day in Bridgetown. At Boatyard Beach Club, you’ll pay a reasonable entrance fee and gain access to a pristine beach area, loungers, umbrellas, restrooms, lockers, and even a complimentary snorkel tour. They also offer shore excursion packages for cruise ship passengers.
4. Mount Gay Visitors Center
Barbados is the birthplace of rum, and Mount Gay Rum Distillery is one of the largest producers on the island. Taste some of the best local rums at their tasting room and visitor center located right in downtown Bridgetown.
5. Kensington Oval
The Kensington Oval was built in 1882 and is the oldest cricket ground in Barbados. Here, you can watch a cricket match or take a tour of the impressive venue. Check their website for tickets and events.
6. Harbour Lights Barbados
If you’re looking for the party in Bridgetown, Harbour Lights won’t disappoint. This facility is a family-friendly beach club by day and a lively party scene by night. They also offer a memorable dinner theater experience that gets rave reviews.
7. Take a Catamaran Cruise
Take to the seas to enjoy beautiful coastal views and snorkeling onboard a Barbados catamaran cruise. Most cruises depart from the Bridgetown harbor.
Places To Stay In Bridgetown, Barbados
Sugar Bay Barbados | Book Now
Sugar Bay Barbados is one of the best all inclusive resorts in Bridgetown and is located in the Garrison Historic District. Guests at Sugar Bay have access to two pools, four restaurants, water sports, and endless sunshine on a stretch of powder-white beach.
Hilton Barbados Resort | Book Now
Situated perfectly between Pebbles Beach and Drill Hall Beach, the Hilton Barbados Resort has panoramic sea views and plenty of spaces to relax while still being close to the action. Kayaking, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and more are only steps away.
Places To Eat In Bridgetown Barbados
You won’t go hungry in Bridgetown, Barbados! Check out these best places to eat in Bridgetown for a variety of tasty local fare and international favorites.
- Cuzz’s Fish Stand: Great place to try cutters located on Pebbles Beach
- Lobster Alive Barbados: The best place to get Lobster on the island
- Champers Barbados: Upscale fine-dining with a beautiful view
Day trips from Bridgetown
One of the best parts about visiting a small island is that you can get anywhere in a matter of hours. Here are some amazing things to do in Barbados that are just a short drive from Bridgetown.
- Animal Flower Cave: Enjoy epic views and natural swimming pools in this sea cave on the northern tip of the island.
- St. Nicholas Abbey: Visit a grand historical house, ride the Heritage Railway to Cherry Tree Hill, and sample rum made at the St. Nicholas Abbey distillery.
- Harrison’s Cave: Explore a breathtaking cave system in the center of Barbados and learn about how this geological feature formed.
- Oistins Fish Fry: On Friday night, head to Oistins in Christ Church for rum punch, live music, fried fish, and local bajan food.
- Bathsheba Beach and the East Coast: Feel the power of the Atlantic ocean on the east coast of Barbados. Enjoy intense landscapes, seaside hiking, and Soup Bowl, one of the best surfing spots in Barbados.
- Folkestone Marine Park: Head to the west coast of Barbados near Holetown for kayaking, snorkeling, and white sand beaches in this laid-back marine area.
Bridgetown Barbados Travel Guide Final Thoughts
With calm waters, fantastic beaches, access to boating activities, and plenty of delicious local cuisine, Bridgetown is a must-see. Planning a Barbados holiday? These guides can help:
- Ultimate Guide to Planning a Barbados Vacation
- Oistins, Barbados Travel Guide
- St. Philip, Barbados Travel Guide
- Best Barbados Accommodation Options
