How to Plan a Self-Guided Island Tour in Barbados: Tips from a Local
Barbados may be just 166 square miles, but it’s packed with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant local culture—making it the perfect island for a self-guided road trip. Whether you’re a visitor or a local like me, hopping in a car and exploring Barbados at your own pace is one of the best ways to discover the island.
From quiet bays and rum shops to lush gullies, hilltop churches, and colonial architecture, you can see a surprising amount in just one day. I’ve been planning island tours with friends for over 15 years, and we still manage to uncover new gems every time we hit the road. Here's everything you need to know to plan your own memorable road trip in Barbados.
Quick Driving Facts for Barbados
Before you rent a car or hit the road, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
We drive on the left – As a former British colony, Barbados follows the left-hand driving rule. Most cars are right-hand drive.
Minimum rental age is 21 – And most companies require at least 2 to 5 years of driving experience.
Drivers over 70 – You may need to present a medical certificate to rent a vehicle.
Local driving permit required – Bring your valid driver’s license; car rental companies will issue a temporary local permit (usually a small fee).
Navigation tip – While Google Maps works, many locals also use Waze, which tends to be more accurate with traffic and road closures. Download your directions ahead of time if you’re relying on WiFi.
For more detailed driving tips in Barbados, check out this guide.
North Point - Self Guided Island Tour Barbados
Why Locals Love Island Tours Too
Island tours aren’t just for tourists—this is something Bajans truly enjoy as well. We often rediscover old favourites and stumble upon new hideaways, from countryside food spots to scenic cliffside views. There’s something about being on the open road with friends, snacks, and good music that makes a Barbados island tour a must-do, whether you’re hosting visitors or just want to see the island through fresh eyes.
Take the Road Less Travelled: A Self-Drive Island Tour of Barbados
Embarking on a self-guided island tour in Barbados may seem a little daunting at first—especially with our winding roads and the occasional missing road sign—but trust me, it’s all part of the adventure. Locals are used to seeing visitors driving around, and most Bajan drivers will "give you an ease" on the road. And if you ever get turned around, someone is always willing to point you in the right direction.
Fun fact: Barbados has one of the most dense road networks in the world. But take that with a grain of salt—this stat includes old, narrow "cart roads" from our sugar cane days. If Google Maps sends you down what looks like a dirt track leading into a cane field… it probably is one.
That said, driving yourself is one of the best ways to see Barbados on your own terms. You can explore at your own pace, skip the crowds, and discover hidden gems you won’t find on a tour bus itinerary. And if renting a car isn’t your thing, no worries—Barbados has an affordable (and entertaining) public transport system too.
Start with an Easy, Scenic Route
To kick off this series of self-drive adventures, I’ve mapped out a 1-day island tour that’s ideal for first-timers. It features well-maintained roads, stunning viewpoints, and a mix of well-loved and lesser-known stops. You can start from anywhere on the route, depending on where you're staying, and make it your own as you go.
Pro tip: Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks, and keep your camera close. There are plenty of rum shops, scenic overlooks, and breezy picnic spots along the way.
1-Day Self-Guided Driving Tour of Barbados (Scenic North & East Coast)
1. Animal Flower Cave (North Point)
Start your adventure at the northern tip of the island. Visit the cliffside café for a coffee or breakfast, and if the tide allows, take a tour of the sea cave. If not, the views alone are worth the stop.
2. Cove Bay & Pico Tenerife Viewpoint
A short drive from North Point, this secluded area offers sweeping views of the wild East Coast—perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
3. Cherry Tree Hill & St. Nicholas Abbey
Wind your way through the mahogany trees of Cherry Tree Hill and take in one of the most iconic views in Barbados. You can also visit St. Nicholas Abbey—a restored plantation house and rum distillery steeped in history.
4. Morgan Lewis Windmill
An important piece of Barbados’ sugar heritage, this is one of the last intact sugar windmills in the Caribbean. A great photo op and a quick stop before heading down the coast.
5. Drive Along the East Coast Road
Take in the rugged beauty of the East Coast as you cruise through Cattlewash and Bathsheba.
6. Lunch Stop: Round House
Nestled above the surf at Soup Bowl, Round House serves hearty local food and has some of the best views in the area.
7. Soup Bowl (Bathsheba)
Barbados' most famous surf spot. Even if you’re not surfing, the wave-watching is mesmerizing.
8. St. John’s Parish Church
Head inland for a bit, and stop at this beautiful hilltop church for sweeping views of the coastline below.
9. The Village Bar at Lemon Arbour (Weekends Only)
If it’s the weekend, this is a great spot for local food, cold drinks, and a proper Bajan lime.
10. Finish on the West Coast
Cruise over to the west coast and wrap up your day with a Banks beer or a rum punch in hand. Choose any beach bar—like Juju’s, La Cabane, or Sea Shed—and catch the sunset with your toes in the sand.
Bonus Tip: Want to avoid retracing your route? Head back south along the ABC Highway to make your return faster and easier.
Get the Route Map:
Follow this Google Map link to access the full self-drive route, including stops and suggestions. Save it to your phone or download it for offline access.
Want more driving routes? I’ll be sharing more self-guided tours in upcoming posts—covering everything from foodie trails to heritage sites to family-friendly stops. If there are places you'd like me to include, drop a comment or send me a message!
