Ranked – Best Things to Do with Kids in Barbados

Harrison's Cave is one of the most popular attractions in Barbados, and it’s perfect for families with kids. The cave is an impressive limestone cavern with stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. Families can take a guided tram tour through the cave, making it easy for kids to explore and learn about its formation and history. The cave is cool and shaded, providing a welcome break from the island heat, and it’s an educational experience as well as an exciting adventure for children.

Folkestone Marine Park, located in Holetown, is a perfect spot for families to enjoy snorkeling. The area features calm waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it easy for kids to explore the underwater world and discover a wide range of marine life, such as fish, turtles, and starfish. The shallow waters are ideal for children who are learning to snorkel, and the clear visibility ensures that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the reef. It’s an engaging and safe activity for families interested in marine life.

The Wildlife Reserve is home to the island's native species, including the Green Monkey, tortoises, and various bird species. Families can enjoy a leisurely walk through the reserve, where kids can spot animals in their natural habitats. Nearby, Cherry Tree Hill offers stunning panoramic views of the island's east coast, making it a great stop for families to take in the scenery and enjoy a picnic. This combination of nature and wildlife makes for a relaxing and educational day out.

For an unforgettable experience under the sea, families can take a ride on the Atlantis Submarine, which offers a unique underwater adventure. The submarine takes families on a dive 150 feet below the surface, where they can explore coral reefs, shipwrecks, and see a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and rays. It’s a thrilling experience for children to see marine life up close while staying dry inside the submarine. The tour is educational, making it a fun and interactive experience for kids.

Families can enjoy a day on the water with a private sailing tour around Barbados. Many operators offer family-friendly sailing trips where children can help hoist the sails, spot dolphins and turtles, and take in the beautiful coastal views. Some tours even include snorkeling stops where kids can jump off the boat and explore the waters. Sailing around the island is a peaceful yet exciting way for families to spend quality time together while enjoying Barbados’ natural beauty.

For a truly unique experience, families can visit the Green Monkey Experience, which offers the chance to interact with the famous green monkeys of Barbados. The experience includes a guided tour of the monkey’s natural habitat, where families can observe the monkeys in the wild and learn about their behavior and conservation efforts. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to see these playful and intelligent creatures up close while learning about their role in the island's ecosystem.

Carlisle Bay is a beautiful and family-friendly beach known for its calm, clear waters, making it ideal for kids to swim and snorkel. The beach is located close to Bridgetown, making it accessible for families staying in the city. There are plenty of activities available, including paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling around shipwrecks. Kids can also enjoy building sandcastles on the beach or simply relaxing while spotting sea turtles in the clear waters. The bay’s calm conditions make it a safe and enjoyable spot for young swimmers.

For a fun and cultural evening, families can enjoy the Bajan Roots and Rhythms show. This lively cultural event showcases the traditional music, dance, and history of Barbados. Kids will enjoy the vibrant performances and get a glimpse into the island’s heritage. The show often includes interactive elements, where children can join in on the dancing, making it a fun and memorable family experience.

Barbados is known for its great surf spots, and one of the best places for beginner surfers is Soup Bowl in Bathsheba. This beach is famous for its consistent waves, which are perfect for kids looking to try surfing. Surf schools offer lessons for all ages, with instructors who are patient and experienced in teaching kids how to ride the waves. The surf lessons are fun, engaging, and safe for children, making it an ideal activity for families who want to experience the thrill of surfing in the Caribbean.

Located on the west coast of Barbados, Folkestone Marine Park & Museum offers families the chance to explore both land and sea. The park has a wide range of exhibits showcasing the island's marine life and coral reefs, and it’s an excellent place for children to learn about the importance of ocean conservation. The park also includes a beach area for swimming and snorkeling, where kids can observe colorful fish and other marine creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an educational and fun outing for families who love the ocean.

The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a great way for families to get up close with the island's native wildlife. Set in a lush mahogany forest, the reserve is home to green monkeys, tortoises, deer, and a variety of tropical birds. Kids will love observing the animals in their natural habitats, and there are also opportunities to feed the monkeys, which adds an extra level of excitement. The reserve also offers guided tours where kids can learn about the conservation efforts taking place to protect Barbados' wildlife.

If your family enjoys off-roading and exploring the more rugged parts of the island, the Island Safari Adventure is a must-do. Families can take an exciting 4x4 safari jeep tour through Barbados’ countryside, exploring remote beaches, hidden caves, and lush landscapes. Kids will love the bumpy ride and the chance to spot wildlife along the way. The guides also offer educational commentary on the island's history and natural environment, making it both an adventure and a learning experience.

