Coral Reef Club, Classic Island Style on the West Coast of Barbados

Bottom line: this is my top pick in Barbados for a relaxed romantic or family holiday. The Coral Reef Club is a family-run gem on the calm-watered west coast of the island. Entering the iron gates, I found myself in a tropical oasis with cozy private cottages nestled in lush gardens filled with bougainvillea, desert rose, and palm trees of all sizes.
 
Winding my way though the twelve acre property, the elements that grabbed me were obvious and not so much so ...there is a discreet quality woven throughout. From the elegant pool (set back from the water and wonderful for laps in the late afternoon) with plenty of shaded gazebos in which to sit and read, to the absolutely exquisite new spa—two stories of unparalleled design, eye-popping tranquility. Treatments are expensive, but worth it if you take the time to enjoy the full experience. I had a 90 minute massage here, took time afterwards to enjoy the steam room and outdoor relaxation quarters upstairs as dusk set in. The couples treatment outdoor room is a real treat.
 
This is one of the few places I'd recommend as highly for families (especially ideal for multi-generational getaways) as I would for couples seeking an intimate spot on the island. The one and two bedroom suites with traditional wooden balustrading and plantation shutters are private yet easily accessible to all the hotel's amenities (two beautiful villas are available to book as well). Each suite has a lovely veranda perfect for a relaxing breakfast, reading a book or afternoon tea.  The restaurant and bar is right on the beach, open air with 180 degree views of the sea. Something we loved? Playing board games on the shaded sofas next to the outdoor bar with fans cooling us overhead. The staff was quite friendly if a bit persnickety when we arrived a bit wet for lunch after a swim. Given how relaxed the place was otherwise, this was surprising.  A host of water sports is available right on the beach, which is a lovely strip with swaying evergreen trees that offer ample shade from the Bajan heat. Don't miss a walk on this beach and swim out to the platform to deepen that tan... All in all, a fabulous spot with a spa that's worth a visit even if you don't stay at the resort.

Room rates from $245 per night (low season; from $465 high season).