10 Top Things To Do In Bridgetown Barbados

Planning a trip to Bridgetown? This lively capital of Barbados is full of activities, and I’m here to give you the inside scoop on all the exciting things you can do.

Let’s start with some good news: tourism in the Caribbean is booming. In 2023, we saw a 14.3% jump in visitors, and Barbados is right at the front of this wave. People are flocking here for the history, the beaches, and let’s be honest, the amazing food.

So, what makes Bridgetown special? Well, it’s got this perfect mix of old-world charm and Caribbean flair. You’ve got UNESCO World Heritage sites rubbing shoulders with pristine beaches, and don’t even get me started on the food scene.

1. Hit the Beaches at Carlisle Bay

First things first: the beaches. If you’re in Bridgetown and you don’t check out Carlisle Bay, you’re seriously missing out. This place is like a postcard come to life.

Carlisle Bay isn’t just one beach – it’s a collection of stunning spots. You’ve got crystal-clear water, soft white sand, and palm trees swaying in the breeze. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose a whole day just lounging around.

But here’s the thing: there’s more to do here than just work on your tan. Carlisle Bay is part of a marine park, which means the underwater scene is pretty spectacular too.

Here’s a quick rundown of the main beaches:

Beach	What’s Cool About It
Pebbles Beach	Great for swimming and sunbathing. Lots of beach bars.
Brownes Beach	Local favorite. Perfect for beach games.
Bayshore Beach	Quieter spot if you want to relax.

Now, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, you’ve got options. You can try snorkeling with sea turtles, rent a kayak, or even go jet skiing. And the best part? A lot of these activities won’t break the bank.

Pro Tip: If you can, try to catch a sunset here. The western-facing beaches offer some seriously Instagram-worthy views as the sun goes down.

Remember to pack sunscreen, water, and maybe a beach umbrella if you’re planning to stay all day. There are food vendors and beach bars around, but bringing your own stuff can save you some cash.

2. Visit Barbados Garrison

Alright, history buffs, this one’s for you. The Barbados Garrison is like a time machine that takes you back to the colonial era. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and was the biggest British garrison in the colonies back in the day.

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

• St. Ann’s Fort: Built in 1705. The tours here are fantastic – the guides really know their stuff.
• George Washington House: Yep, that George Washington stayed here in 1751. It’s been restored to look like it did back then.
• Barbados National Armoury: If you’re into old weapons, you’ll love this place. They’ve got cannons from the 1600s!
• The Garrison Tunnels: These were only discovered in 2011. It’s like finding a secret part of history.

Check this out:

Site	What’s Cool About It
St. Ann’s Fort	Military history tours
George Washington House	18th-century vibes
Barbados National Armoury	Old weapons display
Garrison Tunnels	Recently discovered tunnels

The Garrison area also has this big open space called the Savannah. It used to be for military parades, but now it’s where people come to jog or have picnics. During horse racing season, it turns into a racetrack. If you’re lucky enough to catch a race, do it!

3. Walk Through Historic Bridgetown

Walking around old Bridgetown is like stepping into a history book, but way more fun. The whole city center is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, packed with cool old buildings and important spots.

Start your walk at National Heroes Square. It used to be called Trafalgar Square (sound familiar?). Look for the statue of Lord Nelson – it’s been standing there since 1813, even before the famous one in London!

After that, check out the Parliament Buildings. These Gothic-style buildings are where Barbados’ government meets. The stained-glass windows are really impressive.

Don’t miss St. Michael’s Cathedral, which has been around since 1789 and has the biggest pipe organ in the Caribbean. Even if you’re not into churches, it’s worth a look.

Here’s a suggested route to hit all the main spots:

Stop	What to See
National Heroes Square	Lord Nelson statue
Parliament Buildings	Gothic architecture
St. Michael’s Cathedral	Huge pipe organ
Nidhe Israel Synagogue	One of the oldest in the Americas
Broad Street	Main shopping area
Cheapside Market	Local produce and crafts

While you’re exploring, make sure to check out some of the local shops and markets. Broad Street is the main shopping area, but if you want a more local vibe, head to Swan Street. It’s a pedestrian street with lots of local vendors.

