There are tons of direct flights from North America ( Toronto, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Montreal etc) so getting there is a breeze. The beaches are serene, there is lots to do and we had a great experience with all the food.

We travelled with our two kids aged 3 and 6 so below you will find a great breakdown of a Punta Cana Travel Guide that is tailored to families but if you are travelling as a couple, it also works!

Punta Cana Travel Guide: Hotel Breakdown

The good thing about Punta Cana is that there are SO many hotel options. Whether you are travelling on a budget, or prefer luxury resorts- there are endless options. Unlike some Caribbean islands where there are only 1-2 luxury options or a few budget hotels that aren’t really great, in the Dominican you can really pick something that suits your style.

Interested in some other places in the Caribbean for families, check out these posts:

• 7 Of The Safest Caribbean Islands
• Kid Friendly Guide to Barbados
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Antigua and Barbuda
• Full Review of Beaches Turks and Caicos
• 11 Cool Things to do in Curacao

Here are the hotels we stayed at and that I can personally vouch for! Each of them were amazing in their own ways and I am so glad we got to experience a variety ( budget, mid range and luxury!).

Best Family Luxury Hotel: Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana

If you are looking for the best luxury all inclusive that caters to families, you are going to want to book a stay at the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. This sprawling resort offers everything from outdoor movie nights DAILY, a kids club that resembles a magical tree forest and the most epic water park…that even has ice cream food trucks!

What I loved about this hotel was the beautiful restaurants to eat at ( the food did not taste like all inclusive whatsoever) and the 5 star service. The resort also sits on one of the best beaches in Punta Cana- water as clear as the Maldives. No joke!

We also went to Beaches Turks and Caicos which is another popular 5 star family all inclusive and it is definitely on par with it in terms of kids activities but the food here is better!

Best Mid Range Hotel: Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana

If you are looking for a week long stay for the entire family that gives you some serious bang for you buck, I would highly suggest the Wyndham Alltra Punta Cana. Not only is this resort brand new ( recently renovated from a previous hotel) but it is the perfect balance of being “cool and modern” and very kid friendly.

While we didn’t get to experience their on site water park ( it was still being worked on), it looked EPIC and is supposed to be open later this year. Having this option in addition to the kids club, awesome pools and activities that cater to the young ones, this hotel is an excellent Punta Cana hotel option.

Best Budget Hotel in Punta Cana: Villa Blanca Beach Club

We stayed at this hotel for 3 nights at the beginning of our trip and if you are looking for a no frills spot, this small boutique hotel is perfect. It is a beach front property with just a handful of rooms that each have their own terrace 30 seconds from the ocean. The interior is simple but it has AC/daily cleaning/glassware/a mini fridge and safe. For $250 CAD, you can’t beat the price

It has an amazing on site restaurant ( seriously the food here was 10/10 every time) AND breakfast is included in the price. 

Our kids loved the little play area set up. We had drinks while they played 20 feet in front of us so it was the best of both worlds for everyone. They also have lounges for you to use

TIP: If you stay here make sure to grab a lunch or dinner just down the beach at

Beach Beaches in Punta Cana

Juanillo Beach

If you want a beach that legitimately looks like water from the Maldives or Turks and Caicos, you will find it at Juanillo Beach. The water is very calm compared to some other beaches in the area and there is no seaweed in the sand here

Bavaro Beach

Bavaro Beach is a fun and lively beach in the heart of Punta Cana. This beach is public and lined with a lot of basic accommodation options so you can expect to find some vendors, and local bars and restaurants. It is a great option if you want to get a more authentic feel of Punta Cana.

Macao Beach (Playa Macao)

Want a beach where it’s less crowded and considered a “hidden gem”? Head to Macao beach. This beach is popular among locals and less developed than it’s neighboring beaches but OH SO BEAUTIFUL! You can find local food shacks here and can expect a very serene and natural vibe

Best Activities with Kids in Punta Cana: 3 Excursions worth doing!

1.Saona Island Day Trip

This a quintessential Caribbean adventure that is perfect for both adults and the kids. This full-day excursion typically spans 8 to 10 hours, including transportation, boat rides, and ample time to explore the island’s pristine beaches and turquoise waters. The beach is also SO SO SO nice!

2. Bavaro Adventure Park

This place is a mix of wildlife, culture and fun! If your kids love animals (Dolphins, parrots and reptiles) you should definitely look at this place. They also have zip lining, ATVs and more!

3. Katmandu Park Punta Cana

This is a relatively new activity in Punta Cana for kids and it has been well received since it’s opening. Katmandu Park is a a state-of-the-art theme park with immersive attractions and rides. They also have indoor experiences which is a nice option if you have a rain day

Tips for Travel to Punta Cana

• Before you leave Canada ( or wherever you are coming from), you need to fill out the Electric Customs Form. This is required before leaving your home country AND before you depart from the Dominican Republic. You can access it HERE. You can fill it out 72 hours before departing.
• There is a bit of talk about the food in Punta Cana and getting sick. We did not have any stomach issues once and stayed at 3 different hotels and resorts. We only ate from a buffet once and every other meal came from restaurants that served a la carte options. We chose items that were hot and cooked and made sure to consistently wash our hands. We also used bottled water to brush our teeth-even at the 5 star hotel we stayed at!
• The Punta Cana airport is extremely expensive...like a chocolate bar was $10 USD. Most of the options there are fast food ( Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Nathan’s Hot Dogs) and there is hardly anything to eat that is healthy. Make sure to bring your own snacks for your flight or airport time otherwise you are going to get DINGED! Also do not buy souvenirs here.
• When you arrive to Punta Cana it is tempting ( and easy) to buy things from Duty Free if you are looking to purchase alcohol and not staying at an all inclusive. Skip it and buy wine from a local shop. The selection is just the same and prices are much cheaper.
• Download Google Translator. Even if you are staying at a 5 star resort you will likely need it some point. I found it really hard to communicate with people and a lot of people didn’t speak English.

This itinerary is perfect for families who want a mix of outdoor adventure, farm fun, incredible eats and charming stays. From berry picking in Abbotsford to winery hopping in Penticton, here’s how to plan an epic 7 to 10-day BC road trip you’ll never forget.

Where to Fly Into?

For this itinerary, you’ll want to fly into Vancouver (YVR) and rent a car. It’s the perfect launch point for exploring the Fraser Valley and beyond. You’ll end your trip in Kelowna, so plan to fly out of there (YLW) — this way, you’re not doubling back. We are big fans of one way road trips over here- not just for the kids sake but also for ours!

What airline did we fly with?
We flew with Porter Airlines which now flies directly from Hamilton to Vancouver and from Toronto to Kelowna , making this western Canada road trip super convenient for Ontarians! If you live downtown Toronto they also have direct flights from YYZ to Vancouver!

We did a Porter Reserve booking on the way there which included free checked bags, unlimited meals, snacks and cocktails and the seats had extra leg room. And on the way back, we did their normal fare which still was amazing. All their seats include:

• No middle Seats
• Free Wifi
• Premium Snacks
• Complimentary beer and Wine

I honestly am not sure how I will fly with anyone else moving forward. Our experience was seamless from start to finish! Porter now flies to so many different routes within Canada from the Hamilton Airport and will fly to sunny destinations like Orlando, Puerto Vallarta, Nassau and Fort Lauderdale launching in December! This is huge news if you live in the area.

Stop #1: Abbotsford & Chilliwack (2 nights)

This area is where you will kick off your road trip and it is a very unassuming region of British Columbia that some people might brush off. But I am here to tell you that this area has SO many hidden gems that really “Wow”ed us!

As a family travelling on this road trip, it was not only amazing for the kids but the stops made it equally as fun for us. It was the perfect blend of something for them and something for us- a vibe we love on all of our family trips!

Where to Stay?

Coast Chilliwack Hotel: Right on the water with mountain views — it’s close to everything and super comfy. The rates are reasonable and you can walk into the District 1801 area ( see below)

Hazelnut Inn: If you want something totally unique, this European-inspired inn is straight out of a fairytale (literally!).

Things to do in this Area

Maan Farms – The ultimate kid stop! Think berry picking, petting zoo, playground and even wine for the parents (strawberry!). They had soo many activities and the food was incredible. You can easily spend about 3-4 hours here
Lakeland Flowers – Fields of blooms perfect for running around and grabbing gorgeous family photos. We visited when there was a lavender but the flowers change each month depending on the season
District 1881 – An up-and-coming area with boutiques and cool local shops. This area made me feel like I was transported to Disneyworld or Europe. Just the most impeccable design!

*** It’s important to note that Chilliwack and Abbotsford are about 20 minutes apart so base yourself in one of the two spots and expect to drive***

We felt that 2 nights here was perfect and that we didn’t miss out on anything! If you are into hiking, you could maybe add on another night and do a hike to Lindeman Lake ( think a bright green/blue lake!)

Looking for other Canadian destinations to visit? Check out these posts below:

• Ultimate Weekend Guide to Quebec City: Everything you need to know!
• 5 of the Best Family Vacations in Ontario
• The Best Winter Activities in Ottawa for the Family
• 11 of the Best Wineries in Niagara on the Lake
• Ontario Romantic Getaways: 5 Places to bookmark

Where to Eat in this Area

I was shocked by the number of cool eateries in the region. Between breweries, coffee shops and trendy restaurants, it made it hard for us to pick where to go. We actually ended up eating more than expected because we just wanted to check so many places out!

• Hugo’s Mexican Kitchen ( Amazing Mexican place. They started as a Churro stand and just exploded in the BC area. Amazing tacos and vibe!)
• The Pastry Portal ( this place sells out regularly and for good reason. Loved the owner too!)
• Smoking Gun Coffee ( We admittedly went here far too often. We also want our future house to look like the interior of this place)
• Farmhouse Brewing ( This is a place that should be in every city. It’s a brewery serving up fresh pizzas with it’s OWN PLAYGROUND for kids. Its the coolest)
• Single Tree Winery ( Step away from the city and into the most serene setting where you feel like you are in Napa!)
• Field House Brewing ( With a location in Abbotsford and Chilliwack, this is a great stop for a local brew and a bite! We did their brunch and it did not disappoint)

Stop #2: Othello Tunnels (Quick Pit Stop)

As you start to head north, break up your drive with a leg stretch at the Othello Tunnels near Hope. These old railway tunnels cut through massive rock canyons — it’s an easy walk with kids and absolutely breathtaking.

• Parking is free
• The path is stroller and bike friendly
• The entire hike only takes about one hour round trip including time for stopping and pictures.
• Bring a mini flash light or make sure your phone flash light is working for the tunnel portion of the hike
• We got there at 9am and it was really quiet. This is what we especially loved about this hike- no crowds!

Stop #3: Kamloops (Quick Stop OR if you want to add an overnight here you can)

Kamloops is a perfect mid-way spot. You can stretch your legs, fill your bellies and get in a short adventure. You can definitely spend a night here if you want to add on some time to your trip. There are also a ton of wineries in the region too. Kamloops felt like the desert region of Canada and also made me feel like I was in Palm Springs at the same time

Where to Eat

• Hello Toast – Cozy brunch spot with killer bennies.
• Amplified Coffee– Coolest space and 10/10 coffee. They are open really early was awesome for our early morning road trip stop from Sun Peaks down to Vernon
• Bright Eye Brewing – Great beer, even better pizza. We stopped here for lunch en route to Sun peaks and it was amazing!

Quick Hike

Peterson Creek Park – A short trail with views over the city and a little waterfall. Perfect to let the kids run wild before getting back in the car.

Stop #4: Sun Peaks

Your next base is the alpine village of Sun Peaks, about 45 minutes from Kamloops.
This place is a family paradise in the summer with Jeep tours, paddle boarding on Heffley Lake, hiking, and fun events in the village.

I am keeping this one short because I have a full Sun Peaks guide on the blog if you want more ideas!

Stop #5: Vernon, British Columbia ( Quick Stop En Route)

On your way down to the Okanagan, pop into Vernon.

• Davison Orchards – Farm playgrounds, tractor tours and fresh pie. The place also looks like a movie set from a Western film!
• Kangaroo Creek Farm – Snuggle baby kangaroos, capybaras and more. Your kids will lose their minds. We went at 10AM when it opened and it was not busy but when we left- it was a zoo ( pun intended). Get there early to avoid the crowds! Tickets are $30.00 for adults, kids are $15.00 and kids under 4 are free!

