December is a magical time to visit Barbados, especially if you're traveling with kids. This beautiful island is brimming with family-friendly adventures, offering everything from colorful holiday parades and unique wildlife encounters to beach festivities and holiday markets. Barbadosâ warm weather, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture make it an ideal winter escape, where families can enjoy festive activities without the chill. From exploring iconic sites like Harrison's Cave to joining in local Christmas traditions and swimming with friendly sea turtles, Barbados has a full calendar of experiences that will keep kids and parents engaged, inspired, and entertained. Hereâs our guide to the best things to do with kids in Barbados this December.
1. Holiday Spirit in Bridgetown
Bridgetown, the lively capital of Barbados, is a perfect destination to kick off holiday festivities with the family. The town sparkles in December with dazzling lights, decorations, and cheerful music, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors of all ages. Families will enjoy exploring the decorated streets, checking out seasonal markets, and savoring festive snacks like Bajan Christmas cake or sorrel drinks. The city buzzes with carolers, street performers, and traditional holiday events that will immerse you in the islandâs festive spirit. Itâs a great spot for kids to experience both holiday magic and local Bajan culture, making for an unforgettable seasonal outing.
- Useful Tip: Visit National Heroes Square in the evening for the Christmas Lighting Ceremony, complete with live music, performances, and Santa Claus for an unforgettable family experience.
- Location: Bridgetown, Central Barbados
- Bonus: Kids can enjoy local treats at the Bajan Christmas Market, where artisans sell holiday crafts and delicious traditional sweets.
2. Harrison's Cave Eco-Adventure Park
Located in the lush, green heart of St. Thomas Parish, Harrisonâs Cave Eco-Adventure Park offers a unique and educational family outing. This natural wonder is a limestone cave complex featuring flowing streams, dramatic stalactites and stalagmites, and even underground waterfalls. The tram tour through the cave is both engaging and educational, teaching kids about geology and the formation of the cave. But thatâs not all; the Eco-Adventure Park surrounding the caves is filled with activities for families, including ziplining, gem mining, and an adventure playground. December is an ideal time to visit, with festive touches and cooler weather that make exploring the caves and trails especially enjoyable.
- Useful Tip: To maximize your time, book tickets online and opt for the tram tour. The playground and nearby nature trail offer perfect spots for kids to enjoy while waiting.
- Location: Welchman Hall, St. Thomas Parish
- Bonus: Try gem mining with the kids, where they can sift through sand and discover semi-precious stones as keepsakes!
3. Swim with Sea Turtles
Barbados offers families the unforgettable experience of swimming with sea turtles in their natural habitat, with top spots at Carlisle Bay and Paynes Bay. During these guided tours, kids can safely snorkel and see these gentle creatures up close, learning about marine conservation in an exciting and hands-on way. The tours are typically led by expert guides who ensure a respectful interaction with the turtles, allowing families to enjoy this unique wildlife experience responsibly. Decemberâs calm seas are perfect for spotting turtles, colorful fish, and coral reefs in the clear blue waters, making for a memorable underwater adventure.
- Useful Tip: Choose a morning tour to enjoy the calmest waters and to see turtles when theyâre most active. Many companies provide floatation devices for younger children, ensuring everyone can participate.
- Location: Carlisle Bay and Paynes Bay
- Bonus: Many tours also include a stop at local shipwrecks, giving kids a glimpse of underwater history.
4. Barbados Wildlife Reserve
Nestled in the lush landscape of Farley Hill, St. Peter Parish, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve is a beautiful and enriching place for families to encounter native wildlife. Here, green monkeys roam free, mingling with peacocks, tortoises, iguanas, and deer in a natural tropical environment. The Barbados Wildlife Reserve is especially popular for its daily Monkey Feeding event at 2 pm, when families can observe monkeys playfully interacting while learning about their habits and habitat. December is a particularly lovely time to visit, as the weather is perfect for a relaxed day exploring the reserveâs trails and enjoying the vibrant local flora.
- Useful Tip: Plan to visit in the afternoon when animal feeding takes place, and bring along a cameraâkids can get close-up views of these playful monkeys.
- Location: Farley Hill, St. Peter Parish
- Bonus: Visit the nearby Grenade Hall Forest & Signal Station for an additional adventure.
5. Marizayra Sanctuary
Located in St. Philip Parish, Marizayra Sanctuary is an intimate and engaging wildlife sanctuary that provides a hands-on experience with some of the islandâs fascinating creatures. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable guides, Marizayra Sanctuary allows families to get close to exotic animals such as green iguanas, pythons, tortoises, monkeys, and tropical birds. Kids will love learning about each animal's habitat and behaviors, and the staff is eager to answer questions and teach young visitors about the importance of wildlife conservation. This interactive, family-friendly setting is perfect for curious kids who want a unique animal encounter beyond what they might see in the wild.
