bigtravelbuzzUpper Carlton is a residential area located on the west coast of Barbados, within the parish of St. James. It is situated near the town of Holetown, which is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife.
While Upper Carlton itself is primarily residential, it offers easy access to nearby attractions and amenities. Here are some things to do and places to visit near Upper Carlton:
Beaches: The west coast of Barbados is known for its stunning beaches. Paynes Bay Beach and Mullins Beach are both nearby and offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the turquoise waters.
Shopping: Visit Limegrove Lifestyle Centre in Holetown for upscale shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options. Chattel Village is another charming shopping area offering local crafts and souvenirs.
Historic Sites: Explore historic attractions like the St. James Parish Church and the Holetown Monument, which commemorate the island’s history.
Water Sports: Engage in water sports and activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, or even trying out a catamaran cruise from nearby beaches.
Nightlife: Holetown offers a lively nightlife scene with various bars, restaurants, and beachfront venues hosting live music and entertainment.
Golf: Golf enthusiasts can tee off at prestigious courses like the Royal Westmoreland Golf Course and Sandy Lane Country Club.
Local Cuisine: Sample delicious Bajan dishes at nearby restaurants and food stalls, experiencing the island’s unique flavors.
Folkstone Marine Park and Museum: Located in nearby Holetown, this marine park offers snorkeling, a museum, and educational exhibits about Barbados’ marine life.
Upper Carlton provides a peaceful residential setting while still offering easy access to the vibrant attractions and amenities of the west coast. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the beach, exploring the island’s history, or indulging in local cuisine, Upper Carlton serves as a convenient base to experience the best of Barbados.
Best Time To Visit Upper Carlton
The best time to visit Upper Carlton, Barbados, and the rest of the island’s west coast is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for a memorable vacation.
Here are some reasons why the dry season is considered the best time to visit Upper Carlton:
Weather: The dry season in Barbados is characterized by warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall and lower humidity. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities, beach trips, and exploring the island.
Beach Activities: The west coast of Barbados, including Upper Carlton, is known for its stunning beaches with calm waters. During the dry season, you can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and water sports in optimal conditions.
Festivals and Events: Many cultural events, festivals, and celebrations take place during the dry season. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
Availability of Services: Since the dry season is the peak tourist season, you can expect a full range of services, accommodations, and amenities available in and around Upper Carlton.
Wildlife Viewing: During this time, you have a higher chance of spotting sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life during boat tours or snorkeling trips.
Nightlife and Entertainment: The dry season brings a lively nightlife scene, especially in areas like Holetown, where you can enjoy live music, restaurants, and bars.
While the dry season is the most popular time to visit Upper Carlton and the west coast of Barbados, it is also the busiest in terms of tourist arrivals. If you prefer a quieter experience with fewer tourists and potentially lower rates, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May and June) or early fall (September and October). During these times, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Upper Carlton depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the types of activities you want to pursue during your trip to this beautiful Caribbean destination.
How to get around in Upper Carlton
Getting around in Upper Carlton, Barbados, and the surrounding areas can be done using several transportation options. While Upper Carlton itself is a residential area, it is well-connected to nearby towns and attractions on the west coast. Here are some ways to get around in Upper Carlton:
Buses: Barbados has an extensive public bus system that serves Upper Carlton and connects it to other parts of the island. Buses are an affordable and popular mode of transportation for both locals and visitors. Look for bus stops along the main roads, and check the bus schedules for routes and timings.
Route Taxis: Route taxis are shared minibuses that follow specific routes across the island. They are a convenient and economical option for getting around locally and are readily available along the main roads. Look for the “ZR” signs on the front of the minibus to identify them.
Renting a Car: If you prefer more flexibility and independence, you can rent a car from various car rental agencies in Barbados. This option allows you to explore the island at your own pace and easily reach attractions from Upper Carlton.
Hiring a Taxi: Taxis are available in and around Upper Carlton. You can either flag down a taxi or arrange for one to pick you up from your accommodation. It’s essential to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Walking: Depending on where you’re staying in Upper Carlton and the places you wish to visit nearby, walking can be a viable option, especially for short distances and exploring the local surroundings.