If you’re around on a Friday or Saturday, don’t miss Cheapside Market. It’s busy and noisy, but that’s part of the fun. You can buy fresh fruits and veggies, local crafts, and try some delicious street food.

Pro Tip: Wear comfy shoes and bring water – you’ll be doing a lot of walking! And don’t forget to read my very own guide about traveling Barbados on a budget so you can make the most of your money here.

4. Dive into Bridgetown’s Underwater World

Okay, let’s talk about something really cool – the underwater world around Bridgetown. If you’re into diving or snorkeling, you’re in for a treat.

The star of the show is the SS Stavronikita which is a Greek ship that sank in the 1970s, and now it’s like an underwater playground for fish and coral. Divers from all over the world come to see it.

But don’t worry if you’re not a pro diver. There are options for everyone:

• If you’re new to snorkeling, stick to the shallow parts of Carlisle Bay.
• If you’ve done some diving before, try the Berwyn. It’s a smaller shipwreck that’s easier to explore.
• For experienced divers, the Stavronikita is waiting for you. It’s a deep dive, but it’s worth it.

Here’s what you might see underwater:

• Sea turtles (they’re super chill and used to people)
• Colorful fish (think Nemo and his friends)
• Rays gliding along the bottom
• If you’re lucky, maybe even an octopus!

Check out this quick guide to some popular dive spots:

Dive Site	How Deep	Best For	What You’ll See
Carlisle Bay Marine Park	Not too deep	Beginners	Small wrecks, sea turtles
Folkestone Marine Park	Medium depth	Everyone	Artificial reef, colorful fish
SS Stavronikita	Pretty deep	Experienced divers	Big wreck, lots of marine life

Some tips:

• Book with a good dive shop. They’ll keep you safe and show you the best spots.
• Always dive or snorkel with a buddy. It’s safer and more fun!
• Don’t touch anything underwater. We want to keep these places nice for future visitors.
• Think about getting an underwater camera. You’ll want to remember what you see down there.

5. Taste Your Way Through Bridgetown

Now, let’s talk about something that’s close to my heart (and stomach) – the food in Bridgetown.

Bajan cuisine is this amazing mix of African, British, and Indian flavors, all mashed up with fresh Caribbean ingredients. It’s comfort food with a tropical twist, and you’re gonna love it.

Here are some dishes you’ve got to try:

• Flying Fish: This is kind of Barbados’ national dish and is usually fried and served with cou-cou, which is like polenta but better.
• Pudding and Souse: Don’t let the name fool you – it’s not dessert. It’s pickled pork with a sweet potato pudding. Sounds weird and tastes amazing.
• Fish Cakes: These little fried balls of goodness are perfect for snacking. Grab some from a street vendor and thank me later.
• Bajan Pepper Pot: It’s a rich, spicy stew that’ll warm you up from the inside out. Perfect for a rainy day (not that you’ll see many of those in Barbados).

Where should you go to find good food? Here are my top picks:

Place	What to Get	Why It’s Great
Mustor’s Restaurant	Pudding and Souse	Best traditional Bajan food
Cuz’s Fish Stand	Fish Cutter (sandwich)	Local favorite, always busy
Oistins Fish Fry	Grilled fish	Fun atmosphere, especially on Fridays
Cheapside Market	Street food	Variety of local snacks

And don’t forget about dessert! Try the black cake (it’s like fruit cake but actually good) or some coconut bread.

Oh, and you can’t visit Bridgetown without trying some rum. The Mount Gay Rum Distillery does tours and tastings. It’s the oldest rum brand in the world, and they know their stuff.

Pro Tip: If you want to try a bit of everything, think about taking a food tour. You’ll get to taste lots of different dishes and learn about the history behind them.