Stop #6: Kelowna, British Columbia ( Quick Stop En Route)

If we weren’t going to base ourselves in Penticton ( see below), we would have based ourselves here! Kelowna is actually quite

You can’t do an Okanagan road trip without some wineries.

• Quails’ Gate ( we did a tasting here and it was beautiful! The onsite market is also great for a quick pizza in their garden)
• Mission Hill ( Considered one of the best wineries in the area)
• Frind Winery ( Canada’s only lakefront winery!)

Stop #7: Penticton, British Columbia ( 2-3 Nights)

Where to Eat

• Kin & Folk – Modern Asian Fusion. Every dish and drink was 10/10. 4.7 Google Rating for a good reason!
• Wayne & Freda – Best brunch & coffee in town. We came here 3 times lol
• Cannery Brewing– an OG place and it shows! Hand crafted beers in an amazing space RIGHT in town. We loved their patio and BBQ menu and the staff was so knowledgeable!
• Abandoned Rail Brewing –- A laid back brewery that is so peaceful and serene. They had an amazing little play area for kids too with cider slushies!
• Poplar Grove – This might be one of the nicest wineries we have ever visited. The most insane views, delisih reds and
• Frog City Café – A lunch cafe surrounded by nature. We felt like we were in a tropical forest and the good reflected this vibe with organic sandwiches, salads and elixirs.

Where to Stay:

Kettle Beach Resort – A charming spot right on across from the beach and cose to the action. The rooms have full fridges and little kitchenettes perfect for having breakfasts and lots of snacks for the kiddos. Would definitely stay here again!

Activities to do with the Kids:

• LocoLanding Adventure Park – Mini golf, climbing, go-karts. Your kids will beg to come back.
• Gotta Goat Farm – Yes, you can snuggle goats.
• Linden Gardens – Beautiful gardens with space to wander.
• Marine Heritage Museum– An historic steamboat that has been converted into a museum right on the water!

We broke up our time here as follows:

Day 1: Beach time in the morning then an afternoon at Poplar Grove and Abandoned Rail Brewing. These are a 5 minute drive together. We did dinner that night at Kin and Folk

Day 2: We did Gotta Goat Farm in the morning, followed by lunch at Frog City Cafe and then a stroll and viewing of Linden Gardens. We ate dinner that night at Cannery Brewing

Day 3: We had a morning at Locco Landing Adventure and spent the rest of the afternoon at the beach. For dinner we went to Elma!

If we had more time…

You truly could spend a good 2 weeks road tripping through this area of British Columbia and if we had another 2-4 days, we would have added the following spots to our itinerary ( which came highly recommended)

• Oliver ( a little town that has a WINE VILLAGE aka a bunch of little mini stores and tasting rooms all in a little village)
• Osoyoos ( considered a spiritual spot right on the most southern tip of the region)
• More time in Kelowna….

Whether you’re sipping wine overlooking vineyards, chasing your kids through sunflower fields, or hiking through ancient tunnels, a British Columbia road trip is the perfect way to make family memories that will last a lifetime. We couldn’t recommend this route more!

Gemma and Chloe were in heaven here. Whether it was squealing with excitement on the Jeep tour, racing each other along the village paths, or trying ice cream twice in one day (because why not on vacation?), seeing Sun Peaks through their eyes made it even more magical. It’s the kind of destination that effortlessly blends adventure and relaxation — we got to paddleboard on serene lakes, sip local wine with mountain backdrops, and end our days snuggled up in a cozy hotel room, planning what to explore next. Honestly, we couldn’t have dreamed up a better mountain escape.

CHECK OUT SOME OTHER CANADIAN DESTINATIONS

• Travel Guide to Bromont, Quebec: A Region that feels like Europe!
• 7 Family Vacations to do in Ontario
• Quebec City: Winter Itinerary
• PEI Travel Guide: Everything to know about visiting this amazing island!
• 14 Of The Best Fall Places in Ontario

How to get to Sun Peaks, British Columbia

Sun Peaks is approximately 3 hours’ drive from Kelowna, 4 hours from Vancouver or a quick 40 minute flight from Vancouver to Kamloops. Air Canada has direct flight routes from Vancouver to Kamloops and then you would rent a car to drive up there.

We flew into Vancouver and then road tripped our way up to Sun Peaks. I couldn’t recommend it more! We made a few stops a long the way.

Another thing to note is that Sun Peaks can be visited via the Rocky Mountaineer Train! They make a stop in Kamloops if you choose to go to Banff or Jasper and you have the option to stay at Sun Peaks. It’s a one night stay I believe but I think that shows how amazing this place is if it’s on this route!

Where to stay at Sun Peaks?

Sun Peaks Grand- Best Luxurious Hotel in the Village

The Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre is the signature property in Sun Peaks. It is in the center of the village, offers mountain views like no other and like the name suggests, is GRAND! It has two on site restaurants and so many special spots to relax and enjoy as a family ( like a mini Arcade room for the kids, a games room for a family board game sessions and really comfortable sofas in their lobby’s and foyers that sit right in front of massive two story fireplaces )

HERE ARE SOME THINGS WE SPECIFICALLY LOVED ABOUT SUN PEAKS GRAND

• Modern Rooms: The rooms featured oversized, elegantly upholstered headboards accented with soft, ambient backlighting for a sophisticated and relaxing atmosphere. The furnishings all were updated and we even had a balcony with mountain views!
• Pool and Hot Tubs: This is one of the only hotels with epic pool and hot tub views. You have mountain views AND village views. Total win and the pool has an indoor/outdoor element
• Nespresso Machines: Each morning we relaxed in our robes and had the in room Nespresso. Loved it!
• In House Robes: Their robes were so cozy and I always love when a hotel has ones waiting for you

There are a lot of hotels and rentals in the village and beyond if you are looking for something different and Sun Peaks actually has some great savings and offers at hotels where if you stay longer you save more! You can check that out HERE

The Best Restaurants in Sun Peaks, British Columbia

For a small and intimate village, I was shocked at how many dining options were at Sun Peaks. From fancier steak houses, to the two amazing restaurants within our hotel, to so many little bars and locally and independently owned restaurants, there was no shortage of options.

• Vertical Café –The best spot for morning coffee, breakfast or lunch and is filled with so much love! Their locally sourced and farm to table inspired menu will have you feeling so nourished. I think I will dream about this meal for months to come! Do not miss their Vertical Salad, Cinnabon’s, Smoothies, Cortados…actually just order everything!
• Oya Sushi – Transport yourself to Japan at this intimate and unique spot right in the Village. Their sushi was incredible and they even have cool options like Flamed Sushi where they torch the pieces right in front of you!
• Rocky Mountain–Don’t skip the ice cream here (even if it’s chilly!).
• Powder Hounds: Hearty schnitzels and all the cozy après feels. They even have Etch a Sketchs for the kids to play with. Genius!!!
• Masa’s Grill: Casual and delicious eats right in the village! They have a wicked patio too! We loved their burgers and steak!
• Sunburst Bar + Eatery: Located at the top of the Sunburst Express chairlift, the Sunburst Bar + Eatery offers scenic views of alpine wildflowers and the Shuswap Highlands. They also have an occasional BBQ menu in the summer which really makes you feel like you are in Germany! I was obsessed with our patio visit here.

The Best Things to do at Sun Peaks, British Columbia

Summer at Sun Peaks, BC offers a refreshing twist on its winter reputation—where mountain slopes transform into vibrant playgrounds filled with wildflowers, sunshine, and outdoor energy. Nestled among three peaks, the resort’s charming European-style village hums with festivals, live music, and laid‑back alpine vibes. Whether you’re geared up for adventure or craving relaxation, you can find it here!

Paddle boarding at Heffley Lake

This spot is pure magic. Calm, glassy water surrounded by forested peaks. We loved that they have a family-size paddleboard so everyone could pile on for some laughs. It was sturdy and not annoying at all with the kids.

We booked a session with Surfit which gave us 2 hours on the lake and came with a water protected bag for our goods and life jackets!

Jeep Tour

We did a 2 hour Jeep Tour with Joe and wow, what a way to see the backroads and inner scenary of the mountains that would otherwise be inaccessible with a normal car. We splashed through some water, made it to some secret lakes, found some unique rocks and even saw some animals!

Hiking

There are so many amazing hiking trails at Sun Peaks ( Over 16+) that range from beginner to advanced. We took the chair lift up to mid mountain and did an amazing 45 minute road trip hike which was perfect for the littles.

After hiking, we visited Sun Burst for a little drink and soaked up the views even more. We honestly felt like we were in the Sound of Music. On the way down from the chair lift, we watched the Bikers glide down the hills and it felt like a VIP ticket to the most entertaining show!

Mountain Biking

While we didn’t personally do Mountain Biking ( our youngest daughter is 3 so a bit too young for it), we were swooning over watching all the bikers head up the lift and rip down the trails. They have jumps, pump tracks and paths suitable for all levels. If you love biking, a visit to Sun Peaks would be worth it alone!

Other Activities to do:

• Golf: Their 18-hole course is stunning, with dramatic peaks all around. Even if you’re not a pro, it’s worth playing for the scenery alone.
• Horseback riding: Try a trail ride through the alpine meadows and forests. Such a fun way to see the landscape from a new perspective (especially in the fall when the leaves turn)
• Spa & wellness: Book a massage at Sun Peaks Grand (or just spend an afternoon poolside and soaking in the outdoor hot tubs). Total mountain relaxation.
• Disc Golf: Start a fun game of Disc Golf from mid mountain
• Playground: There is an amazinggg and big playground right on the grounds. This is an easy little activity burner for the kids. We visited every morning with our coffee!

What To Know Before Visiting Sun Peaks

• The weather conditions can change quite quickly since you are staying in a mountainous area. Pack sweaters even when the weather is showing nicer temperatures
• With that being said the driving conditions are great in the summer but if planning a winter visit, make sure to continuously check the roads before you leave. You can find road conditions here.
• Cellphone service from Kamloops to Sun Peaks to spotty so download an Offline Road Map.
• I would recommend staying anywhere from 3-5 nights. If you want to extend your trip, add a night in Kamloops
• There is no gas station directly in town so make sure you fill up ahead of your visit! The closest one is about 20-25 minutes away
• They have a grocery store and liquor store in the village with a ton of variety to our surprise however prices are a bit cheaper in town so keep that in mind!
• Check their Events page to be aware of upcoming events or plan your visit around one of them. So many amazing concerts and festivals. We personally visited during Canada day weekend and our kids did face painting, juggling school ( lol), got to do a scavenger hunt, got free tattoos and we hit up not 1 but 2 concerts!

This guide is geared towards a summer visit but keep in mind that Sun Peaks is one of the best places to visit in the Winter for a ski visit. With over 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, cozy après spots, and that same charming village vibe, it would be a perfect winter getaway too!

While it may be known as a romantic honeymoon escape, we were pleasantly surprised by how kid-friendly this lush Caribbean island turned out to be. Traveling with our 3- and 6-year-olds, we found plenty of family-friendly activities nestled among the island’s natural beauty—from calm, swimmable beaches like Sugar Beach to the fascinating drive-in volcano at Sulphur Springs that sparked their curiosity. Resorts were all super welcoming offering pools, kids’ menus, and even child-friendly excursions like gentle rainforest walks and boat rides along the coast ( virgin rum punches were on deck LOL). While the iconic Pitons make a dramatic backdrop for couples, St. Lucia proved to be just as magical for our little adventurers.

CHECK OUT SOME OTHER CARIBBEAN DESTINATIONS:

• Travel Guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Celebrity Ascent Cruise: Best way to see several islands at once!
• The Ultimate Guide to Antigua and Barbuda
• Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers

How to get to around in St. Lucia

We used private transportation and taxis for the first half of the trip and then booked a car for the second half. We booked transportation from the airport ahead of time and used this service.

It was nice to have a car waiting at the airport especially since we had a 2 hour drive to the north of the island ahead of us.

If you are just staying at your resort and don’t plan to sight see or maybe you are planning a tour that includes transportation, then you don’t need a car. If you plan to stay between two hotels, go to different restaurants off your hotel property and do some activities on your own, then definitely get a car!

