When I go to Barbados, I stay at Turtle Ridge Apartment (via AirBnB) -- nicest beaches there (very upscale area)- next to the Fairmont Royal Pavilion. (West Coast St. James area)
Do your research before selecting your location, as the Southern area beaches are not so nice for swimming, and too close to the slums.
Note, starting October 1st, Barbados is instituting a $70 airport departure tax.