While this 5.5-acre resort includes a pastel-colored, traditional Barbadian village at its street-side level, the main buildings are down a short slope, away from traffic noise. A dense garden borders the lobby entrance. Botanical signs identify plantings, some of which shade two-person swings.

What to expect: Nearly engulfed by tropical gardens and tall trees, the tranquil Almond Casuarina Beach Resort - All Inclusive wins recognition for environmental sensitivity and features Barbadian original artworks. From a breezy lobby of coral-stone walls and bleached-wood ceiling, to shady sitting spots, to a hammock-and-cushioned-lounge-chair "garden," to a board-games room, the resort offers a myriad of resting places.

Amenity highlights: This all-inclusive resort in Barbados sits on a 400-yard stretch of nearly white coral sand buffered by casuarina trees. The beach includes a section where hair braiders ply their trade and vendors sell colorful resortwear. An 80-by-27-foot rectangular pool provides freshwater swimming. The 25-foot-diameter children's pool has a shaded deck with large playpen/cribs (infant beds). Both pools' decks feature wood-shingle shades, umbrellas, and cushioned lounge chairs.

Insider tip: Endangered sea turtles lay eggs on the beach fronting the resort from April to November, with hatchings into December.

A small, quiet, breezy lobby furnished with cushioned tropical-themed seating establishes the relaxed ambiance that attracts adults and families to this Barbados hotel. Flowering gardens, lawns with hammocks, and three beaches provide ample space for a casual, quiet holiday.

Popular with business travelers because of its proximity to Bridgetown, The Savannah also appeals to adult leisure travelers seeking a tranquil beachside holiday with ready access to downtown shopping. Locals use the hotel for special occasions and meetings.

South Beach Resort & Vacation Club primarily attracts adults, although children are welcome. Guests find a tranquil, contemporary, condominium-style ambience and can cook in their kitchens or dine casually at a poolside bar and an air-conditioned restaurant. The neighborhood contains small shops, restaurants, and open-air bars and dining spots.

Breezy informality with contemporary style begins in an open-air, marble-floor lobby under Turtle Beach Resort's signature whitewashed latticework ceilings of tropical pine and extends through tropical gardens to a long beach. Couples find peace and quiet while families stay active on the beach and in pools.

This open-air resort in Barbados attracts couples, singles, and families for relaxed holidays centered on the beach during the day and on dining and nightlife in St. Lawrence Gap after dark.