Barbados is a small island but it offers more than sun and sand. Here's what's genuinely worth your time.
Bridgetown and the Garrison — The capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and more interesting than most visitors expect. The 17th-century Nidhe Israel Synagogue, the Parliament Buildings, the Careenage waterfront, and the military Garrison to the south all repay a few hours on foot. The Barbados Museum in the old Garrison prison is excellent.
Harrison's Cave — An underground limestone cavern with stalactites, stalagmites, and streams. Book the tram tour. If you want more, the Early Explorers spelunking tour takes you off the main route.
Bathsheba and the east coast — Completely different from the tourist-facing west. The east coast is wild, dramatic, and largely undeveloped. The village of Bathsheba has a few good rum shops and restaurants, and the Soup Bowl surf break just offshore is one of the Caribbean's best.
Crop Over — If you can be in Barbados from late July through early August, don't miss this. The calypso competitions, the road fêtes, and above all Grand Kadooment Day — when masqueraders in elaborate costumes parade through Bridgetown — make for an unforgettable experience.
Mount Gay Rum Distillery — Barbados is the birthplace of Caribbean rum, and Mount Gay claims to be the world's oldest rum brand (since 1703). The distillery tour near Bridgetown is informative and the tasting is generous.
Oistins on a Friday night — The Oistins Fish Fry is a weekly institution: fresh fried fish, macaroni pie, Bajan music, and a genuinely local atmosphere. Arrive hungry.
Hunte's Gardens — A magical private garden in a former gully in the Scotland District. Anthony Hunte, the horticulturist who created it, is often present. One of the most unexpected pleasures on the island.