Ritz Carlton-St. Thomas

At this Mediterranean villa-style resort, red-tile roofs cap graceful pink and terra cotta buildings, dramatic arched windows let in the islands' famous trade winds, and fountains gurgle in sunny courtyards. But once you amble through the gardens to the infinity pool and half-mile-long beach, the view across Great Bay—rolling green hills atop aquamarine water—locates you firmly in the tropics. Fresh off a $40 million renovation, the hotel has amped up the amenities, adding custom mattresses, Frette linens, and European down pillows. Seventy new suites on its Club Level include a dedicated concierge service. Even the spa has gone designer adding Prada facials. New dining options include the casual Sails lunch spot by the infinity pool, the family-friendly Great Bay Lounge whose "All American" and "Asian" menus aim to please picky and adventurous alike, and Bleuwater where Executive Chef Jaspar Schneider serves up seafood specialties like lobster Thai curry soup in an the elegant candlelit dining room or al fresco overlooking the ocean. The location—removed from the buzz of Charlotte Amalie—and the more formal feel make this the province of couples and families. Social types might want to opt for livelier digs like the Marriott.