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Little Dix Bay, British Virgin Islands
Once a private Rockefeller family escape, this 500-acre resort on the calm, sandy shores of Virgin Gorda is a low-key hideaway for those who don’t want to share the beach with screaming children and a plethora of blow-up unicorn rafts. While it is family friendly, the property makes it easy to escape into your own world, as the half-mile-long stretch of sand offers more than enough room for every hotel guest in its 81 rooms to be on shore at once. However, with the two swimming pools, six tennis courts, expansive spa, fitness center, private dock with boats for scuba and snorkeling, paddleboards, sailboats, and on-site hiking trail, there’s always more to do than lie on the sand.
Once you’ve taken three flights and a boat to arrive at the property, you might want to stay longer than just a few nights. Explore the 8-square-mile island on one of the resort’s Mokes; experience each of the five diverse dining venues and request a private beachfront dinner for two; venture out to The Baths, rock formations popular with tourists for snorkeling; or just do nothing on the idyllic shores.
From $1,200
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Le Guanahani, St. Barth
It’s no less challenging to get to than the British Virgin Islands (again, you’re looking at three flights, the last of which is on a tiny plane that holds fewer than 20 passengers), but the 9.3-square-mile island of St. Barth is just as stunning—albeit more vibrant in its offerings and brimming with day clubs (Nikki Beach), night clubs (Bagatelle), and fine-dining restaurants (Bonito, Black Ginger, and L’Isola).
Newly opened after a four-year renovation that saw it become a Rosewood resort, Le Guanahani rests on the island’s quiet northwest coast. The 66 rooms, spa (the largest on the island), two swimming pools, and two beaches make it the perfect place to retreat for a romantic respite after spending your days exploring the island. Rent a car for the duration of your stay and discover all 22 beaches—the island has made the best ones protected sanctuaries, free of development, just raw natural beauty. Walk through the marina village of Gustavia and explore the many chic boutiques and restaurants, or hike to the natural swimming pools at Grand Fond beach.
From $1,755