Virgin Voyages' guide to Bridgetown, Barbados
The ideal mix of turquoise waters, sprawling white sand beaches, historic hubs and endless opportunities for exciting outdoor adventures.
BRIDGETOWN
Where History Meets Paradise
Located on the southwest coast of Barbados is the picturesque port town of Bridgetown. With bountiful beaches everywhere you look here it’s almost impossible not to breathe a sigh of relief as soon as your toes touch the warm white sand – though this quaint beachside town has a lot more to offer than initially meets the eye.
Shop along the iconic pedestrian-only Swan Street – where the local culture of Bridgetown radiates through its impressive handmade shops, cafes and more. Explore infinite different outdoor activities, from four-wheeling across the island, taking a historic beach hike and hopping on the beautiful heritage railway to discovering an array of hidden beaches and bays by boat. Snorkel the crystal clear waters that surround this gem of the Caribbean and sip craft cocktails while learning about the locally-sourced rum that makes them so special after uncovering the restored beauty of some of the island’s most historic locations.
No matter what your journey in Bridgetown ends up unfolding into, the only thing you should consider written in stone is that you’re going to have an idyllic experience.
No matter what your journey in Bridgetown ends up unfolding into, the only thing you should consider written in stone is that you’re going to have an idyllic experience.
High Tea at Sunbury Plantation House
Visit the Sunbury Plantation House, a Bridgetown staple since the 1600s, where you’ll be able to explore the nooks and crannies of this beguiling sprawling home that reads almost like a museum at times with each eclectic room offering a different insight into bygone Bridgetown eras. After your tour indulge in high tea, scrumptious sandwiches and tasty treats in the courtyard.
The Rum Accords in St. Nicholas Abbey
One of three genuine Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere, this plantation built in 1658 is now one of the biggest compounds welcoming visitors in the Caribbean. Take a guided tour of this magnificent place and learn about its torrid history before making your way to their rum distillery to learn and enjoy iconic St. Nicholas Abbey Rum or to explore the sprawling surrounding gardens, orchards and the nearby instagram-worthy Cherry Tree Hill.
Deep Sea Fishing — Barbadian Style
Climb about an impressive 40’ Viking Sport Fisherman boat (one of the most comfortable fishing charters in the fleet) and get ready for the fishing experience of a lifetime. With the highest quality fishing equipment and the opportunity to catch wahoo, dorado, tuna or blue marlin you’re in for a treat (and potentially the freshest seafood you’ll ever have).
🎼 Find light in the beautiful sea and choose to be happy. 🎶
Rihanna was born and raised in this (obviously) inspiring port city.
Shore Excursions
Boats, Beaches, & Barbadian BBQ
On a catamaran, your captain will take you over the turquoise waves and anchor beside the shores of hidden beaches. Splash down in the sea and revel in the amazing scenery in this real-life setting of paradisiacal bliss. And when the hunger strikes – some island BBQ will be cooked up on board.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGSBridgetown offers everything that people love about the Caribbean. In fact, when most people picture their ideal beach holiday, the vibes of Bridgetown are usually what’s on their mind. Explore the picturesque downtown areas, relax on the sprawling white sand beaches that are seemingly endless, revel in the countless opportunities for outdoor and underwater adventure, and indulge in both mom-and-pop restaurants featuring classic creole recipes as well as the best in fine dining. With so much to do in Bridgetown, the only regret you’ll have upon leaving is that you waited so long to go in the first place.