6. Dance the Night Away

When the sun goes down, Bridgetown really comes alive. The nightlife here is something else, and there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking to party, head to St. Lawrence Gap (locals just call it “The Gap”). It’s this street packed with bars and clubs. You’ll find everything from chill beach bars to pumping dance clubs.

Here are some spots you might want to check out:

Place	What’s Cool About It
Harbour Lights	Beach club with live music
Boatyard	Lively bar right on the beach
Old Jamm Inn	Great for live reggae and soca

Now, if you want a more local experience, you’ve got to visit a rum shop. These are small, no-frills bars where Bajans hang out. They’re great places to chat with locals and maybe play a game of dominoes. John Moore Bar and Lexie’s Bar are good ones to try.

For live music lovers, keep an eye out for performances by Barbados Tuk Bands or calypso shows. The sound of steel pans is everywhere – it’s the soundtrack of the Caribbean.

Here are a few tips for your night out in Bridgetown:

• Most places don’t get busy until after 10 PM.
• Some clubs have dress codes, so maybe leave the flip-flops at the hotel.
• Always have a plan for getting back to your hotel safely.

7. Learn Bridgetown’s History at Local Museums

I know, I know, museums might not sound like the most exciting travel destination when you’re in a tropical paradise. But trust me, Bridgetown’s museums are pretty cool, and they’ll give you a whole new appreciation for the island.

Let’s start with the Barbados Museum & Historical Society. It’s in an old British military prison, which is cool on its own. They’ve got exhibits on everything from the island’s first inhabitants to natural history. There’s even a kids’ gallery if you’re traveling with little ones.

For sports fans, there’s the Cricket Legends of Barbados Museum. Even if you don’t know much about cricket, it’s fascinating to see how important this sport is to Barbadian culture.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Museum	What’s Cool About It
Barbados Museum & Historical Society	Housed in an old prison, covers all of Bajan history
Cricket Legends of Barbados Museum	All about Barbados’ cricket heroes
Nidhe Israel Museum	Tells the story of the Jewish community in Barbados

A couple of tips:

• Check the opening hours before you go. They can be a bit unpredictable.
• Many museums offer guided tours. They’re usually worth it for the extra stories and info you get.
• Don’t forget your student ID if you have one – you might get a discount.

Visiting these museums is a great way to understand more about Barbados and its people. Plus, it’s a good activity for those rare rainy days or when you need a break from the sun.

8. Take a Breezy Catamaran Cruise

Let’s switch gears and talk about something a little more relaxing. If you want to see Bridgetown from a different angle, you’ve got to get out on the water. And the best way to do that? A catamaran cruise.

Now, I’m not talking about some stuffy yacht tour. Catamaran cruises in Bridgetown are laid-back, fun, and honestly, a great way to spend a day.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Snorkeling stops where you can swim with sea turtles (yes, really!)
• Cruising along the coast, seeing Bridgetown from the water
• A lunch buffet (usually with some tasty Bajan dishes)
• And of course, plenty of rum punch

Most cruises last about 5-6 hours, but there are shorter options if you’re pressed for time. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Cruise Type	Best For	What You Get
Morning Cruise	Early birds, best snorkeling visibility	Breakfast, snorkeling, lunch
Lunch Cruise	A full day on the water	Snorkeling, lunch, lots of sailing time
Sunset Cruise	Romantic vibes, great photos	Evening sail, dinner, amazing views

A few tips from someone who’s been there:

• Bring sunscreen and reapply often. The sun reflects off the water and you can get burned fast.
• If you get seasick, take some motion sickness pills before you go. The catamarans are pretty stable, but better safe than sorry.
• Bring a light jacket for the way back – it can get breezy on the water.

Based on my experience, there’s always something magical about sailing along the coast, drink in hand, with the sun on your face. It’s one of those experiences that really makes you feel like you’re on vacation.

