Where to stay
The West Coast
For this trip, we recommend staying on the West Coast of Barbados (the gold coast), known for its picture-perfect Caribbean beaches. This is where Rihanna lives;) and this is where we’ll be.
If you have any questions about accommodations, even ones that aren’t on this list, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Airbnbs and Private Rentals
Wonderful options, great for groups and often better deals than hotels.
Airbnbs
Here’s a list we are keeping of good Airbnbs in the area. Book quickly; these will fill up fast!
Private rentals
Blue Sky Luxury Rentals has nice villas on the west coast. Search near Holetown, Payne’s Bay, or Fitt’s Village.
If you need help, are having trouble booking, or want a second opinion on an Airbnb or private rental, reach out to us!
Hotels on the West Coast
If you prefer the consistency and amenities of a hotel, the west coast has a great variety. Here are some recommendations across different price points.
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Beach View Hotel
Beach View is a crowd favorite directly across the street from the beautiful Paynes Bay beach. A resort-style option at a more moderate price, there are four swimming pools, a cafe and spa, and a variety of room options, including 1-4 bedroom suites and villas.
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All Seasons Resort Europa
All Seasons is a solid, family-friendly hotel, also a short walk to the beach and downtown Holetown where you’ll find restaurants, bars, markets, and plenty to do.
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The Palms Resort
The Palms Resort offers quiet, low-key apartment-style accommodations a few blocks from downtown Holetown. You’ll find several beaches, restaurants, boutiques, all within a 10-minute walk.
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Mango Bay Hotel
An all-inclusive hotel on a pristine beachfront that’s centrally located in Holetown. If you’re looking for all-inclusive, this seems like a great option.
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Colony Club – A Marriott Luxury Collection Resort
This is a luxury option Marriott hotel in a great location.
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Little Good Harbour
Little Good Harbour is a family-run boutique hotel that’s tranquil and charming. It’s a bit farther north in Speightstown, a really cute, sleepy area that’s more removed from the action and might be a perfect fit for some. There are currently one, two, and three-bedroom suites and cottages available. The Fish Pot, a well-loved local restaurant is connected.
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Cobbler’s Cove
If you’re looking to splurge on a mini-moon of your own, we’re giving a shoutout to Cobblers, a 1940s retro-inspired boutique hotel. This is a no kids (under 12) joint and also a bit farther north, but the color palettes and gardens are magical.
Other luxury hotels at this price point: Fairmont Royal Pavilion, Coral Reef Club, The Sandpiper.
A bit cheaper, less swanky, more nightlife
The South Coast
If you’re looking for more nightlife and slightly bigger waves, we also love (and typically stay on) the south coast.
Great beaches, bars, restaurants, and a fun, laid-back energy. For the wedding weekend, it will be a slightly farther taxi or bus ride (~35-40 mins) to meet us on the west coast for the wedding festivities.
If south coast is calling you though, here are some recs:
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Coconut Court
“The Coconut” has been locally owned by the Blades family since 1975. It’s located directly on a pristine sandy beach, close to the Boardwalk, St Lawrence Gap and Bridgetown. This is Graham’s favorite affordable, chill hotel on the south coast.
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The Hilton
If you know and love Hiltons, then you know what you’re getting with this hotel. The location is great because it’s super close to one of the very best places for a beach day on the whole island: Carlisle Bay. It’s also big and good for families.
Travel to, from, and around Barbados
Flights to/from Barbados
You’ll be flying into Bridgetown (BGI). It’s a small, international airport that’s pretty quick and efficient to move through.
From the East Coast U.S.
There are easy, direct flights from NYC. We’ll be flying Jet Blue. From other east coast cities, you’ll likely need to make a connection.
From the West Coast, Midwest, and Southern U.S.
From these areas, you’ll likely connect in Miami, Puerto Rico, Charlotte, or New York.
If you have any questions about flights or travel in general, we’re happy to assist!
Travel once you’re on the island
Taxis
Taxis are easily accessible in all of the tourist areas on the island. It’s typical to find a taxi person that you like and then text them via WhatsApp throughout your stay.
From the airport, there are fixed taxi rates to all areas of the island. Get in the official taxi line when leaving the airport, tell the agent where you’re going, and they will give you a ticket and direct you to your taxi.
There’s also a taxi app, called pickUP Barbados, that works well on the west coast and south coast of the island (which is where we expect you’ll spend most of your time).
The app is not so good if you make a trek inland or to the east coast, so you’ll want to arrange travel in advance if you plan an adventure.
Buses
Buses are a cheap and easy way to get around. There are two types: official Barbados public buses and private buses. Both are the same price – $1.75 USD.
