Ritz-Carlton Rose Hall

Palatial and über-opulent, this resort occupies 5,000 acres of rolling, meticulously landscaped grounds—once part of the island’s historic Rose Hall sugar plantation. A favorite with golfers for its White Witch championship course, the property also attracts the standard four-star crowd that likes its comforts within easy strolling distance. With five restaurants ranging from beach casual (jerk fish and beer at the Reggae Jerk Center) to jacket-preferred (fine Asian fusion at Jasmine), a sumptuous spa, jogging trails, tennis, and shuttles to the luxurious Shoppes at Rose Hall, there’s little reason to leave the premises. The 427 rooms and suites—tricked out with plush fabrics, Frette linens, gleaming wood antique repros, and large soaking tubs—don’t exactly encourage wandering, either.

Tip: For a full-body wake-up call, book a Jamaican coffee body scrub at the spa.

Room to Book: Although all standard rooms have balconies, Ocean Front rooms catch the lovely sea breezes (along with the best views).