Barbados is a sunny holiday destination in the South Caribbean known for its crystal clear waters, peaceful beaches, and luscious forest interior. With an English speaking population, this is a popular choice for visitors from the United States and Canada. Far from a party destination, Barbados is where you come to kick back and relax.
While many visitors opt to stay in their resort the whole time, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered if you actually take a deep dive into where to stay in Barbados. Unfortunately, many travel guides don’t take this into account, with little idea on what to do and where to do it. What a shaaaaame!
Thankfully, I’m here to help you. I’ve combined my personal experience with hints and tips from locals to bring you this guide to the five best places to stay in Barbados.
Whether you want STUNNING beaches, calm family resorts, or somewhere off-the-beaten-path. I’ve got golf courses, luxury hotels, and a special spot for you on Paynes Bay Beach, so let’s find you that dreamy Caribbean destination. I even have a great option for budget backpackers, oh yeah, I got you.
So, let’s deep dive in to this tropical island!
Photo: Chris Lininger
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Looking for somewhere to stay in Barbados but don’t have a lot of time? No matter, here are my top recommendations!
Yellow Bird Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Barbados
This colorful three-star hotel is a great choice for budget travelers that want the added comforts of staying in a hotel! All of their studios are self catering apartments with small kitchenettes.
A complimentary full English style breakfast is provided every morning, preparing you for the day ahead. They can also help you book golf, scuba diving, and various water sports.
Little Arches Boutique Hotel | Best Hotel in Barbados
Looking for a peaceful break in the sun? This adult-only accommodation is the perfect place to unwind and forget all of life’s troubles.
Equipped with a four-star rating and excellent guest reviews, they have a number of excellent services that will have you feeling pampered. Miami Beach is right on your doorstep – a much more peaceful option than the busier coastal resorts.
Fairmont Royal Pavillion | Best Resort in Barbados
Set on Glitter Bay Beach, Fairmont Royal Pavillion is an extravagant five-star luxury resort with restaurants beachfront, this is Sandy Lane paradise. Beautifully decorated with plantation-decor, air conditioning, ceiling fans and seating areas, these suites at Fairmont Royal Pavillion are fit for royalty. The hotel is located right on the beach, so you won’t have to walk far to soak up the unique atmosphere of Saint James.
Jo J’s Hostel | Best Hostel in Barbados
Jo J’s has just opened up in Christ Church, the only hostel on the island and it’s a goodie, based in a nice quiet area. The beach and the village are within walking distance to get anything you need and when you get back, that sweet aircon will welcome you. Tucked away in the tropical garned, you can have an immersive local experience here.
Talking Trees House | Best Airbnb in Barbados
Surrounded by luscious forests and serene landscapes, this rustic cottage lets you escape society for a little while. The nearest village is a short walk away, so you’ll get a truly rural experience.
I love the porch area, which has a comfortable hammock where you can swing back and forth and admire the views. Overall, it’s an Airbnb straight out of a dream!
Oistins
Of the South Barbados resorts, Oistins is one of the most laid-back. Here you will find both tourists and locals mingling and enjoying the colourful décor in the street. For a first time traveller, Oistins is a great way to ease yourself into the destination.
Bridgetown
The capital of Barbados, Bridgetown is full of life throughout the year! The favourable climate means you’ll be certain to find buzzing events at any time of year. It’s the only city on the island, but that doesn’t mean it is any less safe than the gated resorts.
St Lawrence Gap
Right next to Oistins, St Lawrence is easily the most popular destination in Barbados for young travellers. While the island isn’t known for its pulsing nightlife, St Lawrence Gap is a must-visit for those that are ready to dance with locals and enjoy some well-priced drinks.
Saint Peter
Western Barbados is a little more upmarket than the larger resorts in the South. With exclusivity comes peace and quiet, making this a firm favourite with families visiting the area.
Bathsheba
Over on the east of Barbados, you’ll find fewer tourist resorts, with charming villages dotted along the more rugged parts of the coastline. For those looking for something off-the-beaten-path, this small region offers something totally unique.
Barbados is one of the smallest Caribbean islands and it’s fairly easy to get around. It’s an easy choice when looking for one of the best tropical island destinations to visit.
The local bus system can feel a bit adventurous, but it’s totally worth it to save some cash as car rentals can be expensive. If you do rent a car, keep in mind that Bajans drive on the left. Having a good idea of each neighborhood can help you prepare better before you arrive.
