Where to Stay in Barbados • 7 TOP Areas + Hotel Guide

Aye, aye, captain! Welcome to the island of rum, stunning beaches, and green monkeys! Oh yes, when it comes to tropical destinations, Barbados sure gives the other islands a run for their money! I know this must sound appealing to you, so you’ve probably begun wondering about where to stay in Barbados; if so, you’re in the right place! 

I took the time to compare all the different parts of the island and create the ultimate list of the 7 top places to stay in Barbados. 

Barbados is divided into 11 historic political parishes, all named after saints. In this post, you’ll see a mixture of popular towns and parishes situated on all sides of the island: South, West, North, and East. 

The ultimate spot for your stay in Barbados (also called the Gem of the Caribbean Sea) is Christ Church, situated on the island’s South Coast. This parish boasts amazing beaches, has a vibrant nightlife scene, and offers a variety of fun activities – perfect if you’re visiting Barbados for the first time. 

To make things easier during your trip planning process, I also singled out the best Barbados hotels in each of the recommended areas; there’s something for every type of traveler and budget. 

However, if you want to get the best deals on 5-star resorts or even budget hotels, you have to book in advance – Barbados is a popular destination, and places sell out fast!

Let’s hit the beach now!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Check out this list of the best places to stay in Barbados, all located in Christ Church:

Here’s a map to help you visualize the 7 best areas to stay in Barbados:

1. South Coast – the best place to stay in Barbados for variety

Whether you want a tranquil retreat, booming nightlife, or you’re just after some delicious Caribbean food or want to try some Barbados vacation sports, the South Coast has got you covered! 

1.1 Christ Church – where to stay in Barbados for the first time

The Christ Church parish is situated on the South Coast of Barbados, and it’s home to some of the most popular vacation spots on the islands, such as Oistins and Saint Lawrence Gap. In Christ Church, you can enjoy everything from beaches with calm waters that are ideal for swimming to more tumultuous water that offers the best surfing opportunities, as well as some of the best hotels in Barbados, amazing cafes, and cool beach bars. 

It doesn’t make much of a difference whether you decide to stay around Oistins or Saint Lawrence Gap, as they are a mere 8-minute drive away from each other. I strongly recommend you explore both during your time on the island, as they have plenty to offer in terms of beaches, nightlife, and culinary delights. 

TIP: to fully experience Barbados, rent a car and explore as much as you can of the island – it shouldn’t be too difficult. Driving the length of the island from South to North (or vice versa) takes only an hour, and locals say that wherever you are on the island – even inland in St George and St. Thomas – you’re never more than a 20-minute drive away from a beach. 

Now, let’s return to Oistins because we’ve got lots to talk about! First up, the beaches! The most popular beach for swimming and sunbathing on this part of the island is Miami Beach (map), while Maxwell Beach (map) is another great spot to spend a relaxing day under the sun or even take a sailboat out on the water. 

The Oistins Fish Market (map) is a must-visit while you’re here, as this is where you’ll find the freshest and most delicious seafood on the island. And if you happen to be in Oistins on a Friday, a top priority would be to eat fish fry – everyone from the island gathers here for a Friday fish fry during the weekend!

The Grantley Adams International Airport is located just outside the city, so if you were wondering where to stay to be close to the airport, Oistins is the ultimate choice for that. 

Saint Lawrence Gap is situated just West of Oistins, and it’s one of the most popular areas of the island. Here, Dover Beach (map) is THE spot for swimming, but also for jet skiing and windsurfing, so if that sounds like something you’d enjoy, be sure to hit this beach. 

Christ Church has plenty more to offer, so I suggest you take your time to explore. But I’d like to bring a few more things to your attention, such as The Richard Haynes Boardwalk (map), an amazing spot for seaside walks, and Champers Restaurant Barbados (map), the ultimate place to enjoy a meal with a view. 

Other accommodation options in Christ Church

Things to do in Christ Church

• Go for a swim at Miami Beach and Maxwell Beach
• Visit the Oistins Fish Market and attend Fish Fry Friday
• Spend a day at Dover Beach in Saint Lawrence Gap
• Embark on a full-day tour of the island
• Take a relaxing walk along The Richard Haynes Boardwalk
• Enjoy a meal with a view at Champers Restaurant Barbados

1.2 St. Philip – where to stay in Barbados for couples

Located 8 miles (12 km) away from Christ Church on the Southeast coast of Barbados, St. Philip is the largest parish on the island and perfect for anyone seeking peace and tranquility. You’ll still bump into tourists and find several attractions, but the atmosphere is much calmer, so I recommend it as the best area to stay in Barbados for couples. 

