1. Beaches for all

It’s not on every island that you find beaches for every type of traveler, but Barbados has all the bases covered: All along the posh West Coast, the water is clear, shallow and calm. Protected from the wind, these shores are ideal for families with small children. On the South Coast, the water is a bit livelier and wavy, perfect for diving or for those who are just learning how to surf. For strong swimmers and seasoned surfers, there’s no better place to be than Bathsheba, a rugged part of the East Coast on the Atlantic. Unspoiled surf for miles, this is truly a big wave paradise.

2. Oistins Fish Fry

Every Friday night, locals and tourists alike head to Oistins, a fishing village on the South Coast for their informal weekly celebration of food, music and drinks. With many vendors to choose from, just look for the one that has the biggest crowd and take your pick of what was caught fresh that day. Top off your grilled or fried fish with a local Banks beer, life doesn’t get much better.

3.Spa Indulgence 

The only thing that rivals a relaxing day at the spa is a relaxing day on the beach. Why not have both? The Indulgence Spa at Royal Westmoreland right on Mullins Beach–said to be one of the best in the Caribbean–will take island relaxation to a whole new dimension. Everything you might expect from a traditional spa is available, from skin wraps to scrubs to full-body massages, but the Exotic Coconut Rub & Milk Ritual wrap will leave you in a state of pure Caribbean bliss.

4. Rum shops

A fundamental part of the Bajan culture, rum is the drink of choice for many islanders, and rum shops can be found almost everywhere you go. But this isn’t the clear white liquid you mix with a Coke (although you certainly can); drinking the local rum here is more like savoring a good scotch– straight up with some ice on the side. Deep, flavorful, caramel colored and complex, if you weren’t a rum fan when you arrived, you will be before you leave.

5. Tip Top Cuisine

The food scene in Barbados is a cut above. With a strong local food culture as well as lots of European influences, there are plenty of food options for all tastes and budgets. Aside from the popular local food chain Chefette (for the best rotis around), and the famous flying fish sandwiches at Cutters, there is also amazing Indian food at Aspara Samudra, incredible Italian at Cin Cin’s and for a very special evening, The Cliff is one of the top restaurants in the whole Caribbean.

6.Take a Zip

In the Walkes Spring Plantation in St Thomas Parish, you’ll find high-flying vacationers exploring the island’s treetops. A fan-favorite for those looking for an adventurous day out, Aerial Trek Zipline Adventure’s 100-feet course is a surefire way to get well-acquainted with nature on the island. It doubles as a crash course in the island’s ecosystems too, as the knowledgeable guides describe the plantation and its friendly inhabitants as you take off from each of the 8 different platforms. And if you’re looking for an extra-entertaining Christmas card photo this year, the staff is ready and willing to snap pictures of excited zip-liners.

7. Private Villas

There’s no better way to experience the island than within the comfort of your own private villa. With the freedom to explore Barbados and all its charm at your leisure, you can take a day to lounge by the pool or relax with a book on the beach, then head out to dinner, or have something prepared by a top local chef right in the comfort of your home.