If you are debating it, here are some things worth noting:

• Taxis are extremely pricey there so if you plan to do a lot of outing, it can REALLY add up! For reference, it was $25.00 USD for a 10 minute drive *insert jaw on the floor*
• On the other hand the roads are winding and mountainous so you need to be careful driving independently! My husband got the hang of it quick and is a great driver but some people would be nervous.

***IMPORTANT NOTE ON DRIVING IN ST LUCIA***

Make sure to take Gravol before doing a long car ride on the island. We always travel with it and thought we would be ok but then my 3 year old threw up all over me 10 minutes before we were supposed to arrive. I felt like I was next but I made it!

Looking for another warm destination? Check out these posts below!

• Full Review on Beaches Turks and Caicos
• CANCUN OR TULUM: WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?
• 27 Dream Destinations to add to your Bucket list!
• The Ultimate Barbados Travel Guide
• Jamaica Vs Barbados?? Breaking down everything you need to know!
• Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide

Where to stay in St Lucia?

When deciding where to stay in St. Lucia, it’s important to know that while the island is relatively small, travel between the north and south can be slow due to its winding, mountainous roads. It takes about 2-2.5 hours to travel south to north. The airport is located in the South so if you are staying in the “Gros Islet/North” area make sure you know you are in for a ride after a flight!

Map of the Island – Two popular hotel areas. The drive time between the two is almost 2 hours

Because of this, most visitors choose to base themselves in one of two main areas: the north, which is livelier and more developed with bustling beaches, restaurants, and family-friendly activities; or the south, which is quieter and more scenic, known for its dramatic landscapes, lush rainforest, and closer proximity to natural attractions like the Pitons and waterfalls. 

We decided to stay in the North for a portion of the trip ( 4 nights) and then in the South (3 nights) for the final leg of the trip. We were so happy with our decision to do this as it allowed us to see a lot of the island

Villa Cest La Vie- Best St. Lucia Hotel for big groups

Staying at Villa C’est La Vie felt like stepping into a scene from a dreamy Caribbean film. The moment we arrived, we were swept up by the vibrant charm of what felt like a reimagined plantation house—full of character, colour, and warmth. Surrounded by lush, tropical gardens and timeless architecture, the villa has a way of blending nature and elegance so seamlessly, it’s almost surreal.

This 5 bedroom villa includes a butler, house keeper, lagoon pool, remote beach access, indoor and outdoor spaces and is perfect if you are travelling with a large family or extended family.

HERE ARE SOME THINGS WE SPECIFICALLY LOVED ABOUT STAYING AT CEST LA VIE

• The Bedroom Set ups: Each bedroom it’s own bathroom making it spacious and private. Our two girls loved their matching twin beds too! They even have a separate cottage on the grounds with a full on kitchen if you want added privacy.
• Specialized Services: The team here set up everything from us- transportation from the airport, Taxi services and even made restaurant reservations!
• On Site Chef: If you want, the team can arrange for private dinners, daily breakfasts and more. We decided to do have a dinner there one of the night paired with some special wine and WOW- easily one of the most romantic and fun nights there. The kids went to sleep early ( perk of staying at a spot like this) and we in the open air living room. A dream!

Viceroy St Lucia- Best Luxury Hotel in St Lucia

The Viceroy St Lucia has earned the spot of my FAVOURITE HOTEL ON THIS PLANET! I knew from looking at photos that it would be beautiful but I was actually blown away. Our short (we stayed 2 nights) but very sweet time there was worth the moving and shuffling to this side of the island

It feels like an episode of White Lotus without the potential murder looming. It’s in a picture perfect spot directly between the Pitons. The resort features spacious accommodations with private plunge pools, and its the perfect blend of luxury and family inclusivity.

Why we loved it for the kids: They have the V Team Kids Club, open soccer fields and the staff go above and beyond to make your kids feel special. The kids club itself features treasure hunts, arts and crafts, archery, coconut bowling, and sandcastle building. 

It’s definitely a splurge with the kids though so if you are looking to go back to St Lucia for a romantic trip or a special milestone vacation, THIS IS THE PLACE!

Fond Eco Resort – Best Priced Hotel in St Lucia

Fond Doux Eco Resort is a boutique eco-luxury retreat nestled within a 250-year-old working cocoa plantation in Soufrière, St. Lucia. Set amidst 135 acres of lush rainforest, this 19th-century estate offers a tranquil and immersive experience, combining natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

They have chocolate tours on site, rum tastings, an on site restaurant and a great location! We stayed here for 1 night before our flight and would 100% stay here again for an affordable hotel option on the island. It does have a new pool opening up next year ( which is nice because there is no direct beach access)

Windjammer Landing- The Best All Inclusive in St Lucia for Families

This resort in St. Lucia is a hillside Mediterranean-style retreat with stunning views and a private white-sand beach. It’s one of the resorts that is sprawling and has everything you need ( restaurants, spa, water activities) so you don’t have to leave. I would definitely consider it a boutique all inclusive as the restaurants and vibe of the spot do not feel all inclusive AT ALL! We didn’t stay there but had dinner there one night ( it is RIGHT beside Villa C’est La Vie)

 The Jacquot Fun Club keeps younger guests entertained with cultural activities, beach games, and nighttime events like movie nights and puppet shows. They also have mini lounge chairs around their main pool, rooms with some kitchenettes and a great beach for swimming

The Best Restaurants in St Lucia

Dining in St. Lucia is a vibrant experience that blends Caribbean flavors with international influences, serving up a variety of options that highlight fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and bold spices. Food here is as much a part of the culture as the music and scenery, and trying local dishes like jerk chicken, roti, or green fig and saltfish is a must. It’s tempting to stay at the hotel where it’s close and convenient but trying a few spots really made us fall in love with the island more!

Mango Tree restaurant

• The Mango Tree- This is not considered a “kid friendly” restaurant but we brought our kids here for an early dinner and we are glad we didn’t miss out on this. The views from here are MAYBE THE BEST ON THE ISLAND! Even if you just come for a cocktail hour drink, I couldn’t recommend it more
• Brigands Hideaway– This rustic restaurant offers authentic St. Lucian dishes like jerk chicken, curry goat, and fresh seafood, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients. This is the real deal kind of St Lucia restaurant and great for an upscale local option!
• The Pink Plantation House –Set in a historic plantation house surrounded by lush gardens, this restaurant serves refined Creole and international cuisine, complemented by sweeping views over Castries. It’s an ideal spot for brunch or lunch, offering a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into St. Lucia’s colonial past
• The Naked Fisherman– Situated on Smugglers Cove beach, this was one of our favourite visits on the island!! It’s open air, beach front grill specializes in amazing fish dishes, cool cocktails and the vibe of the spot is amazing. We liked this place because it was trendy yet the kids could still enjoy themselves at the beach. One of the nicest beaches too!
• The Coal Pot: Located near the Castries Harbour, The Coal Pot offers a relaxed dining experience with a menu featuring fresh seafood and Caribbean specialties. Its proximity to the water and welcoming staff make it a great choice for families seeking a casual yet flavorful meal

The Naked Fisherman

The Best Things to do in St Lucia with Kids

St. Lucia turned out to be such a pleasant surprise for our family in terms of activities. With our 3- and 6-year-olds, beach days were an easy favorite, thanks to the warm and calm waters ( seriously the water was so warm).

Yet on the opposite side of things we had so many adventurous options  at our finger tips that were doable with the littles! Between getting messy in the warm, muddy volcano baths to learning about how chocolate is made, there was no shortage of things to do in St Lucia.

La Soufriere Drive-In Volcano

Visit Sulphur Springs, the world’s only drive-in volcano, located near Soufrière. You can actually drive right up to the steaming crater, making it super accessible for families with young kids. Our children (ages 3 and 6) were fascinated by the bubbling pools and the dramatic landscape—it felt like walking on another planet!

Don’t miss the mud baths just down the hill, where you can slather yourselves in warm volcanic mud and rinse off in the natural hot springs. It’s messy, fun, and surprisingly relaxing for all ages.

Toraille Waterfall

Our tour did the volcano and waterfall in one and we loved it!

After getting all muddy, we made our way over to the Toraille waterfall to wash off. This waterfall cascades approximately 50 feet into a serene plunge pool and is dreamy.

The walk there is a well-maintained path through a lush botanical garden leads directly to the base of the waterfall. This easy walk makes it suitable for families with young children and takes no more than 5 minutes to reach.

Do a Chocolate Tour One of the best things to do in St Lucia with kids

St. Lucia has a rich history in cocoa cultivation and their beans have been referred to as the “Champagne of Chocolate”. They are actually the biggest exporter of chocolate to the Hersey factory

You can get hands on at the Rabot Estate with a chocolate making class or do a tour.  The “Bean to Bar” tour is both educational and delicious—learn how cacao is grown, harvested, and turned into rich St. Lucian chocolate. This is the tour we did and it was the perfect length of time

See St Lucia from the Water with a Catamaran Tour

One of our favourite days from our trip! We did a tour that combined a catamaran ( taking us right into Soufriere and giving us those perfect Piton views). We then had a bus to the Volcano Mud Bath and Waterfall combined. We ended the day with snorkeling and passed through Marigot Bay.

The kids had a blast too and loved dancing on the boat! We had lunch on board and it was such a well rounded experience!

Tet Paul Nature Trail and Petit Piton Trail Hike

While a lot of people do the Tet Pau Nature Trail, we opted for the Petit Piton Trail because the base of it was in our hotel and free. The Tet Pau Nature Trail is $10 USD per person.

With that said, both are the same distance at 45 minutes round trip and moderate. There were a few steeper patches ( pictured below) where we carried the kids, the rest of the hike was easy peasy. 

When we reached the top, we got a full on rainbow and it was honestly emotional because it was THAT beautiful

Visit Pigeon Island

Visit Pigeon Island known for its panoramic views and cultural significance, Pigeon Island is a must-
visit destination that captures the essence of St. Lucia’s History and natural allure.

It is made up of a bunch of beach bars and shack style eateries that serve local dishes. It’s a great way to see the St Lucian culture and have a no fuss meal. Plus, the beach there is local so you can hang there for a swim session!

Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay is one of the island’s most picturesque and serene harbors, often described as a “hurricane hole” due to its naturally sheltered location. Surrounded by lush green hills and lined with charming marinas, restaurants, and boutique resorts, it’s a favorite among sailors.

What we loved about it for kids though is that you can take a short little ferry across the water to the beach area. The small beach area once across is shallow and has some activities you can do- kayaking, paddleboarding or seeing the pelicans! 

Looking to book your flight? I always book mine with Cheap O Air

What To Know Before Visiting St Lucia

• You need to fill out a form before you arrive and depart. You can fill it out 72 Hours in Advance and it will save you major time at the Airport
• The airport is not big- especially the departure area. I would not get there too early as there is limited food and beverage options ( and when we were there it was SUPER busy with barely any seats)
• Expect to pay $$$ prices at the well known restaurants. Getting some snacks and drinks from a grocery store is a good idea. St Lucia is not a cheap island
• Drivers sit on the right hand side of the car!
• Everyone speaks English there so it’s very easy to talk to the locals, guides etc
• The best season to visit is November to April but even then ( we visited in March) you can expect some afternoon showers given it’s unique landscape. We also heard from some people that the summer months have kind of morphed into the same type of climate as the high season. You likely can find great rates during off season!

I hope you enjoyed this St Lucia travel guide and make your way to this stunning island! I can’t wait to return and spend more time there!!

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From Cinque Terre, to Venice to the romantic streets of Florence, it is a country that offers so much. I have visited so many times and want to continue to explore. When I started seeing photos of Puglia, I became obsessed with this lesser known region situated at the very south of the country.

Puglia was a region that was often ( and still is) visited by locals and other Europeans. There wasn’t a ton of tourists coming from North America- until recently that is. Puglia is on the map and for good reason- it is one of the most stunning areas in the country offering wineries, stunning beaches, unique architecture and home to some of the best cuisine. This guide is going to breakdown the best one week in Puglia itinerary so you can get to know this region if you are quick on time ( and before everyone and their mother starts to visit!)

Quick Recap: Overview of 1 Week in Puglia

• 1 Day in Alberobello

• 1 Day in Matera

• 2 Days in Ostuini

• 1 Days in Polimare a Mare

• 2 Days between Martina Franca and Locorotondo

• 1/2 Day in Bari

How Many Days in Puglia?

