We have travelled all over the world with our children; from a 3-week campervan road-trip through New Zealand to a week exploring the waterfalls and rainbows of Iceland! We have seen the beaches, the mountains and everything in between and I have to admit, we loved the Caribbean.
There was just something so relaxing and welcoming about it! Barbados was the first place we visited before heading over to Grenada, so we’re here to give you the best practices and tips for visiting!
What’s the Best Area to Stay in Barbados?
If you’re planning a trip to Barbados with kids, the west coast is where you’ll want to base yourself. Often called the Platinum Coast, this side of the island is known for its calm Caribbean waters (perfect for little swimmers), gorgeous sunsets, and family-friendly resorts. It’s also more sheltered from strong currents than the east coast, and generally feels quieter and more laid-back than the livelier southern beaches. From north to south, here’s a breakdown of the most popular areas along the west coast — and what to expect from each.
Speightstown
Located at the northern end of the west coast, Speightstown is a small, historic town with a local, less-touristy vibe. It’s not quite as polished as the areas further south, but that’s what gives it charm. You’ll find colourful buildings, quiet beaches, local rum shops, and fewer crowds — perfect if you’re looking for a slower pace and a more authentic feel. There are a few lovely beachfront apartments and guesthouses here, and while it’s not packed with big resorts, it’s great for families who want space and calm.
Holetown
Further south, Holetown is a brilliant middle-ground option. It’s walkable, central, and packed with amenities, making it especially appealing if you’re visiting Barbados with kids and want everything within reach. There’s a large supermarket, beach access, restaurants that cater to all tastes (including picky toddlers!), and shopping if you fancy a wander. Accommodation ranges from boutique hotels and villas to more upmarket beachfront resorts. The beach here is soft and golden, and the sea is generally calm — ideal for paddling.
Sandy Lane
Just south of Holetown, Sandy Lane is one of the most luxurious areas on the island. If you’ve got the budget and you want the full five-star Caribbean experience, this is where you’ll find it — think private beaches, top-tier spas, golf courses, and impeccable service. Even if you’re not staying at the Sandy Lane Hotel itself, there are some high-end villas in the area that cater well to families with staff, chefs, and private pools. It’s beautiful, but definitely not a budget-friendly option.
Bridgetown
Although technically a bit further south than the classic “Platinum Coast,” Bridgetown, the capital, is still worth considering — especially if you like being in the heart of things. It’s busier and more urban, but there are still family-friendly stays here, and you’re close to Carlisle Bay, one of the best beaches for young kids thanks to its calm waters and nearby turtle sightings. You’ll also be near markets, the harbour, and cultural spots like the museum and Parliament buildings. It’s a bit less “resorty,” but a great base if you want to explore beyond the beach.
When’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Barbados?
The best time to visit Barbados with kids is between December and April, during the dry season. You’ll get warm days, lower humidity, and hardly any rain — perfect for beach time, turtle spotting, and adventures outdoors. That said, even during the rainy season (June to November), showers tend to be short, and prices are often lower, which might make it a better option if you’re looking to travel on a budget.
Is Barbados Family Friendly?
Oh absolutely — Barbados is a brilliant destination for families. People are incredibly warm and welcoming, especially toward children, and there’s a laid-back vibe that makes traveling with little ones feel far less stressful. Most restaurants offer kids’ options, and you’ll rarely feel out of place with a toddler in tow. That said, it’s worth noting that baby changing facilities are pretty scarce (I only saw one the entire trip!), and the roads and pavements aren’t always the most pushchair-friendly, especially outside the main towns. But overall, you’ll find that Barbados with kids is easy, safe, and relaxed — just come prepared for a few practical quirks, and you’ll love it.
Can You Breastfeed in Barbados?
Yes, you can breastfeed your baby in Barbados. I read a lot beforehand about it being a conservative country with laws against public indecency — and some sources even suggested covering up completely — but in reality, I didn’t run into any issues. I breastfed our baby at the beach, in restaurants, in bars, in the car, and nobody batted an eyelid. I did make some effort to cover up a bit just in case, and I often timed feeds for when we were in the car, but I needn’t have worried. I didn’t see many other mums breastfeeding (local or tourist), but I never felt uncomfortable doing it.
Is Barbados Safe for Kids?
