Hotels in Barbados

Cobblers Cove: Rated One of the Best Hotels in The Caribbean

Nestled in this family-owned boutique hotel's exquisite charm are its distinct advantages, notably the striking pink scalloped umbrellas lining a quarter-mile stretch of powdery soft beach in a serene cove. Among the tropical gardens adorned with swaying palms and banana leaves, and the terracotta pool terrace suspended over the bay's breathtaking views, pastel-hued suites provide an inviting retreat. Adorned with hand-printed corals, whitewashed rattan and bamboo, the rooms extend onto terraces framed by vibrant bougainvillea, where the sea breeze weaves its salty spell. Camelot and Colleton, the coveted turreted rooms in the coral-washed Great House, offer rooftop terraces and romantic bay vistas. The overall ambiance evokes the elegance of a British country estate but with an exotic twist, showcasing a delightful blend of tropical pinks and greens, complete with plantation shutters—a reflection of the island's rich and intriguing history.

Mornings at Cobblers Cove conjure the nostalgia of old-world country clubs, where a refined breakfast chorus occasionally mingles with the sounds of a tennis serve or the delightful pop of a Champagne cork. The afternoons drift by languidly, with guests seamlessly transitioning from their sun loungers to the warm, inviting sea, where opportunities abound for encounters with sea turtles or serene paddleboarding excursions. In addition to upholding the hotel's afternoon tea tradition and offering a superb spa experience, daily sailing and water skiing sessions await. Adventurous guests can join local fisherman Barker on his engaging catch-of-the-day escapades. The culinary realm is masterfully overseen by Bajan chef Jason Joseph, guaranteeing that Camelot maintains its esteemed status as one of the island's premier dining destinations, with its elegant white-tablecloth setting. Weekly buffets and barbecues further showcase the delights of local cuisine in a more relaxed atmosphere, appealing to both the sophisticated palate and the discerning traveler.

Coral Reef Club: Timeless Elegance and Charm

Easily envisioned as the backdrop for chapters in 20th-century novels, The Coral Reef Club exudes a timeless allure. The hotel evokes an Old World charm, with mahogany wicker sofas adorned with soft cream cushions and those delightful tea trays, as well as spirited games of doubles before breakfast. Suites seamlessly embrace this blend of unapologetic tradition and laid-back comfort, adorned with gold-framed illustrations reminiscent of an English country estate. Mahogany cabinets proudly display coral and the structured yet inviting sofas feature plump cushions. While the hotel occupies a relatively narrow stretch of beach on the west coast, guests often find themselves poolside, indulging in rounds of rum cocktails or taking a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk to picturesque Holetown, a town with a history dating to 1695.

The O'Hara family, owners of the Coral Reef Club and its sister property, the Sandpiper, have deep roots in Barbados dating to the 1950s. This familial connection infuses the hotel with a welcoming, home-away-from-home ambiance. The layout, featuring two expansive pools, a water sports area and a serene spa, often takes center stage, drawing in well-groomed patrons. The spa itself is a true highlight, cleverly integrated into the lush tropical gardens as a spacious open-air structure. Here, guests seamlessly transition from top-tier treatments to the thermal gardens, a steam room and yoga classes in the relaxation room, adding an element of serenity and wellness to the timeless charm of The Coral Reef Club.

The Sandpiper: Atmosphere of Ultimate Privacy

Slightly more intimate in scale than its sister property, The Coral Reef Club, The Sandpiper is positioned on the vibrant fringes of bustling Holetown along Barbados' west coast. Despite its lively location, this hotel exudes a laid-back elegance that perfectly complements the golden sands and azure waters it overlooks. The beach here is always alive with activity, from people-watching to observing sailing boats and water skiers. The hotel, although compact, is cocooned within lush tropical gardens, featuring a riot of bougainvillea, swaying palms and lush ferns. Guest rooms strike a harmonious balance between traditional wicker and mahogany furnishings and a more contemporary aesthetic, all brought to life with vibrant colors and cheerful prints.

One of The Sandpiper's standout features is its generous sun deck suspended over the sands, offering captivating beach views, especially during the breathtaking sunsets when the horizon ignites in deep crimson hues. Guests, with rum cocktails in hand and deck shoes casually kicked off, wholeheartedly embrace the hotel's easygoing spirit. Even the refined open-air restaurant, encircled by torch-lit tropical gardens and koi ponds, maintains an unpretentious vibe, where a linen shirt is all you need to savor delightful dishes like Bajan flying fish and Caribbean shrimp. While afternoons effortlessly drift by beside the main pool or the picture-perfect lap pool shaded by inviting cream-colored parasols, a quick call to the concierge is all it takes to access the Coral Club's opulent spa for some well-deserved pampering.

