If you’re looking for an intimate honeymoon destination filled with unique experiences and adventure combined with a relaxed, private vibe, then Barbados may be the ideal location. Expect it all from this Caribbean Island – mouth-watering cuisine, the bluest of waters, a friendly atmosphere and, of course, all the rum you could ever want.
If sun, sand and surf are on your honeymoon getaway list, Barbados ticks all the boxes.
Here is a guide to what to do, where to go and places to stay.
BY AMY BIELBY
Pick your place
Barbados has some truly unique accommodations, so don’t limit yourself to one. Spoil yourself by indulging in a couple of different properties. Start in Saint James at The House by Elegant Hotels. This adults-only, all-inclusive resort is a beauty. With just 34 rooms and suites, this might be the romantic and intimate honeymoon destination you’ve been looking for. The service is personal and unparalleled, with many staff greeting you by name as you enter the lobby or restaurant. Every guest receives a complimentary 30-minute “jet lag” massage to begin their stay (you can head to the spa or have the massage in your room).
Continue the relaxation on the beach, with soft sand under your toes, surrounded by turquoise waters. If you’re looking for activity, partake in some yoga or water activities, and then top the night off with a delicious meal at Positano, an Italian delight with handmade pasta and pizza. This high-end dining experience is included in the all-inclusive package. Consult with the romance concierge if you’d like to spice things up with a dinner on the beach or other date-night ideas.
Next, move to Crystal Cove by Elegant Hotels, another boutique hotel that sits atop oceanfront cliffs (not too high – just enough to give you breathtaking views from your balcony). While this is not an adults-only property, it is still a quiet and intimate honeymoon destination. The lagoon-style pools (complete with a waterfall) are the perfect place to soak up the sun and take a dip to cool off. Then grab a drink at the unique Cave Bar or visit the coffee bar for a little pick-me-up.
The dine around program allows you to experience restaurants at the Elegant sister hotels, and the complimentary water taxi will get you there just in time for apps.
Food and drink
Every meal in Barbados is a delight. Head to the St. Lawrence Gap (known affectionately as The Gap) and choose from a street full of restaurants and bars. The nightlife here is second-to-none on the island. A recommendation: Cocktail Kitchen. Ask any of the locals for a great place to eat, and this will be their answer. The Thai Fish Cakes are a delicious bite, and the Caribbean Seafood Curry will warm your belly.
Visit Calma Beach Club for a laid-back meal on the beach. The menu is filled with delectable local, sustainable options that will satisfy any craving. They have a large selection of gluten-free and plant-based options that are as tasty as anything else on the menu.
If you’re a rum drinker, you’ll love the options in Barbados, which is widely considered to be the birthplace of rum. You can’t miss the tasting at the Mount Gay Rum Distillery. Learn the methods behind creating the spirit, and then do a little taste-testing. (You’ll absolutely need a designated driver for this excursion; those shots will catch up with you quickly.)
St. Nicholas Abbey is another option for those who like rum with a side of history. The beautiful grounds are a sight to behold, and then you’ll end with a look at the distillery and a taste of the award-winning recipe.
Do all the things
It will be difficult to fit every activity into your honeymoon, so prioritize the can’t-miss fun. Put a day at Carlisle Bay at the top of your itinerary. Set up camp at Harbour Lights Barbados by renting a couple of lounge chairs and an umbrella on the beach. Spend the day in the sunshine sipping on cocktails (delivered right to you on the beach) and wading in the ocean. But be sure to make time for the turtle and shipwreck tour. A boat will take you and your snorkelling equipment on a very short ride, where you will jump out and explore the incredible underwater world in this intimate honeymoon destination.
Afterwards, head to the grill for some snacky-snacks (including jerk chicken – yum!). If you enjoy being on and in the water, then a catamaran cruise should be up next. Go with a group or splurge on a more private sail. Again, the snorkelling is incredible, with thousands of fish swimming to greet you, along with Hawksbill turtles, green turtles and leatherback turtles. Then enjoy a romantic sunset on the ocean.
Visit Animal Flower Cave, a gorgeous cave with several chambers that provide stunning views. Don’t forget your bathing suit because, in the last chamber, you can take a dip in a natural rock pool. Afterwards, visit the restaurant for some rum cocktails and a tasty lunch. And if you aren’t exhausted by then, maybe a round of golf is in order. Sandy Lane Golf & Country Club has three courses to choose from, with varying degrees of difficulty. Hit the pro shop to rent clubs, then join your caddy for a challenging 9 or 18 holes.
Barbados is truly an à-la-carte-style intimate honeymoon destination. Pick and choose exactly what you want, and then indulge in all the unique aspects the island has to offer. It’s a magical place, and you may end up returning for your anniversary!
visitbarbados.org
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