The 20 Best Five Star Hotels in the Caribbean

Petit St Vincent

The Caribbean is one of the most famous regions on the planet for anyone looking for a tropical idyll, so it should come as no surprise that this gorgeous spread of islands is home to a wide range of five-star hotels which are ideal for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life and wants to blow the budget. The choice is massive, from beachfront resorts with every facility imaginable to island hideaways where you might expect to run into a celebrity or two. We've scoured the whole region and found properties that are great for families as well as others with a more grown-up vibe where romance is the name of the game. Whatever the reason for your visit (family holiday, honeymoon, or active tropical adventure) use our guide to the best five-star hotels in the Caribbean and start to plan your luxury getaway.

For a luxury family holiday

Amanyara

  • Sugar Beach, A Viceroy Resort is one of our favourite family-friendly Caribbean five stars. It enjoys the most stunning location with accommodation spread throughout a lush hillside between St Lucia's iconic Pitons. Beautifully elegant suites come with a butler as standard and every guest is given a mobile phone so that you can contact them at the drop of a hat. There's plenty for all ages here from the pampering spa and great dining options to the kids' clubs with their plethora of activities including treasure hunts, kayaking and much more.
  • Spice Island Beach Resort is a stunning, privately owned, all-inclusive beachfront resort on Grenada's Grand Anse Beach. This tropical paradise boasts two restaurants, tennis courts, all-suite accommodation (many with a private pool), and kids' clubs to keep all those between 3 and 12 amused throughout the day.
  • Rosewood Little Dix Bay is an 80 room luxury resort on Virgin Gorda. It offers a range of rooms, suites and villas, all beautifully appointed; but if you're travelling with kids, we recommend going for one of the villas (they sleep between four and eight and all come with a private pool). There's the usual plethora of facilities: spa, watersports, pools, bars and restaurants, plus a dedicated children's centre where they offer a range of activities from nature walks to treasure hunts and sandcastle building contests.
  • Another luxurious family pick is Amanyara in the Turks and Caicos. This spectacular beachfront property offers chic accommodation in a range of pavilions and villas, most with private pools and all in the beautifully understated style that typifies Aman properties. For children, there's a Nature Discovery Centre offering a range of programmes for all ages, plus kids' pool, jungle gym, junior spa and more. For adults, there's unbridled pampering with the Aman Spa, fabulous food and the pristine 1km private beach.

For a honeymoon

Hermitage Bay

  • Some would argue that Secret Bay on Dominica is the ultimate honeymoon destination. This stunning all-villa rainforest resort is situated in a fabulous clifftop location. The delightful suites are constructed from sustainably sourced tropical hardwoods and each offers vast indoor and outdoor living spaces and breath-taking views, plus a private plunge pool as standard. All also come with a dedicated villa host, on-call concierge service and butlers and chefs on tap. Six-star grown-up Robinson Crusoe luxury at its finest!
  • Hermitage Bay on Antigua is another of our top picks if romance is the order of the day. It's a superlative all-inclusive beachside resort with just 30 rooms; the emphasis here is on ensuring that every guest has the best experience possible, so the amazing staff go above and beyond. The accommodation is spread amongst hillside (with private plunge pools) and beachfront suites; all are beautifully done with romantic muslin draped beds, enormous egg-shaped bathtubs and outdoor monsoon showers. The food is fantastic, and the vibe is intimate and chilled.
  • Jade Mountain on St Lucia is legendary for its mountainside location and its luxurious suites all of which come without a fourth wall, and all of which feature a private plunge pool with a jaw-dropping view. This exceptional property is known not only for its exemplary eco-credentials and architecture, but also its friendly staff and superb food. And with no children allowed under 16, it makes for perfect honeymoon material!
  • The Ocean Club in Nassau epitomises Bahamian style and has been a regular celebrity hangout since it first opened in 1962. Now operating under the Four Seasons umbrella, you can expect seamless service, elegant and sophisticated accommodation, fine dining at Dune Restaurant, an expansive spa for some serious pampering and gorgeous gardens leading to a white sand beach.
  • GoldenEye is on Jamaica's northern coast just outside Ocho Rios, situated on Ian Fleming's famous estate and incorporating his original villa in the accommodations. It's a seriously private spot here (all the better to protect the A-list guests), and once you've entered the enclave, you'll find it hard to leave. As well as gorgeous rooms and suites, there's excellent oceanside dining and a laid-back vibe. Perfect luxury RnR.

