Barbados is an incredible island, but don’t limit yourself! A day trip island hopping from Barbados can reveal hidden paradises just a short boat ride away. This article will guide you through some of the best options, complete with costs, directions, and insider tips to maximize your adventure.
Why Island Hop from Barbados?
Barbados offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm, British heritage, and stunning natural beauty. However, experiencing other nearby islands allows you to encounter diverse cultures, landscapes, and activities that complement your Bajan adventure. Think pristine, untouched beaches that are less crowded, unique marine life encounters, and the chance to savor authentic island cuisine that differs from what you find in Barbados. Island hopping adds another layer to your Caribbean vacation, making it even more memorable.
Choosing Your Island Hopping Adventure: Key Considerations
Before you set sail, consider several factors to ensure your day trip aligns with your interests and budget. First, think about your budget. Day trips can range from relatively inexpensive ferry rides to luxurious private charters. Ferry tickets are more budget-friendly, while charters offer a personalized experience. Second, consider the time available. Some islands are closer than others, and travel time will impact how much time you have to explore. Lastly, think about what you want to experience. Are you craving secluded beaches, vibrant markets, underwater adventures, or historical sites? Consider the activities and attractions each island offers before making your decision.
Must-Visit Island Hopping Destinations from Barbados
Option 1: St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG)
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is an archipelago of volcanic islands and cays known for its stunning natural beauty, upscale resorts, and sailing opportunities. While a single-day visit to all of SVG is impossible, focusing on one or two key Grenadine islands offers an unforgettable experience.
Getting There: The most common way to reach SVG from Barbados is by air. Several airlines, including SVG Air and Mustique Airways, offer flights from Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) to various islands in SVG, such as St. Vincent (SVD), Mustique (MQS), and Bequia (BQU). Flight times range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the destination. Another mode of transport would be by private charter.
Cost: Round-trip flights can range from US$300 to US$600 or more, depending on the airline, time of year, and island destination. Private charters are significantly more expensive, easily costing thousands of dollars for a day trip.
Destinations within SVG:
Bequia: This charming island, the second largest in the Grenadines, is a haven for sailors and those seeking a relaxed Caribbean vibe. Bequia boasts beautiful beaches like Princess Margaret Beach and Lower Bay, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Explore Port Elizabeth, the main town, with its colorful buildings, waterfront restaurants, and local shops.
Activities in Bequia:
- Beach Hopping: Spend your day exploring the various beaches. Princess Margaret Beach is accessible by foot from Port Elizabeth, while Lower Bay offers calm waters and excellent swimming.
- Snorkeling and Diving: Bequia’s clear waters are ideal for snorkeling and diving. Several dive operators offer excursions to nearby reefs and dive sites.
- Exploring Port Elizabeth: Stroll along the waterfront, browse the local shops for souvenirs, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Mustique: Known as a playground for the rich and famous, Mustique offers unparalleled luxury and privacy. While access to some private areas may be restricted, the island boasts stunning beaches and beautiful scenery that are accessible to visitors.
Activities in Mustique:
- Macaroni Beach: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Macaroni Beach is a must-visit.
- Explore the Island: Rent a golf cart or take a taxi to explore the island’s lush landscapes and scenic viewpoints.
- Enjoy a Luxurious Lunch: Indulge in a delicious lunch at one of Mustique’s exclusive restaurants.
Practical Example: Imagine flying from Barbados to Bequia early in the morning. You spend the day swimming at Princess Margaret Beach, have lunch at Jack’s Beach Bar, and then do some snorkeling. In the late afternoon, you explore Port Elizabeth before catching your flight back to Barbados. This itinerary provides a taste of Bequia’s charm and natural beauty.
Option 2: St. Lucia
St. Lucia offers a dramatic landscape of volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches. While a day trip won’t allow you to see everything, you can focus on the highlights of the southern part of the island.
Getting There: Similar to SVG, the most efficient way to reach St. Lucia from Barbados is by air. Several airlines, including Caribbean Airlines and LIAT (check for current operational status), fly from BGI to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in St. Lucia. Flight times are typically around 45 minutes. Consider a private charter.
Cost: Round-trip flights typically range from US$250 to US$500, depending on the airline and time of year. Transfer costs within St. Lucia (taxi, water taxi) should also be factored into your budget. Expect to pay US$80-$100 for the taxi.
Key Attractions in St. Lucia:
The Pitons: These iconic volcanic peaks, Gros Piton and Petit Piton, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of St. Lucia. A boat tour along the coast offers stunning views of the Pitons and the surrounding coastline.