Most people would recommend that you spend a minimum of one week in Puglia. The region is seriously large and to really see it you need a lot of time. One week will definitely give you the perfect amount of time to see the most popular towns in Puglia but if you want to explore it inside and out, I would recommend 2 weeks

Where should I base myself in Puglia?

There are two ways to see Puglia: stay in a few hotels for a few nights at a time or base yourself in one town and do day trips to each of the areas.

If you are visiting Puglia for 2 weeks, I would recommend a stay in the North and then a stay in the South

Since this is a focus on a one week in Puglia guide, I would recommend basing yourself in one town and doing day trips.

We chose to stay in Martina Franca (which we LOVED) but it’s quiet. If you want a busier scene, I would recommend Ostuni. 

Here is the Villa we rented in Martina Franca that was SO reasonably priced if you are travelling with a larger family

It was called Trullo Panna Fragola and they arranged so much for us ( transportation, a chef to come to the house to cook one night and even a baby sitter when we wanted an adult night!).

Picking a base is the way to go with only one week in Puglia as you have the freedom to still see all the towns without packing up each time. Most of the trips in this list are anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour – so it’s not long!

What is the best time to visit Puglia?

The best time to visit Puglia is in June or September/Early October. The weather is just perfect, the sun doesn’t set too early and you avoid a lot of the crowds. I would recommend visiting at the start of June and at the end of September if you want to get specific. July and August are also very popular times to go because it is hot and peak summer but Europe during the summer is another level of crowded.

If you like sweater weather and aren’t super keen on the beach scene, I would explore a visit in April/May or late October. Prices are way cheaper and accommodations are more readily available and open

Day 1- Arrive via Bari: Head to Martina Franca

From the Bari airport, you are going to pick up your Rental Car and drive to Martina Franca. The drive from Bari to Martina Franca is about 1 hour total. It is an easy drive on mainly highways for the majority of it.

If you want to make a stop in Bari to see any of the sites, you can do a half day here but with it being a travel day we passed on this and instead saw it on our way out

Basing yourself any further down the Puglia region ( Ostuni or Lecce for example) would add another hour or so onto the trip so be mindful of that when planning your trip if you choose to stay elsewhere!

Check out these other posts you might like:

• 7 of the Best Towns in Puglia
• Boutique Hotel in the Algarve, Portgual
• Travel Guide to Santorini, Greece
• Luxury Hotel in Lisbon, Portugal

Day 2- Day trip to Alberobello

I suggest doing your first Puglia day trip to Alberbello. It is the most “Puglia looking town” out of all of them and gives you a real history to the famous “trulli” homes that make up the region

From Martina Franca, it is only a 20 minute drive. I recommend going there very early ( around 9AM) so that you avoid the crowds for a little. You really only need a half day there if I’m being honest as it is pretty touristy and not that big. Cap off your time in the area with a beautiful lunch!

Best viewpoint in Alberbello

Belvedere Santa Lucia

For incredible view of all the Trulli home, heads to the Rione Aia Piccola hill opposite the Monti neighborhood (the best, but heavy tourist part)

Casolare Panoramica

Outside of some of the traditional trullis, you will spot a little sign that says ” casolare panoramica” which translates to if you purchase something from us, you get  view! You can head to the top of their trulli for rooftop view point of the town ( and get a souvenir in the process!) 

Best Restaurants in Alberobello

• Trullo Wine Bar
•  Trattoria Terra Madre
• Bespoke Puglia Risto Bistro ( in Locorotondo )
• Ristorante L’Aratro ( food is pictured above!)

Day 3- Day in Martina Franca

Spend the day at your home base today and relax around the pool. Sip on Spritzs and casually wander into the piazza square which is SO clean and charming. The main square has a gigantic church in the center of it that is so beautiful it made me want to attend a service. Martina Franca allows you to get a glimpse into the authentic Puglia lifestyle and is a lot less commercialized.

Best Restaurants in Martina Franca

• Bar Adua ( breakfast pastries and coffee)
•  Origini ( One of the best ranked restaurant in the area)
• Trattoria Delle Route ( Traditional mom and pop spot on the outskirts of town)
• Osteria Del Coco Pazzo

Day 4- Day in Ostuni

Visiting Ostuni should be on everyone’s Puglia list. It was my favourite town ( besides Martina Franca) with it’s white washed alley ways and sweeping views of the Puglia region. If I didn’t stay in Martina Franca I would recommend staying here.

I would spend a full day in Ostuni so you can really get a feel for the spot. It is also home to SO many good restaurants that you can quite literally spend the day grabbing a nibble from each place. 

Best Restaurants in Ostuni, Puglia

• Antico
• Riccardo Cafe
• Bar Perso
• Burro
• Osteria del tempo perso
• Terra Nostra – Salumeria e Osteria *

Day 5- Day in Polignano a Mare

Visiting Puglia without visiting one of it’s famous beaches is like visiting Italy without having pizza. It’s a must!

You are going to want to dedicate a full beach day in Polignano a Mare.  We visited in early October and it was still bustling, the sea was warm and it felt like summer.

This town is made up of pedestrian only streets in many of the areas and you can find seafood restaurants every 10 feet. 

The beach itself is rocky but we set up shop on the right hand side of the cliffs for a bit more of a sturdy and private beach hang. We brought sandwiches and beer with us and it was perfect. You can rent beach chairs from the Beach attendant there which are $25 euros each but we felt it was a rip off and definitely didn’t give off “beach vibes”.

Best Restaurants in Polignano a Mare

• Pescheria Da Pasqualino (famous fish restaurant)
• Olio su pane ( Sandwich shop!)
• La Casa Del Mojito ( Mojito bar)

If you want a more sandy beach in Puglia, head to…

Lido Bambu Beach Club: We were travelling with our kids so we wanted a place we could relax more at. This beach club is located just 20 minutes from the main town and you can rent beach chairs, get lunch, drinks etc.

Day 6- Day in Matera

Matera, one of the oldest cities in the world, is like stepping back in time and visiting a whole another country. The entire town is made up of cave dwellings that have been carved out into the mountainous stone. It has lots of steps and alleyways that are matrix like in a good way. Get lost wandering around this one of a kind place.

Parking in Matera is a bit annoying and can be difficult. Go early, find a spot outside of the town ( you can’t park within it) and get ready to clock a lot of steps that day. 

I would definitely say this is a can’t miss spot even though it’s a bit out of the way.

Best Restaurants in Matera

• La Lopa ( restaurant nestled in a cave)
• Il Rusticone ( the Calzones from here are insane)
• La Nicchia Nel Sasso Osteria Contemporanea ( get the bruschetta, a glass of vino and take in the insane VIEWS) 

Day 7- Day in Martina Franca and go to Ostuni for Dinner

On this last day you are going to want to just take in your beautiful villa and enjoy that calm and easy going Puglia lifestyle.

If you feel like you do want to check one more new spot out, I would visit the near by town of Locorotondo. It is only 15 minutes from Martina Franca and offers the same authentic kind of town experience that you get from Martina Franca.

FINAL DINNER: There is one last thing you have to do while in Puglia and that is having dinner at Masseria Morroseta.

Masseria’s are renovated farm houses that all have a certain aesthetic. They are very popular in this region and most of them have been turned into hotels or restaurants. The dinner we had at Morroseta will be one I will remember forever. While it is $$$ and done as a fixed cost per person with various courses, it was worth every penny. If you are looking for a splurge meal, please go here. Seeing the the hotel as well is so lovely.

I hope you are now going to plan one week in Puglia yourself and have the trip of a life time! This place is magical and we simply cannot wait to return!

Arrivederci

Tips for your Puglia Trip

Book Flights

We always use Cheapoair.com when we travel so we can compare the best routes and times to book our flights

Travel Insurance

We always travel with insurance- we learned the hard way that it is one thing you cannot leave home without!!

Hotels Under One Roof

We use Booking.com to look at all the different accommodation options available. We love the various filter ( 5 star, kid friendly etc) that help us find the best places to hang our hat!

Book The Best Tours

Nothing beats Viator when it comes to tours. I love seeing the real photos from other travellers and the up to date reviews. It also shows which ones are the most popular and often booked which is a great way to help you decide!

Easy, Breezy Car Bookings

You need a car in Puglia so I recommend booking with Discover Cars for fast, easy and reliable quotes!

Located in the south of the country aka in “the heel”, it is a region where you can spend weeks in and still not touch the surface. With that being said, I am listing my favourite towns that I saw on my 7 night trip to Puglia!

Spoiler Alert! We stayed in Martina Franca

The Best Towns in Puglia, Italy: Ultimate List

#1. Ostuni

This charming Puglia town is considered the “white washed” city because as the name suggests, all the buildings are white.

It’s perched on the top of a hill making some of the view points just incredible. Within the city, you can find a series of labyrinthine streets, tiny and windy alleys, and  staircases that wind through the town’s historic center. This is definitely one of the bigger cities in Puglia and has some of the best restaurants!

Restaurant to visit: Terra Nostra – Salumeria e Osteria

Where to stay in Ostuni: Masseria Moroseta

#2. Martina Franca- the most underrated town in Puglia

Martina Franca was the town in Puglia that we stayed in and we were SO glad we decided on this one. First of all its centrally located between the popular towns. It takes 30 minutes to get to Ostuni, 20 minutes to Alberobello and an hour to Monopoli.

It also is one of the towns you won’t find on every Puglia list…….for now that is. It is definitely underrated and truly became one of our favorites. The town square was so grand and picturesque, had some of the best restaurants and the scale of it was not hard to navigate.

Restaurant to visit: Osteria Origini

Where to stay in Martina Franca: Casa Nonna Stella

#3. Matera- the oldest town in Italy

Calling all Game of Thrown fans! Matera is a place where a ton of Game of Thrones episodes were filmed so if it looks familiar that’s why.

More importantly though, it is one of the oldest cities in Italy and in the world earning Matera UNESCO World Heritage status. The restaurants, homes and buildings are made up of soft limestone rock and are all built into the old formation. You feel like you are stepping back in time!

Restaurant to visit: Regia Corte – Eccellenza Del Territorio

Where to stay in Matera: Il Belvedere

Travel Tip: There is no better way to explore the region of Puglia other than by getting in a car and going from town to town! My favourite car site to use is Discover Cars where you can select a vehicle from the trusted companies like Hertz or Sixt and get the proper insurance you need!

Travelling soon? Check out these other posts:

• 27 Dream Destinations to Add to your Bucket List
• Cruise through Europe on the Celebrity Ascent Cruise Ship: Everything you need to know
• Boutique Hotel in Algarve, Portugal
• 53 Travel Essentials for Women: The Ultimate List

#4. Polignano a Mare

When people think of Puglia, the image of Polignano a Mare’s famous beach generally comes to mind. It is not only the most famous spot in Puglia, but over the last few years, it has become “Insta famous” and has people flocking to this region simply for this shot!

Restaurant to visit: Pescheria Da Pasqualino

Where to stay in Polignano a Mare: Trame – La Naca sul Porto

#5. Alberobello

When people think of Puglia, they think of the iconic “Trulli” homes and Alberobello is the birthplace of these unique stone buildings with conical roofs.

If there is one town in Puglia that you cannot miss, it’s this one. 

And yes of course it’s touristy but if you find the right spots to visit and go at the right times, Alberobello transports you to the true Puglia.

Tip: Visit mid week and before 9AM or after 6PM for dinner once the tour buses are long gone!

Restaurant to visit: Ristorante L’Aratro

Where to stay in Alberbello: Trulli Holiday Albergo 

#6. Lecce- One of the best beachfront towns in Puglia

Lecce has been one of the towns in Puglia that people call “The Florence of the South”. It boosts elaborate Baroque architecture, a bustling town square ( the biggest) and a city that you can spend several days in to shop!

Lecce is also a great place to base yourself if you want to explore a lot of Puglia’s beaches!

Restaurant to visit: A’Roma L’Osteria

Where to stay in Lecce: Palazzo Bignami

#7. Bari

Bari is the town in Puglia that may look familiar to you! It is one of the bigger cities within the region and is considered the capital!

Bari is one of the towns that is often overlooked by tourists- one where you fly into and then head out towards one of the smaller, more charming towns. However once you peel back the city layers of Bari, you will find some of the most authentic scenes of traditional Puglia life. 

It has quick access to the beach, a bustling food scene and is home to the Orecchiette Nonna’s who make fresh pasta daily on the streets!