The official public buses are big, blue, quiet and clean. They look like this and they usually say “Transport Board” on them:
The private buses (called ZRs, pronounced “Zed-Rs”) are fun, crowded, and a bit more adventuresome. Some play loud reggae music, drive fast, and pack you in like sardines. If you are not the adventurous type, we recommend only taking the official buses. But if you like to live like a local, you’ll definitely appreciate the private buses, and they are common for tourists, too. Here’s what they usually look like:
Renting a car
Not necessary, but could be fun if you want to explore the whole island and save money on taxi rides, which add up. Just remember, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road!
Got questions?
Feel free to reach out.
FAQs
What’s the weather like in Barbados in April?
Barbados has two seasons: the wet season and the dry season. April is part of the dry season with average daily temperatures from the low 70s – high 80s (fahrenheit).
Do we need a passport?
Yes! Please make sure all passports are current and if you don’t have one or it has expired, give yourself plenty of time for processing (i.e. do it now).
How should we dress?
You should plan to spend most of your time in warm-weather clothing, beachwear/swimsuits/etc. There’s often a cool breeze in the evenings, so bring a layer or light jacket.
For Friday’s festivities, we’re suggesting beach casual or beach chic attire.
For Saturday’s ceremony and reception, we’re suggesting dressy with a breeze, tropical cocktail attire.
Wear whatever makes you feel fun and festive! Light, breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes are recommended.
When should we book travel and accommodations?
As soon as possible!
We selected our date because it’s the first weekend after the high tourist season. That means more availability and better prices, but it’s still a competitive time (and we’ve heard many other weddings are happening that weekend lol). Early bird gets the beach chair!
How long should we stay?
If you can stay a few extra days and use this as an excuse for a mini Caribbean vacay, we recommend doing so, of course. We’re planning to be there about a week starting Wednesday, 4/15. Live it up.
What language do they speak in Barbados?
English! Barbados was part of the British Empire and is now a member of The Commonwealth.
What’s the exchange rate?
The Barbados dollar is locked to the US dollar. The rate is always $1 USD to $2 BBDS.
That means, if you see something advertised as $20 BBDS (Barbados Dollars), then you will be paying $10 USD.
Should we be concerned about safety in Barbados?
The short answer is no! Barbados is a safe travel destination, it’s generally considered the safest Caribbean island.
As always, when traveling, we should exercise caution and be aware of petty crimes like pick pocketing, but on average, it is riskier to travel to most U.S. cities than it is to travel to Barbados.
How does phone service work in Barbados?
Check your phone plan or call your provider, but the most common option is to choose an International add-on or Travel Pass, which is typically an extra $10 / day for unlimited data. If you don’t get a travel plan, you’ll be charged higher rates for service.
How’s the WIFI? Can we work remotely while in Barbados?
Barbados has pretty fast and accessible WIFI. We’ve taken many a video call and been able to work remotely across the island without a problem.
Do you have a registry?
Not yet! We might set something up, but please know that gifts are not required. Your presence is a present.
Are babies and kids welcome?
Yes! Just give us a heads up on the RSVP form. If you’re interested in a babysitter or childcare on-site during the wedding, let us know and we can help coordinate that. If your baby is coming, they must be dressed to the nines. 😉
Can you share more recommendations on activities, nature excursions, and fun things to do in Barbados?
We will continually update the website with recommendations as we get closer to the event.
Here are a few fun things to consider:
- Bathsheba (famous east coast surf spot where surfing legends often live and surf)
- Animal Flower cave
- A catamaran cruise on Tiami or Cool Runnings (with snorkeling, dancing, drinks, and great food)
- Oistins (fun fish fry, party time, and a great experience, especially on a Friday night)
- A day at Pebble’s beach (in Carlisle Bay) and a fish cutter at Cuzz’s (the best fish sandwich on the island!)
- Accra Beach (fun beach on south coast near good shops and fish shacks)
- Pancakes at Cafe Luna and then a day/hang at Miami Beach. Lunch at Oistins.
- A roti at The Roti Den
- A private tour of the island
- Bar hopping at the St Lawrence Gap
- Bar hopping on 2nd Street in Holetown
- Harrison’s cave
- Food trucks at the Worthing Square Food Court
Why Barbados?
Graham spent a semester studying abroad at UWI (University of the West Indes) in Barbados, and it became a special second home that he’s visited over the years. He brought Alex in 2022, which marked a turning point in their relationship and made things official. They dreamt of returning with friends and family. Enter: YOU.
Alex and Graham Catch Feelings 