Navigating around Upper Carlton is generally straightforward, and the roads are well-marked. However, keep in mind that traffic can be busy, especially in more populated areas and during peak hours. If you plan to use public transportation, be aware of the bus and route taxi schedules, which may have limited service in the evening hours.
As with any travel, it’s essential to prioritize safety. When using public transportation or hiring taxis, always ensure that you’re dealing with reputable service providers. For renting a car, remember to drive on the left side of the road, as is the norm in Barbados.
By utilizing these transportation options, you can easily explore Upper Carlton and its neighboring attractions while enjoying the beauty and culture of Barbados.
Where to eat in Upper Carlton
Here are some places to eat in and around Upper Carlton, Barbados:
Lone Star Restaurant: Located nearby in Mount Standfast, Lone Star is a stylish beachfront restaurant offering Mediterranean and Caribbean fusion cuisine.
The Cliff: Situated in Derricks, just a short drive from Upper Carlton, The Cliff is an upscale restaurant known for its stunning oceanfront setting and gourmet cuisine.
The Beach House: Found on the beachfront in Holetown, The Beach House offers casual dining with a Caribbean-inspired menu and beautiful views of the sea.
Tides Restaurant: Located in Holetown, Tides is another high-end restaurant with an oceanfront location. It serves a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine and is perfect for a special occasion.
The Mews: Also located in Holetown, The Mews is a popular restaurant housed in a historic building. It serves a variety of dishes, including seafood, steaks, and pasta, in a chic and relaxed setting.
Zaccios: On the beach in Holetown, Zaccios is a beachfront restaurant and bar known for its wood-fired pizzas, seafood, and cocktails.
Chattel Village: In Holetown, you’ll find Chattel Village, a collection of colorful chattel houses converted into shops and cafes. Here, you can try local Bajan cuisine and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere.
Street Food at Oistins Fish Fry: While not in Upper Carlton, the Oistins Fish Fry in Oistins, a short drive away, is a must-visit for a lively evening of enjoying freshly grilled and fried fish, seafood, and local dishes.
Since Upper Carlton is close to Holetown, exploring the dining options in Holetown and other nearby areas will give you access to a diverse array of restaurants, from upscale fine dining to casual beachfront eateries. As always, it’s a good idea to check online reviews and current listings for the most up-to-date information before heading out to dine.
Famous street stalls in Upper Carlton
Here are some famous street food options you can explore while visiting Barbados:
Oistins Fish Fry: While not in Upper Carlton, the Oistins Fish Fry in the town of Oistins is one of the most famous and iconic street food experiences in Barbados. Every Friday night, locals and visitors gather at Oistins Bay Gardens to enjoy freshly grilled and fried fish, seafood, and other Bajan delicacies. The lively atmosphere, music, and dance make it a must-visit cultural experience.
Bridgetown Street Food: In Bridgetown, the capital city of Barbados, you’ll find various street food vendors offering local favorites such as fish cakes, cutters (sandwiches), rotis, and savory pastries like turnovers and patties.
Bathsheba: On the east coast of Barbados, the scenic village of Bathsheba is known for its street vendors serving Bajan dishes like cou-cou and flying fish.
St. Lawrence Gap: Located in Christ Church, St. Lawrence Gap is a popular area with a vibrant nightlife scene and several street food options in the evenings.
Local Festivals: During festivals and cultural events, you’ll often find street food stalls offering a wide variety of Bajan dishes and treats.
While Upper Carlton itself may not have famous street stalls, exploring these other areas will allow you to immerse yourself in the local food culture and sample the diverse and delicious flavors of Barbados. Be sure to try Bajan specialties like flying fish, cou-cou, macaroni pie, and sweet treats like coconut turnovers and tamarind balls for an authentic taste of the island.
Where to stay in Upper Carlton
Luxury accommodation
Here are some luxury accommodation options in and around Upper Carlton:
Sandy Lane Hotel: One of the most prestigious and iconic luxury hotels in Barbados, Sandy Lane offers luxurious suites and villas, world-class amenities, including golf courses and a spa, and a stunning beachfront location.
Coral Reef Club: Located in nearby Prospect, Coral Reef Club is an elegant luxury resort set in beautiful tropical gardens and offers luxurious suites, fine dining, and a tranquil beachfront setting.
The Fairmont Royal Pavilion: Situated in St. James, near Upper Carlton, The Fairmont Royal Pavilion is an exclusive beachfront resort offering spacious rooms and suites with stunning ocean views.