Restaurant to visit: Ristorante Perbacco

Tip: Book the tour/cooking class instead of visiting a restaurant so you can eat Orecchiette in the home of a Nonna! It’s world famous and the best thing we did in Puglia

Where to stay in Bari: La Felicia

I hope you enjoyed reading about the best towns in Puglia! I shared my full Puglia Guide on my Instagram if you want a visual of everywhere we visited! It was truly one of the most unique spots we went to in Italy over the years!

If you have any other questions about all the towns in Puglia or about the region in general, always feel free to email me!

Marisa xoxox

Tips for your Puglia, Italy Trip

Book Flights

We always use Cheapoair.com when we travel so we can compare the best routes and times to book our flights

Travel Insurance

We always travel with insurance- we learned the hard way that it is one thing you cannot leave home without!!

Hotels Under One Roof

We use Booking.com to look at all the different accommodation options available. We love the various filter ( 5 star, kid friendly etc) that help us find the best places to hang our hat!

Book The Best Tours

Nothing beats Viator when it comes to tours. I love seeing the real photos from other travellers and the up to date reviews. It also shows which ones are the most popular and often booked which is a great way to help you decide!

Easy, Breezy Car Bookings

You need a car in Puglia so I recommend booking with Discover Cars for fast, easy and reliable quotes!

Grenada refers to itself as “Spice Island” because it is filled to the brim with tropical herbs, fruits, spices and more in it’s ever so lush setting. It has a mountainous interior, exotic beaches that are untouched and serene and has an exceptional round up of unique hotels. It’s one of the Caribbean’s best kept secrets if you ask me and while many people still know about Grenada- it’s still not mainstream. But it will be. So my advice is to read this Grenada travel guide and get yourself there pronto!

This Grenada Travel Guide is going to break down everything you need to know about visiting this gem of a place!

CHECK OUT SOME OTHER CARIBBEAN DESTINATIONS:

• Travel Guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Celebrity Ascent Cruise: Best way to see several islands at once!
• The Ultimate Guide to Antigua and Barbuda
• Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers

How to get to around in Grenada?

Getting around Grenada is relatively easy. The roads are well constructed and paved and even though the cars are on the left hand side of the road ( opposite of how we do things in the US or Canada), it still is not complicated! The only thing to be aware of is that some of the roads are windy and narrow.

Taxi’s are costly there so relying on that to move around the island would certainly add up! Think like $40 USD for a 10 minute drive round trip.

OPTIONS TO GET AROUND GRENADA:

RENTAL CAR: Rental cars on the island are pretty reasonable. We always rent a car through this site! Grenada is not one of those places where you need an SUV- like I said the roads are well maintained. The only thing I would caution with a rental car is that some of the roads in the mountains are quote windy. If you are prone to motion sickness you may want to take a Gravol or two!

IMPORTANT THING TO NOTE: Like many rental car agencies, drivers are required to be 25 years and over. Some companies in Grenada also require you to have a Grenadian driving permit. This can be obtained at the local police station. The address for this is: The Carenage in the capital city of St. George’s. It costs $60 Eastern Caribbean Dollar.

TOUR OR DRIVER: If you are doing a cruise ship stop in Grenada, I would absolutely recommend booking a tour with Royalton Tours. We used Sheldon for a few day trips as we wanted to just relax and not worry about directions etc and he was AMAZING!!!!

He knew everything about the island and was so courteous and polite. Our kids were literally crying when they had to say bye to him at the end of our tours with him hahaha. His vehicle are spacious, can accommodate anyone with mobility issues and you can even arrange a car seat with him if you have kids!

Alternatively if you are planning to visit Grenada and don’t want to book a rental car, I would recommend Sheldon as a driver. YOU WILL BE SO HAPPY!!!

BUS: If you are on a budget, you can check out the local bus service. Unlike North American, the local buses here are colorful and are called “Reggae Buses” aka way more fun! You can flag them down at the stations on the main roads. It’s very affordable- only running you about EC$2.50 to EC$6.50 depdending on your route.

Looking for another warm destination? Check out these posts below!

• Full Review on Beaches Turks and Caicos
• CANCUN OR TULUM: WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?
• 27 Dream Destinations to add to your Bucket list!
• The Ultimate Barbados Travel Guide
• Jamaica Vs Barbados?? Breaking down everything you need to know!
• Antigua and Barbuda Travel Guide

When to visit Grenada?

HIGH SEASON: The peak/high season in Grenada runs from December to April.

LOW SEASON: Low season in Grenada runs from May to November, however, they have a peak time in August when their

Grenada however is a great place to visit year round and is one of the few Caribbean countries that doesn’t have Hurricanes on their radar very often. It has a landscape that is kept lush by steady trade winds and avoids being a central target of any harsh weather systems.

How Many Days Do You Need In Grenada

You definitely need one week in Grenada to fully see everything! The country offers SO much and it would be a shame to only stick to one side of the island. Additionally, since the country is made up of 3 islands- I definitely recommend doing a day trip or an overnight to the neighboring island of Carriacou!

Grenada Entry Requirements

If you are from the US or Canada, there are no visa requirements to visit. Going through customs at the airport was a breeze for us ( there was literally no one there other than the people on our flight!). I LOVE ISLAND AIRPORTS!!! And theirs is a typical little island one and we loved it.

Entry Form: Every person entering Grenada needs to fill out an immigration form upon arrival. You are given these on the plane most of the time aka do not forget to pack a pen!

Proof of Accommodation: You may be asked to provide proof of accommodation for your stay in Grenada. This could be a hotel reservation or Air Bnb booking.

Where to stay in Grenada?

Unlike some islands in the Caribbean, tourism has grown at a lovely pace and there are no big high rises anywhere in the country. It doesn’t feel commercialized at all and thank god for that! It’s hard to find a country that still has a variety of accommodation options yet still feels so low key.

Whether you want a luxury stay or a budget friendly option, Grenada has it all! If you are looking where to stay in Grenada, my list below is a great starting point!

True Bay Resort- Best Family Hotel in Grenada

Staying at True Bay Resort was one of the best decisions we made! If you have kids you should definitely consider this spot. It’s laid back, colourful, family run, eco friendly and just has an overall great vibe and layout.

True Bay Resort has over 4 + different restaurants pools making it easy to cool off after a hot day of exploring. Each has it’s own feel: there is a lagoon style one with sand, a Balinese lap pool, and 2 more traditional pools. Our kids loved the variety and got excited to pick one each day.

HERE ARE SOME THINGS WE SPECIFICALLY LOVED ABOUT STAYING AT TRUE BLUE BAY RESORT:

• The On Site Restaurant: True Bay’s restaurant called “Dodgy Dock” is one of the most popular places in town! It was so nice to be able to dine here breakfast, lunch or dinner and know it would be a: open and b: lively!
• The Yoga Shala: This hotel had my dream yoga studio. Perched up on the 2nd floor, it offered ocean views and it felt like I was legitimately in a tree house. It was open air and had interior wood paneling making it feel very warm and it truly was one of the best places I have done a class. If that’s not your thing, they also have a work out room equipped with a PELOTON!
• The Rooms: We loved how many different types of rooms they had. We had a large suite that had a kitchenette, large balcony and even a 2nd floor look out area. They have 2 bedroom suites, more traditional rooms that overlook the pool or water and some more renovated ones.
• The Rum Bar: Pictured above on the left was the resort’s Rum bar and it was certainly spot that you can spend a good amount of time around. It had cute ( and very Instagrammable swings) around it and was another cheerful little addition to the grounds!

Silversands- Best Luxury Hotel in Grenada

Where are my 5 star hotel lovers at? If you are looking for one of the best luxury hotel options in Grenada, you will want to book the Silversands Resort.

Silversands is home to the largest pool in not only Grenada but in the entire Caribbean. Yes you read that right. Their sleek and sexy pool is the focal point of the resort and rightfully so- it’s a jaw dropper.

While we didn’t stay here, we visited for a little cocktail hour to celebrate my husband’s birthday. You can visit for lunch or dinner and I recommend doing so simply to check out the space. It is pricey though (drinks were almost $20 USD) so be aware of that before coming!

Mount Cinnamon- Best Mid Priced Hotel in Grenada

Mount Cinnamon is one of the OG hotels in Grenada! It’s perched up on a cliff which offer sweeping views of the beach. It is quite arguably one of the better views in town.

Mount Cinnamon has that old school, island charm yet combines modern amenities and touches. It’s the perfect combination for those that want to very much feel like they are in Grenada but want to be pampered. It feels like a tropical little hideaway and although the hotel itself is not directly on the beach- they have a designated restaurant and loungers

Sandals Grenada

Honeymooners?? If you want an adult only 5 star experience that is not only all inclusive but also romantic- you should definitely consider Sandals for a place to stay in Grenada!

Sandals Grenada is only 5 minutes from the airport yet also situated on the popular Pink Gin Beach and has so many added amenities and restaurants on site. With Grenada being costly in some ways, this is a great option for those who like to indulge in a lot of food and bevy’s and get pampered while doing so!

La Sagesse Boutique Hotel- Best Budget Hotel in Grenada

If you are looking for a budget friendly hotel in Grenada, this is a great option! It’s rates are around $185 USD and up and it has over 4.5 stars with over 3,000 reviews. I love looking at reviews for hotels that may not be 5 star and when the reviews are steadily good- it helps with my decision making.

This hotel is not only cute from the exterior but it has a great, central location in town, an on site restaurant and even a small pool! Sounds like great value for your dollar!

Six Senses

New to the Grenada hotel list, is the very much anticipated Six Senses.

Six Senses is very selective about where they choose to set up shop so it says a lot that they decided on Grenada as their next opening.

Situated on the very desirable St. David’s coast, the Six Senses La Sagesse is going to be a destination in itself. With private plunge pools in many of the rooms and a wellness program like no other, this hotel is one that may have you staying put. If you are looking to be pampered and to splurge, this is the resort for you and unlike Silversands- this resort is isolated and remote from the main towns.

Grenada Travel Guide: The Best Restaurants in Grenada

Is there anything better than Caribbean food? I’ll wait….

Fresh seafood, spicy and flavourful dishes and food that is made with LOVE is what I think of when I think of Caribbean food and Grenada nails it with theirs.

The country offers a rich culinary experience and has blends of many influences in their menus ( think not only Caribbean but African and European!). Some popular delicacies are Roti, Oil Down ( which is a one-pot meal made with breadfruit, coconut milk, callaloo (a leafy green vegetable), and a meat), Cocoa Tea, Callaloo Soup, Seafood ( Conch, Lobster, Shrimp), Jerk Chicken and lots of fruit. They are actually one of the biggest producers of the fruit Soursop in particular which is a SUPER fruit known for many healing properties!

If you want to really get to know the foods and flavours of Grenada, you can check out this awesome food tour!

Here are some of the best Grenada restaurants that you need to visit:

The Aquarium Restaurant

The Aquarium Restaurant is not only the best restaurant I have visited in Grenada but it may be the one of the nicest restaurants I have visited in my life.

Located on Magazine beach ( which is the beach in Grenada that looks like Seychelles), it is a picture perfect spot with delicious food to match.

They have an open air dining room yet it still feels like a 5 star experience. We dined on steak, lobster, fresh vegetables and the one thing you absolutely cannot miss is their cheesy cauliflower. I wouldn’t normally order something like that but our friends we dined with said we couldn’t miss it so we took their advice and BOY OH BOY was it something special!!

They also have a Sunday brunch and while we didn’t have a chance to experience it- I imagine it being amazing. The setting there is truly one of a kind!!!

Dodgy Dock Restaurant & Lounge Bar:

Dodgy Dock restaurant is one of the most popular spots in town….and for us it was conveniently located in our hotel! Notorious for their many theme nights ( one of which is their street food night on Wednesdays), the place is perfect for a casual and fun night out.

We absolutely loved their fajita and tacos and couldn’t help but order them twice. Along with margaritas of course. They had live music one of the nights and it really made us know that we were no longer in Canada any more! True island vibes right here.

La Plywood

If you are looking for a rustic little beach restaurant, La Plywood on BBC Beach is everything you need! Filled with colourful outdoor seating, delicious ( and strong!) cocktails, and lots of fresh fish options- you will not be disappointed!

I truly love visiting smaller, local places like this because it gives you such a wonderful insight to the culture and local food. Service was a bit slow but in my eyes that means they are making it with love!

