What is the terrain and geography like in Barbados?
Overview
Barbados lies about 270 miles northeast of Venezuela and 1,612 miles southeast of Miami. The island is 21 miles long and 14 miles wide with an area of 166 square miles. Constant westward tradewinds temper the tropical climate throughout the year.
Situated 100 miles to the east of the Caribbean Windward Island chain, Barbados is distinct from those islands by the fact that it is a coral island, rather than volcanic, and relatively flat.
Mt. Hillaby, the highest point, is only 1,104 feet above sea level. Bridgetown, the capital, is located on the southwest corner of the island. The west and south coast areas are densely populated, with hotels, residential, and commercial areas intermingling. The rugged, windswept East Coast boasts the scenic Scotland District. The currents on the East Coast are very dangerous, and swimming is forbidden on many of its beaches. The interior of the island rises gently and sugarcane fields are interspersed with villages, farms, and the occasional plantation Great House.
Geography - note
Easternmost Caribbean island
Climate
The temperature in Barbados varies little during the year, averaging about 77°F (25°C) and rarely rising above 89°F (32°C) or falling below 65°F (18°C). However, the intensity of the sun this near to the Equator often makes it seem much hotter, especially when combined with high humidity. During July through October, the rainy season as well as the hurricane season, high humidity levels make the weather quite uncomfortable. During the dry winter months from November through May, which is the tourist season, it is more comfortable and can even become cool in the evenings. However, even in these months a significant amount of rain can fall.