So grab your favorite book and head to the beach to relax and swim! The blue water at Deborah Bay (map) and the rocky surroundings will help you forget all about your day-to-day problems and enjoy these special days in Barbados. Crane Beach (map) is another stunning spot, and you should definitely spend at least a day here!

If you’ve had enough of the relaxing part and you’re ready to explore around, then head to the Sunbury Plantation (map), a stunning 1600s estate that is surrounded by beautiful lush gardens. Another big attraction in St. Philip is the Bushy Park, a racing circuit where you can watch the races and even book your own karting experience. 

Finally, I have to talk about one of Barbados’ hidden gems, found right here in the St. Philip parish – Foul Bay Beach (map). Even though the name may suggest otherwise, this beach is anything but foul – it’s a gorgeous, serene beach that hasn’t yet been discovered by too many tourists, so if you want a romantic day without the crowds, this is the place to be. 

Now, let’s check the best places to stay in St. Philip!

Other accommodation options in St. Philip

Things to do in St. Philip

• Read a book and relax on the beach at Deborah Bay
• Visit the historical house on Sunbury Plantation
• Attend a car racing event at Bushy Park
• Take a stroll in Three Houses Park (map)
• Explore Crane Beach and Foul Bay
• Spot some cute animals at the Marizayra Sanctuary Experience Barbados (map)

1.3 Bridgetown – nicest part of Barbados for history

Bridgetown, Barbados’ capital city, is located on the Southwest coast of the island. It’s an excellent spot for people who want to learn more about the island’s culture and past. Bridgetown is located in the St. Michael Parish, and it’s home to many museums, the Parliament buildings, and a few beaches.

If you’re looking for a full-rounded experience during your holiday and you don’t want to spend ALL your time on the beach, I think you’ll like Bridgetown. As the central commercial point of the island, you can expect the area to be more crowded than the others, but you can always escape the crowd at the beach near Carlisle Bay (map) or Brownes Beach (map).

This port town is known for its British colonial architecture, and the Parliament Buildings (map) are a great starting point if you’re interested in architecture, and the Barbados Museum & Historical Society is a must-visit if you’re interested in the island’s history. 

Make sure you grab a grapefruit juice or delicious island cocktail while you’re here because grapefruit actually originated in Barbados! Delicious history, just how I like it! But even if you’re not into fruits, I guarantee you will still find something to do in Bridgetown, Barbados, at all times!

If you’re visiting Barbados during the summer months (end of May to middle of August), you’ll be just in time for the Crop Over Festival, an annual celebration that takes place all around the island. However, the best area to stay in Barbados for Crop Over is Bridgetown, as Bridgetown Market is the biggest street fair of the festival. 

Other accommodation options in Bridgetown

Things to do in Bridgetown

• Relax on Brownes Beach (map) or hit the beach at Carlisle Bay
• Check out the Kensington Oval cricket ground (map)
• Visit the Parliament Buildings and admire the architecture
• Learn about history at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society
• Explore the Bridgetown Market during the Crop Over Festival
• Enjoy a walk around the National Botanical Gardens (map)

2. West Coast – where to stay in Barbados for the best beaches

Craving the beach vacation of your dreams? Well, then, the West Coast of Barbados is the ideal destination for you, offering

2.1 St. James – where to stay in Barbados for luxury

Known as the island’s ‘Platinum Coast,’ Saint James is located on the West Coast of Barbados, just 12 miles (20 km) from Christ Church, and it’s where celebrities usually stay when they vacation in the Caribbean islands. The atmosphere is always lively here, and there’s plenty to do – both day and night. 

FUN FACT: Some famous people who were spotted here include the Beckhams and Simon Cowell! As you can imagine, St. James Parish is home to some of the best and most expensive Barbados resorts, making it perfect for those of you who want to splurge during this holiday.

St James offers lots of activities, golf courses, and several polo courses. Plus, an opportunity to learn more about the island’s history at St James Parish Church (map). However, if you prefer a more laid-back atmosphere, I suggest chilling on the beach. Sandy Lane Beach (map) and Paynes Bay Beach (map) are the 2 best ones in the parish.

There are many restaurants in St. James where you can indulge in fine dining; The Tides Barbados (map) offers the most romantic views, and The Cliff (map) serves the most delicious cocktails. Holestown is a small city in the St. James parish, but it shouldn’t be overlooked! Be sure to check out the Folkestone Marine Park & Visitors’ Centre (map), where you can see a marine life exhibit or bring your own equipment and go snorkeling for free. And if you want to do some last-minute shopping, Limegrove Lifestyle Centre (map) won’t disappoint you!

