Discover the best of Barbados, according to a local!

Check out Bodie’s recommendations for the best places to stay and things to do!
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Where to Stay in Barbados

Hotels, resorts, and accommodation rentals recommended by Bodie's School of Surf

Little Arches Boutique Hotel

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Little Arches is an adults-only boutique hotel in Oistins on the south coast of Barbados. It’s locate across the street from Miami Beach and just a short walk from the Freights Bay surf spot. There’s a pool and terrace with beautiful sea views, making this a great option for relaxation close to surf. 

Butterfly Beach Hotel

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Butterfly Beach is located on the beautiful Maxwell beach in a quiet area near Oistins. There’s a beachfront pool and restaurant onsite, and they have rooms with kitchenettes if you’d like more homey touches during your stay. This is a good option for families or longer-stay visitors. ​

South Gap Hotel

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Want to stay in the heart of the action? South Gap Hotel is located in the lively St. Lawrence Gap, an area that’s known for restaurants, bars, and nightlife. All rooms at the South Gap Hotel have a sea view and there’s a peaceful pool area overlooking the water. The hotel is just a short walk from Dover Beach.

Bougainvillea Barbados | Check prices and availability

Bougainvillea is a beachfront resort located on the Maxwell coast with a pool, spa, and tasty onsite restaurant. There are three pools, a swim-up pool bar, and you get access to complimentary water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boogie boarding.

Sea Breeze Beach House | Check prices and availability

Sea Breeze Beach House by Ocean Hotels is a luxurious, all-inclusive resort in Oistins. It’s located directly on Maxwell beach and you can enjoy a pool, kids club, spa, and six delicious restaurants. There are also daily events and activities you can attend like mixology, Caribbean dance, yoga, trivia, rum tasting, and cocktail hour.

Sugar Bay Barbados Resort | Check prices and availability

Sugar Bay Barbados is another all-inclusive resort option located on the south coast near Drill Hall Beach. You can choose from four restaurants and five bars, including a swim-up pool bar, and there is a spa, gym, game room, and kids area. Swim in the two pools, rent waterspouts equipment, or head out to the nearby Carlisle Bay.

Fun things to do in Barbados

Calypso Catamaran Cruise

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The best catamaran cruise in Barbados! This small catamaran has a fantastic crew and they'll take you to the best swimming and snorkeling spots on the island. A must-do when visiting Barbados. 

El Tigre Catamaran

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Take a Barbados shipwreck and snorkeling cruise, complete with lunch, sea turtles, and dancing. El Tigre is a larger catamaran that can take up to 36 passengers per journey. 

Island Safari

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Explore the island of Barbados off the beaten path in a safari jeep. You'll see some of the most beautiful viewpoints around the island and learn about Barbados with your fun tour guide.

Guided E-Bike Tour | Learn More

Explore some of the rural beauty of Barbados while riding e-bikes. You'll see panoramic views of the natural east coast, cultural sites, and trails that will leave you feeling reconnected with the great outdoors. 

West Side SCUBA Barbados | Learn More

West Side Scuba Barbados is great for beginner and experienced divers. Explore reefs, shipwrecks, and marine parks around Barbados with top-rated dive guides. ​

St. Nicholas Abbey | Learn More

Take a tour of St. Nicholas Abbey, one of the most historical properties in Barbados. You can see the great house and try different rums that are still produced at the Abbey today. 

Barbados Restaurant Recommendations

Surfer's Cafe

This Oistins cafe is located right on the water near Freights Bay, making this a perfect spot for grabbing breakfast or lunch after a big surf.

Cafe Luna

Cafe Luna has an elegant rooftop atmosphere where you can enjoy a delicious meal with a view of Miami Beach. Great for special occasions!

Castaways

For dinner with a sea view in St. Lawrence Gap, head to Castaways. They have great local dishes as well as worldwide cuisines.