On the South Coast of Barbados, you will find the most popular tourist resorts. Oistins and St Lawrence Gap are my two favorites from the region, and they are right next to each other.
In St Lawrence, you will find the only major nightlife scene on the island, so it has quite a youthful atmosphere. Oistins is somewhat quieter but well-connected. For this reason, I think it makes a great choice for first-time visitors looking to gather their bearings.
Photo: @amandaadraper
Just north of St Lawrence Gap, you will find Bridgetown – the capital of Barbados. Since most people visit Barbados for the iconic beaches and resorts, this is actually one of the least visited parts of the island. This makes it great for people heading to the island on a budget and keen to discover local culture and unique creative attractions.
On the west coast of the island, you will discover some of the more exclusive resorts, including trendy eco lodges, golf courses and luxury hotels. Though still very popular with tourists, visitors in these areas tend to stick to their resorts more than in the south. It has a very peaceful atmosphere (and flying fish kids club!), making it a great choice for families visiting Barbados.
While Barbados is pretty safe as a whole, especially Barbados hotels, you’re even less likely to run into trouble in this upmarket region. Saint Peter is my favorite part, and it’s where you can find some of the best hotels and Airbnbs. Just down the coast is Saint James, great to pop into for some shopping at Limegrove Lifestyle Center or ‘lax out on Sandy Lane Beach.
Finally, the east coast of the island is rarely visited by tourists at all. It is the furthest away from the airport, and there aren’t many huge resorts around. With Bathsheba as the only major town, this is where you come to experience Barbados like a local.
Those looking for something a bit more adventurous will love the luscious forests and tourist-free villages surrounding Bathsheba.
Still undecided? Keep reading for more in-depth descriptions of the top five places to stay in Barbados. I’ve also included my favourite accommodation picks and things to do in each!
1. Oistins – Where to Stay in Barbados for Your First Time
Of the South Coast Barbados hotels and resorts, Oistins is one of the most laid-back. Here you will find both tourists and locals mingling and enjoying the colorful décor in the street. For a first-time traveler, Oistins is a great way to ease yourself into the destination, it’s a little more laid-back than the larger resorts.
Nestled in the Christ Church parish, it’s right next to St Lawrence, so getting from Oistins to other parts of the island is really simple. It’s also close to Grantley Adams International Airport, which makes it ideal for those traveling for a short Barbados holiday.
There are a few excellent tour companies in the area that can take you further afield from the comfort of a fully serviced bus. More adventurous travelers, however, should rub shoulders with the locals on public transport.
Bougainvillea Barbados | Best Hotel in Oistins
This is one of the best Barbados hotels, opening straight onto spectacular beaches and crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea (actually the Atlantic). The spacious rooms, three pools, and spa make for the perfect setting for your vacation on the Caribbean island. From here, top tourist attractions and the island’s main airport are just a short drive away.
Little Arches Boutique | Best Luxury Hotel in Oistins
This magnificent four-star hotel has everything you could possibly need for a relaxing break in the Christ Church sun. It is adult-only, so you won’t need to worry about kids running around and making lots of noise. They offer bicycle hire – and given cycling is so popular, this is an excellent way to take in the gorgeous coastal scenery.
Townhome With Private Pool | Best Homestay in Oistins
This two-story townhome on Barbados’ south coast is one of the best vacation rentals in Barbados. Perfect for groups, it has its own private plunge pool and is within walking distance of Enterprise Beach, Dover Beach, and more!
The home has room for up to six guests, and there’s also a back deck and garden to enjoy in addition to swimming.
Things to See and Do in Oistins:
Photo: @joemiddlehurst
- Miami Beach is the best-known attraction in Oistins, with plenty of sunbathing spots and even a few water sporting opportunities.
- Spend the day on Dover Beach, an award-winning beach known for jet skiing & windsurfing.
- Feast upon fresh fish straight from the grill and try local beer and rum and enjoy the music played by the local DJs, including Reggae, Pop and Calypso
- Barbados Golf Club – the largest of the golf courses on the island – is right in the heart of Oistins, with stunning views towards the Bajan coast.
