Accommodation includes uncompromising luxury and many first-class hotels. Hotel prices range to suit all budgets. Generally the luxury hotels are in the west, while the medium-priced ones can be found along the southwest coast. The east coast, owing to its exposure to the trade winds and wild Atlantic Ocean, has only a small number of hotels and guest houses. However, it is this area that is chosen by the Bajans for their own holidays. Hotel prices are higher in the winter than in the summer. The high season is from 16 December to 15 April, the low season runs for the remainder of the year. Rates are subject to a 7.5 per cent Government tax; a service charge of 10 per cent is also applicable at most hotels. Most hotels have air conditioning, many have swimming pools and housekeeping apartments. Most rates are for room only.

There is a hotel inspection and grading system, as well as standard services, the main ones being European Plan (EP), which is room only, and Modified American Plan (MAP), where breakfast and dinner are included with the price of the room. In addition, the Barbados Tourism Authority (see Top Things To Do) gives full details on facilities.

There are small guest houses throughout Barbados, particularly in Christchurch. Some offer self-catering facilities.

There are a large number of apartments, cottages and villas available for hire, and a number of modern complexes being built on the northwest coast. Older buildings, with a more local character, are available on the less popular east coast. There are also smaller, family-run apartment hotels and many apartment-style hotels which leave the visitor with a choice of self-catering or restaurant eating. Almost all provide a wide range of facilities. All rates are subject to a 7.5 per cent Government tax; a service charge of 10 per cent is also payable at most establishments.

Camping is not generally permitted in Barbados except for organised trips by designated youth groups.