TIP: Head to BB Beach for a beach day ( definitely one of the best beaches on the island) and then have lunch here!

Saavy’s Beach Grill

Located in the Mount Cinnamon hotel, Saavy’s is the perfect blend of casual meets romantic. There are twinkle lights surrounding the dining area, tables right in the sand and you can hear the waves crashing right in front of you.

They have lots of fresh fish options or meat that is directly grilled right on the beach. It feels like an elevated beach BBQ experience and the casual atmosphere allowed the kids to run around in the sand right in front of us. The unique and fruity cocktails that they had were also something not to miss!

Wild Orchid

Wild Orchid is the restaurant within Annandale Falls and it does not disappoint! Can we take a second to admire these views……..and those drinks??

The drinks and view alone would have me coming back here again and again! It was the perfect spot to grab a bite after our waterfall visit and apparently the night time atmosphere is equally as enjoyable ( they put some spot lights over the falls so you can see them). While the service was a bit on island time, we didn’t mind at all!

Beach Bar at Calabash

Within a day of being in Grenada, locals kept mentioning “The Beach at Calabash”.

When the locals mention it, I know it must be good! The menu is very modern compared to some of the other restaurants on the island but still has a focus on Caribbean flair. The atmosphere is elegant and clean and you really can’t go wrong doing a nice lunch or dinner here! Their wine list is pretty extensive too which is an added bonus if you like your vino!

Best Bars in Grenada

• Umbrellas Beach Bar: If you are in need of a good rum punch for a good price, Umbrella’s is your place. It’s family owned so the place oozes with charm!
• Prickly Bay Tiki Bar: This is one of the more lively places out of this list with live performances, a full on stage for music and a bigger drink menu!
• Esther’s Bar: This a place where you can find tourists and locals alike all together quenching their thirst! They are open from 10AM ( for those who feel happy hour is any hour) until 10PM! It’s located right in the heart of Grande Anse beach which makes it easy to visit
• Coconut Beach: This beachside bar and restaurant is the perfect spot for sunset drinks and snacks. Do not miss their wing night where they have half priced wings! It brings in the crowd…and a good vibe!

The Best Things to do in Grenada

When you visit the Caribbean it’s very easy to just chill out, have a pina colada and soak up the sun. On the island of Grenada though I urge you to get up from your sun lounger and discover what the country has to offer!

There is so much beauty and diversity outside of the beaches ( and don’t get me wrong those are worth discovering too!) but it’s the type of country that requires you to explore a bit to truly understand why it’s so special.

Visit Belmond Estate

Belmont Estate’s is a 17th century plantation farm that today acts as a fully functioning chocolate factory, organic farm and agriculture haven. Booking a tour here lets you onto their impressive grounds where you can uncover the secrets of cocoa making, harvesting crops and spices and seeing all their wild life that is lucky to call this place home.

While you can visit on your own, I recommend doing a tour!

Things to know about visiting Belmond Estate

• This is definitely a kid friendly tour! In fact, if you do have kids I would recommend picking this as one of the stops you do! It was educational, interactive and the perfect amount of time for their little attention spans
• I recommend doing a tour that includes lunch on their on site restaurant. All food is traditional Grenadian and is cooked on open air hot coals. Really cool to see and experience! The tables overlook the farm too and the breeze sets through as you eat since you are perched up a bit. Loved!
• If you wish to purchase chocolate or tea, make sure to allocate some extra money there. We got Soursop tea which is linked to a ton of health benefits. Its hard to get in North America so keep that in mind!! When in Rome, right?
• If you are staying in the Grand Anse area, the drive there is a solid hour. I recommend doing a tour here where transportation is included so you can enjoy the drive. It’s also pretty windy so if you are prone to car sickness I would take a gravol before
• Ticket Price: US$20.00 or EC$54.00 per adult. Children under 12 half price. They are also closed on Saturdays

Visit Annandale Falls

Nestled in a lush tropical garden, this waterfall is easily accessible and offers a refreshing swim in its natural pool. It has a restaurant that over looks the falls, ample room for you to place your belongings around and a perfect shallow swimming area at the front of the area if you don’t want to get close to the falls itself!

We have seen so many waterfalls through our travels and Annandale Falls might be our favourite one yet!

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: Entry to the fall is about $4 USD and they take cash only!!! The kiosk where you buy the tickets also has lots of souvenirs, and some water. If you really want to eat though- you can’t miss the onsite restaurant!

Check out my full guide on the Best Waterfalls in Grenada

Visit A Chocolate Farm- One of the most popular things to do in Grenada!

Life is sweet in Grenada and a good reason for that is because of it’s happening Cocoa production scene! Visiting a chocolate factory is basically a right of passage when you visit because of this!

I recommend booking a tour at the Tri-Island Chocolate Company. The owner Aaron has done such an amazing job at creating a custom and unique tour experience ( we even got to meet him!!).

We started our tour by strolling through their on site gardens where we got to see and learn about Soursop fruits, plantains and nutmeg plants. The tour is interactive and you get to feel and smell everything in the gardens and it’s a journey for the senses!!

The best part of the tour though is getting to actual make some chocolate! After your stroll through the gardens, you head into their tiny ( and ever so colourful) production house where you work with the local workers to create your own delectable treat!

We worked with them to create some customize chocolate bars and got to hear about the process while doing so. While I know this was definitely a highlight for the kids, we may or may not have enjoyed it just as much!

Do A Wellness Class

With a strong focus on eco friendly initiatives and sustainability, it’s no surprise that Grenada’s wellness scene is happening. If you love yoga, Sankalpa Yoga Studio at True Blue Bay Resort should be on your list.

If you stay at the hotel, you actually get complimentary classes but if you are staying somewhere else, don’t fret as they are only $10 per class ( in Canada we average about $25 and up so it seems like a steal to me!).

They have everything from vinyasa, flow classes and even some sound healing options too ( my fav). There are also a lot of yoga retreats that are done here yearly so I would keep my eyes peeled on the Tourism Boards website! In addition to that, you can see some great options below:

• Spice Island Resort
• Reiki and Sound Healing
• True Blue Bay’s Yoga Studio

Go Sailing and see Grenada’s Coastline

It doesn’t take much to know that Grenada is a lush and very green little island but once you get on the water and see the coastline from a different angle- WOW! It really puts it into perspective how unique and pristine this island is. .

We couldn’t recommend booking a sailing trip with Savvy’s Sailing more! They have you cruising on a traditional and authentic hand built Petite Martinique Sloop and offer day time or sunset sails.

We opted for the day time sail where we get to visit the underwater sculpture park ( more on that below). I loved seeing the vibrant colours of St. George too ( which literally made me feel like I was in Portgual).

Our captains were amazing and were not only quick to share a lot of interesting Grenada facts with us but they were also really quick on filling our cups with Rum Punch. My kind of sailing trip!

IMPORTANT THINGS TO NOTE: Danny the owner offers private trips only ( minimum of 6 people required). There are full day options which run from 10AM-4PM and cost $100 USD roughly per person. The Half Day option will run you $70 USD per person and has you on the water for about 4 hours

Visit the Underwater Sculpture Park

Artist Jason De Caires created this underwater sculpture park where snorkler’s and diver’s can immerse themselves in an underground world of art. It was truly one of the most unique things I have ever done and though I don’t snorkel, I was able to see everything so clearly! Each year they seem to be building on it which is also really neat.

This tour HERE is one of the best options to book in my opinion!

Visit One Of the Neighbouring Islands in Grenada

Interesting fact about Grenada is that the country is not just made up of the main island! It has two neigbouring little sisters that are not only inhabited but can be visited by tourists! Carriacou and Petite Martinique are both part of Grenada and make the country what it is. Both islands are accessible by plane and ferry and offer a quieter and more relaxed pace than the main island of Grenada.

The beaches in Carriacou are listed as some of the best in the Caribbean and some people even say it reminds them of Tahiti!

Looking to book your flight? I always book mine with Cheap O Air

What To Know Before Visiting Grenada

• While some of the plugs were the same as Canada, there were some that required a plug converter. I use this one HERE
• Most of the restaurants accept credit cards but it is best to bring some Eastern Caribbean Dollars. It’s nice for tipping and for some local beach bars.
• While certain things were cheaper on the island ( hello beer!), main entrees were around the same price as home or a little more depending where you ate.
• Drivers sit on the right hand side of the car! I can’t tell you how many times I went to the wrong side haha
• The best way to communicate with the locals, tour guides or taxi drivers is through Whatsapp. Make sure it’s downloaded on your phone ahead of your trip

I hope you enjoyed this Grenada travel guide and make your way to this stunning island! I can’t wait to return and spend more time there!!

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Having recently visited both of these places ( on two very different trips may I add)- I am here to break down all the differences, similarities and things to note!

Jamaica Vs Barbados: Overall

Jamaica is the bigger island both in size and in population while Barbados is much smaller at only165 square miles. You can actually take a day and drive around Barbados or get from the South to the North in just under 2 hours.

Jamaica on the other hand is very spread out and some of the key tourist destinations are hours and hours apart. Some people base themselves in only one area of Jamaica ( ie: Montego Bay or Negril) and do not travel around due to how long it takes!

Jamaica is known for reggae music, Rastafarian culture, and its vibrant art scene. It is lush, mountainous and has many waterfalls. Barbados, on the other hand, is known for its calypso and soca music, has a British and colonial background and traditional charm to it.

Jamaica Vs Barbados: Budget and Price

If you are looking to book a trip where your dollar will go farther than you will want to head to Jamaica.

Jamaica – given how much bigger it is- has so many more hotel options for every kind of traveller. You can find luxury resorts here but you can also find a lot of budget friendly accommodations that are still very much beautiful!

In terms of food, a lot of the restaurants in Barbados are more on the pricier side if you are comparing apples to apples

Jamaica Vs Barbados: Safety

If we are comparing Jamaica Vs Barbados for safety, Barbados wins.

While I never once felt unsafe during my trip to Jamaica, it has more reports of assaults, cases of kidnapping and robbery than Barbados. More recently the US has issued a Level 3 travel warning for the country due to the increase of sexual assaults specifically. While I think it’s important to keep this in mind and travel with your guard up, I truly felt more scared in the outskirts of Miami than I ever did while I was in Jamaica.

Jamaica Vs Barbados Beaches

Montego Bay, Jamaica

South Coast, Barbados

Jamaica Vs Barbados for Families

Beaches Turks and Caicos

Both places would be amazing for a family trip depending on what you are looking for in a vacation.

Jamaica resorts are bigger allowing some of them to have a lot more activities for the kids such as water parks, kids clubs and daily activities. Beaches Jamaica in particular is geared towards families and is one of the best all inclusive options out there for families.

Barbados hotels are a bit smaller and not as sprawling so often their resorts have fewer restaurants and pools. This is not a bad thing and some families prefer to have the option to go off the resort and don’t want to be “resort trapped” so it really depends what you are looking for!

READ MY FULL BARBADOS TRAVEL GUIDE HERE

Jamaica Vs Barbados for a Girls Trip

S Hotel Jamaica

If you are debating Jamaica Vs Barbados for a girls trip, I think it depends on the kind of girls trip you are looking to do.

If you want to have a lot of fun, Jamaica has a ton of clubs, bars and special events happening ( specifically in Montego Bay) that make it a great option for a girls getaway.

Barbados night life on the other hand is more chill and laid back. Barbados is home to some amazing spas and golf courses so if your girls getaway is centered around relaxing, it might be the better option for you and your friends.

Jamaica Vs Barbados for a Couples Trip

Flower Tropical Farm and the romantic restaurant The Fish Pot- both in Barbados

Both Jamaica and Barbados are perfect for a couples trip. If you are having problems deciding on a spot with your sweetie, it really comes down to the kind of couple you are. Do you like adventures? Do you want to see waterfalls? Golf? Spa?

Looking to plan a trip somewhere warm? You may like these other sunny destinations?

• Tulum or Cancun: Which One is for You?
• The Ultimate Guide to Antigua and Barbuda
• Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers 
• Review on Beaches Turks and Caicos
• 27 Dream Destinations to Add To Your Bucket List

Jamaica Vs Barbados Hotel Comparison

Jamaica is focused on large, all-inclusive resorts from the major chains where the vast majority of guests never leave the property. Although recent reports suggest otherwise, the island still has a reputation for a lack of safety off resort grounds. Guided tours are okay but I wouldn’t wander around on your own, especially with children. I’m sure the Jamaica fans on their forum will disagree but the reality is that crime has been a problem on the island for some time. Again, not an issue on the resort property but you mentioned you plan to spend little time there.

