Barbados attractions

Orchid World is an eight-acre (3.2-hectare) garden featuring tens of thousands of gorgeousxa0 tropical orchids. A magical place with stunning waterfalls and tranquil ponds, the flower-filled reserve is on a hill in the center of the island, offering spacious views of the lush Barbadian countryside.

Crane Beach is often included in the list of Caribbean’s top beaches, its soft pink sand, deep blue waters, and coral reef form a natural harbor and the perfect place to relax for a lazy and romantic beach day. Protected by rocky outcrops, the waters here are relatively calm and also ideal for bodysurfing.

Tucked away on the south coast of Barbados, Shark Hole is a secluded cove that offers a serene escape from the island’s more popular tourist spots. Squeezed between cliffs, this small beach is protected from the force of the ocean by a ridge of coral rock. With its picturesque surroundings, Shark Hole feels like a well-kept secret.

The Nidhe Israel Synagogue is part of the Barbados Synagogue Historic District. Dating back to 1654, the synagogue was initially a place of worship for Sephardic Jews who came to Barbados from Brazil. After falling into disrepair, the building was restored in three phases, which were completed in 2017. The site is now open to the public for tours of the synagogue, mikvah (ritual bath), museum, and cemetery.

You'll find National Heroes Square right in the middle of all the action in Barbados' capital city, Bridgetown. Previously known as Trafalgar Square, this spot recognizes Bajan heroes and influential cultural figures, like Errol Walton Barrow, Barbados' first prime minister, and superstar/businesswoman Rihanna. Ceremonies are held here throughout the year, including Remembrance Day in November and National Heroes Day in April.

If you are looking to shop and pick up some trinkets to remember your visit to Barbados, Broad Street in Bridgetown is the place to go. Located a block from The Wharf Road, this street has shopping malls, duty-free shops, jewelry stores, and a few large department stores. Restaurants and bars are plentiful in this area, making it a great spot to spend an afternoon.

Famed for being the monument that gave Bridgetown its name, Chamberlain Bridge crosses the Constitution River in Barbados' capital city. This pedestrian-only bridge was once a swing bridge, but was replaced with the current lift bridge in 2006 to allow boats to pass underneath to reach the inner harbor during storms.

On Barbados’s idyllic western coast, Sandy Lane Beach is famous for the upscale resort of the same name that occupies most of the beach. Being a guest isn’t required, as this beautiful public beach is open to all visitors. With calm shallow waters, swimming is relaxing. For more adventure, go waterskiing or wreck diving off the shore.