- Explore some of the rums of Barbados and discover how this famous rum is made on this yum rum tour and sample some award-winning rum.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Bridgetown – Best Place to Stay in Barbados on a Budget
The capital of Barbados, Bridgetown is full of life throughout the year, you’ll be certain to find buzzing events year round. It’s the only city on the island, but that doesn’t mean it is any less safe than the gated resorts. The center is an important hub for history and culture, so even if you don’t choose to stay here, you should absolutely stop by.
For budget travelers, Bridgetown is a surprisingly affordable destination. Barbados hotels can be expensive, and there’s no escaping the fact you’ll be expected to spend a little more on food and tours. Hotels in Bridgetown, however, aren’t as busy, so they often have good deals!
Sweetfield Manor | Best Hotel in Bridgetown
A five-star resort in a budget neighborhood? It is a bit of a splurge, yes, but considerably cheaper than many other luxury resorts on the island.
The outdoor pool is surrounded by luscious forests and wood finishes that really emphasize the tropical location. Rooms are spacious and come with traditional furnishings that give the space a more authentic atmosphere.
Banyan Beach Town Villa | Best Homestay in Bridgetown
There’s nothing quite like having your own little home in the Caribbean. And when your beachfront villa has a garden, balcony, and bar, it’s even better. Just steps away from Brighton Beach, the East Coast is yours to explore.
When you’re ready for recovery, dive into your big, air-conditioned bed and have a siesta, that’s what tropical holidays are for after all! Then you can cook up a storm in the kitchen, or get the group together for a barbecue.
Cozy Idyllic Studio | Best Airbnb in Bridgetown
This charming little studio, close to the American Embassy and centered in the business district has plenty of great restaurants and bars nearby. The typical Bajan architecture adds a bright and sunny vibe to the property, while the comfortable interiors will make you feel right at home. This is a truly unique property, giving you the chance to live like a local during your stay near Carlisle Bay on the platinum coast.
Things to See and Do in Bridgetown:
- Sample Bajan cuisine on a food tour
- Barbados Museum offers the most comprehensive breakdown of the island’s history and culture, though it’s often quiet, making it great if you need a break!
- Snorkel with turtles on a catamaran cruise.
- Head up to the Platinum coast near Holetown to see some powdery white sand beaches.
- The beach here offers some great water sports at lower prices than those in the resorts – I recommend The Dive Shop in particular.
- Be captivated by the limestone caves and the tropical magical gardens of Harrison’s Cave
- Head to Carlisle Bay on a glass bottom boat tour and snorkel the amazing shipwreck!
3. St Lawrence Gap – Best Area to Stay in Barbados For Nightlife
Right next to Oistins, St Lawrence is easily the most popular destination for a Barbados holiday for young travellers. While the island isn’t known for its pulsing nightlife, St Lawrence Gap is for those that are ready to dance with the locals. Right along the Gap (as it’s known by locals), you will find local bars and eateries to cater to all tastes.
During the day, St Lawrence seems like a completely different town! Much like Oistins, it is a laid-back beach town with a huge coastline that has plenty of space for visitors. It is even more tourist-oriented, so you’ll have less chance to mix with locals, it is a well-connected neighborhood and has some great tour companies.
Yellow Bird Hotel | Best Hotel in St Lawrence Gap
This colorful three-star hotel is a great choice for budget travelers that want the added comforts of staying in a hotel! All of their studios are self catering apartments with small kitchenettes.
A complimentary full English style breakfast is provided every morning, preparing you for the day ahead. They can also help you book golf, scuba diving, and various water sports.
Rio Guesthouse | Best Homestay in St Lawrence Gap
This is one for my broke backpackers! Rio Guesthouse is everything you need without any luxury trimmings. There are quiet street views, and a terrace, with the option of booking family rooms if you’re travelling as a crew.
The beach is within walking distance, you’ll be able to enjoy the south and west coasts from your St. Lawrence stay. While there aren’t self catering apartments at Rio Guesthouse, there’s tea and coffee facilities and enough space to make a sandwich.
Super Affordable Guesthouse | Best Airbnb in St Lawrence Gap
This stunning Guesthouse is one of the best budget options you’ll find in the area. Although the price is super low, you get to enjoy a super charming, clean, and well-equipped place that is just minutes from crane beach.
You’ll have the whole house to yourself, which offers enough room for three guests – so technically you could bring some friends along! It’s located on the host’s land, behind the residential property, so a quiet night is guaranteed.
