With a coral reef stretching around the island, there is always somewhere to surf in Barbados, no matter which direction the swell is travelling. The east coast is renowned for Soup Bowls (Kelly Slater’s favourite wave and one for experienced surfers), but the south and west are a dream destination for beginner and intermediate surfers, with a selection of fun waves with an idyllic backdrop. Family Surf Co. will set you up with a private surf guide and instructor to take you to the best waves for your ability. The best season for surf is October to March, when you’ll find clean waves on the west coast and bigger onshore waves on the east coast. June to October is classed as hurricane season and brings with it some hot, wet weather, but serious storms are rare and you can still get some classic surf on the southern tip. Water temp 25-28C year-round. When you book a holiday with Family Surf Co. we’ll send you a personalised family surfing guide to Barbados.

The island has lots more to offer than just beautiful beaches and surf. From caving to pirate-themed boat cruises, there are plenty of family adventures with a true Caribbean twist. We love donning a mask and snorkel to witness the turtles, parrotfish and squid in the underwater world, a day at the horse racing at the Garrison Savannah racetrack, and partying the night away to calypso bands at the harbour.

Known as ‘The Land of the Flying Fish’, the national dish in Barbados is Flying fish with Cou-Cou. Cou-Cou is a combination of cornmeal and okra with salt, pepper and Barbados' very own hot sauce. The Bajan cuisine includes lots of dishes that kids will love, including the traditional Caribbean Chicken with rice and beans. A trip to Oistins Fish Market is a great way to experience the Bajan culture and food – and dance to some Caribbean tunes. It’s open daily, but Friday evening is the best time to go, when there are stalls serving freshly grilled fish, salads and traditional Bajan dishes such as macaroni pie.

With direct flights from the UK to Barbados (flight time is just over 7 hours), the Caribbean culture and warm waves are really accessible for a family surfing holiday. It’s easy to arrange transfers from the airport to your hotel or apartment, but the island is small and easy to explore under your own steam, so we’d recommend hiring a car if you want to explore the surf breaks and diversity of this Caribbean gem. Book a surfing holiday with Family Surf Co. and we can help you organise flights, car hire or transfers to your destination. Main international airport: Grantley Adams International (GAI). Time zone: GMT -4. Currency: BBD (Barbados Dollar).