Barbados is an enchanting Caribbean island that offers visitors a wide range of exciting experiences to enjoy. With stunning beaches, aquamarine waters and a vibrant culture, the island has become a popular destination for those seeking a tropical getaway. This summer, Barbados is hosting a variety of events and activities that you won’t want to miss. Here are seven experiences that should be on your list.
- Crop Over Festival and Grand Kadooment
Crop Over is Barbados’ biggest festival and a celebration of the island’s rich culture and heritage. This festival takes place from June to August and features a series of events such as concerts, street parties and carnival-style parades. The highlight of the festival is August’s Grand Kadooment parade, which is a colourful and lively procession featuring hundreds of revellers in colourful costumes. If you’re looking to experience the best of Bajan culture, Crop Over is not to be missed.
- Pandemonium Steel Band Event
The steel drum is one of the most iconic instruments in Caribbean music, and Barbados is home to some of the best steel bands in the world. The Pandemonium steel band event is a showcase of the island’s top steel bands and features live performances and competitions. This event is held on 16th July and is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant and infectious rhythms of Barbados.
- Summer Surfing
Barbados is known for its world-class surf spots, and summer is the perfect time to catch some waves. The island’s south and east coasts are the best places to surf, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops where you can get everything you need. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Barbados has something for everyone.
- Island Tours
If you want to explore the island and learn more about its history and culture, an island tour is a must-do activity. There are many tour operators on the island that offer guided tours of Barbados’ historic sites, beautiful gardens and scenic countryside. You can choose from a variety of tours, including bus tours, walking tours and even helicopter rides. A visit to the historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must.
- Soca on the Hill
Soca on the Hill is a music festival that takes place every August and features some of the biggest names in Caribbean music. This event is a celebration of the island’s exciting music scene and is a great opportunity to experience the fabulous rhythms of soca, reggae and dancehall. The festival is held at the scenic Farley Hill National Park and is a great way to experience the beautiful outdoors while enjoying some great music.
- Great Evenings Out
The island is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there are plenty of great evenings out to be had all along the west coast. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a lively night out with friends, Barbados has something for everyone. There’s a great selection of bars, restaurants and nightclubs, where you can enjoy live music, dancing and great food and drinks.
- Barbados in Flower
Barbados is famous for its stunning natural beauty, and the island’s flora and fauna are no exception. Every summer, Barbados comes alive with an explosion of colour as the island’s flowers bloom. The island’s botanical gardens are a great place to experience this natural wonder, with over 600 species of tropical plants on display. You can also experience the beauty of the island by visiting Hunte’s Garden, Andromeda Botanic Gardens or the Flower Forest.
Where to stay
Looking for the ultimate Caribbean holiday experience? Take a look at the Royal Westmoreland, a luxury Barbados resort, which offers just 250 stunning villas, townhouses and apartments nestled within its breathtaking 750-acre estate, providing the perfect escape for discerning visitors seeking exclusivity and tranquillity.
At Royal Westmoreland, guests can indulge in world-class amenities, including a championship-standard golf course that offers picturesque views of the Caribbean coastline, a state-of-the-art gym with modern equipment, flood-lit tennis courts, and an array of dining options to choose from, including the colonial-style Club House, the Rum Shak and the Beach Club at the nearby Mullins Beach.
The resort offers exceptional personal service, including a dedicated housekeeper, private chef service and a well-connected concierge who can assist with every need, from arranging babysitters to recommending the best places to visit and even organising transport. Guests can expect unparalleled attention to detail to make their stay truly unforgettable.
Visit Royal Westmoreland’s Holidays Page for more information, or, if you are considering a visit between June and August 2023, take a look at their Taste of the Caribbean offer.