A Barbados Honeymoon Offers Something for Every Couple

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A Barbados honeymoon will bring you to one of the southernmost islands in the Caribbean Sea, making newlyweds feel a world away from, well, the world. As one of the best honeymoon destinations, this large island has multiple cities, plenteous white sand beaches, loads of culture and an amazing food scene.

Couples on a Barbados honeymoon will enjoy an amazing mix of relaxation, adventure and culture that's as fast-paced or leisurely as you'd like. Plus, Barbados is easy to reach from most US air hubs. And while it's not the cheapest Caribbean honeymoon destination, it's certainly not the most expensive, making it a good option for honeymooners looking for a relatively affordable vacation that provides both budget and luxe options.

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Ready to learn more about this perfect honeymoon spot? Here's everything you need to know about honeymooning in Barbados.

Barbados Honeymoon Tips in this Article:

• Best Time to Visit Barbados
• Barbados Honeymoon Planning Tips
• Best Barbados Honeymoon Hotels & Resorts
• Things to Do in Barbados for Couples
• What to Pack for a Barbados Honeymoon

Photo: Bob Sacha | Getty

Best Time to Visit Barbados

Barbados experiences both a rainy and a dry season. The rainy season coincides with hurricane season, and occurs from July through November. Because of Barbados' southern location, it's far less likely to be impacted by a hurricane than other Caribbean islands. Still, expect rain during these months.

For the best weather, you'll want to visit between December and June, when you can expect temperatures in the 80s, with nice breezes and cooler nighttime temps to offset the heat.

Best weather: December to June.
Festival highlights: The Crop Over Festival is one of Barbados' most popular festivals, celebrating the end of the sugar cane season. This festival features colorful parades and festivities, culminating in the Grand Kadooment Day with masquerade bands and street parties.

Barbados Honeymoon Planning Tips

The best part about going on a honeymoon in Barbados is that the island truly does have a little something for everyone. Larger cities, such as the capital city of Bridgetown, offer history, museums, shopping and near-endless dining and drinking options. Some of the island's turquoise-water beaches are rocky with rough Atlantic waves, while others are pristine and calm. Accommodations and activities range from budget-friendly to super-luxurious, relaxing (like couples massages) to adventurous (like water sports).

If you're not a big fan of planning a detailed itinerary for your trip, you might want to hire a travel agent or check out some honeymoon planning companies that'll do the work for you. Getting the most from this island requires a bit of planning and research. While you can certainly find amazing beach resorts that come with their own restaurants, shopping options, spas and activities, the true Barbados experience is best enjoyed off-property.

Here are a few more things to keep in mind before booking your plane tickets:

Entry requirements: A valid US passport and proof of anticipated departure from Barbados.
Language: English.
Location: Barbados is an island country in the Lesser Antilles of the West Indies, situated in the Caribbean region of North America.
Currency: Barbadian dollar (BBD).
Flight time to Destination: From Miami, the flight is around 3.5 hours.
Getting around: Renting a car is a popular option, but taxis and minibuses are also available for transportation. Walking and cycing are other great options, too.

Pro tip: Did you know you can find honeymoon planning experts to help plan your romantic getaway? Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace for Barbados honeymoon advice.

Best Barbados Honeymoon Hotels & Resorts

This island destination offers a wide range of honeymoon accommodations, from luxurious Barbados resorts to private villas and boutique hotels. Many provide special amenities for newlyweds, including beachside cabanas, couples massages and private tours. Here are our top picks.

Photo: Christhompsonph | Shutterstock

Sandals Barbados

If you don't mind planning a few off-property excursions but still want an all-inclusive resort with a range of honeymoon packages, the Sandals Resort in Barbados on Dover Beach is probably a good pick for you and your sweetie. The adults-only property is specifically designed for couples and pulls out all the stops for newlyweds.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels

This Marriott hotel in Barbados is another all-inclusive option that has a sophisticated vibe. Situated on the island's West Coast, the intimate resort has fewer than 100 rooms. Even with the smaller size, the resort delivers all of the amenities you could ever need. You'll also have easy access to Saint James Parish, a neighborhood known for its high-end hotels, nightlife and luxury shopping (as well as a few historic sites, such as a neighborhood church that dates back to the 1600s).

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Bougainvillea Barbados

Bougainville is a fabulous choice for a Barbados honeymoon resort. With just 100 rooms, you won't feel overwhelmed by crowds or long check-in lines. Each suite is outfitted with a kitchen or kitchenette, as well as furnished patios or balconies. Book the top-floor Honeymoon Suite to enjoy extra-special amenities, including its own private deck.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: If you're looking for a unique Barbados honeymoon accommodation, consider staying at a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

Things to Do in Barbados for Couples

There are plenty of romantic things to do in Barbados, whether you're into catamaran cruises or dining at top-notch restaurants. Here are some ideas to help fill out your Barbados honeymoon itinerary.

Photo: Simon Dannhauer | Shutterstock

Hop Between Beaches

One amazing thing about the beaches in Barbados? Every single one is open to the public—even those in front of resorts. If there's a stretch of sand that intrigues you, you're welcome to it.

See some of the best beaches on the island, whether you want to stop by a few over the course of a day or visit a different beach each day of your honeymoon. Favorites include Crane Beach, with its pink sand and dramatic cliff backdrop; Carlisle Bay Beach, with its gentler waves and convenient location close to Bridgetown; and the beaches along Bathsheba, which are loved by surfers for their strong waves and beautiful rock formations.

Sample Local Rum

If you and your honey hardly ever turn down a well-made drink, then the Barbados locals will be more than happy to introduce you to their favorite cocktails. Rum is the name of the game here, and the most famous distillery is Mount Gay. Take a Mount Gay tour and maybe even a mixology class. If distilleries aren't your thing, you can also visit one of the more than 1,000 rum shops scattered across the island or stop by your hotel bar and order the unofficial island drink: a rum punch.

Snorkel or Scuba Dive

Barbados is considered the shipwreck dive capital of the Caribbean, so if you and your spouse-to-be are adventurous, strap on your snorkeling or scuba diving gear and head beneath the ocean's surface to explore the countless dive sites. Ships date back to World War I and are easily reachable with the help of a qualified Barbados guide.

Enjoy Some Liming

No, it's not a fruit—at least not when you're in Barbados. Liming is the Bajan term for hanging out in a social setting with drinks, food and live music, and it's a can't-miss experience for honeymooners visiting the island. The locals will be happy to have you join in on the fun, especially at the weekly fish fry in Oistins. The regular event includes seafood vendors, music, dancing and free-flowing rum right on the beach.

Pro tip: Include Barbados honeymoon experiences in your gift registry so your loved ones can give you and your new spouse an activity to enjoy together.

What to Pack for a Barbados Honeymoon

Photo: Marc Guitard | Getty

Beyond all of your beachwear and gear, make sure to bring a range of clothing items in your honeymoon luggage. You'll likely want a few casual outfits for sightseeing and exploring (don't forget comfy shoes), as well as a few dressier outfits for dinners and nights out. For a more complete sense of what to pack for your Barbados honeymoon, check out The Knot's comprehensive packing checklist.

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.