For Boutique Chic

Belle Mont Farm

  • Eden Rock is another legendary property, this one on St Barts. Popular with the rich and famous, you come here for stunning contemporary rooms and suites (some with hot tub terraces, others with private pools). And with just 37 in total, it's small! As well as the stylish accommodation, there's superb dining, Remy Bar for the cocktails, and a wide range of activities for all ages. Luxurious, spoiling and very chic!
  • Le Carl Gustaf is also on St Barts, though this time over on the west coast. Its 21 rooms and suites are inspired by nature (featuring exotic prints and bamboo furnishings) and the best have large terraces with extraordinary sea views. There's excellent French Brasserie style dining, free electric bikes for those who want to explore and a pampering spa for those who don't, not forgetting the beach at the bottom of the garden!
  • Amanera is an exceptional property set atop a cliff on the Dominican Republic's north coast overlooking Playa Grande Beach. Come here for luxury of the finest order: stunning, elegant interiors, infinity pools, epic views, delicious Mediterranean cuisine and an excellent spa. With just 26 rooms, you'll feel that you've booked your very own little slice of paradise.
  • Belle Mont Farm on St Kitts is a little gem of a property where the name of the game is luxury and sustainability. There's a charming collection of guesthouses, farmhouse and villas (which can sleep four), and a huge infinity pool, all set on an organic farm which produces most of the ingredients for the dishes that are served at a range of venues. Off-the-beaten-track, feel-good luxury!

For a luxury beach resort

Sandy Lane

  • Barbados's Sandy Lane has been the byword in luxury Caribbean resorts since it opened in 1996, and it's still calling the shots! Opulent interiors feature romantic bedrooms with marble bathrooms, chandeliers and top of the range everything. There's an outdoor pool with a waterfall, a palatial spa, three golf courses, tennis courts, beautifully manicured grounds and a glorious beach where the service is so slick, they'll even polish your sunglasses whilst you go for a swim. A classic.
  • On Puerto Rico's Atlantic coast you'll find Dorado Beach a Ritz Carlton Reserve, a property that was originally opened in the 1950s. The suites and residences offer gorgeous, spacious hideaways and all have an outdoor living space and open-air shower to ensure the connection to nature. There's a range of dining options and Botanico Spa for special pampering.
  • Tortuga Bay Punta Cana is the one to book if you're looking for a designer pad set on 5 miles of untouched coast in the Dominican Republic. Beachfront accommodations are spread amongst suites and villas and all interiors were designed by Oscar de la Renta. There are six world-class eateries on-site plus a Six Senses Spa and Wellness centre, a raft of tennis courts, two championship golf courses and watersports aplenty.
  • Anguilla's Belmond Cap Juluca has been turning heads with its sleek reimagining of a classic Caribbean beach resort; it boasts a contemporary and chic seaside look and first-class facilities. All rooms come with a terrace and sea views but if you want to treat yourself go for a suite with a private pool. There's direct beach access, a spa, pool and superb dining in four restaurants.

For an island hideaway

Jumby Bay Island

  • Jumby Bay Island is perhaps one of the most exclusive places to stay in the Caribbean. The property is a little island just off Antigua's north coast that plays host to the rich and famous who come here to unwind on its sandy beaches and lounge in lavish villas! Superb dining comes as part of the all-inclusive experience whether you want to eat poolside or in the estate house, plus there's activities galore from watersports and snorkel tours to bikes for exploring the island.
  • Mandarin Oriental Canouan is a remote island hideaway on idyllic Canouan (one of the islands that make up St Vincent and the Grenadines). It comprises a collection of colonial-style suites and luxurious Italian designed hillside villas, each with a plunge pool. You'll also find five restaurants and bars, a spa, golf course, tennis and watersports...sheer bliss for couples or families.
  • It has been said that everyone should try to visit Petit St Vincent once in their lives and we'd have to agree, even if you have to win the lottery to get there! This stunning collection of beachfront stone cottages on a private island is unbeatable. There's over two miles of private sandy beach to explore, tennis, massages or of course simply lying in the sun! Paradise...

Still not sure which to book?

  • Take a look at all our Caribbean recommendations
  • Narrow the search to Antigua, Barbados or the Bahamas
  • Take a look at our five-star recommendations in the Maldives
  • Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.
    • Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort Soufriere, St Lucia 78 rooms from $1020

      Foodies  -  Farm to Table tour with Chef Daniel Hurtado to source the organic produce, visit fish market and then cook it up together
      Families  -  Clubs for both older and younger children, including kayaking and treasure hunts, babysitters and child friendly menus
      Outstanding location  -  Stunning location at the foot of St Lucia's iconic Pitons
      Great walks  -  A fifteen minutes boat ride via water taxi will take you to the base of Gros Piton where one starts the hike
      TennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViews
      Recommended by  -  Fodors, Kiwi Collection, Tablet