9. Get a Taste of Bajan Rum at Mount Gay

I know I’ve mentioned rum but we can’t talk about Bridgetown without talking more about rum. Barbados is known as the birthplace of rum, and Mount Gay is the oldest rum brand in the world. So yeah, they know a thing or two about making good rum.

Visiting the Mount Gay Visitor Centre is like a crash course in rum history and production. Plus, you get to taste some really good rum. Win-win, right?

Here’s what you can expect on a tour:

• A walk through the history of rum-making in Barbados
• A look at how rum is made today
• And of course, a tasting session where you can try different types of rum

They offer a few different tour options:

Tour Type	What You Get	How Long It Takes
Signature Tour	Basic history, 2 rum tastings	About 45 minutes
Cocktail Tour	History, tastings, and a cocktail making class	About 2 hours
Premium Tasting	History, tastings, and a cocktail-making class	About 1.5 hours

A couple of things to keep in mind:

• Book your tour in advance, especially in the busy season.
• Don’t plan on driving after your tour. Seriously.
• The distillery is a bit outside of Bridgetown, so factor in travel time.

Even if you’re not usually a rum drinker, it’s worth checking out. It’s a big part of Bajan culture and history. Plus, you might just discover you like rum after all!

10. Catch a Festival If You Can

If you’re lucky enough to be in Bridgetown during one of its festivals, you’re truly lucky. These events are when you really see Bajan culture come alive.

The biggest one is Crop Over. It’s kind of like Barbados’ version of Carnival, celebrating the end of the sugar cane harvest.

The Crop Over festival runs from July to August and it’s one big party. You’ve got colorful parades, calypso competitions, food fairs, and it all ends with a huge parade called Grand Kadooment Day.

But that’s not the only festival in Bridgetown. Here are a few others to look out for:

Festival	When It Happens	What It’s About
Holetown Festival	February	Celebrates the first English settlement
Oistins Fish Festival	Easter weekend	All about fishing, with lots of seafood
Food and Rum Festival	October	Showcases Bajan cuisine and rum

Festivals are when you really get to see the heart and soul of Bridgetown. The music, the food, the colors – it’s an experience you won’t forget.

So there you have it – my top 10 things to do in Bridgetown. Whether you’re into history, beaches, food, or just having a good time, this city’s got something for you. Remember to keep an open mind, talk to locals, and don’t be afraid to try new things. That’s what travel is all about, right?

Wrapping It Up: Make the Most of Your Bridgetown Experience

So, we’ve covered a lot of ground, huh? From lounging on beautiful beaches to diving into history, from tasting local flavors to dancing the night away, Bridgetown’s got it all. But before we wrap this up, let me share a few more tips to help you make the most of your trip.

First off, getting around. Bridgetown is pretty walkable, especially in the historic center. But if you want to explore further out, you’ve got options:

• Buses are cheap and go pretty much everywhere. Just be prepared for a bit of an adventure – they can get crowded and the schedules are more like suggestions.
• Taxis are easy to find and not too expensive. Just make sure you agree on the fare before you start your trip.
• Renting a car can be fun if you want to explore the whole island. Just remember, they drive on the left side here!

Now, let’s talk about when to visit. Bridgetown is great year-round, but here’s the scoop:

Time of Year	What to Expect
December to April	High season, great weather, more crowds
May to November	Lower prices, fewer crowds, occasional rain
July to August	Crop Over festival, lots of events

A few more random tips:

• The tap water is safe to drink in Bridgetown. Save some plastic and bring a reusable water bottle.
• Bajans are super friendly. Don’t be shy about striking up a conversation!
• Island time is a real thing here. Things move a bit slower, so relax and go with the flow.
• Sunscreen is your best friend. The Caribbean sun is no joke.

So there you have it – my top 10 things to do in Bridgetown Barbados based on real experience. Whether you’re into history, beaches, food, or just having a good time, this city’s got something for you.

Remember to keep an open mind, talk to locals, and don’t be afraid to try new things. That’s what travel is all about, right?