Barbados has some AI properties but the primary focus is on traditional hotels where you might eat some of your meals while retaining the freedom to dine in any of the island’s outstanding restaurants in all price ranges, if you choose

READ MY FULL MONTEGO BAY, JAMAICA GUIDE HERE

Jamaica Hotels

Here is a list of hotels in Jamaica that are beautiful and highly rated! that are rated well and are centrally located on the main strip!

1. S Hotel Jamaica: This boutique all inclusive hotel right in the heart of Montego Bay is absolutely stunning. I love the scale of it, it has a rooftop pool and is situated right on Doctor’s Cove!
2. GoldenEye – Situated in Oracabessa, this iconic resort was once the home of Ian Fleming and is now a stunning hotel offering a blend of luxury and history. It’s super secluded and private and if you are looking for a honeymoon spot, you should consider it
3. Trident Hotel – This is where some of the celebrities stay when they head to Jamaica and for good reason. This boutique hotel offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
4. Beaches Jamaica: One of the best all inclusive options if you are looking for a family resort with all the bells and whistles!
5. Round Hill Hotel and Villas – This resort has a ton of rooms options, an on site spa and has that timeless elegance to it!

Barbados Hotels

1. Sea Breeze Beach House: This is where we stayed and it was one of the best places we stayed in the Caribbean! It’s all inclusive yet has a boutique feel to it. It’s perfect for families or couples a like.
2. O2 Beach Club– 02 Beach Club is located on the south west side of the island and is another all inclusive option with a rooftop pool!
3. Cobblers Cove – This property is Instagram heaven and only has 40 rooms giving it a very intimate feel!
4. Fairmont Royal Pavilion – Located on a beautiful stretch of beach in St. James, this hotel offers luxurious accommodations, a beautiful beachfront setting, and excellent dining options
5. Little Harbour– This eclectic, charming and smaller hotel on the Northern stretch of the island is one to check out for sure!

Jamaica or Barbados Restaurant Comparison

Jamaica Vs Barbados for restaurants offer some of the same cuisine and that is FRESH fish my friends!

In both of these countries you often can get fresh catch of the day on every menu which is a really nice option! Often these dishes are flavored with Caribbean spices. Jamaica’s cuisine tends to be a bit spicier though!

Barbados restaurant scene features a lot of outdoor restaurants with some very trendy spaces that are similar to restaurants you would find in Tulum or California. While Jamaica also has trendy and modern spaces, I felt that a lot of their restaurants were more simple in design.

One similarity between Jamaica and Barbados is their love of RUM bars!! Both islands have an abundant of rum bars however Jamaica wins here as they have the most rum bars per capita in the entire WORLD!! Crazy fact huh?

Here are 3 Jamaica Restaurants that you can’t miss:

1. Miss T’s Kitchen: This adorable and funky restaurant is tucked away on a side street in Ochos Rios but do yourself a favour and find it. It’s one of a kind and has amazing Jamaican cuisine
2. Sugar Mill Restaurant: Hello Glamour! This restaurant is set in an old plantation where the tables are filled with candle lit and you can hear the crickets chirping from afar. It’s a stunning atmosphere and can’t be missed
3. Scotchies: You actually can’t go to Jamaica and not visit Scotchies. It’s a right of passage of visiting and the locals always insist you go there ( which is when I know a place is worth visiting!)

Here are 3 Barbados Restaurants that you can’t miss:

1. La Cabane: This restaurant is on the beach. Literally. It has a boho vibe to it and is one of the best spots for sunset.
2. The Fish Pot: This charming restaurant is on the Good Little Harbour property which I listed as one of the best hotels in Barbados. It’s no surprise that their restaurant is also amazing!
3. QP Bistro: This restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner aka good at any hour and while the food is delicious, the space is the real jaw dropper here. It can seriously be featured in every design magazine there is!!
4. The Tides: This is your high end, 5 star option on the island. If you want to get dressed up or are celebrating a big occasion- come here!

Travel Tips for Barbados and Jamaica:

• Both islands accept credit card at most places and also accept USD in a lot of places!
• Weather or nature tips: Montego Bay can get windy at night while Barbados has more mosquitos!
• You will not find mega stores like Walmart or Costco here but there are bigger chains where you can get everything you need
• Both countries have healthcare and hospital facilities but Barbados has a better reputation for top notch care
• Electrical outlets are the same as the US

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It was our first time visiting Barbados and this island truly stole my heart. I went in with no big expectations- just thinking “Well its obviously going to be nice, relaxing and hot” like most Caribbean islands but Barbados definitely has a special vibe to it.

Aside from the obvious weather and beaches, Barbados has so much to offer. There are so many things to do in Barbados that I was honestly surprised by it all.

I hope this Barbados travel guide inspires you to visit yourself!

CHECK OUT SOME OTHER CARIBBEAN DESTINATIONS:

• Travel Guide to Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Celebrity Ascent Cruise: Best way to see several islands at once!
• The Ultimate Guide to Antigua and Barbuda
• Best Caribbean Islands for First Timers
• Grenada Travel Guide: The Caribbean’s Best Kept Secret

How to get to Barbados from North America?

Barbados is a quick 6 hour plane ride from Toronto! Air Canada and West Jet fly there directly multiple times a week and even fly there directly year round! This isn’t always the case with Caribbean islands so there is no stopping you from visiting at any point in the year.

There are also tons of direct flights from the UK and from the USA! If you want to fast track the customs line they have a Fast Track pass you can buy which was amazing!! It took us less than 10 minutes to get through!

Should I Rent a Car in Barbados?

If you want to really get a feel of the island, I would 100% recommend renting a car. While your hotel or resort may have a lot of offerings and not give you much reason to leave, I still personally think it’s worth it to rent one.

Here’s the thing though- you don’t really need one for a full week if your hotel or resort is really great. What I would recommend is renting one for 2-3 days so you have the option to visit some other restaurants, see some activities etc. We rented one and it got dropped right at our hotel directly which was so convenient!

Looking for another warm destination? Check out these posts below!

• Full Review on Beaches Turks and Caicos
• CANCUN OR TULUM: WHICH ONE IS FOR YOU?
• 27 Dream Destinations to add to your Bucket list!

When to Visit Barbados?

HIGH SEASON: The peak/high season in Barbados runs from December to April with the most popular times to visit being Christmas, New Year’s, March Break and Easter. During these months you can expect minimal rain, temperatures in the 80’s and overall great weather.

BARBADOS IN MARCH: We visited the Island in March and the weather in Barbados in March was literally perfect. There was one day where there was a sun shower ( hello magical) and it only lasted 20 minutes.

LOW SEASON: Low season in Barbados is considered July to November where hurricane and rain is more of a threat. However given the position of the island, it normally does not get hit directly from many hurricanes which is such a bonus!

The driest month is February with 9 mm of rainfall and 27 perfect sunny days while the rainiest month is September with 60 mm of rain.

How Many Days Do You Need In Barbados?

We stayed 4 nights in Barbados and left feeling like we wished we had another 1-2 nights. A week is probably the perfect amount of time for most people but you can certainly still see a lot with only 4 nights. I wouldn’t recommend anything less than 4 nights and for me, anything more than 7 nights would have felt too long.

Best Places to Stay in Barbados

Barbados is the kind of place that offers a lot of different accommodation options.

Whatever your budget is, you can find something in Barbados that suits it. There are larger resorts and hotels, Air Bnbs in Barbados and what I really loved about the island- a ton of boutique options!

Sea Breeze Beach House

The Sea Breeze Beach House, located on the South west side of the island, is a boutique all inclusive resort and is filled with charm at every corner. This is where we stayed as a family of four and we honestly could not have been more happy!

The Sea Breeze has over 6 + different restaurants on site ( many of which are A La Carte) and has 3 different pools ( 1 being an adult only one for those looking for pure relaxation).

HERE ARE SOME THINGS WE SPECIFICALLY LOVED ABOUT STAYING HERE:

• The Beach: The hotel was situated on a perfect stretch of sand ( soo white!) and we were the only hotel located on the beach it so it felt super private
• The Kids Club: Our 5 year old enjoyed visiting here once a day where she got to do all sorts of activities like bracelet making, scavenger hunts and painting. They have a daily schedule and they are open from 9AM-5PM
• The Rooms: We opted for a 2 bedroom suite which was AMAZING for our family. Our daughters shared a room with two single beds and we had our own privacy in a completely separate bedroom. There was also a living room area and large bathroom with a soaking tub!! Loved!
• The Rum Bar: Pictured above on the right was the resort’s Rum bar and what a hang out spot it was! We had every happy hour here where we ended up meeting other hotel guests and they had an awesome corn hole set up on the lawn which the kids loved. It was such a great gathering spot and not to mention- so cute!

O2 Beach Club

Do you love the colour pink? If so you need to stay at the O2 Beach Club where pops of pink can be found everywhere (specially on their loungers and umbrellas) and boy oh boy is it cute!

02 Beach Club is actually the sophisticated older sister of the Sea Breeze Beach House where we stayed and while we were initially looking to stay here we decided on the Seabreeze for our young kids. If I was travelling with just the hubs, I would definitely stay here. They have a wonderful on site spa, gorgeous pool and even a rooftop space where you can swim! We checked it out for lunch one day and it was fabulous.

The Good Little Harbour

The Good Little Harbour is a boutique luxury resort located on the west coast of Barbados. It offers beautifully designed and thought-out rooms, the on site restaurant The Fish Pot ( which I write about below) and a pretty nice spa!

If you are looking for a quiet escape, this would be a great spot.

Cobbler’s Cove

Cobbler’s Cove is one of the OG luxury hotels in Barbados that is still going strong. It is very, very, very cute, is family owned and located in a prime area on the island. This place is smaller which if you didn’t guess yet- I love. Unlike some of the options above, this place is not all inclusive and is not for budget travelers but if you are looking to splurge and have top notch service, Cobber’s Cove is a great option!

Barbados Travel Guide: The Best Restaurants in Barbados

An important part of any trip for us is to have an EAT-interary where we basically eat up all of the best restaurants and bars. Barbados had no shortage of places to try and made it very easy for us to fill up our schedules with places to visit.

While our hotel was all inclusive, we still wanted to experience the restaurant and dining scene and actually loved having both options!

Here are some favourite Barbados restaurants that you should eat or drink at:

The Fish Pot

Located on the North West part of the island, The Fish Pot gives off the ultimate “Coastal Grandma” vibes. It is so aesthetically pleasing with white washed wood and pastel teal finishes and charming pieces at every corner.

They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner making it an easy spot to visit! We ate there in the morning and can’t imagine how delightful it would be at sunset! What a location.

La Cabane

La Cabane is a restaurant that I call “the Tulum of Barbados”. It truly made me feel like I was transported there with it’s boho vibe, outdoor only seating options, and rustic wood elements. You enter the space through a teepee wooden entrance tunnel and are welcomed by the best ambience imaginable.

The drinks were strong, the tuna tartare was mouth watering and our meat was cooked right infront of us in the outside grill. *Chef’s Kiss*. I would recommend heading here for lunch or an early sunset dinner.

QP Bistro

QP Bistro was recommended to us over 10 times by my followers on Instagram who claimed it was the “prettiest and best spot on the island”. They weren’t lying. QP Bistro should be on everyone’s list for a nice dinner out!

The menu features a mix of international dishes with a Caribbean twist, using fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant often has live music or entertainment, adding to its lively ambiance. Check their live events page on their website for all the latest happenings!

Drift Barbados

Drift Barbados is one of the newer restaurants in town and has gotten popular quickly for good reason! Its located in Holetown and is the perfect blend of sophisticated, trendy and casual. They have little string lights hanging from palm tree to palm tree and bar stools that look out onto the ocean for the ultimate sunset vibes!