Activities around the Pitons:
- Boat Tour: Take a boat tour along the coast to admire the Pitons from the water and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in secluded coves. Typical prices range from US$75 to US$150 per person, including lunch and drinks.
- Hiking Gros Piton: For adventurous travelers, a guided hike to the summit of Gros Piton offers breathtaking panoramic views. This is a strenuous hike and requires good fitness and sturdy shoes. The cost for a guided hike ranges from US$50 to US$80 per person.
- Soufriere: Located near the Pitons, Soufriere is home to the world’s only drive-in volcano, the Sulphur Springs. The Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens offer a colorful display of tropical plants and a rejuvenating mineral bath.
Practical Example: Take an early morning flight from Barbados to St. Lucia. Upon arrival, hire a taxi to take you to Soufriere. You visit the Sulphur Springs, Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens, and then enjoy a boat tour along the coast with views of the Pitons. Have lunch at a waterfront restaurant in Soufriere before returning to the airport for your flight back to Barbados. This itinerary highlights the natural beauty and unique attractions of St. Lucia.
Option 3: Grenada
Grenada, also known as the “Spice Isle,” is famous for its fragrant spices, lush rainforests, and beautiful beaches. It offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to St. Lucia and a unique cultural experience.
Getting There: Like St. Lucia and SVG, air travel is the most practical option for a day trip. Caribbean Airlines offer flights from BGI to Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) in Grenada. Flight times are approximately one hour. Private charter flights are available as well.
Cost: Round-trip flights cost around US$200 to US$400, depending on the time of year and booking in advance. Taxis, buses, and boats are the common modes of transport in Grenada, and should be considered to reach different locations, US$40-US$60 expected for a private taxi.
Attractions in Grenada:
Grand Anse Beach: Considered one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Grand Anse Beach offers soft white sand, calm turquoise waters, and a variety of water sports activities. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Activities around Grand Anse Beach:
- Swimming and Sunbathing: Enjoy the pristine waters and relax.
- Water Sports: Try snorkeling, windsurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking.
- Beach Bars and Restaurants: Have lunch at one of the many beach bars and restaurants.
Spice Plantations and Rum Distilleries: Grenada is famous for its spices, including nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. Visit a spice plantation to learn about the harvesting and processing of these spices. Explore a rum distillery to sample local rums and learn about the rum-making process.
Activities around the spice plantations and Rum Distilleries:
- Spice Plantation Tour: See how spices are grown and prepared for export. Costs may vary; entry fees plus optional tour guide fees could amount to USD 10-20 per person.
- Rum Distillery Tour and Tasting: Learn about the rum-making process and sample Grenadian rum.
Practical Example: Fly from Barbados to Grenada in the morning. Head to Grand Anse Beach and spend the morning swimming and sunbathing. Enjoy lunch at a beachfront restaurant. In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation and a rum distillery. Return to the airport for your flight back to Barbados. This itinerary allows you to experience Grenada’s beautiful beach, its spice heritage, and its rum production.
Option 4: Exploring the Grenadines Near Barbados: A Focus on Smaller Islands
While St. Vincent and the Grenadines as a whole might be too broad for a single day trip covering multiple islands, several smaller Grenadine islands closer to Barbados are perfect for quick excursions. These offer a more intimate and less touristy experience than the larger, more well-known islands.
Specific Islands of Interest:
Canouan: This small island offers a blend of luxury resorts and untouched natural beauty. Charleston Bay is the main town, and the entire island is easily accessible by golf cart. Spend time at one of the pristine beaches, like Friendship Bay.
Mayreau: Known for the Salt Whistle Bay beach, often considered one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, Mayreau offers a tranquil escape. It’s a small island with limited development, making it perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. You can hike up to a small church on a hill for panoramic views.
Tobago Cays: The most extraordinary way to spend a day is to travel to the Tobago Cays.
The Tobago Cays Marine Park protects five small, uninhabited islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Jamesby, and Petit Tabac. These islands are surrounded by a large horseshoe reef, creating calm, shallow waters ideal for snorkeling and swimming.
Getting There:
- Flights with smaller airlines: Similar to getting to Bequia, smaller airlines like Mustique Airways, and SVG Air offer flights from Barbados to Canouan.
- Sailboat charter: A full-day sailboat charter from Barbados can include stops at multiple destinations in this area of the Grenadines, typically including the Tobago Cays. Many tours offer transport by catamaran and lunch.
Activities in the Grenadine Islands:
- Snorkeling / Scuba diving in the Tobago Cays: Witness the diverse marine life and vibrant coral reefs – snorkeling will be a highlight for those who wish to just swim. Green sea turtles are easily spotted here so it would be possible to have an experience of lifetime.
