Guess what kids? We’re going to Barbados!

You’re guaranteed to get an exuberant response out of that announcement. Barbados is a natural choice for families – offering a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, yet endless action-packed activities and excursions for visitors and residents of all ages. 

A Family-Vacation to Remember

Of course if you’re here on vacation, we have suggestions for activities to pack into your itinerary. From fun-filled days learning to surf, to exploring underground caves, to enriching educational experiences at the Barbados Museum, there are endless options that will appeal to the young, and the young-at-heart. Wondering where to start? Check out our list of Top Barbados Family Activities. 

Raising a Family in Barbados 

‍You know that expression, it takes a village to raise a child? Well, in Barbados you’ve got that village backing you up. Barbadians are family-orientated with a strong sense of community. With all that’s been going on in the world, we’ve got more and more families coming here to make Barbados their home, whether temporarily on the Barbados Welcome Stamp, or long-term. 

The island offers a safe environment for you and your kids. We have an excellent education system with good quality government and private schools, including an International Baccalaureate school. You’ll quickly make friends and connect with people – both locals and expats with a thriving international community. And we have an exciting events and social calendar with international sporting fixtures, cultural activities and more to keep the whole family busy and happy.

Discover the natural world

Barbados Wildlife Reserve‍

Explore the mahogany forest with green monkeys, deer, tortoises, Caiman, South American snakes, Cuban iguanas and more. 

Welchman Hall Gully‍

Follow the stroller-friendly paths through the lush gully filled with flora and fauna. Go at monkey-feeding time: 10.30am-12pm. 

Coco Hill Forest

Hike along forest trails (different lengths for different abilities) through fragrant nutmeg trees and swaying coconut palms with stunning views. 

Joe’s River

Wander through this northerly tropical rainforest with nature trails, a water course flowing into the sea and picnic areas. 

Harrison’s Cave

Sit back for a tram tour deep into the natural limestone cave with caverns, towering columns, underground waterfalls, pools and more.

The Paradise Nature Park 

Make friends with indigenous and exotic animals and plants on self-guided tours through five acres of lush tropical gardens.

Turtle Hatchings 

Call the Turtle Hotline (+1 246 230-0142) for locations and times (June-October). The beach at Southern Palms Hotel is a favourite for nesting.

Explore above and beneath the waves

Atlantis Submarine

Dive beneath the waves for an exciting adventure exploring shipwrecks, reefs and an array of ocean life. Age 4+, minimum height 3ft.

Beach Picnics

Pack some fish cutters and rum punch and enjoy an alfresco meal on a shaded beach. We recommend Gibbs Beach (west) or Bottom Bay (east).  

Sharks Hole

Visit at low tide for a swim in the tiny calm, protected bay. Take a cliff top walk to nearby Bull’s Nostrils and Gun Rock to witness the power of the Atlantic Ocean.

Bathsheba/Soup Bowl

Kids love splashing in and exploring the rock pools at low tide – look out for sea anemone, eels and even hidden octopus.

Watersports 

Paddle boards, kayaks and Hobie Cats are great for exploring calm bays with little ones. Bigger kids can enjoy snorkeling or learn to scuba dive. Age 10+ for PADI certification.

Get your adrenaline pumping

Surfing

You’ll be spoiled for choice with surf spots in Barbados. Check out the long gentle waves at Freights Bay and Surfers Bay near South Point – perfect for kids to learn to catch waves.

Bushy Park Race Circuit

Put the pedal to the metal with this fast-paced go-kart racing experience at the home of car racing in Barbados. Age 5+.

Harrison’s Cave Eco Adventure Park  

Whizz through the tree canopy along the exciting Monkey zipline, with a bird’s eye view of the gully below. Age 6+. 

E-Bike Island Adventures

Enjoy a two-wheeled island adventure on an electric pedal-assist mountain bike – with on and off-road tours. Age 13+, minimum height 5ft. 

Island Safari

4x4 jeeps take you on Safari-style adventures off-the-beaten-track to discover all Barbados’ hidden gems. Age 5+, who can walk independently.

Take a Step Back in History

St. Nicholas Abbey

The kids will love the historic steam train ride and exploring the extensive gardens, and the adults will love sampling the exquisite rum produced on site.

Gun Hill

Explore this historic signal station with one of the best views of the island and a nineteenth century stone carving of a lion. 

Explore! Children’s Gallery – Barbados Museum

Learn about our island’s fascinating past, with state-of-the-art interactive exhibits for young visitors.

Codrington College

Wander through the beautiful gardens and grounds, with spectacular views of the east coast. Bring a little snack for the ducks in the pond.