Barbados: The Ultimate Babymoon Getaway
Where We Stayed: Sugar Bay Barbados Resort
Since this was our babymoon and I was five months pregnant, an all-inclusive resort was non-negotiable - I was eating for two, after all. Sugar Bay Barbados was the perfect spot for relaxation.If lounging on the beach with a good book isn't enough for you, the resort also has a spa for ultimate relaxation. My husband, however, isn't one to sit still all day, so plenty of activity options were a must, and Sugar Bay delivered.
- The swim-up bar in the shallow section, makes it easy to sip on something refreshing while playing water volleyball or splashing around with the kids - perfect if you decide to turn this into a family vacation!
- You can rent a paddle board or challenge someone to road tennis (a game somewhat similar to tennis and pickleball).
- Evenings come alive with live music, and many guests can't resist grabbing a dance partner and dancing the night away.
What We Didn't Love
While our stay was overall enjoyable, there were a couple of minor inconveniences:
- Restaurant Reservation Confusion - When we initially booked the resort, we were told to make reservations for the specialty restaurants upon arrival. However, when we got there, we were told they were already fully booked and that we should have reserved in advance - a frustrating catch 22. Tip: Try contacting the resort before arrival to see if they can secure reservations for you.
Must-Have Maternity Packing List:
Getting Around: Insider Tip
One of the best travel tips we picked up? Make friends with your taxi driver. Getting around the island can be tricky, but if you build a connection, they'll take care of you.
Our driver gave us his personal number, gave us recommendations and made sure we got back to our hotel safely every night.
If you'd like to arrange a trusted driver before your trip, feel free to reach out - I'd be happy to share my contact!
Professional Beach Photography
If you are thinking about getting professional pictures taken, we highly recommend Sandbox Photography. We chose them for our maternity photoshoot on the beach, where we also announced the gender of our baby, and the experience was incredible!
- They provided great location recommendations
- They were professional, easy to communicate with, and incredibly accommodating to our needs.
- Most importantly, the final photos were stunning - we couldn't be happier with the results!
Must-Do Experiences in Barbados
⭐ Visit Rihanna's Childhood Home
If you're stepping out into the sun, you might want to bring your "umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh" - or at least some sunscreen - so you can visit Rihanna's childhood home. Located on Rihanna Drive (renamed in her honor in 2017), this humble yet iconic spot is a must-see for any fan.
And if you really want to "shine bright like a diamond," you can even stay in the house through Airbnb for just $100 per night!
⭐ Deep Dive in a Submarine
Yes, you read that right - a submarine!
Atlantis Submarines offers an unforgettable underwater adventure where you get a front-row seat to explore the ocean floor while staying completely dry. You'll see sea turtles, barracudas, and even a sunken ship wreck!
And the best part? You get to sit back and enjoy the view - no swimming required!
⭐ Tour the St. Nicholas Abbey Rum Plantation
If you love history and rum, this tour is a must.
- Start with a guided tour through the 350-year-old plantation.
- Then, hop on a steam train ride through lush the hills - where, at the end of the route, guests actually help rotate the engine to send it back the other way.
- Learn about the rum-making process, starting with the grinding of sugarcane.
- Naturally, the tour wraps up with a rum tasting (because what would a rum tour be without it?).
⭐ Experience Oisten's Fish Fry
If you are in town on a Friday night, this is the place to be - so if you plan to go, arrive early!
Oisten's Fish Fry is a lively street party filled with vendors, live music and shopping (because who doesn't love shopping?).
I highly recommend ordering some kind of fish - because, well it is a fish fry.
⭐ Watch Racehorses Bathe in the Ocean
If you're a morning person like me, this is a magical way to start your day.
Head to Pebbles Beach early, where locals bring racehorses to bathe in the ocean.
You can:
✓ Snap photos with them
✓ Learn about their racing journey
✓ Even go for a ride (though I wouldn't recommend if you're pregnant, like I was!)
This was an unforgettable experience and one of my favorite memories from our trip.
⭐ Date Night: Sunset Strolls & Tapas
If you love a romantic evening walk, the Richard Haynes Boardwalk is a must.
It runs along the ocean, it offers stunning sunset views - without the hassle of sandy feet. Along walk, you'll pass vibrant street art and plenty of tempting restaurant options.
We decided on Tapas, an up-scale place (and, let's be honest, one of our favorite words).
We sampled a variety of small plates, including:
- Shrimp taco shots (non-alcoholic, I promise)
- Ham and cheese croquettes
- Fried goat cheese
- Chicken samosas
Next Time We Visit, We'd Love To:
- Tour the Mount Gay Rum Distillery - Learn about the world's oldest rum brand and, of course, enjoy a tasting
- Watch a Cricket Game at Kensington Oval - Experience the excitement of Barbados' most beloved sport firsthand
- Spend time at The Barbados Turf Club - Take in the thrill of horse racing at this iconic track
- Visit the Animal Flower Cave & Restaurant - Explore the sea caves, admire the stunning coastal views, and grab a bite at the cliffside restaurant
- Go Shopping in Bridgetown - Stroll through the capital city, shop for local crafts, and soak up the island's culture
Comments
Post a Comment