Most tourists stick to Barbados famous hotspots, but we stumbled upon these hidden gems that became the best parts of our vacation.
Animal Flower Cave
This was a beautiful sea cave we found at the northernmost tip of the island. It wasn’t just the sheer cliffs and ocean views that had amazed us. It was stepping into the cave. The natural water pools are like something out of a science fiction movie. We even saw some sea anemones (the “flowers” in the name). My husband claims it’s the best sight he’s ever seen, from the top of the cave, looking out over the Atlantic.
Hunte’s Gardens
If you’re looking for peace and beauty, then this place is magical. Hunte’s Gardens is tucked away in the hills and feels like a secret backdoor to an underground garden. It’s green and beautiful and so quiet you can hear the birds chirping.
We got to meet the owner, Anthony Hunte, who welcomed us like we were old friends and shared the history of his garden. Sitting on a bench surrounded by mother nature was the highlight of our visit
Bathsheba Rock Pools
We nearly skipped Bathsheba entirely because it’s on the rougher east coast and far away from touristy things. But it was well worth the visit! Its waves roll spectacularly over huge boulders, and the rock pools are great for a dip. We had an afternoon out on the beach, and I still remember how refreshing it was to sit in the shade with my feet dipping into the water.
Oistins fish fry
Everyone talks about Oistins Fish Fry and rightfully so, but what made it magical for us was going on a week night when it was less crowded. The atmosphere was still vibrant but it wasn’t overflowing. We ordered plates of grilled mahi-mahi and flying fish, sat down at a picnic table and listened to the music. My husband danced with a sweet older lady, who told us everything about life on the island.
Welchman Hall Gully
This hidden gem is a little patch of jungle that is nestled somewhere in the middle of the island. We walked through trees and greenery and passed the cheeky green monkeys. It was so nice to get away from the beach and explore. We had the place all to ourselves. The coolest discovery? The area used to be a cave system that collapsed.
Speightstown’s quiet charm
This coastal village is overlooked by travelers. Speightstown is quaint with pastel colonial buildings and surprisingly devoid of other tourists. We stumbled upon a small cafe where the proprietor served up the coconut bread we dream about to this day. We sat on a bench by the water, drank coffee and talked story with the locals. We discovered a completely different side of Barbados.
Cherry Tree Hill
You simply can’t beat the view from Cherry Tree Hill. While it is a little off the beaten path, we highly recommend driving to the east coast of the island. The hills, the rolling sugar cane fields, & the beautiful ocean in all its glory. It really does feel like you stepped into a postcard. We packed a lil picnic lunch and sat and soaked it all in.