Sandy Lane Hotel: Sophistication and Glamor in this Landmark Setting

Sandy Lane stands as one of Barbados' most glamorous hotels, where polished marble floors, classic sofas adorned with flourishing potted plants, and captivating sea views framed by elegant stone arches and pillars create an opulent ambiance. Nestled along a picturesque stretch of golden beach on the island's west coast, not far from the vibrant Holetown, the hotel strikes a remarkable balance. Despite the impeccable service, the Neo-Palladian stone-clad bedrooms and the guests' glittering diamonds that twinkle by candlelight during dinner, Sandy Lane maintains a delightfully easygoing atmosphere.

In a style reminiscent of British and American country clubs, guests can whisk away in golf buggies after a leisurely buffet breakfast to one of Sandy Lane's three pristine golf courses or indulge in a full day of pampering at the palatial spa. The spa experience is truly exceptional, offering a sauna, steam room and a hydrotherapy pool obstacle course, along with an impressive array of indulgent treatments, from Bajan sugar cane scrubs to rejuvenating Cryotherapy energy facials. For a touch of family-friendly charm, a gelato bar, exciting watersports, and the exceptional Treehouse Club cater to the idyllic country club experience, affording well-deserving parents some cherished relaxation time on the beach. In addition to the Romanesque-pillared L'Acajou restaurant and the more laid-back Bajan Blue, an expansive multi-tiered pool complete with its cascading waterfall serves as a central focal point, where sunbathers can observe tennis players in their crisp whites or beachgoers returning from the bar with fresh Daquiris.

Sandals Royal Barbados: An All-Inclusive Stay in Idyllic Paradise

Sandals Royal Barbados, situated in the lively St. Lawrence Gap area on Barbados' southern coast, is a luxurious all-inclusive resort that caters exclusively to couples. This romantic haven, part of the esteemed Sandals chain, offers an exceptional escape for those seeking a refined and amorous getaway. Its accommodations, marked by spacious suites and exclusive Skypool Suites with private infinity-edge plunge pools, are thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and romantic touches, providing couples with a haven of comfort.

The resort takes pride in its diverse culinary offerings, featuring an impressive selection of 12 gourmet dining options, each serving international cuisines that cater to various tastes. From intimate fine dining experiences to casual beachside bites, Sandals Royal Barbados ensures that culinary delights are a significant part of your stay. Moreover, the resort provides an array of land and water activities for unlimited enjoyment. Guests can partake in activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and beach volleyball, all set against the backdrop of Barbados' clear Caribbean waters. The inviting swimming pools, including an infinity rooftop pool with a swim-up bar, offer captivating sea views, while the pristine white-sand beach presents the perfect setting for sunbathing or romantic shoreline walks. The Red Lane Spa, known for its world-class spa treatments and massages, provides a serene escape for relaxation and rejuvenation. Evening entertainment and lively bars keep the resort alive after the sun sets, with live performances and theme nights ensuring there's something for every guest to enjoy. Sandals Royal Barbados also offers exchange privileges, allowing access to the amenities and dining options at the nearby Sandals Barbados resort. If you're planning a destination wedding or a honeymoon, the resort's wedding coordinators and romantic packages can help create your dream Caribbean experience. Whether you're celebrating love, embarking on a romantic escape, or starting your journey as newlyweds, Sandals Royal Barbados offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience for couples.

Barbados, with its enchanting blend of pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious hotels, beckons travelers to experience the ultimate Caribbean escape. Whether you seek relaxation on sun-kissed shores or adventures in lush tropical landscapes, the hotels in Barbados offer an array of experiences. From the timeless elegance of Sandy Lane to the relaxed opulence of The Sandpiper, these hotels cater to every taste, ensuring a memorable stay. Beyond the hotel walls, Barbados offers a treasure trove of activities, from water sports to exploring historic sites and savoring delectable Bajan cuisine. The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the island's allure, making it an irresistible destination for those in search of a quintessential Caribbean retreat. Reach out to me and let me plan your next Barbados getaway!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Barbados. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lindsay Vaughn’s trip report, Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Barbados.