Barbados - the best weather in the Caribbean

Barbados is sunnier and drier than many other islands in the Caribbean. The steady trade winds create the most comfortable of tropical climates. The year-round average of 75-85ºF. (mid 20sºC.) couldn’t be bettered for relaxing holidays.

December to June is the dry season. The so-called “wet” season (July – November) mostly means brief showers to cool things down nicely before the sun comes out again. Barbados averages at least 8-9 hours of sunshine daily, year-round.

Perfect for holiday sports*

Golf: Barbados offers some of the best golf courses in the Caribbean and has become a favourite with the golfing jet set. Designers like Tom Fazio have made the most of the lush tropical vegetation and ocean views to create some of the most beautiful courses in the world. As a result, Sandy Lane was chosen to host the World Golf Championships World Cup in 2007. Nearby Nelson Gay are four fine courses: the Royal Westmoreland (18 holes), Sandy Lane (18 and 9 holes), Apes Hill (18 holes), Barbados Golf & Country Club (18 holes) near the Airport and Club Rockley (9 holes).

Tennis Courts: May be booked next door at Cobbler’s Cove Hotel where there is also an excellent gym. In addition, there is a new David Lloyd Tennis Centre at Sugar Hill.

Horse Riding: There are several stables and riding schools within easy reach. These offer both lessons and guided rides either along the beach or in the green valley.

Cricket: The national sport of Barbados, it is played everywhere at the weekends. Watching some of the best amateurs in the world playing on a tropical seaside pitch is a rare deligh.

Polo: The Barbados Polo Club was formed over a hundred years ago and the sport is played at international level on the island’s four polo fields. There are many polo events for visitors to enjoy throughout the year.

A paradise for marine sports

With one of Barbados’ best beaches just through the garden gate, Nelson Gay is perfectly situated for water sports. On the sheltered, western “Platinum Coast” pristine white sand, calm, clear water and coral reefs make an ideal natural playground. Take your pick from windsurfing, surfing, sailing, parasailing, scuba diving, water skiing, jet skiing, snorkeling and deep sea fishing. The beach at Nelson Gay is roped-off with buoys so swimmers can enjoy the water safely. Snorkeling equipment is available in the house and other activities can be arranged through Cobblers Cove Hotel, just next door.

Magical days out

No matter how long your holiday in Barbados, you won’t run out of things to do on this magical island. These are our favourites and should not be missed: Harrison Cave with stalactites, stalagmites and underground waterfalls; Welchman Hall, a deep ravine with many rare trees and spices; Farley Hill National Park, The Flower Forest and Andromeda Gardens where you can walk among amazing tropical plants and brilliant flowers. There are also many relaxing day cruises if you want to get out on the water.

Excellent restaurants

While our chef can provide delicious meals at Nelson Gay, some of the best eating-out in the Caribbean can be found on Barbados. Bajan cooking makes the most of fresh fish and seafood with flying fish a local favourite. However, there are also many excellent restaurants offering a wide choice of the world’s best cuisines.

Events calendar

  • January – International Jazz Festival
  • February – Holetown Festival: this historic event includes music, dance, parades, markets & fairs.
  • March/April – Holders Hill Festival: music & opera with international artists on Holders Hill.
  • April – Oistins Fish Festival: celebrates the Bajan fisher folk who show off the skills of their trade.
  • May – GospelFest: a spiritual celebration through music of Barbados’ African heritage.
  • July/August – “Crop Over” Carnival: music, dance, craft & food to mark the end of the harvest.
  • October/November – National Independence Festival of Creative Arts: celebrating music, dance, poetry, photography, painting, drawing, drama, creative writing, and craftwork.

CLICK HERE for the official Barbados event calendar