The Standard Guide to Barbados 2025 – where to eat, drink and explore, according to locals

Want to see Barbados like the locals do? We asked creatives, chefs and the Virgin Atlantic Holidays team to share their favourite spots – from First World War shipwreck snorkelling and rainforest hikes to legendary rum tastings, off-grid lighthouses and the best flying fish sandwich on the island.

Here are the top things to do, eat and drink – the spots they love and keep coming back to. If you weren’t already thinking about booking a flight from London to Barbados, you certainly will now.

Barbados might be best known for its soft-sand beaches and warm turquoise waters – but there’s far more to this island than lounging under a palm tree. Whether you’re up for rainforest hikes, coastal road trips, hidden rum shacks or snorkelling over a century-old shipwreck, this is your sign to scratch beneath the surface on your next Caribbean holiday.

"Coco Hill Forest has 3.5km of hiking trails overlooking Barbados’s rugged east coast, winding through more than 70 species of tropical fruit trees, herbs and spice plants. There’s also Chalky Mount, a moderate trail offering unforgettable panoramic views of the island." – Maria Elena Rose, a fashion designer, artist and owner of Ole’ Love boutique, which you’ll find at Haymans Market, Barbados’s largest indoor market

"Every visitor to Barbados should go to Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Park. The stunning natural caves there are filled with crystal-clear pools, streams and waterfalls. You can explore them via a tram or stay above ground." – Catherine Andrea Rocheford, textile and accessories designer of Catherine Rocheford Designs

“For a little hidden spot for lunch with your toes in the sand, head to JuJu’s beach bar over in Mullins. It sits next to Lonestar, and you can even hire a lounger and parasol if you want to stay longer and make use of the small boats that have a slide straight into the crystal blue waters.” – Laura Jane Boudville, Retail Supervisor, Virgin Atlantic Holidays

"Rent a soft-top jeep – it’s left-hand drive, just like in the UK – stopping at fresh fruit stalls as you go. Head along Bathsheba’s wild coral coastline, or all the way up to the abandoned lighthouse at Harrison’s Point, where the views are unbelievable." – Emma Griffin, Retail Advisor, Virgin Atlantic Holidays

"My favourite thing to do in Barbados is head out on a boat tour. After setting sail from Holetown, a town on the island’s west coast, they’ll tell you about all the houses and places you pass. Once at sea, snorkel alongside turtles and stingrays. It’s the best experience you’ll ever have!" – Vicky Stanway, member of Pure ABBA, an ABBA tribute band that regularly perform at venues in Barbados

"Zemi East Coast Cafe is my top spot for dining. It overlooks the ocean at Bathsheba and always has a great breeze. I love the summer salad with fish but if I’m feeling meaty, the ribs are succulent and superb. Wash it all down with a gorgeous rum sour. Bajan perfection!" – Sharon Cooke, owner and curator of Andromeda Botanic Gardens

"No trip to Barbados is complete without a stop by the famous fish fry, which happens in Oistins every Friday night. Here you can enjoy freshly cooked Bajan-style seafood and other island specialities. I recommend ordering some marlin or snapper, as well as grilled potatoes." – Regina Hall, recruitment and compliance specialist at Sandals Barbados and Sandals Royal Barbados

“Indulge in at least one spectacular dinner at Champers, where you’ll find Atlantic salmon, roasted barracuda and steak on the menu. It has an idyllic seaside setting that’s magic at sunset.” – Adrian Ramsey, mixologist at Savvy on the Bay beach bar

"De Thirsty Lizard feels like a home away from home – even if you visit just once, you are family. There’s also La Cabane, where the view is exceptional. Bury your feet in the sand while drinking a Coco Loco, which is Mount Gay XO served in a fresh coconut." – Trudiann Branker, master blender at Mount Gay Distilleries

“Cocktail Kitchen in St. Lawrence Gap is the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail while gazing out at the sea, and if hunger strikes, their food is just as impressive. Not far away, Stade’s West Indies Rum Distillery overlooks Brighton Beach and produces award-winning rums. They offer two great experiences: a distillery tour and a beach tasting, where you can learn about Barbados rum history while dipping your toes in the warm sea.”– Billy Tempro, director and tour guide at Sweet Life Tours