One of the best places to visit in the Caribbean is the island of Barbados.

A network of architectural and historical attractions, exotic wildlife, a wealth of water sports, and pristine beaches are just some of the things the new republic has to offer. It's why you'll keep coming back if you stay away from home for a long time. There are many places to visit in Barbados.

Explore Barbados’ rum history at Mount Gay Distilleries

At Mount Gay Distilleries, the ideal tropical weather for alcohol maturation converges to produce the perfect rum.

Mt. Gay Rum is Barbados' most popular rum
Barbados is the birthplace of  Mount Gay rum, which has a distillery that  can be visited on the island  © Macca Sherifi / Shutterstock

The world's oldest commercial rum distillery was founded in 1703. They offer a sampling of the premium rums of the vaunted brand in their signature tasting. There is an unlimited supply of rum punch, as well as a Bajan lunch with local specialties.

Free transportation is available from hotels. Bridgetown is the largest city and country capital.

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Hike up Mount Hillaby 

Mount Hillaby is the only mountain in the country. The highest point on the island is 1115 feet above sea level. Bathsheba Beach is a popular surfing destination with dramatic rock formations.

The low-intensity trek up Mount Hillaby's trail will appeal to hikers of all skill levels. White coral stone and volcanic rock can be seen. This area is the only one on the island with this type of rock.

Visit Rihanna Drive 

She used to be known as "Robyn" before becoming a global pop star. The little girl from the primary school lived in one of the colorful houses on Westbury New Road.

Exterior shot of the multi-colored house of international pop star Rihanna's childhood home in Barbados.
Any visit to Barbados must include a stop to Rihanna's childhood home © Nicola Pulham / Shutterstock

The street was renamed on the country's independence day. Visitors flock to the modest but brightly painted green and orange house on a blue surface every year to see where the biggest star of the island grew up.

Sometimes, if you're lucky, a few of your neighbors might be willing to give you some information about the little girl.

Go snorkeling at Carlisle Bay

There is a crescent-shaped bay on the southern side of Bridgetown.

This is a snorkeler's paradise because of the nearby wrecks, some of which were unfortunate accidents. There are a variety of fish, lobsters and turtles. The Bay is not well shaded, so umbrellas and sunscreen are required. There are several restaurants and watering holes nearby.

There are 14 best beaches in Barbados.

Stop for something to eat at Animal Flower Cave

The Animal Flower Cave is located on the edge of the northernmost part of the island. There are reflective pools, jagged openings, and windows that look out over the ocean to ward off claustrophobia.

The Ward family has owned the sea cave for more than a century. Cave tours are available. The restaurant above the cave is known for its homemade lemonade and is located on the cliff side.

Between February and April is the best time to catch a glimpse of whales from the open deck above the restaurant.

Preparing fresh flying fish for sale at the Bridgetown Fish Market.
Get a taste of Barbados' popular national dish, flying fish and cocou, which is a mixture of cornmeal and okra © Ruben Ramos / Getty Images

Experience the legendary Friday fish fry at Oistins

Flying fish is the king of fish in the Caribbean. One-half of the island's national dish is made up of flying fish and cou cou.

You can find a lot of fish at Oistins Fish Fry.

Oistins is a fishing village. There is a relaxed setting with the old heads breaking into intense dominoes competition among the diners. There are impromptu spurts of dancing in the background.

The food is very popular so show up early. The lines are long by 8pm. You can get a meal with a beer for between 15 and 20 dollars.

Harrison's Cave on the Caribbean island of Barbados
Harrison's Cave is made out of eroded limestone rock and is accesible to visit via tram © West Indies Getty Images / iStockphoto

Scope out Harrison's Cave

Harrison's Cave is located in the Caribbean. stalactites and stalagmites are formed by the calcium-rich waters of the cave. The caverns and formations are virtually undisturbed because a tour is as easy as sitting in a tram.

You can take the best road trips in the country.

Get a taste of the nightlife at St. Lawrence Gap

The Gap is less than a mile long and is the hub for nightlife and shopping. It is close to Bridgetown in the Christ Church parish. Most of the eateries and nightclubs can be found on the west side of the street in the night time.

There is an affordable waterside dining option with tasty seafood and pizzas. Residential homes as well as hotels and guesthouses can be found in the east end.

A few bars have a more laid back vibe. Grab some local street food and coconut water from one of the multiple vendors in the area and head to the short boardwalk to enjoy a front row seat to a glorious sunset.

Bright image of wooden promenade at the waterfront of Bridgetown in Barbado
Barbados' capital Bridgetown includes a number of major attractions that celebrate the country's history  © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Step back in history on a visit to Bridgetown

The Parliament buildings are located in the center of the city.

The largest British military complex built in the Caribbean is located south of the National Heroes Square. The George Washington House, the National Army, and the Pavilion are included.

You can take a few hours to appreciate the area. The Queen's Park baobab tree is one of the must-see monuments.

You could also like it.

There are a lot of things to do in Bridgetown, beyond the beach.

The article was updated in November.