October 11th, 2007
Best for watersports biras creek, Virgin Gorda, British virgin islands
This secluded 140-acre Caribbean hideaway–set on the lagoon side of Virgin Gorda island and just steps away from white-sand beaches–stocks each guest suite with bikes for cruising the property’s trails (remember to ride on the left!). Or, if mellow waves are more your speed, choose from Hobie Cats, single-person Sunfish sailboats, windsurfers, sea kayaks and motorized Boston Whaler dinghies, all included in the nightly rate. Windsurfing and sailing lessons also are complimentary, as are local snorkeling excursions (snorkeling trips to other islands start at $25).
After so many activities, you’ll need to fill up on healthful dishes such as the grilled grouper with herbed couscous, green beans and salsa at the resort’s hilltop restaurant, which offers stunning views of the North Sound. Top off your stay with the Island Cooler massage and aloe wrap, a signature treatment featuring fresh-picked aloe and a scrub with sea salt from neighboring Salt Island ($145; 90 minutes).