Other accommodation options in St. James

Things to do in St. James

• Visit the St. James Parish Church
• Bask on the beach at Paynes Bay and Sandy Lane
• Have dinner at The Tides Barbados or grab a cocktail at The Cliff
• Book a golfing session at the Sandy Lane Country Club (map)
• Go snorkeling at the Folkestone Marine Park & Visitors’ Centre
• Do some shopping at the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre

2.2 St. Peter – where to stay in Barbados for a local vibe

The parish of St. Peter extends across the island, from the West to the East Coast, and is situated a 40-minute drive North of Christ Church. In the Western part of the parish, you’ll find some great beaches and amazing beach bars, as well as a couple of towns that will allow you to experience the island’s local atmosphere. 

Speightstown is the most prominent town in the parish and the second-largest town on the island. I highly recommend you take at least a day to explore the town as it has plenty to offer; start your day at the lovely Heywoods Beach (map), a great swimming spot, and to end the day, grab a drink at Fisherman’s Pub (map) and enjoy the spectacular sunset. 

Speightstown is nicknamed ‘Little Bristol’; the town got the nickname because its bustling port was used to facilitate trade with Bristol in the United Kingdom. 

Moving on from Speightstown, you should keep exploring the rest of St. Peter! Don’t miss your chance to go for a swim at Mullins Beach (map), meet the animals at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, and taste some delicious local rum accompanied by a history lesson at the St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway. 

Other accommodation options in St. Peter

Things to do in St. Peter

• Enjoy a swim at Heywoods Beach
• Treat yourself to a drink at the Fisherman’s Pub at sunset
• Spend a relaxing day on Mullins Beach
• Explore the Farley Hill National Park (map)
• Visit the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
• Go rum tasting at the St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

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3. North Coast – best area to stay in Barbados for tranquility

Want to enjoy the beauty of Barbados without dealing with the tourist crowds? If you’re not looking for nightlife and luxury resorts but instead want to unwind in a serene atmosphere, then the island’s North Coast is the perfect fit for you. 

St. Lucy – where to stay off the beaten path in Barbados

St. Lucy is the Northernmost parish in Barbados, and also the only parish on the island to be named after a female saint. It’s situated 23 miles (37 km) North of Christ Church and has a very quiet and laid-back atmosphere, as well as some very cool landmarks. 

The main point of interest on this part of the island is the Animal Flower Cave & Restaurant (map), an amazing cave that’s accessible through steps. Here, you can swim in the natural rock pools and admire the so-called ‘animal flowers’; once you’re done exploring the cave, you can have a delicious meal at the restaurant located above the cave. 

If you want to admire some more of the stunning (although rocky) coastline, head to Little Bay (map) and enjoy the unique rock formations. And if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, venture out to Cove Bay (map), but I have to warn you that it’s a bit difficult to get to, seeing as the road is quite rocky and you can’t drive all the way there. 

The Harrison’s Point Light House (map) is another one of St. Lucy’s most prominent landmarks; you can climb to the top of this lighthouse and enjoy some great views of Barbados!

My final recommendation for your stay in St.Lucy is a visit to the Mount Gay Rum Distillery (map), a historic distillery offering tours and rum tastings. 

Did you know that Barbados produces the oldest rum in the world? Mount Gay Rum dates back to 1703!

NOTE: as I mentioned, this part of the island is off the beaten track, so you won’t come upon any luxurious accommodations. If you want a high-end holiday, check out my recommendations for St. James on the island’s West Coast. 

Other accommodation options in St. Lucy

Things to do in St. Lucy

• Pay a visit to the Animal Flower Cave & Restaurant
• Admire the rocky coastline at Little Bay
• Go out to Cove Bay and enjoy the scenery
• Climb up to the top of the Harrison’s Point Light House
• Do a rum tasting at Mount Gay Rum Distillery

4. East Coast – best spot for connecting with nature

The East Coast is home to the best areas to stay in Barbados if you want to explore the lush side of the island. You’ll come across several botanical gardens full of gorgeous plants, great hiking trails, and some nice beaches, too. 

St. Joseph – where to stay in Barbados with family

The parish of St. Joseph is situated on the island’s East Coast, between the parishes of St. Andrew and St. John, and 12 miles (20 km) North of Christ Church. This parish has a calmer atmosphere than many of the others on the island and offers plenty of fun activities, which is why it’s my top pick for family stays in Barbados. 

