Barbados
Above water
At the stunning west-coast beaches, particularly Payne’s Bay, you can engage in various thrilling watersports. Operators provide activities ranging from kayaking and paddle-boarding to exhilarating jet-ski rides that thrill speed enthusiasts. If you’re looking for adventure on the east coast, experience the thrilling surf at the Soup Bowl near Bathsheba Beach. This coastline not only offers remarkable surf breaks but also splendid walking opportunities along its windswept shores.
Under water
Experience exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving in crystal-clear waters. Explore several wreck dives and vibrant reefs at popular dive sites such as Shark Bank, Maycocks Bay, and Bell Buoy. At Holetown’s Folkestone Marine Park, you can snorkel the inshore reef or dive deeper to interact with the turtles that frequently visit these waters, a highlight on many catamaran tours.
On land
On Sunday mornings, rise early to join guided hikes organized by Barbados National Trust or Hike Barbados. Check the island’s official website for a schedule. For a gentler experience, stroll through the National Trust’s Welchman Hall Gully, where trails wind through a lush canyon. Nearby,Harrison’s Cave offers an eco-adventure complete with nature trails and a thrilling exploration of caverns adorned with stalactites and stalagmites.
Grenada
Under water
Grenada’s premier beach, Grand Anse, is ideal for those seeking relaxation alongside activities. Although lacking an offshore reef, you can rent snorkeling equipment from Dive Grenada and Aquanauts to explore vibrant marine life. Known for its wreck dives, Grenada features about fifteen dive sites along the southwest coast. The notable Bianca C wreck, a sunken cruise liner, has become a habitat for numerous marine species. Additionally, the enchanting Underwater Sculpture Park at Molinière Bay showcases art actively being reclaimed by corals.
Above water
With breathtaking waterfalls cascading from the hills, Grenada offers fantastic places for freshwater swimming. Annandale Falls features a concrete platform for visitors and changing facilities. For a quieter experience, consider Concord Falls nestled in greenery. You can also enjoy tubing along the Balthazar River with Adventure Tours Grenada.
On land
Located in the hills near St George’s, Grand Etang National Park features a tranquil crater lake and a manageable loop trail around its shoreline. The park’s Visitor Center provides details about a variety of hiking trails, ranging from short walks to longer treks including a challenging ascent to the peak of Mount Qua Qua.
Trinidad
Above water
While you may not encounter bustling banana boats in Trinidad’s waters, you can still kayak peacefully at Williams Bay and explore the Bocas Islands starting from the Kayak Centre in Chaguaramas. Moreover, paddling through Caroni Bird Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to see flocks of scarlet ibis as they retreat to roost each evening. For a more serene experience, consider kayaking through the peaceful channels of Nariva Swamp.
Under water
Due to the influx of sediment from the Orinoco river, Trinidad is recognized as a ‘greenwater’ dive location. While visibility can be low, the rich waters teem with marine life, including barracuda and hammerhead sharks. Dive spots around the Bocas islands feature vibrant corals and sponge growth, with excursions available through Rick’s Dive World in Chaguaramas. Although snorkeling equipment isn’t available for rent, with your gear, you can discover beautiful marine formations with visibility in the area around Macqueripe Beach.
On land
Trinidad’s lush forests, once part of the South American mainland, are rich with wildlife. The steep, cloud-blanketed northern regions are home to numerous species, including howler monkeys and armadillos. Hiking options like Guanapo Gorge and Sombasson/La Laja waterfalls present exceptional opportunities for adventure. The culturally rich village of Brasso Seco offers community experiences, such as local waterfall hikes and unique ‘bean-to-bar’ tours showcasing the process of cocoa cultivation and chocolate making.
This article is produced for Radisson Hotel Group, reflecting GoTravelDaily’s commitment to providing independent and impartial insights on travel.
