Is Animal Flower Cave Worth It? My Honest Review
The Animal Flower Cave, located at the northernmost point of Barbados in the parish of St. Lucy, is the island’s only accessible sea cave. Discovered in 1780 by two English explorers, the cave offers a unique natural experience where the land meets the sea. The cave gets its name from the sea anemones, locally referred to as “animal flowers,” that inhabit its natural pools. These fascinating creatures, resembling blooming underwater plants, can retract their tentacles when disturbed. [DESCRIPTIVE IMAGE: A wide shot from inside the Animal Flower Cave looking out through one of its large openings to the Atlantic Ocean, with waves crashing against the cliffs outside.] The cave’s formation is a Barbados’ geological history. It was formed at sea level but now stands approximately six feet above the high tide mark due to the island’s gradual rise of about one inch per 1,000 years. The coral floor of the cave is estimated to be between 400,000 and 500,000 years old, with a younger coral section above it dating back around 126,000 years. This geological dating was performed by the German Geological Institute. Access to the cave is via a set of coral steps, built around 1912, that descend through an opening in the roof. Once inside, visitors are led by local guides through the natural chambers. The cave walls display striking green and brown colorations from the oxidation of copper and iron, and some formations resemble various shapes like a turtle, a hand, or a lizard. A highlight of the Animal Flower Cave experience is the opportunity to swim in one of its natural, crystal-clear rock pools on calm days. These pools vary in depth, with some areas shallow enough to stand in, while others can reach about eight feet deep. Swimming in these pools offers a unique perspective, looking out through the cave’s natural windows to the powerful Atlantic Ocean. Visitors should bring swimwear and a towel if they plan to enter the water. The cave floor can be slippery, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Beyond the cave itself, the site offers additional amenities. Perched atop the cliffs is a restaurant that provides panoramic views of the rugged northern coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. This family-run establishment, operated by the Ward family since 1927, serves Barbadian and Caribbean cuisine, often using locally sourced ingredients. Specialties include breadfruit tacos and fresh fish cutters. During the winter months, typically from February to April or May, the cliffside location is a known spot for whale watching, particularly for humpback whales. The area also features craft stalls selling local jewelry, art, and crafts, as well as a children’s play area. [DESCRIPTIVE IMAGE: The cliffside restaurant at Animal Flower Cave, with outdoor seating overlooking the dramatic Atlantic coastline and crashing waves.] The Animal Flower Cave is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with the restaurant operating from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Cave access is subject to sea conditions; it may close when waves are strong. Admission fees for non-locals are BDS$40 for adults and BDS$20 for children under 12. Local rates are BBD$15 for adults and BBD$5 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the vendor stalls or the restaurant bar, with cash sometimes being the only accepted payment method at stalls, so it is advisable to carry cash. Visiting the cliff-top grounds and enjoying the views is free. The cave is situated at North Point in St. Lucy parish, the northernmost tip of Barbados. While it can be reached by public bus from Bridgetown or Speightstown, renting a car or hiring a private driver is often considered the most convenient way to access this somewhat remote location. The drive from Bridgetown typically takes about 40 minutes. For those considering if Animal Flower Cave is “worth it,” several factors come into play. It offers a unique combination of geological wonder, natural swimming, and dramatic coastal scenery. The guided tours provide insight into the cave’s history and geology. The on-site restaurant and craft stalls extend the visit beyond just the cave exploration. However, visitors should be prepared for descending and ascending coral steps, and the cave’s natural, uneven terrain. Swimming is dependent on sea conditions. Several tours incorporate a visit to Animal Flower Cave, often combining it with other Barbadian attractions. For instance, some tours offer a scenic drive with lunch at the Animal Flower Cave. Other comprehensive options include full-day island tours that feature Harrison’s Cave, Cherry Tree Hill, and the Animal Flower Cave, providing a broader overview of the island’s natural and historical sites. These packaged tours often include round-trip hotel transportation and entrance fees, simplifying logistics for visitors. * **Barbados Scenic Drive With Lunch At Animal Flower Cave:** This tour focuses on the scenic journey to the cave and includes lunch, allowing for a relaxed experience of the northern coast and the cave. * **Barbados Highlights Tours:** These tours typically cover multiple key attractions across the island, including Animal Flower Cave, offering a comprehensive sightseeing experience. * **PRIVATE TOURS:** Private tours provide flexibility in itinerary and pacing, allowing visitors to customize their experience and spend as much time as desired at the Animal Flower Cave and other chosen locations. Ultimately, Animal Flower Cave appeals to those seeking a natural adventure, geological exploration, and coastal views, especially if combined with a local dining experience. It provides an authentic encounter with Barbados’ rugged northern landscape and its unique marine life.