- Useful Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing a cameraâthere are plenty of opportunities for close-up shots with the animals, and the staff will often help kids safely handle certain reptiles and other friendly animals.
- Location: St. Philip Parish, Barbados
- Bonus: Marizayra Sanctuary hosts guided animal feeding sessions throughout the day, allowing kids to see animals like tortoises and iguanas up close while learning more about their diets and daily habits.
6. Holetown Christmas Parade
The annual Holetown Christmas Parade is a beloved holiday tradition in Barbados, bringing locals and tourists together in a vibrant celebration of Bajan culture. Held in the quaint town of Holetown, this parade features elaborately decorated floats, traditional dancers, steel pan bands, and vibrant costumes that showcase the islandâs creativity and festive spirit. Kids will be captivated by the colorful sights and sounds, from performers in holiday costumes to live music filling the streets. With food stalls offering local treats and holiday snacks, this parade provides a wonderful opportunity to experience Bajan culture and the holiday season all in one go.
- Useful Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route, and bring cash for local food vendors offering kid-friendly snacks like sugar cakes and coconut bread.
- Location: Holetown, St. James Parish
- Bonus: After the parade, explore Holetownâs historic streets and treat the family to holiday shopping at the local boutiques.
7. Folkestone Marine Park & Museum
Folkestone Marine Park is a must-visit for families who want to experience Barbadosâ vibrant marine life up close without needing to venture too far from shore. Located on the west coast in Holetown, this marine park has a shallow snorkeling area where kids can safely explore colorful reefs and see tropical fish. For a deeper experience, families can also book glass-bottom boat rides to see sea life in the deeper waters nearby. The parkâs museum offers interactive exhibits on marine ecosystems, providing a fun, educational experience thatâs perfect for young explorers.
- Useful Tip: Bring along snorkeling gear if you have it, as the clear, shallow waters make this a great spot for kids to practice snorkeling in a safe environment.
- Location: Holetown, St. James Parish
- Bonus: After exploring the marine life, families can enjoy the on-site playground, picnic facilities, and nearby beach, making it easy to spend the whole day enjoying nature.
8. Oistins Fish Festival
Oistins Fish Festival, held in the fishing village of Oistins in Christ Church Parish, is an unforgettable Friday night tradition that gets even more festive in December. This outdoor event draws locals and tourists alike to enjoy freshly prepared seafood, lively music, and local crafts. During December, the festival takes on a holiday atmosphere, with Christmas lights, themed decorations, and seasonal specials. The whole family will enjoy the fun, laid-back ambiance, and kids will love the chance to see fish grilled over open flames and try traditional Bajan dishes. Itâs a festive, community-oriented event that captures the best of Bajan culture.
- Useful Tip: Arrive early to find seating close to the stage where live music and dance performances take place.
- Location: Oistins, Christ Church Parish
- Bonus: Let kids try traditional Bajan treats like fish cakes or sweet pudding and souse.
9. Christmas at The Crane Resort
Perched on Crane Bay in St. Philip Parish, The Crane Resort is one of the most scenic and historic resorts in Barbados. In December, The Crane offers a full calendar of family-friendly holiday activities, from gingerbread house decorating and craft workshops to outdoor holiday movie screenings by the pool. Families staying at or visiting the resort can enjoy the festive atmosphere, luxurious amenities, and a wide range of kid-centered events. Non-guests can also join in on the fun by purchasing a day pass. This is an ideal place for families to relax, soak in the holiday spirit, and make lasting memories.
- Useful Tip: Non-guests can purchase a day pass to access the resortâs amenities and participate in holiday activities.
- Location: The Crane Resort, Crane Bay, St. Philip Parish
- Bonus: Kids will enjoy the special âCandy Cane Kidsâ menu with festive treats during December.
10. Andromeda Botanic Gardens
Located on the eastern coast in St. Joseph Parish, Andromeda Botanic Gardens is a captivating spot for families who love nature and scenic beauty. The gardens showcase an incredible variety of tropical plants, flowers, and towering trees, offering visitors a tranquil space to wander and learn about Barbadosâ unique flora. Children can explore interactive exhibits about native plants, observe hummingbirds and butterflies, and even take part in nature-based activities offered by the gardens. Decemberâs mild weather makes this an especially pleasant time to explore the shaded trails and vibrant blooms.
- Useful Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic resting areas within the gardens, or stop by the on-site cafĂŠ for refreshments.
- Location: St. Joseph Parish, near Bathsheba
- Bonus: Kids can enjoy a scavenger hunt sheet provided by the gardens, turning the visit into a fun, educational adventure!
