Bridgetown is the capital city of Barbados which is a Southern Caribbean island with a population of approximately 288,201 according to worldometers at the time of publication.
Barbados is also home to the international singer and entrepreneur, Rihanna with easy access to major international cities.
In this article, we explore 9 exciting things to do in Bridgetown which will give you greater insight into the island’s history, culture and natural beauty of Barbados.
1. Visit Harrison Caves
This is truly an amazing natural wonder and the most popular attraction in Barbados.
This excursion allows visitors to explore inside the cave via trams where you can see stalactites and stalagmite formation.
There is a visitor centre where you can buy local souvenirs as well as refreshments.
2. Go Duty Free Shopping
There are numerous jewelery stores in Bridgetown which offers the option for duty free shopping.
One of the best locations in the city for duty free purchases is Cave Shepherd. Goods such as perfumes, jewelery, books, clothing and other items all available at duty free prices.
For high end luxury shopping, Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in Holetown has premium retail stores such as Ralph Lauren, Gucci and Cartier.
3. Try The Local Fast Food Chefette
Barbados has its own unique fast food chain called Chefette Restaurant Limited operating from fourteen locations island wide.
The restaurant chain serves sandwiches, rotis, chicken meals and pizza as well as sides such as French fries.
Delivery is available island wide and there are also locations in the heart of the city. Deserts such as ice cream and lollies are available.
4. Relax At Brighton Beach
This beach is nearest to the cruise port in Barbados and is approximately 10 to 15 minutes walking distance.
There are changing rooms and showers as well as a restaurant available. This beach is well loved for its relatively calm waters which makes it a great spot for children.
Brighton Beach Club is a restaurant located on this beach which serves snacks, drinks, cocktails and meals.
5. Explore Accra Beach
Accra Beach, also called Rockley Beach is about 6 km from the Barbados Cruise Terminal.
With turquoise waters and sands as delicate as silk, this south coast shore is genuinely among the most incredible things to do in Barbados.
Accra Beach is also a perfect location for families especially children due its shallow waters.
A vibrant retail space complete with kiosks offering food and cold drinks is located nearby.
Surfboards and boogie boards are available for rent. Furthermore, the seaside has excellent waves perfect for windsurfing and body boarding.
Most importantly, explore the famous Barbados Boardwalk. There are several local restaurants and fast food locations.
Supermarkets, apparel stores, gas stations and pharmacies are also located in this vicinity.
6. Stroll Over Chamberlain Bridge
This bridge is located in the middle of the city. Previously, the bridge was a swing bridge which was built between 1865 and 1872.
The bridge was named in honor of Joseph Chamberlain who was the British Secretary of State for the overseas colonies.
7. Watch A Cricket Match At Kensington Oval
Cricket is a major sporting activity on the island of Barbados due to its British heritage.
There are various cricket clubs on the islands that engage in regular competitions among themselves.
There is also a local cricket team that represents the island in various regional matches.
International cricket competitions are hosted at Kensington Oval with the West Indies competing against countries such as India, Bangladesh, England, Australia and Pakistan.
Many visitors to the Caribbean usually plan their trips to coincide with these international matches.
8. Watch A Horse Racing At The Garrison
The Garrison was established in 1780 and was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2011.
It serves as the headquarters of the Barbados Defense Force and the Barbados Coast Guard Force.
The Garrison Savannah is the venue of the Sandy Lane Gold Cup which is one of the biggest horse racing event in the Eastern Caribbean.
The race usually occurs every March at the Garrison Savannah which attracts jockeys, trainers and thoroughbred from other Caribbean islands and around the world.
9. Visit the Barbados Museum Society
Also located in the Garrison, this building was a former British Military Prison and is a perfect outing for individuals of all ages.
Some of the key displays include a collection of historical maps, furniture from a plantation house and a children’s gallery.
The museum is usually closed on public holidays and is opened only in the afternoons on Sundays.
Final Thoughts
We trust that you found this information particularly if you are exploring the island for a short period of time.
Barbados is located outside the hurricane belt and is rarely affected by tropical storms.
Nevertheless, it is advisable to consider travel insurance as the island has experienced the effects of passing tropical systems.
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