Sunny, tropical weather makes Barbados a year-round dream destination. From the island’s white-sand beaches and stunning nature to its unique culture and endless stores of rum, Barbados has much to offer.
Whether you’re looking to book a romantic break for two, a family vacation, or a budget getaway, here’s everything you need to know about traveling to Barbados.
Table of Contents
- The Weather in Barbados
- The Most Popular Annual Events in Barbados
- The Best Tourist Attractions in Barbados (And When to Visit Them)
- Barbadian Public Holidays and Occasions
The Weather in Barbados
There are two main seasons in Barbados: wet and dry. Of course, both seasons are an excellent time to travel, but here are a few things to consider when planning your perfect stay.
Wet Season (June to November)
No surprise, but this is the wettest time of year on the island. That doesn’t affect the temperature, though, with highs of 88°F. So while the rainy season may sound like the worst time to visit Barbados, it’s actually a great time to book your vacation.
Rainfall often makes way for the sun, and heavy showers are usually short-lived. Moreover, the rain tends to happen in the late afternoon, making it easy to plan your day around the weather. Some travelers even enjoy the afternoon rain, seeing it as a moment of respite from the heat and humidity.
July to October is the low season, meaning you’ll find some great travel deals.
Dry Season (December to May)
The dry season is the most popular time to travel to Barbados, with warm temperatures, lots of sunshine, and clear blue skies. Typically, you’ll get highs of 84-86°F, making it more comfortable for walking around and sightseeing compared to the wet season. However, as these are the peak travel months, you can expect more crowds at resorts and beaches, along with higher flight prices and hotel rates.
The Most Popular Annual Events in Barbados
Barbados is one of the liveliest islands in the world, offering everyone a chance to immerse themselves in Caribbean culture. Here are the events you won’t want to miss during your stay.
Holetown Festival (February)
The first-ever Holetown Festival dates back to 1977. Over 40 years later, the event is still going strong, with nightly concerts and live performances covering gospel, rukatuk, and calypso music.
Barbados Reggae Festival (April)
This four-day musical extravaganza attracts over 25,000 visitors every year. Make sure you grab tickets for the festival’s main event, Reggae on the Hill, at Farley Hill National Park.
Crop Over Festival (June, July & August)
While sugar cane is no longer produced in large quantities on the island, celebrating the history of sugar cane is still significant. The festival has evolved into one of the biggest carnival events in the Caribbean and offers six weeks of street fairs, colorful parades, and soca parties.
Barbados Wine & Rum Festival 2022
Set to take place from October 27th to 30th, this rum-fueled festival is now a longstanding tradition. Join other rum and gastronomy lovers and sample the local delights while soaking up the carnival atmosphere.
Barbados Jazz Excursion 2022
Another October event to plan your travel around is the Caribbean’s hottest live music event, launched by jazz saxophonist Elan Trotman in 2014. This year, it will take place at the Hilton Barbados Resort from October 6th to 10th. Hotel packages and resident passes are available for purchase from the festival website.
The Best Tourist Attractions in Barbados (And When to Visit Them)
From jaw-dropping beaches and scenery to charming architecture, there’s so much waiting to be explored. Don’t overlook these main attractions while visiting Barbados.
Crane Beach
Known for its natural beauty and pink-hued sands, Crane Beach is a must-visit during your stay in Barbados. It’s located on the southeast of the island and lined by beautiful coconut trees and dramatic 80ft cliffs. It’s also an ideal location for bodyboarding and other sports.
Next Vacay Travel Tip: The best time for bodyboarding is from November to June.
Bathsheba Beach
This is one of the island’s most picturesque seaside locations, and it’s a fantastic place to brush up on your surf skills. There’s a large selection of surf accommodations and schools in this area, with lessons starting from $75 USD for beginners.
Next Vacay Travel Tip: The waves are relatively consistent, but the best waves arrive from July to October.
Historic Bridgetown and Its Garrison
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the country’s capital is not to be missed if you love history and architecture. The historic quarter features British colonial architecture, museums, the 17th-century Garrison, and a horse-racing track.
Next Vacay Travel Tip: Book your trip in the dry season when it’s less hot and humid, making it easier to walk around.
Hunte’s Gardens
Explore this unusual garden and nursery in Coffee Gully, and challenge yourself to spot and identify the different species listed on the garden’s information board. Admission costs $20 USD per person.
Next Vacay Travel Tip: While the tropical climate makes the gardens beautiful year-round, visit in the dry season to avoid rain and humidity.
Harrison’s Cave
A tour of this cave network will last around three hours, with tram tours starting from $57 USD. This is undoubtedly one of the best family-friendly attractions in Barbados and a great day out for all ages. However, it often reaches 81°F underground, so be sure to dress for the warm temperatures.
Next Vacay Travel Tip: To beat the crowds in the high season, travel in the low season instead.
Barbadian Public Holidays and Occasions
December is already a busy time on the island, thanks to the drier, cooler weather. But in the run-up to Christmas, airfare prices can increase and accommodations may be scarce. However, if you love the idea of spending the festive season in a sun-drenched location, Barbados is the perfect place to be.
If you want to travel over the Christmas holidays, book your travel in advance. Some shop closures will take place over Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Other public holidays that may affect shops, services, and public transport include New Year’s Day, Good Friday and Easter Monday, National Heroes Day, Labor Day, Emancipation Day, and Barbados Independence Day.
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