Top 5 Things to do in Barbados (if you are only here for one day)

We know that many travelers only get to spend one single day on the island because cruise ships are a very popular choice amongst individuals. We have been getting a lot of "what is the BEST thing to do if I/we are only in Barbados for one day" queries. The best thing to do really depends on your personality type, so Melanie and myself decided to do a small questionnaire among various locals to come up with the top five things to do in Barbados (if you are only here for one day).

 Activity # 5 - A day cruise - There are many catamaran boats that offer a day cruise where you can to swim with turtles, explore sunken ships and sip on some classic Barbadian rum punch. About 11% of locals said they would like to see Barbados underwater if they were here one day and so may you. Three catamarans we would recommend are Jammin', Tiami or Cool Runnings.

Turtle Swimming in Barbados

Activity # 4 -  Harrison's Cave - This magnificent crystallized limestone cavern is a hit amongst both locals and visitors. It is claimed to be one of the wonders of the world with its pure waters and flowing streams which aided in the formation of the stalactites and stalagmites.  Approximately 15% of locals said if they were here for one day this is what they would like to see and experience. Especially with their new eco-adventure tour you actually get to hike through the cave itself!

Harrison's Cave, Barbados

Activity # 3 - A taste of local cuisine -  A surprising 17% of the locals we interviewed said something along the lines of "dey mus tase we food an drink we drink" translated to mean you have to enjoy something that it authentic to Barbados, whether it be flying fish and cou-cou, pudding and souse, cutters, breadfruit, macoroni pie, coconut, pepper sauce, peas n rice etc.

Flying Fish, Barbados

Activity # 2 - Enjoy a day at the beach - Barbados is known for their beaches and many locals (about 21%) recommended one day visitors to relax by the water's edge and soak up the sun that Barbados has "blessed we with". Harbour lights has a great beach day planned for cruise passengers that simply want to wind down and enjoy the sheer beauty that Barbados offers.

Beach Day in Barbados

Activity # 1 - Tour the island - This can either be by car or bus, and majority of locals recommended  visitors do this on their one day stop! If you are more of the adventurous type rent a car for the day and explore the island by map. On the other hand if you don't want the responsibility of driving or have a fear of getting lost, there are many tour companies such as Coconut Tours, Island Safari and Adventureland which do the driving for you! Some of the sights that you have to see are Cherry Tree Hill, Cove Bay, Morgan Lewis Windmill, Hackletons Cliff, St. Johns Parish Church, St. Joseph Parish Church, Bathsheba and Cattlewash.

Cherry Tree Hill Barbados

The other 8% of the locals said 'other' activities such as scuba diving, St. Nicholas Abbey Plantation tour, Mount Gay rum tour, surfing, and shopping in Bridgetown.

Hope this helps you next time you come to Barbados!

Melanie & Kimberly*

Images: Loop Barbados Flickr, Flickr,