      Stunningly situated, gorgeous family-friendly hotel. Elegant rooms have white furniture, chandeliers, walk-in closets and opulent bathrooms. Each room has private garden and plunge pool. Tennis courts, gym and spa, direct beach access. Outstanding cuisine, chic bar. Luxurious and spacious. See More

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    • Spice Island Beach Resort St George, Grenada 64 rooms from $946

      Beach Life  -  Directly on a white sand beach, it's the perfect spot.
      Honeymoons  -  Stunning interior design in sumptuous suites.
      Luxury
      Romantic Break
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      Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

      A stunning beachfront all inclusive resort with luxurious cabanas right on the beach. A tropical paradise with two restaurants, tennis courts, pools, suites with pools, diving school, and a kid's club. An idyllic spot with lots of facilities and plenty of pampering. See More

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    • Rosewood Little Dix Bay Virgin Gorda 80 rooms from $840

      Active Holiday  -  Endless activites from sailing and fishing to yoga and tennis, there is something at this resort for everyone
      Families  -  Extensive and excellent kids club for both younger and teenage children; large family suites
      Romantic Break  -  Palm-lined beach, outstanding spa, romantic beachfront dinner and gorgeous gardens
      Beach Life  -  Lounge on the resort's exclusive pristine beach
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      Recommended by  -  Fodors

      A luxury resort set within the palm trees of Virgin Gorda. Chic rooms with earthy colour palettes, outdoor showers and balconies. Enjoy the pool, half a mile of pristine white beach, Rosewood Spa and a water-sports centre. Fantastic range of cuisine from farm-to-table to local Caribbean fare. See More

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    • Amanyara Providenciales, Turks and Caicos from $1500

      Private villas  -  Three, four and five-bedroom villas come with their own private chefs and butlers.
      Suites  -  The Pool Pavillions come with their own forty-foot infinity-edged pools
      Families  -  Private villas.
      Wellbeing
      Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
      Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Tablet

      A spectacular resort that makes the most of its natural beach surroundings. Minimalist chic suites and private villas set amongst palms, all with private balconies, and the best with chefs, butlers and infinity pools. Restaurants, pools, bars massages, yoga and a spa pavilion. Utterly dreamy. See More

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    • Secret Bay Dominica from $822

      Views  -  Panoramic views from its clifftop location out to sea
      Honeymoons  -  A Robinson Crusoe paradise.
      Romantic Break
      Romantic  -  Good for couples.
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

      A Robinson Crusoe paradise. Barefoot luxury, panoramic sea views, a private beach, private pool on your balcony, fully stocked kitchen and personal chef. Each bungalow up in the rock face and surrounded by tropical plants. Diving, snorkelling, yoga, reading. The ultimate honeymoon. See More

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    • Hermitage Bay St Johns, Antigua 30 rooms from $1250

      Honeymoons  -  Hermitage Bay is the perfect destination for a luxury honeymoon with stunning accommodation and service to match.
      Foodies  -  Caribbean cookery lessons and farm tour to see where the fresh produce is sourced on the island
      Total relaxation  -  Infinity pool, 16 acres of lush gardens, white beaches and sailing trips
      5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.
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      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

      Superlative all inclusive beachside resort in lush gardens. Huge suites feature darkwood floors, shuttered windows, outdoor rain showers and day beds. Infinity pool, sandy beach, spa and gym. Excellent Caribbean and European cuisine, laid-back bar. Ideal for a sophisticated, relaxed beach holiday. See More

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    • Jade Mountain Soufriere, St Lucia 28 rooms from $1325

      Romantic Break  -  Adult ambience, private infinity pools, jaw dropping views and spa treatments
      Sights nearby  -  Near the St. Lucia's famous Piton mountains, a Unesco World Heritage Site
      Restrictions on children  -  Children over 16 welcome
      On the beach  -  Two private beaches
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      Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection, Fodors, Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet

      Sublime hotel in the mountainside. The spacious rooms all have views of Piton Mountains, wooden floors, modern furniture and private infinity pools. Shared outdoor pool, gym, spa and tennis courts. Outstanding seafood cuisine, slick bar area. Luxurious, stunning and chic. See More

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    • The Ocean Club, Nassau Nassau (PARADISE ISLAND) 107 rooms from $1347