Best Bars in Barbados

Image Via 1.11 East Facebook Page

Drinks at sunset is a thing in Barbados. It’s a time when locals often meet up to catch up over the day or week and this way of life has rolled over into tourist territory. Sunset drinks are popular on the island and a lot of places cater to it! There are SO many cute bars to hit up for this but here are some of our favourites:

• Sea shed Barbados: File this spot under “The Ultimate spot for Sunset drinks”. While Sea shed has a full menu to enjoy, the big draw here is it’s cocktails and DJ sets!
• Ju Ju’s Beach Bar: This place came recommended from a friend who visits Barbados twice a year so we trusted his opinion! This casual little watering hole has the best vibes and is located on a prime piece of real estate ( literally sandwiched between all the 5 star hotels!) Drinks are strong and cheap! I’m looking at you Rum Punch!
• 1.11 East- Prime location, cute aesthetic and hand crafted cocktails? What more can you ask for! Add this spot to your list for a little drink.

Things to do in Barbados

For an island with so many beaches, there is seriously a ton to do in Barbados outside of sitting by the ocean and sipping on Pina Colada’s! Here is a list of some of the best things to do in Barbados:

Visit the Animal Flower Cave

The Animal Flower Cave is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barbados! It is located at the most northern tip of the island and is known for it’s stunning rock formations. The coast on this side is completely different than the Barbados beaches that you have in your head! I felt like I was transported to Ireland here as the coast line was rugged and green.

The Animal Flower Cave itself is an accessible water cave where you hike down steps into a cave that looks out into the ocean. In the cave itself there are natural water pools and sea anemones ( known locally as “animal flowers”).

Things to know about visiting the Animal Flower Cave

• You need to get tickets for a tour to access the stairs to the cave. You cannot go down by yourself
• We did the tour with our kiddos aged 2 and 5. It was definitely a bit steep for the 5 year old and we carried the 2 year old. It was doable but just be mindful that anyone younger than 3 would need to be carried!
• The tour itself takes about 30 minutes and is really informative! We loved learning about all the facts and history behind it
• You can swim in the caves so bring your bathing suits.
• Call before visiting as sometimes depending on the currents and tides the caves are filled with water and you can’t go down so they close for the day. This normally only happens during low season when rainfall is higher
• They have a beautiful restaurant on site which offers amazing views of the rock formations and water. The tacos are incredible!
• If you don’t want to do a tour, you can just visit the restaurant or see the coast line at no additional charge!
• Adults $40 Bds and Children 12 and under are $20 Bds
• They are closed Mondays

Unique Things To Do in Barbados- Explore Some of the Botanical Gardens

Feeling like you need a break from the beach and sun, head inland to one of the many tropical gardens! This was surprisingly one of my favourite things that we did and I would consider this a very unique thing to do in Barbados!

We chose to visit Flower Farm Garden which was rated 4.8 stars on Google! Every review said it was like visiting “heaven” and they weren’t lying. It felt like stepping into a serene paradise in a dream world.

This lush botanical garden has so many different flower and plant varieties, it smells AMAZING and is so incredibly well landscaped. This garden offers beautiful views of the east coast as well making it worth while for that alone!

The entire garden took us about 45 minutes or so! If you are craving more there are a bunch of other flower farms in the area such as Hunte’s Garden and Tropical Garden Farm

Do a Catamaran Tour

I feel like a Catamaran tour should be on everyone’s Caribbean island to do list! It just gives such a good opportunity to see different beaches on the island and also see the island from a different view point.

A lot of time the tours have food and bevy’s included in the price and it’s great value for your money…especially because the rum punch is also made stiff!

The tours in Barbados are especially great as they often add a snorkel element and the island is known to have some great sea turtle locations that many of the tours stop at!

Ostini’s Fish Fry

If you go to Barbados you literally cannot miss Ostini’s. Its a right of passage on the island and gives you such an insight to the beautiful Bahan culture. There are fish and seafood stalls filled with offerings, rum punch being offered every few feet and on the weekends they have full on parties with live music and entertainers!

Even if you don’t like fish or rum punch, the people watching alone is worth the visit!

Visit Harrison’s Cave

This is another extremely popular activity in Barbados and for good reason. Harrison’s Cave is genuinely very cool!

Doing a tour here gives you a bit of history, a bit of geology and a bit of adventure. You get to hop on a mini train that rails through the cave. I felt like I was on a ride at Disneyland at times. It’s a perfect activity in Barbados for kids and adults alike which I loved!

Another Unique Thing to do in Barbados- Visit Rihanna’s Childhood home!

Calling all Riri fans!! This activity in Barbados is for you….and the best part of this one is that it’s free!

Rihanna’s home that she grew up in can be visited ( just from the outside) and is located on: Westbury New Road.

At the end of the street there is a little plaque board that gives a bit of history of Rihanna and the significance of the street.

Want to take things a bit further? Rihanna’s house is actually rentable for the night on Air bnb!

Barbados with Kids

We visited Barbados with Kids ( ours were 2.5 and 5 at the time) and I think I can confidently say it’s an amazing island to visit as a family. It’s safe, the locals are SO friendly and most of the beaches are great for swimming.

While there are a lot of adult only options in Barbados ( we can’t blame the honeymooners!), there are a ton of hotels that cater to children in Barbados. I would recommend visiting Barbados with kids of any ages ( baby, toddler or young teens) as there are so many activities in and around the island depending on your families interests!

If you forget something ( we didn’t pack enough diapers), there are a TON of big grocery stores with plenty of baby items similar to North America.

Looking to book your flight? I always book mine with Cheap O Air

What To Know Before Visiting Barbados

• Plugs are the same as the US and Canada!
• Most of the restaurants accept credit cards but it is best to bring some USD or Barbados Dollar in case. A lot of the menus are in Barbados dollar’s so don’t get scared haha
• We found the prices there to be a bit more expensive compared to home so I would make sure to buy some alcohol at a store to enjoy in your hotel to save a bit and if you have kids definitely have some snacks on hand!
• Drivers sit on the right hand side of the car! I can’t tell you how many times I went to the wrong side haha
• The locals are called “Bajan’s” so don’t be surprised to hear terms like “Bajan food” or “That’s the Bajan way”

I hope you enjoyed this Barbados travel guide and make your way to this stunning island! I can’t wait to return and spend more time there!!

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It also has the most restaurants and bars per capita in Canada than any other city in our country! Can you believe it? I was a bit shocked by this at first and didn’t know this fun fact! 

After spending a weekend in this remarkable city, you can definitely see this to be true. Every street we walked down we spotted a cute place that we wanted to check out or were tempted to visit! 

There are top notch coffee shops on every corner, fresh bakeries that line the streets and some really trendy dinner spots that are perfect for date nights or a night out with friends.  There are so many great restaurants across the city, some of the best restaurants in Kingston are mainly in the downtown area so you can easily walk to them from where you are staying! And after all the food we ate, it was nice to walk it off haha!

Here are the Best Restaurants in Kingston Ontario

#1. Juniper Cafe

Highlights include the best and most mouth watering pastries we have had in a while and the prettiest yogurt bowl I have ever laid eyes on. If breakfast isn’t your thing they also have a killer lunch menu with the option to have wine or a craft brew as well!

A lot of their menu is locally sourced and made in house which always makes me like a place more! There are two locations in town- one in the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning (stunning location by the water) and the other location is in the west end!

#2. Black Dog Tavern

This Kingston Ontario restaurant has been around for 20 years so you know it’s a good one! Black Dog Tavern should be on everyone’s list for a place to experience when in town! It was for sure my favourite dinner spot we visited for overall food, ambience and service.

Black Dog Tavern is located in a historic building and offers classics like steak and frites, oysters and burgers but has a modern and upscale twist to it all. We loved the ambience inside and if we came back without the kids, we would for sure have sat around the cozy and happening bar for a meal! What a vibe!

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#3. Baja Craft Kitchen

If you are looking for a hip place for Mexican and Margaritas, you need to visit Baja Craft Kitchen!

Tucked away down an unassuming alleyway, the restaurant is a gem. Once you enter the door you walk through a hallway of colorful umbrellas ( Instagram lovers this is for you) which eventually leads you to the restaurant itself.

I absolutely loved our lunch there- we split their Avocado Fries and had a few Quesabirria tacos. Both were 10/10! I imagine that the night time vibes would be even cooler as they had neon lights on some of the walls and an epic bar which was the focal point of the space that was filled with tons of different tequila brands.

#4. Northside Espresso + Kitchen

If you are serious about coffee, you need to visit Northside Espresso.

Inspired by the Australian city of Melbourne ( a city with a big coffee scene), Northside Espresso feels like you are transported down under.

It has an airy, bright and earthy atmosphere ( so many tropical plants!) and overall feels like a place that you can hang out in all day long. Along with serving up lattes, matchas, drip coffees and americanos, it features mouth watering classic Australian breakfast items ( I have been told the Avo Toast is one for the books!)

#5. Harper’s Burger Bar- One of the best restaurants in Kingston for gourmet burgers!

Harper’s Burger Bar is one cool spot! So cool that it was even featured on The Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here”

The menu has over 50 different burger combinations, sides, dressings- you name it, the menu has it! It also has SO many fun shakes for the kids making it a great spot to go with the family.

We decided on a Unami Burger ( the beef is family farmed and sustainably raised too FYI) and customized ours with a Gluten Free bun which is not always easy to find!

#6. Atomica Kitchen -The best restaurant in Kingston for Italian!

Atomica Kitchen + Cocktails is one of those places that would suit anyone’s style! We came as a family with the kids but we saw a 30th birthday taking place there, a mother/son duo on a night out and 2 couples enjoying a fun dinner together!

While the atmosphere is inviting with it’s exposed brick, on site pizza oven and booths that line the walls, the food is what really delivers here! They have everything from homemade pizza, pasta and even some unique items like gourmet bao buns! My favourite dish though was their Chicken Parmesan paired with a classic Italian Negroni….*chef’s kiss*

#7. Chez Piggy

If you are looking for more of a fine dining experience in town, this Kingston Ontario restaurant is for you!

Chez Piggy was started back in 1979 and has not stopped elevating itself ever since! Set up in a renovated limestone original building, it is ever so inviting, unique and has menu offerings for brunch, lunch and dinner.

Chez Piggy also has an expansive and well thought out craft cocktail list which shouldn’t be missed

#8. Daft Brewing- Best Brewery in Kingston, Ontario

Kingston Ontario is home to a few good breweries but Daft Brewing is the most colorful and according to them “the weirdest”. Seems like the perfect combo to me!

What I particularly loved about Daft Brewing is that in addition to a phenomenal beer menu, they have a pretty awesome food selection. Some breweries I have visited in the past only offer tiny bites like chips or nuts. At Daft, they have everything from charcuterie to grilled cheeses, gourmet sandwiches and nachos!

#9. Sens Cafe

This is one of the best Kingston restaurants by the waterfront and it is in a stunning limestone building to boot! The place looks so inviting from the outside that you almost have no choice but to walk in!

Sens Cafe serves up fresh coffee ( they have a serious coffee and tea menu), fresh pastries and some more savory breakfast items. The owners have opened previous cafes in France so they know a thing or two about doing the cafe thing. Do not miss this spot!

The Best Restaurants in Kingston Ontario: Continued List!

• Score Pizza– This is the spot for a quick gourmet pizza on the go! You can choose all the toppings you want, customize the size of it and then watch it bake in the on site pizza oven!
• Dianne’s Fish Shack– This restaurant on the corner of Ontario street features all of the fish tacos your heart can imagine. This place would be very cute and perfect for a summer afternoon especially since they have the best margaritas in town!
• Mio Gelato- Mio Gelato is like an institution in Kingston and whenever we asked some locals where to eat the first place they mentioned visiting was Mio Gelato! The gelato is really as good as what you find in Italy!

Looking for more Kingston Ontario Restaurant Finds?

From family fun, to relaxation, a culinary adventure and everything in between, there’s an accommodation package for every type of trip. Keep up to date on all offerings that are available throughout the year HERE. Hotels within the city of Kingston often have some great promotions making it very easy to stay for the weekend, explore and eat your way through the city!

Kingston also has its annual Kingstonlicious program, which typically runs through the months of January-March. This is an award-winning program where restaurants feature specialty pre-fixe menus and unique signature events showcase the local culinary scene. It’s not to be missed!

I hope you enjoyed my list of the best 9 Restaurants in Kingston and I hope you end up making your way to this beautiful city!! I can’t wait to visit again in the summer when the patios are in full force and we get to experience some of the restaurant’s summer menus.

Have any questions about some of the Best restaurants in Kingston? Feel free to Email me or DM me on Instagram

THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN KINGSTON ONTARIO: PIN THIS POST