- Beach Relaxation: All of these destinations offer tranquil shores for quiet relaxation, so enjoying the calming waves will be a must.
- Island Exploration: Rent a golf cart and travel around different islands, meeting local people during the visit.
Costs: Flights to islands such as Canouan could be expected to run for the flights: from US $350 – US $600 for a return trip. A Full-day sailboat to the Tobago Cays can cost from US $150 – US $300 per person depending upon the size of the vessel and level of the services.
Practical example: Book a full-day sail that leaves Barbados for visiting the Tobago Cays; experience snorkeling and swimming with turtles. The tour often includes lunch and drinks so there will be time to just relax as well.
Booking Your Island Hopping Trip: Practical Advice
Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (December to April), it’s crucial to book flights, ferries, and tours well in advance. This ensures availability and often secures better prices.
Compare Prices: Don’t settle for the first price you find. Compare prices from different airlines, ferry companies, and tour operators to get the best deal.
Read Reviews: Before booking any tour or service, read online reviews from other travelers. This can provide valuable insights into the quality of the experience and help you avoid potential pitfalls.
Check Visa Requirements: Ensure that you have the necessary travel documents, including your passport and any required visas, for the islands you plan to visit. Check the visa requirements for each island destination based on your nationality. You can find information regarding visa requirements on IATA Travel Centre.
Pack Appropriately: Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Consider Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Factor in Transportation Costs on the Visited Island. As mentioned above, it’s vital to have money set aside for local taxis and water-taxis to get from the airport to different attractions.
Sample Itinerary: A Day Trip to Bequia Plan
To illustrate how to plan your island hopping adventure, here’s a detailed sample itinerary for a day trip to Bequia:
6:00 AM: Wake up and have a quick breakfast at your hotel in Barbados.
7:00 AM: Arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) and check in for your flight to Bequia (BQU) with SVG Air or Mustique Airways .
8:00 AM: Depart from Barbados.
8:30 AM (Bequia Time): Arrive at Bequia Airport (BQU). Take a taxi to Port Elizabeth (approximately 10 minutes, US$10-15).
9:00 AM: Stroll along the waterfront in Port Elizabeth, visit the local shops, and admire the colorful buildings.
10:00 AM: Walk to Princess Margaret Beach (a short walk from Port Elizabeth). Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach.
12:30 PM: Have lunch at Jack’s Beach Bar on Princess Margaret Beach. Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties.
2:00 PM: Take a water taxi to Lower Bay (approximately 5 minutes, US$5 per person). Spend the afternoon snorkeling and swimming in the calm waters of Lower Bay.
4:00 PM: Relax on Lower Bay’s beach.
5:00 PM: Head back on water taxi from Lower Bay to Port Elizabeth (approximately 5 minutes, US$5 per person).
5:30 PM: Enjoy a drink at a waterfront bar and watch the sunset.
6:30 PM: Have dinner at a restaurant in Port Elizabeth.
7:30 PM: Take a taxi back to Bequia Airport (BQU) (approximately 10 minutes, US$10-15).
8:30 PM: Check in for your flight back to Barbados.
9:30 PM: Depart from Bequia.
10:00 PM: Arrive at Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) in Barbados.
Note: This is just a sample itinerary and can be customized to your interests and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to go island hopping from Barbados?
The dry season (December to April) is generally considered the best time to visit Barbados and the surrounding islands. The weather is sunny and dry, with lower humidity and less chance of rain. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
Do I need a passport to go island hopping from Barbados?
Yes, you will need a valid passport to travel to any of the islands mentioned in this article. Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining from your date of entry into the destination island.
What currency is used on these islands?
While US dollars are widely accepted on most of these islands, the local currency is typically the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$). It’s a good idea to have some EC$ on hand for smaller purchases and local transportation.
Is it safe to travel to these islands?
The islands mentioned in this article are generally considered safe for tourists. However, it’s always wise to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night and take precautions against petty theft.
Do I need to book tours in advance?
It’s highly recommended to book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season. This ensures availability and often secures better prices. You can book tours online through reputable tour operators.
What should I pack for an island hopping trip?
Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
References
- SVG Air Official Website
- Mustique Airways Official Website
- Caribbean Airlines Official Website
- LIAT Airlines Official Website
- IATA Travel Centre Passport, Visa & Health requirements
Ready to elevate your Barbados vacation? Island hopping offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the diverse beauty and culture of the Caribbean. Don’t just dream about those pristine beaches and hidden coves – start planning your adventure today! Research flights, explore tour options, and get ready to discover your own paradise gems just a short hop away from Barbados.