Things to See and Do in St Lawrence Gap:
- Start your night off at the Boardwalk – a popular meeting spot where you can ‘BYOB’ and enjoy the sunset.
- Take a trip to see the underground limestone caverns of Harrison’s Cave.
- St Lawrence Gap is the main nightlife street in the district. The liveliest bars are located on the West coast, while the Eastern coast is better for restaurants and easy-going vibes.
- Worthing Beach is the place to be during the day, with astonishing coastal views and plenty of sun loungers to go around.
- Embark on a catamaran adventure from your Barbados hotel, snorkel with sea turtles, over shipwrecks, and with thousands of tropical fish, then feast on a delicious lunch and soak up sun rays on the deck.
- Check out the pink sand beach of Crane Beach.
- Bask in the beauty that is Worthing Beach.
- Rockley Beach has white sand and a huge selection of daytime restaurants
- Learn about Barbado’s military history at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Saint Peter – Best Neighborhood in Barbados for Families to Stay In
The west coast of Barbados is a little more upmarket than the larger resorts on the South coast. With exclusivity comes peace and quiet, making this a firm favorite with families visiting the area. You’ll have to splurge a little, but it’s totally worth it for the unspoiled beaches, gorgeous ocean views, and laid-back restaurants on offer.
Saint Peter is right at the end of the highway connecting Western Barbados with Bridgetown. Families will be comfortable in any of the towns and villages along the way, but Speightstown offers the best views and top elegant hotels. It’s also the perfect starting point for a road trip around the island for those that hire a rental car.
Little Good Harbour | Best Hotel in Saint Peter
As far as Barbados hotels go, this is a seriously good one to consider. Right on the east coast of Barbados, Maycock’s Bay, Heywoods Beach, and other incredible beaches are right on your doorstep. Enjoy the outdoor pool, relax in the garden, or take a day (or several) for the onsite spa. Go on, you deserve it.
Cobblers Cove | Best Luxury Hotel in Saint Peter
Cobblers Cove is an extravagant five-star luxury hotel, the perfect pick for families looking to splurge on an epic villa in Barbados! Rooms are beautifully decorated with traditional island designs, and the spacious outdoor pool is surrounded by sun loungers. Cobblers Cove is located right on the beach, so you won’t have to walk far to soak up the unique atmosphere of Speightstown.
Penthouse With Water View | Best Airbnb in Saint Peter
This stunning condo is a dream come true. Not only will you have turquoise water views from inside the home AND the wrap around balcony, but this condo also comes with pool access.
Water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding are possible right in the bay outside, your window, but you also won’t be too far from the beach. The condo has room for up to 6 guests, making it a particularly great choice for families or friend groups!
Things to See and Do in Speightstown:
- New Town Square is a great shopping destination featuring local boutiques and a small selection of international brands.
- Explore the former 17th-century Grenade Hall Plantation at the Farley Hill National Park.
- Head over to the Arlington House Museum to learn about the history of Barbados.
- Planning a trip in February? Head down to the Holetown Festival to enjoy colorful street food and locally organized parades.
- St James Parish Church is the oldest church in the country. Their services are open to visitors, providing a unique insight into island life.
5. Bathsheba – Most Adventurous Place to Stay in Barbados
Over on the rustic east coast of Barbados, you’ll find fewer tourist resorts, more charming villages dotted along the more rugged parts of the coastline. For those looking for something off the beaten path, this small region offers something totally unique. You’ll get a much more authentic insight into typical Bajan life here than anywhere else.
Bathsheba is the most popular village for those who venture to the east coast of the island. You will find most of the accommodation options here, there are also a few just outside the village, but still within walking distance. Tour buses are less frequent here, so you’ll have to get used to public transport.
Atlantis Historic Inn | Best Hotel in Bathsheba
The Atlantis Historic Inn is a beachfront hotel, ideal for your Barbados holiday. Start your day with a fine dining experience, with the fresh Barbadian buffet on offer daily on the balcony with panoramic ocean views. Enjoy the outdoor pool, on what feels like a private beach, listen to the waves roll in and out all day err’day, live the Caribbean dream.
There are three suites at the Atlantis Historic Inn, two with extra large beds and the third with a couple of singles too. This option is perfect if you’re travelling as a family or a small group. While there aren’t specific self catering facilities at Atlantis Historic Inn, there is a Barbeque so you can cook for yourself if you want to.
