Join the party on the paradise island of Barbados

Barbados doesn't do things by half measures when it comes to partying, live entertainment and dancing the night away from dusk till dawn.

Night clubbing, beach parties and live music are on tap in this buzzing Caribbean island where the energy flows like water.

By day there's no shortage of things to do in sun-drenched Barbados - it is unquestionably one of the most beautiful, vibrant and captivating Caribbean islands with rolling hills, jaw-dropping long and sandy beaches, swaying palm trees and a unique underground natural stream system at Harrison’s Cave.

There's day-time activity from coast to coast, with an impressive range of recreational and sporting events for participants and spectators alike.

But when the sun goes down it's time to venture outside your hotel and sample what this glorious island has to offer in the realm of nightlife and evening entertainment - your Bajan holiday adventure really won't be complete if you fail to do so.

Whether you fancy taking to the dance floor in a night club, listening to live music at a bustling beach party or simply savouring a tasty meal in a promenade music bar, you won’t have any trouble finding a venue that delivers the goods during your stay.

Much of the nightlife is found in St Lawrence Gap - fondly referred to locally as ‘The Gap’ – which is an area on the south coast of Barbados, in the parish of Christ Church. It’s a real hive of activity with an extensive range of thriving discos, clubs, bars and restaurants.

As well as playing all the latest dance sounds, many of the main night clubs in Barbados also feature live performances by local bands and international artists who visit the island regularly.

The kings of clubs

Harbour Lights: This nightclub in Carlisle Bay, St Michael, has become a firm favourite with revellers from all around the world and is a great place for dancing, drinking and having a fun time until the early hours. The venue's programme of entertainment includes Caribbean dinner shows, discos, performances by live bands and even beach parties.

The Cove Club: Located in St Lawrence Gap, Christ Church, The Cove Club promises to give you a 'tropical experience you'll never forget'. Reggae nights, live bands and house music sets by the island's leading DJs keep the audiences happy at this energetic night club.

Red Door Lounge: If you want a lively night out, the Red Door Lounge in Holetown won't disappoint. This venue is renowned for having a superb range of tantalising cocktails, great food and plenty of music from live bands and some of the island's top

Sharkey's Bar: This island nightspot on the beach in Carlisle Bay is a magnet for tourists, with the cocktails flowing and the partying going on until late. A tropical setting and Caribbean sounds ensure partygoers have a wonderful evening.

Scoopie's Jazz and Blues Club: This is a popular music venue in Oistins where a healthy helping of live jazz is served up, alongside a varied selection of food and drinks.

Other highly regarded night spots include Duke’s Night Lounge in Holetown and the Mojo Bar in St Lawrence Gap.

There are also dozens of pubs and clubs in Barbados featuring live music by calypso and reggae bands, while rhythm and blues is a popular choice in the many piano bars dotted around the island. There are also plenty of karaoke bars if taking to the microphone is your thing.

Frying tonight

Oistins Fish Fry: A bumper fun-filled evening of eating, music and dancing is on the menu at the renowned Friday fish fry night in Oistins Bay Gardens.

Locals and holidaymakers flock to this event from 6pm when generous helpings of fresh fish are grilled in front of you, accompanied by a selection of Bajan delicacies and local rum.

The mouth-watering menu includes swordfish, tuna, flying fish, marlin and lobster. This delicious dining event is followed by a varied programme of music, dancing and entertainment, which continues late into the night.

Sights and sounds of culture

If you feel like immersing yourself in a full Barbadian cultural music spectacular, then you really need to book your place at the Celebration of Rhythm Bajan Heritage Show.

This live music extravaganza, which features a cast of singers, dancers and musicians, is staged at the Pirate’s Cove beach complex in Carlisle Bay, Bridgetown and pays tribute to the island's colourful history and culture.

Tickets for this popular event include a packed programme of traditional Bajan song and dance, an evening meal and drinks.

There's also the opportunity to wallow in a thrilling feast of evening music and dance at one of the island's many festivals. Street parades, concerts, fashion shows, dance events, craft markets and calypso beauty queen contests all add to the carnival atmosphere.

The people of Barbados just love their festivals, and among the most popular events where you can enjoy the fun are Barbados Crop-Over Festival, the Holetown Festival, Barbados Reggae Festival, Oistins Fish Festival, Barbados Food and Rum Festival, Barbados Gospelfest and Barbados Celtic Festival.

A low tempo alternative

If you're in the mood for a little night music, but something less raucous than a full dance or club event, there’s always the option to sip cocktails by moonlight with the one you love in a beachfront piano bar or dreamy jazz club.

Another idea is to enjoy a relaxing evening stroll down by the promenade where you can mingle with locals who love to gather outdoors to play games, cards and dominos, or simply to socialise and listen to music in the warm evening air. Dozens of little rum shops are popular meeting places in Barbados for chatting and catching up on local news.

There can be no denying that when it comes to providing visitors with a truly magical holiday experience they will remember for years, Barbados has it covered - day and night!

Experience the buzz of Barbados for yourself. Book your luxury holiday with Destination2.co.uk today!