11. Bushy Park Karting Experience
Located in St. Philip Parish, Bushy Park is Barbadosâ premier motorsport facility, and it offers a thrilling karting experience perfect for families with kids seeking a bit of adventure. At the Bushy Park Karting Experience, kids (who meet the height requirements) and adults can race around a professionally designed karting track. With different levels of karts available, the experience caters to both beginners and more experienced racers, making it a fun, safe activity that everyone in the family can enjoy. The state-of-the-art track offers exciting twists and turns, allowing families to experience the thrill of kart racing together in a beautiful outdoor setting.
- Useful Tip: Book your karting session in advance, especially in December when holiday crowds can make the venue busy. Make sure kids wear closed-toe shoes for safety, and helmets are provided on-site.
- Location: Bushy Park, St. Philip Parish
- Bonus: After karting, families can relax at the facility's viewing area, where they can watch other races and enjoy refreshments. Bushy Park also hosts various motorsport events, so check the schedule to see if thereâs a race or special event during your visit!
12. Queen's Park Festive Display
Queenâs Park in Bridgetown transforms into a festive wonderland in December, drawing families with its impressive holiday decorations and open spaces for relaxation. Known for its stunning century-old baobab tree, Queenâs Park offers a beautiful backdrop for family photos, holiday picnics, and leisurely strolls. The parkâs holiday displays include Christmas lights and seasonal decorations, creating a cozy and festive ambiance. Families often bring picnics to enjoy on the parkâs lawns, and the open space allows kids to run around and enjoy the tropical scenery. Itâs a perfect spot to experience the festive side of Bridgetown in a serene outdoor setting.
- Useful Tip: Bring a picnic and a camera for family photos by the decorated baobab tree, which has become an iconic holiday photo spot.
- Location: Queenâs Park, Bridgetown
- Bonus: Visit the nearby Queenâs Park Gallery to enjoy local art exhibits.
13. Atlantis Submarine Adventure
The Atlantis Submarine offers an underwater adventure like no other, taking families down 150 feet below the surface to view coral reefs, tropical fish, and historic shipwrecks off Barbadosâ coast. The fully narrated tour makes it easy for kids to learn about the marine environment in an exciting, safe, and dry environment. December is an ideal month for clear views underwater, making the experience especially memorable. Itâs a fun and educational way to explore the underwater world without snorkeling or scuba diving, making it accessible for young kids and a favorite for families visiting Barbados.
- Useful Tip: Choose a day tour for the clearest underwater views. Seats fill up fast, so booking ahead is recommended.
- Location: Shallow Draught, Bridgetown
- Bonus: Kids receive a special âAtlantis Adventurerâ certificate after the tour.
14. Barbados Museum & Historical Society
The Barbados Museum, located in the historic Garrison area, provides a fascinating look at the islandâs history and culture. The museum features interactive exhibits on Barbadosâ natural history, art, and colonial past, making it accessible and engaging for young visitors. In December, the museum hosts holiday-themed workshops and exhibits, adding an extra layer of seasonal fun for families. Kids will love the scavenger hunts and hands-on displays that make learning about Barbados both educational and enjoyable. The museum is set in an old British military prison, which adds to the intrigue and creates a unique atmosphere for exploring history.
- Useful Tip: Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience and ask about special family tour rates.
- Location: Garrison Historic Area, St. Michael Parish
- Bonus: The museum often holds holiday scavenger hunts, adding an extra layer of fun for kids.
15. Boxing Day Beach Celebrations
In Barbados, Boxing Day on December 26th is a much-anticipated public holiday, celebrated with beach parties and family gatherings. Popular beaches like Mullins Beach and Paynes Bay are alive with locals and visitors enjoying festive music, food stalls, and beach games. Families can join in on the fun, with plenty of beach activities suitable for all ages, from swimming and paddleboarding to casual games and picnics. The festive ambiance, coupled with the beauty of the Caribbean Sea, makes Boxing Day a great opportunity for families to experience local traditions in a relaxed, joyful setting.
- Useful Tip: Mullins Beach Bar offers family-friendly dining options, so parents can enjoy the celebration while keeping kids close by.
- Location: Mullins Beach, Paynes Bay
- Bonus: Families can join beach games or rent paddleboards and kayaks for an active Boxing Day experience.
A December vacation in Barbados with kids is filled with joy, discovery, and festive spirit. From exploring lush wildlife reserves and vibrant Christmas markets to enjoying a holiday beach day or a thrilling pirate adventure, the island offers countless ways for families to connect and create cherished memories. Barbados truly knows how to celebrate the season, blending holiday magic with the warmth and beauty of the Caribbean