There’s so much for children of all ages to see and do in Barbados, says mum-of-two Hannah Britt
The sightseeing sub
The warm waters of the Caribbean are absolutely teeming with life, and one of the easiest ways to get up close and personal with the locals – from turtles to fish – is on the Atlantis Submarine. The window-lined sub dives down to a maximum of 150ft and your journey along the coastline takes you past shipwrecks and coral too, all narrated by the captain. Little ones need to be at least three feet tall to board. Tickets cost from around £48 per child and £90 per adult, but there are often great deals to be had like two-for-one kids’ tickets.
The animal haven
We lost count of the number of tortoises we met at Barbados Wildlife Reserve. They freely roam the entire site, comically blocking the way on the paths. It was the closest my children had ever been to one of these beautiful creatures and they were both mesmerised. Also at the reserve you’ll find exotic birds, alligators (safely behind a stone wall) and more. And perhaps the best bit? At set times the keepers feed the local wild monkeys, who swing down in their droves from the nearby trees to feast on fruit as you watch on. Absolutely magical. Tickets cost around £19 for adults and £10 for children.
The underground wonder
Harrison’s Cave Eco Adventure Park is the most popular tourist destination in Barbados for a reason – it’s completely fascinating. As you sit on a comfortable tram, you are driven down 160ft below the surface to explore a maze of underground tunnels with waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites to gawp at. An awe-inspiring natural wonder that the whole family will remember for a long time to come. Thrill seekers can enter the cave on foot too, meandering their way through the tight passages, as part of a guided tour. Tickets start at around £46 per person for the signature tram tour.
The catamaran cruise
Swimming with wild sea turtles is up there on many a bucket list, and Barbados is one of the best places to do it. So hop on a catamaran with Cool Runnings, who, after setting off from Bridgetown harbour, take guests around the coast to a sea turtle hot spot. Snorkels, masks and safety vests are provided, and non-swimmers can be towed by staff on a life ring, wearing life jackets. The half day tour also features a shipwreck stop, a tour of the coastline, and a delicious home-cooked lunch, with drinks included all day. But my four-year-old’s favourite bit was the journey home, during which the music was turned up for of an ocean-going party, complete with dancing from everyone on board. A lot of fun. Tickets cost around £90 per adult and £45 per child.
The secret cave
Another magical cave experience not to miss. Carved out of the rocky coastline at the northernmost tip of Barbados is the Animal Flower Cave. Head down the stone steps with or without a guide to explore the incredible natural pools and crevices. You can swim in the cave too! Tickets cost around £16 for adults and £8 for children. And, after your adventure, the restaurant on site is a must – it’s an absolute hidden gem when it comes to culinary options on Barbados. Go for the incredible view out over the sea, and stay for the delicious bread fruit tacos. They were the best thing we ate during our entire stay.
The trendy lunch spot
When you have young children in tow, it can be hard to find an eatery that is both delicious yet also relaxed enough for parents to sit there and enjoy it. Enter, Zemi Cafe, which welcomes diners of all ages to feast in a delightfully chilled out manner. Situated on a hill (hello breathtaking sea view!) in the trendy surf town of Bathsheba, it serves tasty burgers, tacos and more. The cocktails are great too, especially the spicy guava margarita.
GETTING THERE
Aer Lingus operates three weekly flights directly from Manchester to Bridgetown, Barbados on Sunday, Tuesday, and Friday. Return fares start from £389 including taxes and charges for travel until March 31st.