Ideally positioned on one of St. Barth’s loveliest beaches, this exclusive resort strikes just the right balance between French sophistication and Caribbean charm. A recent facelift has added not only accommodations but also a signature perfume, a Guerlain spa and a team of beautiful ‘ambassadeurs’ and ‘alchemistes’ tasked with making vacation dreams come true. The 60 or so rooms include beach, garden and hillside options and range from single rooms to villas with private pools and butlers. Dine on classic French cuisine or casual Caribbean fare, sip craft cocktails, request a perfect picnic... it’s yours for the taking at the Isle de France. www.chevalblanc.com

The Cotton House was a boutique hotel long before the concept had a name. Small, eclectic and full of character, it’s the only resort on the ultra-exclusive island of Mustique. The 17 rooms, including family-friendly suites, romantic cottages and a two-bedroom villa, are spread across a 13-acre estate of rolling lawns and tropical gardens. Decorated in cheery tones, all offer breezy verandas and four-poster beds draped in mosquito nets. Head down to Endeavour Bay to swim, sail or sip cocktails, or follow the walking trails to nearby beaches. Be sure to return in time for water’s edge sundowners at the infamous Basil’s Bar, followed by an alfresco dinner at the Veranda restaurant. www.cottonhouse.net

A luxury four-bedroom oceanfront property in tranquil Bodden Town, Present Moment offers the amenities of a resort combined with the perfect privacy of a luxury villa. Perched above a deserted beach, it boasts a stunning infinity pool and hot tub, a breeze-cooled covered dining deck, spacious open plan interiors and a magnificent ocean-view master suite. Thoughtfully equipped with beach toys and coolers, and bunk/recreation room that sleeps six, it has all the ingredients for a memorable family getaway. For more unique vacation rentals, browse Cayman Villas’ selection of over 70 properties, located throughout the Cayman Islands. www.caymanvillas.com

A virgin island by name as well as by nature, Guana Island is the quintessential Caribbean escape. Closed to outside visitors and hosting a maximum of 35 guests at any one time, this private island offers seclusion and exclusivity in spades. Stone cottages with fresh, whitewashed interiors strung along the ridge offer sensational views. The restaurant serves up top-notch farm-to-table fare, with ingredients supplied by the organic orchard. For the energetic, there’s a fleet of water toys to play with, numerous hiking trails to explore and seven sparkling beaches. For those in need of rejuvenation, yoga classes, spa treatments and a cosy library await. www.guana.com

The ultimate hideaway for couples or young families, the beach bungalows at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa offer inviting, modern interiors that open onto gorgeous tropical gardens. Spacious and beautifully furnished, with two bedrooms plus a kitchen and dining area, they combine all the conveniences of home with the thoughtful touches of a luxe resort. Have breakfast delivered to you on the veranda, savour specially-created sips and bites at sunset, and take advantage of exclusive fitness classes. If you can tear yourself away from the sea views, you’ll find a sensational spa, a retail store, a gym and three dining venues without even leaving the resort. www.seafireresortandspa.com