## Is Animal Flower Cave Worth It? My Honest Review The Animal Flower Cave, located at the northernmost tip of Barbados in the parish of St. Lucy, is the island’s only accessible sea cave. This natural wonder offers a unique blend of geological formations, ocean views, and the opportunity to swim in natural rock pools. This review will provide practical details to help you decide if a visit to Animal Flower Cave aligns with your travel expectations. ### What is Animal Flower Cave? Discovered in 1780 by two English explorers, the cave is carved into ancient coral rock, estimated to be between 400,000 and 500,000 years old. It gets its name from the sea anemones, locally known as “animal flowers,” which reside in its shallow pools. These fascinating creatures resemble blooming plants but are marine animals that retract their tentacles when touched. The cave’s interior features impressive rock formations, some resembling a turtle, a hand, or a lizard. Natural openings in the cave walls offer direct views of the Atlantic Ocean, creating dramatic photographic opportunities, especially when waves crash against the cliffs. The cave floor, worn smooth by water and coral, has an undulating formation. [DESCRIPTIVE IMAGE: Inside the Animal Flower Cave, showing a natural opening to the Atlantic Ocean with waves crashing outside, illuminating the rock formations and a tranquil rock pool.] ### Location and Accessibility Animal Flower Cave is situated at North Point, St. Lucy, Barbados. While it is possible to reach the cave by public bus from Bridgetown or Speightstown, renting a car often provides easier access, though some roads leading to the site can be pot-holed. The drive from Bridgetown can take approximately 40 minutes, while from central locations it might be around 20 minutes. Access into the cave involves descending a steep flight of approximately 27 coral steps, which were built around 1912. A sturdy railing is present to assist visitors. Inside the cave, the terrain is natural and uneven, with rocky and potentially slippery spots, meaning paved routes are not available. For individuals with mobility challenges, the cave itself may not be fully accessible, though the clifftop restaurant and viewing areas are. ### The Experience: What to Expect Upon arrival, visitors will find a small cluster of craft stalls and a bar where tickets can be purchased. The entrance fee for adults is BDS$40 (approximately US$20) and for children under 12, it is BDS$20 (approximately US$10). Local residents pay a reduced rate. **Cave Tour:** Guided tours are offered frequently throughout the day, typically every 10 to 15 minutes, with no prior booking required. Guides provide insights into the cave’s geology, history, and the “animal flowers.” The tour duration is flexible, allowing visitors to cave’s various chambers and natural windows. **Swimming:** On calm days, swimming is possible in the natural rock pools within the cave, some reaching depths of up to 8 feet. However, ocean conditions can vary, and swimming may not always be safe, particularly during winter months when waves are stronger. Guides will advise on current conditions. **Above Ground:** Beyond the cave, the clifftop area offers panoramic views of Barbados’ rugged northern coastline. There is a restaurant perched on the cliff edge, providing unobstructed ocean views and serving Barbadian cuisine made with local ingredients. During the winter months (February to April), it is a known spot for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate past the coast. The site also includes a children’s play area and additional craft stalls. [DESCRIPTIVE IMAGE: A panoramic view from the clifftop restaurant at Animal Flower Cave, showing the wild Atlantic Ocean crashing against the rugged coral cliffs.] ### Is Animal Flower Cave Worth It? **Pros:** * **Unique Natural Beauty:** It is Barbados’ only accessible sea cave, offering distinct geological formations and ocean views from within. * **Swimming Opportunity:** The chance to swim in a natural rock pool inside a cave, looking out to the Atlantic, is a memorable experience. * **Panoramic Views:** The clifftop area provides , expansive views of the coastline. * **Educational Experience:** Guides offer historical and geological information, enriching the visit. * **On-site Amenities:** A restaurant with excellent views, craft stalls, and a children’s play area contribute to a more complete visit. * **Whale Watching:** Seasonal opportunities to spot humpback whales from the clifftop. **Cons:** * **Remote Location:** Located at the island’s northern tip, it requires significant travel time from popular tourist areas. * **Accessibility