Rest Haven Beach Cottages | Best Homestay in Bathsheba
This hotel on Barbados’ rugged north coast gives you all the beach cottage vibes you could need! Enjoy ocean views and swaying palm trees from your own mini condo which comes with a patio and a seating area.
There’s also a fully stocked kitchenette for all your cooking needs, and free wifi. But if you want to go out, the town’s shops and restaurants aren’t too far to walk. Bedrooms are large and spacious, and the best part is you’ll quite literally be right on the beach!
Talking Trees House | Best Airbnb in Bathsheba
Surrounded by luscious forests and serene landscapes, this rustic cottage lets you escape society for a little while. The nearest village is a short walk away, so you’ll get a truly rural experience.
I love the porch area, which has a comfortable hammock where you can swing back and forth and admire the views. There’s a working farm nearby where you can visit the local animals.
Modern Rustic Beach House | Another Great Airbnb in Bathsheba
Wake up every morning to the sound of the waves. Sounds great? Then look no further than this amazing house. Located right by the beach, you’ll have unlimited views of the Caribbean Sea (technically the Atlantic, but, semantics).
What’s even better is the massive space this home offers its guests. The three bedrooms make space for up to six people, so absolutely ideal for families or groups that travel together. The area is very peaceful and safe, which makes it the perfect spot to stay with small kids.
Things to See and Do in Bathsheba:
- Harrison’s Cave is an accessible sea cave with regular guided tours. It does get quite dark, so don’t venture in without a quality headlamp!
- Head down to Bathsheba Beach, a secluded spot surrounded by rocky cliffs with some truly unspoiled views of the Caribbean.
- Take the railway to St. Nicholas Abbey and Rum Distillery.
- Get amongst typical cuisine and bottles of beer served on the weekly Friday night Fish Fries
- Head over to the Soup Bowl for some epic surfing!
- Walk amid the lush gardens full of tropical trees and flowers at the Andromeda Botanic Gardens.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs about Finding a Place to Stay in Barbados
Let’s do a quick-fire round on staying in tropical paradise.
What To Pack For Barbados
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
What are the best luxury hotels in Barbados?
Fairmont Royal Pavillion takes the crown for me. It’s fabulous and I will say, keep an eye out for off-season (April – November) deals. Lots of hotels and restaurants close during these months so if you do have a specific stay in mind I suggest checking with them.
What are the best beaches in Barbados?
Sandy Lane in Saint James is my favourite, but depending on where you’re staying you’ll find a local to love. I also spent time at Paynes Bay Beach which was stunning. Most of the Barbados beaches are long sweeping arcs of white sand meeting the calm crystalline waters of the Atlantic Ocean, you can’t go wrong.
The north coast is pretty rocky and cliffy but worth a visit to see the Animal Flower Cave!
Where to stay in Barbados for crop over?
Bridgetown is the one! You’ll have a ball at this festival, but make sure you book your accommodation ASAP Rocky – Like ASAP and Rihanna… get it?
If you want to carry on your Caribbean vacation, I recommend staying in Panama City for your next move. Become sloth-like and recharge under the stunning Caribbean sun.
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Barbados
There’s a good reason why Barbados is one of the best tropical island destinations in the world. And, one of the best places to go if you want a little break from your everyday. The sandy beaches, colourful streets, and endless sunshine will make sure your worries melt away.
It can get a little pricey, but it’s totally worth it and you definitely deserve it!
If I had to pick one neighbourhood that really stands out, I’d have to go with Oistins! This vibrant town strikes the perfect balance between laid-back charm and plenty of things to do. It’s really the perfect way to sample a little bit of everything Barbados has to offer for a tropical getaway.
Little Arches Boutique is one of my favourite Barbados hotels. Explore the sandy beaches of the south and west coasts and go exploring historic sights with all the luxury.
That being said, wherever is best for you really depends on what you want to get out of your trip. If you need a more budget accommodation option, less boutique hotel, more homestay vibes, Rio Guesthouse is your joint.
I hope this guide has helped you make the all-important decision on where to stay in Barbados.
Also, just be slightly cautious of weather safety. While it’s a very safe destination, the Caribbean does experience hurricane season, so bear this in mind when planning your trip.
Now get those holiday clothes ready!
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect villa in Barbados.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Eco Lodges in Barbados instead.
- There are plenty more Caribbean Islands to visit after you’ve visited Barbados.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Barbados.
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