Colony Club by Elegant Hotels: Also in St. James, Colony Club offers luxury accommodations, beautiful grounds, and beachfront access. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites and a range of dining options.
Tamarind by Elegant Hotels: Part of the Elegant Hotels group, Tamarind is a luxury resort with modern and stylish accommodations, several restaurants, and a prime location on the beach in Paynes Bay.
Port Ferdinand Marina and Luxury Residences: Located in St. Peter, just north of Upper Carlton, Port Ferdinand offers luxurious waterfront residences with marina access and personalized service.
Port St. Charles: Another luxurious marina and residential development in St. Peter, Port St. Charles features luxury accommodations with direct access to the beach and marina facilities.
Keep in mind that luxury accommodations can vary in terms of amenities, services, and experiences. These are just a few examples of high-end hotels and resorts in the area. Always check for the latest reviews and availability when planning your stay in a luxury accommodation to ensure a memorable and indulgent experience in Barbados.
Where to stay in Upper Carlton
Budget accommodation
Here are some options for budget accommodation near Upper Carlton:
Guesthouses and Apartments: Look for guesthouses and apartments in areas like Holetown, which is close to Upper Carlton. These can offer more affordable rates compared to larger resorts.
Budget Hotels: Some smaller hotels and inns in Holetown and surrounding areas may offer budget-friendly rates while still providing comfortable accommodations.
Hostels: While hostels are not as common in Barbados as in some other destinations, you might find a few options in nearby towns like Bridgetown or St. Lawrence Gap.
Vacation Rentals: Consider searching for vacation rental properties on platforms like Airbnb. Renting a private room or an entire apartment can be a cost-effective way to stay in Barbados, especially for longer stays.
Barbados Youth Hostel: If you’re a member of Hostelling International (HI), you can consider staying at the Barbados Youth Hostel in Bridgetown, which offers affordable dormitory-style accommodations.
When looking for budget accommodation, keep in mind that the west coast of Barbados, including the area around Upper Carlton and Holetown, is generally more upscale and geared toward luxury travelers. As a result, budget options might be more limited in this specific area. Exploring nearby towns and areas on the island will give you more options for affordable places to stay while still providing access to the beautiful west coast beaches and attractions.
As with any travel, it’s essential to read reviews, check for amenities, and confirm the location’s proximity to the places you want to visit during your stay in Barbados.
Travel Tips Upper Carlton
Traveling to Upper Carlton, Barbados, can be a wonderful experience, and here are some travel tips to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable:
Weather: Barbados has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for the warm weather. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strong Caribbean sun.
Currency: The currency used in Barbados is the Barbadian Dollar (BBD). Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.
Transportation: Consider using public buses or route taxis for cost-effective transportation around Upper Carlton and the island. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer more independence.
Safety: Barbados is generally safe, but like any destination, it’s essential to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places and tourist areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items.
Local Culture: Embrace the local culture and traditions of Barbados. Respect local customs and etiquette, and be friendly and polite to the locals.
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not always expected in Barbados. It’s customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% at restaurants if a service charge is not already included.
Health Precautions: Check with your doctor about any necessary vaccinations or health precautions before traveling to Barbados. Also, bring any prescription medications you may need during your trip.
Beach Safety: When swimming in the ocean, pay attention to the flag warnings. A red flag indicates dangerous conditions, while a yellow flag means to exercise caution.
Local Cuisine: Sample delicious Bajan dishes at local restaurants and food stalls. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste flying fish, cou-cou, and other local specialties.
Electricity: The standard voltage in Barbados is 110-120V, with Type A and Type B electrical outlets. Bring any necessary travel adapters or converters.
Emergency Numbers: Save important contact numbers, such as the local police, embassy, or consulate, in case of any emergencies.
Explore Surrounding Areas: While Upper Carlton itself is primarily residential, explore nearby towns like Holetown and other attractions along the west coast for a full Barbadian experience.
Respect the Environment: Barbados is known for its beautiful beaches and marine life. Be mindful of your waste and avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystems.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience during your visit to Upper Carlton and the stunning island of Barbados. Remember to be respectful of the local culture, and take the time to savor the beauty and warm hospitality that Barbados has to offer.