6 Off Beat Places To Explore In Barbados

The island of Barbados is associated with reggae, rum punch, and relaxation, but there is so much more to this Caribbean jewel than the clichés. Don’t miss your chance to explore the island, let this selection of our favorite haunts show you the best of the beaches, the exquisite restaurants, and a few super spots off the beaten track.

# Holders Farmers’ Market

Every Sunday from 9o’clock until 2pm, Holders Farmers’ Market is hosted in the grounds of the 17th-century Plantation House, Holders House. Colorful gazebos are dotted around the grounds, each covering a unique stall offering 100 per cent Bajan produce. Arrive early before the intense heat of the day kicks in, and grab yourself a sumptuous sausage sandwich and delicious cup of freshly ground coffee. Then float from stall to stall, perhaps picking up a pot of local jam, a box of heavenly chocolate truffles, or a new necklace or two. You could even stop off for a quick shoulder massage, while the speckled sunlight beats down on your back. Refresh yourself with an ice cold bottle of locally squeezed mango juice whilst listening to the live local music, and taking in the scenery, before heading off for another browse.

# The Waves At Crane Beach

Crane Beach was once voted as one of the world’s top 10 beaches, and glancing at the smooth white sand and wild cliffs it is not difficult to see why. Perhaps have lunch at the Crane Resort that sits atop the precipice, before heading down to the pearly expanse. While the surroundings are certainly sublime, the real novelty of this beach lies in the wild nature of its waves. Wave jumping at Crane Beach is not for the faint hearted; stand in anticipation while the barrage of blue hurtles towards you, and as the wave towers above your head, make that leap of faith that propels you towards the crystal sky and then gently drops you down again. Although your stomach may do a mini somersault in the process, the experience is undeniably thrilling, and thanks to Crane Beach, the conditions are perfect.

# Limegrove Cinema

A trip to the cinema when you’re staying in a sweltering paradise may seem absurd, however during one of those famous tropical downpours, the idea of an indoor activity can start to look quite appealing and Limegrove’s cinema is no ordinary cinema. Stepping through a deceptively modest door, guests enter upon a cavernous space, buzzing with waitresses moving up and down the spacious aisles. The comfy seats are complete with a table for popcorn or whichever delight the viewer decides to order from the menu when the attendants come around. If you’re in a really extravagant mood, for a little extra you can bag yourself a bed on the front or back row, and recline as you watch.

# Lunch At Port St. Charles

When taking a stroll up the West coast, one is bombarded with primly positioned stylish restaurants, all claiming to serve the most exquisite food on the island. The minefield of over hyped and overpriced restaurants can often be tricky to navigate while traveling, but if you’re going to take a punt on any in Barbados, make it The Yacht Club at Port St. Charles. Admittedly, the prices are the standard for a West Coast restaurant, but for once, the product is completely worth it. Who could resist such delights as the coconut-breaded prawns, accompanied by a voluptuous cone of sweet potato fries and coconut rice with kidney beans.

# The Drag Show At Ragamuffins

First and Second Street in Holetown on a Sunday night buzz with activity, the tunes are jammin’, and the party spirit is in the air. Before you bust your own moves on the dance floor, learn a trick or two from Ragamuffins’ resident drag act. Introducing the ‘Mannequins in Motion’, whose radiant appearances and ineffable elegance will make the ladies envious. The music begins, and all eyes are on the performers, and it’s not surprising when outfits featuring red fishnets, vibrant pluming skirts, and more sequins than you can shake a stick at are on show.

# Mullins Beach Bar

While away an afternoon propped up at Mullins Beach Bar, looking out to sea whilst sampling each and every option on their inventive smoothie and cocktail menu (the ‘mango colada’ is to die for). The bar has been recently redecorated with an Emerald green theme and, of course, the famous painted monkeys. You’d be hard pressed to find a more relaxed environment and stunning location, with outside bar seats situated in prime position for staring across the glittering expanse of ocean and watching the sun go down. If you haven’t quite worked your way through that delicious list, stick around for the evening to enjoy some live music and local DJs, all still within a relaxed atmosphere.