Surfing – Barbados

Sailing - Charleston | Kitesurfing - Bahamas | Nightime Kayaking - Puerto Rico | Snowshoeing - Vermont | Dog Sledding - Central Oregon | Snorkeling - St. John | Surfing - Barbados |  Hiking - New Hampshire | Snowcat Skiing - Utah |  Zip Lining - St. Lucia | ATV Riding - Virginia

Adventure Rating: 2

While Barbados offers miles of white, sandy beaches, the island's best surfing can be found on its rockier coasts. Experienced surfers and first timers mix in spots like the south end of the island, where rolling waves lead to steep cliffs. Barbados Surf Trips, led by qualified instructor and native Barbadian Melanie Pitcher, offers everything you could need to hit the waves. Newbies can spend two hours getting hooked on the thrill of the ride ($115 for private lessons, $70 for group). Or, if you're looking to be an experienced surfer before your return flight, receive instruction for three days ($240 for private, $185 for group, surfbarbados.com.)

Where to Stay

Barbados is only 166 square miles, so staying just about anywhere is convenient. However, the seaside town of Paynes Bay offers wide beaches perfect for swimming and some of the best oceanfront restaurants on the island, including two of the Caribbean's most elegant eateries, The Cliff (thecliffbarbados.com) and Daphne's (daphnesbarbados.com). Beach View Resort at Paynes Bay offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartment suites complete with patio views of the sea. Rooms from $280 per night, beach viewbarbados.com.

Need More Adventure?

Hop on a luxury catamaran for a Tiami sailing cruise ($85 per person, funbarba dos.com) where you'll be given snorkeling gear and the chance to swim among sea turtles as guides feed them and draw them closer. The cruise, which lasts from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., includes continental breakfast, full open bar, and a delicious lunch featuring local dishes.

MUST HAVE GEAR

To save your skin from being rubbed raw by the waxed board, bring a rash guard top like this one by Defiance. $19.99, Dicks Sporting Goods, 704-972-9400