While cruising the Caribbean, visit Barbados for a shore excursion and scenic island tour of Barbados to experience our many sightseeing options.

Many of our visitors come off cruise ships and are here for only one day, which is too short a time to see all that the island has to offer.

However, Barbados is full of options for one-day shore excursions or short visits, which are sure to leave you itching to come back for a more extended stay.

Shopping

If you are the type of person, who wants to go shopping, visit places near the port such as Pelican Village or Cheapside Market, where an array of the local craft may entice you. The port is located in the heart of Barbados’ capital city, Bridgetown, across the street from the Pelican Village.

Many tourists also venture out towards the Earthworks pottery complex taking in the scenery along the way. Here you will find spectacular working pottery with tile mosaics decorating the exterior walls.

Earthworks’ pieces are each unique and functional pieces of art. The earthworks complex also offers an array of Bajan crafts, mainly the pottery itself, but also a local batik artist and an art gallery along with a restaurant with Barbadian cuisine.

Also up at the Earthworks complex is the Ins and Outs of Barbados Gift Emporium where visitors will find high quality traditional Bajan condiments, rum cakes, cookies, and confectionary, uniquely packaged for gift giving.

It doesn’t stop at tasty treats; you can browse through a selection of Barbados coffee table books while relaxing in a comfortable reading area, or browse the beautiful range of linen tablecloths, napkins, and kitchen towels to complement Earthworks tableware.

Beaches and Water Sports

Not much of a shopper? How about spending the day relaxing at one of our beautiful beaches? Barbados is surrounded by 70 miles of glorious, palm-fringed, white sand beaches, so you’ll have no shortage of choice when it comes to sand, sea, and sun.

Visit the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea on the west coast or the pounding surf of the island’s rugged Atlantic coastline where surfers make their home or something in between on the south coast. Days can be spent as leisurely or as action-packed as you choose.

Looking for water sports? If so, check out The Boatyard in the south for a day of fun in the sun. Jet Ski’s are also available to rent for approx. BBD 100 for 30 minutes.

Day Cruises

Perhaps one of the best ways to spend a day in Barbados is to take a trip on any of the multitudes of catamarans available to you while in Barbados. Each tour company varies their tours slightly, but the general package is about 4 hours long and includes lunch and free-flowing drinks all day long.

Most Barbados catamaran cruises set sail from Bridgetown to head north, making a few different stops along the west coast: one to snorkel on a natural reef or a sunken ship, one for lunch and a lazy swim, and one to swim with the turtles. Don’t have equipment? Don’t worry; it’s all provided for you.

Transportation can be arranged from the cruise ship port to any of your chosen destinations.

For more information on sailing, cruises refer to our Barbados Sailing page.

Sightseeing and Tourist Attractions

Other sightseeing options that will appeal to kids and adults alike and may give you an insight into our flavourful culture include:

Harrison’s Cave is a must for all visitors. Considered by many as ‘one of the wonders of the world’ Harrison’s Cave is an experience to remember. Journey into the core of the island aboard a tram, and witness the miracle of nature as you venture past underwater rivers and waterfalls. The stalactites and stalagmites are beautiful beyond description. Telephone: (246) 438-6640

The Animal Flower Cave is a sea cave set in the depths of rugged cliffs boarding the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors the rare opportunity to explore large caverns, view unusual rock formations and perhaps catch a glimpse of some sea anemones under the watchful eye of a guide. Telephone: (246) 439-8797

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is nestled in a mahogany forest in the parish of St. Peter where you will find a tremendous number of birds and animals hidden throughout the foliage. The Reserve includes mongoose, deer, agouti, hares, porcupines, tortoises, pelicans, flamingos, peacocks and more! Most of the animals are allowed to roam freely through the reserve – except the Pythons, Boas, Caymans and a few others who are best kept at arm’s length! Telephone: (246) 422-8826

The Barbados Museum was originally a British Military Prison and is over 70 years old. Divided into various galleries, the Museum is a trove of unique treasures. The Children’s Gallery offers an exciting medley of ancient ships, a doll’s house and much more! There are also period costumes available for the children to dress up in – a wonderful picture moment for parents and children to cherish as a souvenir of their holiday. Telephone: (246) 427-0201

Any of these options showcase the beauty and heritage of our island home and are sure to entice you to return for a longer vacation.