Top 5 Caribbean luxury resorts

By Maria Mora

When I go window-shopping for a Caribbean vacation, I like to go big and spare no expense. There’s luxury—and then there’s once-in-a-lifetime knock-your-socks-off, over-the-top luxury. If you prefer the latter like me, these five ultra-luxury, five-star resorts promise truly unforgettable beach vacations.

1.  Privately owned by 29 shareholders, Round Hill Hotel and Villas is one of the most unique resorts in the Caribbean. After it opened in Montego Bay, Jamaica, in 1953, Liz Taylor, Jackie Kennedy and Grace Kelly frequented the elegant boutique resort located just outside of Montego Bay, Jamaica.

What’s so special? The luxury is in the details when it comes to Round Hill. From elegant formal beachside dinners to a pillow menu with five options, the amenities and options go well beyond what guests expect from a Caribbean beach resort. Jamaica is world-renowned for stellar hospitality, but Round Hill really takes off and runs with it, providing thoughtful, discrete service to meet every traveler’s needs — including a kid’s club and accommodations for guests with special needs.

2. The Cove Atlantis, Jamaica
Atlantis is one of the most famous resorts in the Caribbean. Located on ParadiseIsland in the Bahamas, the resort resembles a mythical city, with accommodations and activities for every price range and type of traveler. For those looking for a luxurious respite, there’s The Cove Atlantis.

What’s so special? The rooms at The Cove Atlantis towers were designed to reflect serene Asian design influences. Sleek lines, fine hardwoods and captivating art create a peaceful oasis. And then there are the breathtaking ocean views that come standard which every room. On top of the zen-like décor, Atlantis stocks each room in the The Cove towers with custom-made bath and beauty products. It’s almost like staying in your own personal spa — I can’t think of a better way to unwind after busy days exploring the attractions and gaming at the main Atlantis resort.

Insider tip: Book your stay at The Cove or any Atlantis property by Jan. 23, 2011, and receive your 4th night free. Plus, save an extra $300 when you use these promotion codes.

3. The Ritz-Carlton, San Juan Hotel, Spa & Casino
Travelers expect major luxury when it comes to the Ritz-Carlton brand. The San Juan Ritz-Carlton lives up to the hype, complete with lion-head fountains around a swimming pool that looks like it should be in the back yard of a small palace. Despite the glitz, it’s possible to feel at home here in the midst of all the pampering. Most of the luxurious touches are modern, practical and subtle.

What’s so special? Families are treated like royalty at the Ritz-Carlton. From a reasonably-priced meal plan for kids to the top of the line kids’ club, parents are given the chance to kick back without wondering if their children are having fun in a safe environment. So what do parents and adults do all day at the Ritz-Carlton? Try the 24-hour casino, 12,000 square-foot Caribbean spa or one of the exclusive gourmet restaurants. Speak to the hotel concierge about excursions in nearby San Juan, a city rich in history in culture.

Find a breathtaking sanctuary at the new W Retreat & Spa, Vieques Island, Puerto Rico.

4. W Retreat & Spa, Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
Vieques Island in Puerto Rico was voted best Caribbean island by Travel and Leisure magazine. With its bioluminescent waters and lush tropical landscape, this island makes a picture perfect setting for W Retreat & Spa, a new resort property that opened in the spring of 2010.

What’s so special? Guests are pampered, literally from the moment they arrive. W Retreat & Spa is all about an indulgent experience, so guests can count on everything from refreshments at the airport to a personal concierge service, ready to arrange everything from Jeep tours to an in-room couples massage. W focuses on pampering the body andrelaxing the mind, reflected not only in the resort’s many offerings but also is the surrounding awe-inspiring scenery. Stay here and you won’t have to choose between one or the other; Spa Chakra features indoors and outdoors treatment rooms. And don’t think the spa atmosphere means everything’s quiet at the W. The Living Room is an innovative restaurant and bar that encourages guests to mingle and flirt in an outdoors setting.

5. Iberostar Grand Bavaro, Dominican Republic
This  adults-only all-inclusive resort is considered one of the jewels of the Dominican Republic. The European-inspired restaurants and casino give guests plenty of reasons to dress up and enjoy some glamour, while the huge pool and pristine shoreline offer ample space to relax in the sun.

What’s so special? To truly indulge at this five-star Punta Cana beach resort, book one of the eleven Ocean Front Grand Suites. The secluded, sumptuous rooms include huge Jacuzzi tubs with clear glass windows facing the beach and crystal blue waters. And you won’t want to miss this view; the beaches in Punta Cana are famous for pure white sand and calm water. Rent a personal watercraft, take sailing lessons or book a private cooking class on the beach. Then head back to theresort for an all-you-can-eat gourmet meal. That’s my idea of luxury.

Insider tip: Luxury Caribbean resorts are a dream come true — even for those looking to escape on a budget. Avoid high seasons and book early, and you can still lap in luxury at some amazing Caribbean resorts. Right now, if you book by Dec. 26, 2010, you can get up to 60% off and free nights at select resorts in the Dominican Republic, Aruba, Jamaica and more.

Related resources

• Iberostar Resorts
• All-inclusive vacations
• Beach vacations

Maria Mora is a memoir blogger and wannabe photographer. She travels extensively throughout Florida and the Caribbean with her two young sons.

Tagged: Caribbean, Hotels