Yes — we found Barbados with kids to be incredibly safe. There are no major animals to worry about, the crime rate is relatively low (especially in tourist areas), and the locals are lovely. The beaches are a dream for little ones: calm waters, soft sand, and minimal risk of sharks or jellyfish. That said, the sun is intense, so make sure to pack more suncream than you think you’ll need, bring a sun protective stop/swimming costume, and always carry water with you — hydration is key.
Do You Need Vaccinations for Barbados?
If you’re travelling from the UK, you’ve probably already had the standard vaccinations recommended for Barbados, like MMR, Diphtheria, and Tetanus. Some people also get Hepatitis A or B boosters, but it’s not mandatory unless you’re in a higher-risk group. We didn’t bother with rabies vaccines either — that said, always check with your GP or travel clinic before you go.
Is the Tap Water Safe for Kids to Drink in Barbados?
Yes! One of the best things about visiting Barbados with kids is that the tap water is completely safe to drink. It’s clean, tastes fine, and we used it for drinking, brushing teeth, and baby bottles with no issues. Still, if your little one is sensitive or you’re just more comfortable using bottled water for mixing formula, that’s easy to find too.
Is It Worth Hiring a Car in Barbados?
If you’re planning to explore beyond the hotel pool (which I recommend!), hiring a car is 100% worth it. Taxis are everywhere, but the cost adds up quickly and you won’t always have car seats or extra space. We loved having a car — not just for flexibility, but also for storing things like the buggy, spare clothes, towels, snacks, and beach bits. If you’re visiting Barbados with kids, having your own vehicle gives you freedom, saves you money, and makes life so much easier when nap time hits and you’re halfway across the island.
Do You Need a Car Seat in Barbados?
Legally, yes — children under 5 must use a car seat. For kids over 5, only a seatbelt is required. We rented two car seats through Stoutes Car Rental for our toddler and baby, and they were clean and perfectly safe. If you’re picky or want to guarantee a certain brand/model, bring your own. Otherwise, just check in advance and book them as part of your hire package.
Should You Bring a Travel Cot or Rent One in Barbados?
We weren’t sure whether to bring our own travel cot, but I’m so glad we didn’t. Most accommodation listings didn’t mention a cot, so we assumed they didn’t have one — but when we contacted them directly, several places were happy to rent one out or arrange one for us. We paid a small fee, and it was totally worth it to not have to lug one through the airport. My advice? Don’t bring a travel cot to Barbados unless you really need a specific type. Just reach out to your accommodation in advance — even if it’s not advertised, they’ll often be able to sort something for you.
How to Deal with Jet Lag When Travelling to Barbados with Kids
Flying from the UK to Barbados means you’re dealing with a 4-hour time difference in winter. That might not sound like much, but it can really throw off your child’s routine. If you can, encourage a nap or two during the flight and try to keep your kids awake as long as possible on that first day. Yes, it might mean a cranky evening — but it’ll save you from 2am wakeups for the rest of the week. Stick to the local time zone from day one, and by day two or three, they’ll have adjusted.
Can Kids Swim with Sea Turtles in Barbados?
Absolutely — and it’s magical. There are several family-friendly catamaran tours and glass-bottom boat trips that take you to spots where you can swim with sea turtles. We saw toddlers paddling around in life jackets while their parents snorkelled. If your kids are too small to swim, the boats often have shaded areas and clear-bottom views so they can still see the turtles from above.
Child-Friendly Activities in Barbados
There’s loads to do in Barbados with kids — here are just a few favourites:
- Barbados Wildlife Reserve: Monkeys, tortoises, deer and birds roaming free in a lush jungle setting — and it’s pushchair-friendly too.
- Snorkelling and turtle spotting: As mentioned, this is a huge highlight and totally doable with little ones.
- Harrison’s Cave: An underground tram ride through crystalised limestone caverns — a fun mix of adventure and comfort.
- Beaches like Paynes Bay and Carlisle Bay: Calm, shallow, and perfect for little swimmers and sandcastle-builders.
- Animal Flower Cave: A dramatic sea cave on the northern tip of the island, complete with natural rock pools (better for slightly older kids).
Barbados with kids is honestly a dream. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and packed with fun — and while there are a few practical things to work around (pushchairs and baby change facilities, we’re looking at you), the ease of travel, safety, warm locals, and endless things to do make it a destination I’d go back to in a heartbeat.
If you don’t fancy visiting Barbados with kids, but you still want them to have a taste of the Caribbean, why not try Grenada? We visited just after Barbados and had the best time. It’s less touristy so it’s not necessarily got the same amenities as Barbados, but it’s got its own authentic charm (and loads of waterfalls!).
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