Bathsheba is the main fishing village in the parish, and you should definitely pay some attention to it, especially if you’re into surfing. Bathsheba Park (map) has a rocky yet very scenic beach, which is also one of the top surfing spots on the island. 

Botanic gardens are the main highlights of the St. Joseph parish, and you won’t regret visiting either the Flower Forest Botanical Gardens (map) or the Andromeda Botanic Gardens (map). But another spot you shouldn’t overlook is Hunte’s Gardens (map), another amazing, lush garden that’s home to a variety of exotic plants. 

If you like to keep active on your vacation, go hiking in Coco Hill Forest (map); the trails are easy to moderate difficulty, so you shouldn’t have any trouble, even if you’re going with kids. Just bring comfortable, waterproof shoes for your hike; it rains more often in the forest, so some of the trails can be muddy. 

Lastly, I have to give you another recommendation, which I’m sure you’ll appreciate: venture further inland to Saint Thomas and visit Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park. This is essentially an adventure park within an underground cavern that can be explored by tram. There are also plenty of above-ground activities, and I can promise the kids will love it!

NOTE: just like in St.Lucy, you won’t find any luxury hotels or resorts in St. Joseph. If you want to treat yourself for your Barbados vacation but still be close to the East Coast, check out the upscale accommodations in the nearby parish of St. Philip. 

Other accommodation options in St. Joseph

Things to do in St. Joseph

• Go surfing on the beach at Bathsheba Park
• Pay a visit to the Flower Forest Botanical Gardens and Hunte’s Gardens
• Spend an afternoon exploring the Andromeda Botanic Gardens
• Venture out to the St. John Parish and see St. John’s Parish Church (map)
• Do some hiking in Coco Hill Forest
• Have a fun family day at the Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park

FAQs about lodging in Barbados

📍 Which is the best part of Barbados to stay?

The best place to stay in Barbados, especially if you’re visiting for the first time, is the parish of Christ Church, where you’ll find stunning beaches, great nightlife spots, and amazing hotels, such as the Little Arches Boutique Hotel and the South Gap Hotel.

💯 Where is the safest place to stay in Barbados?

All the areas along the South and West Coasts of the island, as well as all the other areas featured in this post, are completely safe. 

⭐ Is it worth going all-inclusive in Barbados?

Going all-inclusive in Barbados is totally worth it! You can relax, eat, and drink without breaking the bank every day, all while enjoying the island vibes to the fullest!

🏖️ Which side of Barbados has the best beaches?

The West Coast of Barbados is home to many of the island’s best beaches, like Sandy Lane Beach, Paynes Bay Beach, and Heywoods Beach.

🚫 What should I avoid in Barbados?

Avoid isolated areas, including the beaches after dark, and walking alone at night, especially in secluded parts of the island.

💵 Is Barbados very expensive?

Barbados is one of the more expensive islands in the Caribbean, but the prices are still reasonable when compared to other popular travel destinations. The island also offers a good selection of budget accommodations, so you can still plan a Barbados holiday on a budget.

🚗 Do you need a car in Barbados?

Yes, if you want to fully experience island life and culture, you’ll need a car. Definitely rent a car and drive along the coast to enjoy the scenic views and explore the gorgeous beaches.

📅 What is the best month to go to Barbados?

The best month to visit Barbados is January when the weather is warm and dry, and there are approximately 9 hours of sunshine every day.

🤔 Is Aruba or Barbados better?

Barbados is a larger island, so it offers more variety in terms of beaches and water sports. Aruba, on the other hand, is the smaller island of the two and has a drier climate and more outdoor adventure activities.

Final words on where to stay in Barbados

Already daydreaming about the beaches and resorts in Barbados? I’m sure we all are! I hope this post helped you decide where to stay in Barbados and which hotels and resorts to book. 

The post offers you so many options, and it’s hard to make a decision when you go on a holiday in Barbados, so here are my top 2 favorite places to stay to help you make up your mind, both located in Christ Church:

• Little Arches Boutique Hotel – a beachfront hotel that has 2 outdoor pools and an amazing restaurant on-site
• South Gap Hotel – boasting nicely decorated rooms, this hotel offers free parking and access to a bar and restaurant

I highly recommend booking your hotel well ahead of your trip, as the accommodations in Barbados sell out months in advance.

If you have any questions about Barbados’ best resorts or anything else about traveling to the island, feel free to comment below, and I’ll answer as quickly as possible. 

Enjoy your island adventure,

Hristina

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