On the east coast of the Caribbean island of Barbados the scenery is dramatic around the village of Bathsheba, a winter surfing location.  

On weekends, rum shops and guest houses set the pace for the village of Bathsheba, a popular day trip for many Barbados families.  

A provocative full-length mirror is propped on the beach in front of Lone Star Hotel, a small inn near Speightstown, Barbados. A chic beach restaurant sits on one side of the mirror, while on the other side are just four rooms, each named after a classic car in tribute to the 1940s filling station that once occupied this location.  

A modest example of classic Barbados architecture, the chattel house was originally conceived as a plantation worker's home. Set on blocks, they could be easily moved from one plantation field to another, and thousands are still inhabited throughout the island.  

The rugged east coast of Barbados is tamed around the village of Bathsheba, named for the wife of King David who bathed in milk to keep her skin soft. Pools of water form along the coast, and bathing is sheltered by limestone outcrops from the Atlantic's crashing surf.  

The village of Bathsheba on Barbados is increasingly known for its surfing, especially at one break called Soup Bowl. Top surfer Kelly Slater calls Soup Bowl 'one of the top three waves in the world.'  

The south coast of Barbados has a collection of modestly priced accommodations, including Coral Mist Hotel. Plentiful nightlife and dining options in bustling St. Lawrence Gap are within walking distance.  

Although the east coast of Barbados is generally not safe for swimming, the tranquil west coast has fine, calm beaches, making a Barbados lifeguard's day a usually untroubled one.  

The respected boutique hotel Little Arches is tucked into a south coast residential neighborhood on the Caribbean island of Barbados, with the gleaming sands of Enterprise Bay a short stroll from the entrance. Sunsets from the hotel's terrace are a reliable treat.