      Romantic Break  -  This hotel just nails romance, for a start at 6pm every evening glasses of champagne and strawberries are brought to each room
      Tennis coaching  -  Their in house pro Leo Rolle has been coaching there for 50 years- and there's a reason they have held onto him!
      Fishing  -  Go deep sea fishing on their yacht, cook your catch in the local style and then learn to mix a perfect cocktail
      Total relaxation  -  The Balinese-style spa is wonderful, so is the leafy adults only pool area and the plush rooms
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      This Four Season luxury resort is the epitome of Bahamian style. The luxury suites and villas offer louvered hardwood doors and private balconies. The service is truly remarkable, and often friendships are created that draw guests back again and again. The gardens and restaurant are show stoppers. See More

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    • GoldenEye Ocho Rios (Oracabessa) 47 rooms from $400

      Groups  -  The enormous villas have kitchen facilities, living room area, hammocks and private terraces
      Writing a novel  -  In the spot where all Bond novels were penned, find peace, quiet and inspiration
      Swimming Pool  -  Freshwater outdoor infinity pool, plus four acre private lagoon
      Birdwatching  -  255 bird species can be viewed from the surrounding area.
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      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith, Tablet, I Escape, Kiwi Collection

      Exquisite 5* beach front hotel. Villas, cottages and stilted beach huts have mahogany beds, shutters and direct beach access. On site restaurants serve up traditional Jamaican styles with a twist, from their organic garden. Historic and luxurious with the emphasis on privacy. Honeymoon heaven! See More

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    • Eden Rock Eden Rock, St Barts 37 rooms from $1445

      Families  -  The villas have full kitchens and enormous living rooms, child-friendly menus and wonderful spread of watersports for all ages
      Romantic Break  -  Luxurious in-room spa treatments, opulent bathrooms, superb dining and romantic views
      Fishing  -  Deep sea fishing trip to the famous “Marlin Boulevard”
      Great walks  -  Hike along St Jean beach which is right beside the hotel
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      Recommended by  -  Relais & Chateaux, Fodors

      Five-star resort overlooking coral reefs. Contemporary rooms and villas have mahogany furniture, opulent bathrooms and silk extras. Some with hot tub terraces or private pools. Outdoor pools, gardens, gym, spa. Superb continental menu, bar with a view. Luxurious, spoiling and very chic. See More

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    • Le Carl Gustaf Gustavia, St Barts 23 rooms from $2059

      Local exploring  -  Located between the town and the coast in Gustavia, this hotel is perfectly placed for local island exploring
      Beach Life  -  Set a few minutes' walk from pristine Shell Beach, book this hotel for a relaxed and indulgent beach break
      Families  -  Featuring family bungalows and a great Kid's Club
      Sights nearby  -  Visit nearby Fort Karl, a colonial-era coastal fortress with a surrounding walking trail, great for active guests
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      This five-star boutique hotel is nestled a stone's throw from Shell Beach in Gustavia. Guest suites are inspired by the natural landscape, featuring exotic prints and bamboo accents, plus sea view terraces. With a choice of three restaurants, there's hardly a need to leave this luxury base! See More

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    • Amanera Cabrera Rio San Juan, Dominican Republic 26 rooms from $1545

      Spa breaks  -  The Aman spas are rightly renowned. This one takes its inspiration from the healing methods of the island’s Taíno Indians.
      Beach Life  -  Situated on a picture perfect private white sandy beach.
      Great walks  -  Explore the tropical jungle with the hotel's naturalist.
      Kayaking  -  Explore the coastline in a sea kayak.
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      Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

      Find luxury of the highest order at this stunning Aman property. Sat atop a cliff with fabulous ocean views; spend days being pampered to perfection in the spa and feast on healthy Mediterranean cuisine. With an expansive infinity pool and access to a perfect white sand beach this is hard to beat. See More

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    • Belle Mont Farm St Kitts, St Kitts and Nevis from $1125

      Families  -  Between four and eight couples can each be accommodated in their own private Guesthouse.
      Outstanding location  -  Surrounded by the lush beauty of the forest and the azure waters of the Caribbean.
      Spa  -  The Mango Walk Spa includes Natural pools and open-air treatments.
      Eco  -  The hotel is completely sustainable.
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      Stunning all inclusive eco resort with guesthouses, farmhouses, & villas (which sleep 4). Boutique and eco friendly in every way. Set on an organic farm with stunning views, a golf course, fabulous fresh produce, a 100ft infinity pool, and open-air spa treatments amongst the mango groves. Superb. See More

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    • Sandy Lane Barbados 96 rooms from $1090

      Families  -  Large suites are ideal for families; Treehouse kids club, complimentary watersports and swimming
      Honeymoons  -  Romaneqsue spa, sublime beach service, watersports, sailing trips and so much more!
      Kids Club  -  Fully staffed.
      Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
      Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled access
      Recommended by  -  Fodors

