Beautiful beaches, clear blue waters and tropical colonial charm: the island of Barbados is your top destination for a Caribbean getaway!
One of the Caribbean’s most elegant islands, the Commonwealth nation of Barbados has inherited Britain’s customs while infusing them with unique West Indian flair.
Natural beauty abounds, as well as historical sites, but the island’s strong point are its stunning beaches: white and pink coral sand set off the bright turquoise of the warm ocean water, often calm enough to swim and splash in the surf.
Plan on staying several days, as you’ll want to soak in the laid-back vibe of the island while having enough time for both relaxing and sightseeing.
Hotels and resorts in Barbados are plentiful, and are located all around the island; there are many choices for all budgets and traveling styles, so choose your favorite.
We have selected some of the top accommodation in Barbados for you, according to guests reviews and travel enthusiast opinions: book with confidence and start planning your great vacation in this tropical island.
The Crane Resort ****
Having operated continuously since 1887, this resort hotel can boast the title of the oldest in the Caribbean. The Crane Residential Resort is downright huge, offering all the amenities you could wish for, and yet it remains tasteful and relaxing, without the “commercial” feel that mega-resorts sometimes have.
Located on the eastern end of the island of Barbados, just off the main road, one of its top selling points is the all-inclusive package that few other resorts actually offer. The atmosphere can be as tranquil or as lively as you wish: head over to the pool complex bar or the village area to socialize while enjoying a drink, or find a quiet nook along the stunning beachfront or one of the property’s 5 enormous swimming pools.
Most rooms have a kitchen or kitchenette, and top-range suites also have private pools. Another interesting feature is the time-share option, which allows guests that intend to visit often to actually own a portion of the resort, with exclusive perks and services.
Bougainvillea Barbados ****
This mid-range resort is located on the south coast of Barbados, and is a popular pick with families and groups for many great reasons, first of all its open and welcoming layout that never feels crowded. The beautiful quarter-mile stretch of beach makes the Bougainvillea a fantastic location for a destination wedding. Whether you like relaxing in the pool with a drink at the swim-up bar, or splashing under the waterfall with the kids, the resort’s 3 pools will keep you entertained; water sports enthusiasts will also enjoy the many activities offered at this eco-conscious resort (snorkeling equipment and kayaks are free to use).
You can dine at 2 restaurants along the water, or even take advantage of the kitchen or kitchenette in your room by hiring a private chef, for the ultimate romantic personalized meal experience.
Adulo apartments **
If all inclusive resorts make you feel too fenced-in, an independent apartment can be the perfect solution for a more adventurous vacation experience!
Adulo Apartments come highly recommended, with excellent cleaning service, comfortable beds, terraces and kitchens; friendly reception staff make it easy to arrange car rentals, book tours, and find anything else you may need during your stay.
Located near the South Coast of Barbados, you’ll find plenty of services and entertainment options just a short walk away: from the beach to the restaurants, from supermarkets and banks to bars and nightclubs, you’ll find that this accommodation option is convenient as well as affordable.
The property unfortunately does not have its own swimming pool, but it is so close to the famously breathtaking Accra Beach that you probably won’t miss it anyway.
Sunbay Hotel ***
This budget-friendly hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk away from the lively St. Lawrence Gap neighborhood, but don’t be fooled by its central location: the Sunbay Hotel is a fantastic place to unwind and relax. The open-air tropical courtyard features a relaxing swimming pool within a lush garden; hop on over to sister resort Barbados Beach Club for free use of their facilities and lounge chairs on the beach, as well as plenty of water sports for the more adventurous type.
The hotel does have a restaurant on-site, but we highly recommend taking a stroll down to Oistins Fish Fry for a classic seafood experience, or explore St. Lawrence Gap and its multitude of street vendors and night-time entertainment.
Accra Beach Hotel & Spa ****
The tropical, easy-going atmosphere of this large resort is the first thing that guests notice, with its huge outdoor pool and breathtaking beach on the South Coast of the island of Barbados. With over 200 spacious rooms, many with pool or ocean views, the Accra Beach Hotel is located strategically close to restaurants and shops, yet feels wonderfully laid back. Nightly karaoke, cocktail parties and a beach bar that locals love make for great evening entertainment and for a casual, relaxing stay.
2 fine-dining options and one buffet-style restaurant make it easy to have a great meal, especially if your stay is a “half-board” package, although reviewers recommend exploring the many excellent food venues nearby. Splurge for an ocean view room if you can, it’s really worth it.
Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados ****
A white sandy beach on calm, clear blue ocean waters: the waterfront at the Radisson Aquatica is exactly what you are dreaming of when you picture your Barbados vacation destination! Being a part of an international chain has its upsides and downsides; the cookie-cutter decor may feel a little impersonal a times, but the standard of service, amenities, cleanliness and overall experience is consistently high — peace of mind is always great while traveling!
Located just minutes away from the center of Barbados capital Bridgetown, this resort is ideal if you want to find a balance between historical sightseeing and lounging on the beach. The swimming pool may be on the small side, but the peaceful sandy beach is just a few steps away. The grill restaurant serves both the beachfront sundeck and the pool area, so you can enjoy lunch in tropical paradise.
Infinity On The Beach ***
Minutes away from St. Lawrence Gap, and located right on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Barbados, this newly-renovated hotel consistently gets top reviews from happy guests. 2 outdoor pools and the oceanfront location on Dover Beach are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying a refreshing cocktail at the beachside bar; more adventurous types can go check out the water sports equipment for some fun in the ocean.
If you’re planning on sightseeing, the closest public bus stop is just a few blocks away, and both Bridgetown and Holetown (the English settlers’ first landing site) are less than 30 minutes away. Even though there are plenty of dining choices within easy walking distance, the on-site restaurant and bar makes an easy and tasty choice, while enjoying the view of tropical turquoise water on snow white sand.
The Caribbean islands are all worth a visit, but Barbados truly stands out as one of the most peaceful, relaxing and ideal for your perfect vacation! Our picks for top hotels in Barbados will surely help you find the right fit for you: start dreaming of sandy beaches and blue waters, an unforgettable tropical vacation is within your reach!
