Half Moon Resort is just minutes from the Montego Bay Airport, but miles away in feel from the plethora of all-inclusives for which Jamaica is commonly known. This glamorous resort situated on a picture-perfect half-moon bay has seen its fair share of celebrities and royalty since it was built in 1954.

Choose from ten room categories, from a newly renovated Hibiscus Suite (my favorite) just steps from the beach with the most amazing bathroom…to a Fern Tree Spa Suite relaxingly located between the beach and spa…to a fully staffed Royal Villa, complete with private pool, butler, and authentic Jamaican cuisine prepared daily by your own chef. You’ll never need to leave this 400–acre compound, complete with the most beautiful spa I’ve ever visited, a Robert Trent Jones championship golf course, dolphin lagoon, watersports and dive center, sailing, fishing, horseback riding, tennis and squash, croquet, six restaurants, seven bars, a shopping mall, and 24-hour medical center. Half Moon is a Caribbean classic that continues to set the bar for Jamaican luxury. Rates start at $250 per night. 888-830-5974; halfmoon.com.

The Ritz-Carlton Golf & Spa Resort at Rose Hall is another top pick. The second you walk into the lobby, you’ll know you’ve arrived someplace special. There’s an air of tropical luxury here that simply can’t be replicated elsewhere on the island. This resort’s quiet elegance is evident in the 427 newly renovated rooms, the private beach, seaside pool, the famous White Witch golf course, spa, and five restaurants—all done in classic Ritz style. Bathe in the sun, swim with horses in the surf, or simply relax and take advantage of the laid-back Jamaican lifestyle. Ask about a number of incredible deals, starting at $169 a night. You won’t find a better value in the Caribbean. 800-542-8680; ritzcarlton.com.

The former retreat of Noel Coward, Cole Porter, and Grace Kelly, Round Hill Hotel and Villas has the feel of a charming private club. Renovated and designed by Ralph Lauren, who owns High Rock and Cottage 26 on the Round Hill property, this boutique-style resort exudes tropical luxury. Four-poster mahogany bamboo beds, white stone floors, and large upholstered furniture from the Ralph Lauren Home Collection decorate the 36 oceanfront rooms in the Pineapple House. Or choose one of the 27 privately owned villas (most with a private pool) that dot the hillside. Wander through the gardens, relax in a hammock on the golden sand beach, or unwind in the world-class spa that is housed in an eighteenth-century great house. There’s a new double-infinity edge pool, tennis courts, nearby golf, and an award-winning chef. Days are casual and the evenings are elegant here. Rates start at $410 per night. 800-972-2159; roundhilljamaica.com.