      Opulent 5* hotel on the beach. Romantic bedrooms feature marble bathrooms, chandeliers and extensive technology systems. Outdoor pool with waterfall, palatial spa, three golf courses, tennis courts and manicured gardens. Sublime cuisine in the restaurants. Luxurious, spacious and slick. See More

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    • Dorado Beach A Ritz Carlton Reserve Dorado, Puerto Rico 114 rooms from $2049

      Foodies  -  Dining is an integral part of the experience at this resort; from gourmet to grill, there is something to suit all palettes
      Spa breaks  -  Book into the hotel's Spa Botánico, a unique, aromatherapy-inspired spa with a range of treatments
      Beach Life  -  Set on the sunny sands of Dorado Beach, this hotel is perfect for a luxury island getaway
      Kayaking  -  Try your hand at sea kayaking during your stay here, with kayaks available from the hotel
      Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

      This secluded luxury resort borders the Atlantic Ocean on the coast of Puerto Rico. Dating to the 1950s, the resort now offers contemporary residences while retaining the hacienda-style of the original property. A handful of exclusive restaurants, a spa and pool complete this sleek island getaway. See More

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    • Tortuga Bay Punta Cana Punta Cana, Dominican Republic from $750

      Chic  -  Oh so chic interiors and facilities designed by Oscar de la Renta.
      Romantic  -  Bedrooms and suites are the ultimate in Caribbean romance.
      Luxury  -  The hotel has received the AAA's Five Diamond Award.
      Golf  -  The hotel has it's own 27 hole golf course.
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      Recommended by  -  Tablet

      The ultimate destination for the chicest Caribbean spot. Designed by Oscar de la Renta and occupying 5 miles of untouched coast, 11 lagoons, an ecological park, and golf course. Rooms, suites, and private beach front villas designed to perfection. Restaurants, spa, and pools to go with it. See More

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    • Belmond Cap Juluca West End Village, Anguilla 70 rooms from $595

      Romantic Break  -  With white sands, turquoise waters and in-room spa treatments, this hotel is perfect for a romantic couples' getaway
      Beach Life  -  Sitting on the seafront with direct beach access, this resort makes an indulgent seaside break
      Families  -  Book a private villa with a pool for a family stay; cots are available upon request
      Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
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      Recommended by  -  Fodors

      This luxury Anguilla resort is reopening after a full renovation. Bright and airy guestrooms feature tiled floors, four-poster beds and large terraces, some with private pools. Guests enjoy direct beach access plus a spa, pool and superb dining in four restaurants. Luxurious, laid back and special. See More

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    • Jumby Bay Island St Johns, Antigua from $2250

      Families  -  Wide variety of activities for children, as well kid's club for snorkelling, learning about turtles and children's spa
      All inclusive  -  Price quoted is per room and includes all meals, premium alchols, non motorized water sports and much more
      Total relaxation  -  An island resort, meaning miles of beaches for your enjoyment, watersports, excellent spa and tennis
      Tennis  -  Three courts in the gardens
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      Recommended by  -  Fodors

      Perhaps one of the most exclusive places to stay in the world, this small island off the north coast of Antigua hosts the rich and famous who come to unwind on the sandy beaches and lounge in the lavish villas. Superb fresh Antiguan cuisine; chic bar. Gorgeous, luxurious and family friendly. See More

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    • Mandarin Oriental Canouan Canouan, St Vincent and the Grenadines 59 rooms from $1300

      Families  -  Spacious suites and villas, impromptu tortoise safaris from the staff, plus pools and beach — the resort is perfect for families
      Romantic Break  -  Picnic on the sand, amble along a nature trail, have a cookery lesson, or just chill on the beach with your significant other
      Spa  -  The spa is a retreat for body and soul with an extensive range of treatments, facials and therapies using ESPA products
      Luxury  -  Dedicated butler service for every guest
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      Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection

      A remote island hideaway set on idyllic Canouan. Comprising a collection of colonial-style suites and luxurious Italian designed hillside villas each with plunge pool. With 5 restaurants and bars, a spa, golf course, tennis and water-sports — this is an idyllic property for couples or families. See More

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    • Petit St Vincent St Vincent and the Grenadines from $1350

      Beach Life  -  The island is completely surrounded by two miles of pristine white beaches.
      Luxury
      Wellbeing
      Romantic Break
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      Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels, Great Small Hotels , CN Traveller, Fodors

      A stunning collection of stone beach cottages on a private island and surrounded by two miles of pristine white beaches. Chic rooms have light stone walls, wooden beams, and big verandahs for dining or relaxing. Tennis court, massages, hiking, sunbathing, babysitting on request. Total calm. See More

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Written by Sarah Empson

posted Tuesday, 17th October 2023