A family fishing trip in Barbados can be an exciting way to spend time together and enjoy the island’s natural beauty. Whether you opt for deep-sea fishing or a more laid-back shore fishing experience, there are options available for families with kids of all ages. Fishing trips often include opportunities to see marine wildlife, such as dolphins and turtles, which adds an extra layer of excitement. Plus, families can enjoy the thrill of catching their own dinner while experiencing the island’s waters.

The Island Safari Tour is a fun and adventurous way for families to explore Barbados' countryside. The tour takes families on a 4x4 jeep ride through the island's rugged terrain, including sugar cane fields, coastal areas, and lush forests. Kids will love the off-road adventure, and the tour also includes visits to hidden beaches, caves, and natural landmarks. The Island Safari Tour is a great way to see the more remote areas of Barbados while having fun in the process.

While the rum distillery might seem more suited for adults, the Mount Gay Rum Tour offers an engaging experience for kids as well. During the tour, families can learn about the history of rum production in Barbados, see the distillation process, and enjoy a visit to the scenic grounds. While adults can enjoy a tasting, kids can participate in educational workshops or enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The tour is a great way for families to bond and learn something new about the island's cultural heritage.

For families who enjoy outdoor activities, the Eco Adventure Tour is an exciting way to explore the island's natural beauty. The tour includes a combination of hiking, zip-lining, and exploring the lush tropical forest that covers the island's interior. The zip-lining experience allows kids to soar above the forest canopy, offering an exhilarating adventure. Along the way, guides provide educational information about the flora and fauna, making it an informative and thrilling experience for children who love nature.

Palm Beach Resort is an excellent family-friendly resort located on the island’s west coast. With a wide range of activities for kids, including a kids’ club, pool games, and water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, it’s the perfect destination for a family vacation. The resort also offers family-friendly accommodations and dining options, ensuring that every member of the family feels welcome and entertained. Kids can spend their days playing in the pool, while parents relax on the beach or take part in spa treatments.

Seabob is a thrilling underwater activity that allows families to explore the ocean in a unique way. This activity involves using a Seabob, a high-performance underwater scooter, which allows kids and adults to glide through the water while exploring coral reefs and marine life. It’s a fun and safe way to introduce children to the wonders of the underwater world, and the Seabob gives them the freedom to move effortlessly through the water, making it an exciting family adventure.

The Flower Forest is a lush botanical garden located in the central hills of Barbados. It’s an excellent place for families to explore nature and learn about tropical plants. The garden is home to a wide variety of flowers, plants, and trees, with beautiful walking trails that provide scenic views of the island. Children can enjoy strolling through the peaceful surroundings, while adults can learn about the island’s unique flora. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a great spot for families to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.

For families interested in learning about Barbados’ history and culture, the Barbados Museum and Historical Society offers a fascinating experience. Located in Bridgetown, the museum has a variety of exhibits covering everything from the island’s colonial history to its natural heritage. Children can learn about Barbados’ past through interactive displays and educational activities. It’s a great place for kids to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s culture and history in a fun and engaging way.

A trip to Oistin's Fish Fry is a fun, cultural family experience that provides a taste of Barbados' local cuisine and lively atmosphere. On Friday nights, families can enjoy fresh fish and other local dishes while being entertained by live music and dance performances. The food is delicious, and the vibrant ambiance is great for kids to enjoy. It’s a unique way for families to experience the local culture and try delicious seafood in a lively setting.

Boatyard Beach Club is a family-friendly beach club located on Carlisle Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in Barbados. The club offers a range of activities for kids, including swimming in the calm, clear waters, enjoying the water park, and trying out water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Families can relax on the beach or enjoy delicious food at the beachfront restaurant. The Boatyard Beach Club is a perfect place for families to spend the day enjoying the sun, sand, and sea.

The Animal Flower Cave is located at the northern tip of Barbados and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The cave is named after the sea anemones found in its rock pools, and families can explore the cave’s natural beauty while learning about its geology and marine life. There’s also a chance to swim in the natural pools and spot fish and other sea creatures. The cave provides a combination of adventure, exploration, and breathtaking scenery, making it a memorable outing for children and adults alike.

Mullins Beach is an ideal spot for families looking for a relaxing day by the sea. With its calm, clear waters and safe swimming conditions, it’s perfect for kids to enjoy water activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming. The beach also offers beach chairs and umbrellas for families to relax under, while nearby restaurants provide delicious local meals. Mullins Beach is a great place for children to play in the sand or take part in water sports, making it one of the most family-friendly beaches on the island.