Challenges:** The steep coral steps and uneven terrain inside the cave may be difficult for individuals with limited mobility. * **Variable Swimming Conditions:** Swimming is dependent on sea conditions and may not always be possible. * **Potential for Crowds:** During peak tourist season (December to May), the site can become busy. * **Entrance Fee:** While not excessively high, it is an additional cost compared to free beach access. ### Best Time to Visit The dry season, from December to May, is generally considered the best time to visit Barbados, offering clearer skies and calmer seas. This period increases the likelihood of safe swimming conditions inside the cave. To avoid larger crowds, particularly from cruise ship excursions, consider visiting early in the morning shortly after opening (9:30 AM) or later in the afternoon. Visiting at low tide is also recommended, as it can make more of the cave and its pools accessible. The cave is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, with the restaurant operating from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM. ### Tips for Your Visit (Mistakes to Avoid) * **Wear Appropriate Footwear:** The cave floor can be wet and slippery. Closed-toe shoes with good grip are advisable. * **Bring Swimwear and a Towel:** If you intend to swim, come prepared. * **Carry Cash:** While the restaurant accepts cards, some smaller vendor stalls may only take cash. There are no ATMs at the facility. * **Check Conditions:** Confirm with the staff if swimming is safe on the day of your visit, especially if ocean conditions appear rough. [
The Animal Flower Cave offers a unique natural experience at Barbados’ northern tip, distinguished by its sea anemones, dramatic ocean views through natural cave openings, and the opportunity to swim in clear rock pools. While access involves descending steep coral steps and may not suit all mobility levels, the overall visit is enhanced by clifftop vistas, an on-site restaurant with panoramic views, and the chance to witness powerful Atlantic waves crashing against the rugged coastline. It is considered a worthwhile destination for those seeking a distinctive geological adventure and coastal scenery, particularly when visited during low tide for better cave access.
The Animal Flower Cave offers a unique natural experience at the northernmost point of Barbados. It is an accessible sea cave featuring natural rock pools, some deep enough for swimming, and sea anemones that give the cave its name. The cave walls display colorful formations from oxidized copper and iron, with natural openings providing dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The cave was discovered in the 1700s, and coral steps were built in 1912 for access. Visitors can cave with a local guide who provides insights into its history and geology. The guided tour typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. While inside, the natural pools offer opportunities for swimming, especially during low tide when more of the cave is accessible. It is advisable to bring swimwear and a towel if planning to swim. Above the cave, a clifftop restaurant provides local cuisine and panoramic ocean views. There are also craft stalls selling local jewelry and art, as well as a children’s play area. Even without entering the cave, the clifftop area offers impressive views of the rugged coastline and crashing waves. The Animal Flower Cave is open from Tuesday to Sunday, typically from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, though it may close due to strong waves. The restaurant operates from 11:00 AM to 3:30 PM on these days. The cave’s location at the northern tip of the island means it is often visited as part of a larger island tour. For those considering a visit, several tour options combine the Animal Flower Cave with other Barbados highlights: * **Barbados Scenic Drive With Lunch At Animal Flower Cave**: This tour often includes a scenic drive through different parts of the island, culminating in a visit to the cave and lunch at its clifftop restaurant. * **Barbados Highlights Tours**: These broader tours typically cover multiple key attractions across the island, with the Animal Flower Cave being one of the stops. * **PRIVATE TOURS**: Private tours offer flexibility, allowing visitors to customize their itinerary and spend more time at specific locations like the Animal Flower Cave. The Animal Flower Cave provides a blend of natural beauty, geological interest, and opportunities for unique ocean views and swimming. Its inclusion in various island tours makes it a convenient stop for exploring the diverse landscapes of Barbados.