Barbados is well known for its beaches, nightlife and other activities that make it the ideal getaway. But there is also much to do for visitors who wish to plan an exciting family vacation. In the southernmost parish of Christ Church, numerous attractions are perfect for those families who want to simply experience the island life together.
Top Places to Visit in Christ Church
Barbados is well known for its beaches, nightlife and other activities that make it the ideal getaway. But there is also much to do for visitors who wish to plan an exciting family vacation. In the southernmost parish of Christ Church, numerous attractions are perfect for those families who want to simply experience the island life together.
- The Barbados Golf Club - Sporting enthusiasts can enjoy a trip to the Barbados Golf Club. This 18-hole course is situated on a lush, tropical landscape complete with two lakes that add to the fun of the game. If you’ve never played before and are interested in taking lessons, there are qualified professional golfers on-site who are ready to coach all ages and abilities (group coaching for families is also available on request). After your game, you can head over to their restaurant for a delightful pizza or take a casual walk around the greens to enjoy the stunning beauty of the course.
- The Garrison Savannah - If you are more of a horse racing fan, Saturday afternoons at the historic Garrison Savannah will have all the action you need. The home of local horse racing since 1845, race days at the Garrison are occasions for family entertainment, with play parks for children and many local foods and drinks on sale. For families who are interested in heritage, the racetrack is a part of Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison which is a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site. There are also other heritage attractions in walking distance from the Garrison Savannah, including the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, George Washington House, St Ann’s Fort and the National Armoury Museum which houses the largest collection of 17th century English iron cannon and other military artefacts.
- Richard Haynes Boardwalk - Just a few minutes away from the Garrison Savannah, visitors can take a relaxing stroll along the Richard Haynes Boardwalk. Stretching along a portion of the island’s south coast, the Boardwalk is a popular location for residents and visitors alike, whether for jogging, socialising at any of the several eating spots scattered along the route, or for a tranquil evening spent watching the glorious sunsets. With beautiful beaches along the entirety of the Boardwalk, children can enjoy themselves building sandcastles or collecting the shells by the shoreline. You can also find family-friendly activities such as live music and yoga classes, and you may even be able to join some of the locals who are fishing at various points on the Boardwalk.
- The South Point Lighthouse - When you look towards the east from the Boardwalk, you can see a towering red and white structure in the distance. That is the South Point Lighthouse. This majestic landmark is featured on the island’s five-cent coin and its original construction dates back to the 19th century. A spectacular 89 feet tall, the structure is made of cast iron and is the first lighthouse to be erected in Barbados. The tower was recently refurbished but is not open to the public. However, its grounds have been accessible to visitors since the renovation in 2018. At night, you might be fortunate enough to see its beam rotating and illuminating the darkness over the ocean.
- Christ Church Parish Church - Just up the hill from the lighthouse, the Christ Church Parish Church stands in pious serenity. The current building is the 5th church to be consecrated with that name in Barbados, with previous ones being destroyed or significantly damaged by a flood, 2 hurricanes and by fire. For those who enjoy reading tombstones, there are vaults and graves which are centuries old in the adjacent graveyard. The most infamous of these, the Chase Vault, has been the subject of many a mysterious tale.
It is said, that whenever the vault was opened, it appeared as though the coffins inside had been moved around and, in some cases, broken. Despite attempts to secure the vault from any human tampering, the same sight presented itself each time the vault was reopened for burials. The coffins have all since been removed, but the vault remains open for those who may wish to explore it, and perhaps solve the 200-year old mystery.
- Oistins - Attempting to solve that supernatural mystery might prove to be exhausting. So, after you leave the church grounds, you can head down the hill to Oistins. While there, you can walk out on to the jetty ( at your own risk) and perhaps watch the turtles as they swim nearby. You are also guaranteed some of the best local food and drinks that the island has to offer. Many of the road-side restaurants are open during the day, but this small fishing village is especially bursting with life on Friday nights. The aroma of fried fish fills the night air while you are entertained by live or DJ music. Occasionally, a dance troupe might make an appearance on the outdoor stage. You could also take a night stroll on the beach and support the vendors who have their hand made arts and craft on sale, or join in a game of dominoes – a local favourite!
- Harry Bailey Observatory - Should you prefer a quieter Friday evening out for the family, make an appointment for a night of stargazing at the Harry Bailey Observatory. This observatory is the only one of its kind to be found in the Eastern Caribbean. Tours begin with a visually enhanced, interactive presentation of astronomical topics before ascending the stairs to the telescope where you can bear witness to the unbelievable magnificence of the world beyond our planet. On a clear night, you can get up close and personal with the moon, see a myriad of stars in their diverse constellations and, depending on the time of year, you may even be fortunate enough to see some of the planets in our solar system.
- Globe Drive-In - Another quiet, family-friendly outing can be had with a visit to the Globe Drive-In, the only drive-in movie theatre still in operation in the Caribbean. Whether you want to picnic on the grassy area or sit in your car, you are promised a treat of one or two movies nightly. There are new attractions every week and you don’t need to worry about food. Their on-site canteen provides an assortment of treats for sale. You can choose from their selection of freshly made burgers, salads, fries, pizza, hotdogs, rotis, chicken, fish or snacks. Young children are also welcome at the Drive-In, but just be sure to check the movie ratings first.
If you will be staying in Barbados for your family getaway, or even if you just want to spend time enjoying some of the activities that are local favourites, remember to check out these places of interest in the south of the island. You won’t regret it!