What to expect: Originally a private estate, the One&Only Ocean Club owes its existence to Huntington Hartford II, the legendary 1950s playboy who bought the estate and converted it into a resort for his jet-set crowd. Its glittering 1962 opening drew entertainment luminaries, royalty, and politicians from around the world. Current owners bought the resort in 1994 and spent $100 million renovating and expanding. Celebrities and world travelers still come, only now they seek seclusion rather than attention. Utter tranquility and hushed, discreet service on 35 garden acres awaits them.

Amenity highlights: Running for three miles along Paradise Island's north shore and accessible by a wood staircase, an uncrowded beach of fine white sand borders the turquoise Atlantic Ocean. Neat rows of cushioned lounge chairs fitted with folding shades furnish sunbathing comfort. Evian-water misting and afternoon sorbet offer heat relief. In the resort's renowned Versailles-styled gardens is a large pool surrounded by palm trees and cushioned wrought-iron lounge chairs. Loungers enjoy full views of the gardens, which feature a 12th century Augustinian cloister.

Insider tip: Complimentary shuttles transport guests 0.5 miles west on Paradise Island to the Atlantis resort (a partner property), where they enjoy access to all facilities and charging privileges, including 21 restaurants and lounges. Atlantis features 11 million gallons of water attractions, including a saltwater swimming, watersports, and snorkeling lagoon; numerous waterslides and pools; and 11 marine-life viewing lagoons. Also available are a teen club, the children's educational Discovery Channel Camp, and a 50,000-square-foot casino.

What to expect: Opened in March 2007, this all-suites luxury resort is located within the spectacular Atlantis Resort. The Cove Atlantis is perched above two white-sand beaches and surrounded by lush landscaping, waterfalls, and freshwater pools with water lilies and a rainbow of tropical fish. The temple-like lobby is an experience unto itself: sublime ocean views, 35-foot timber ceilings, giant copper lights inspired by wind chimes, and travertine marble seating pods with flowing, water-filled centers that change color from dawn to nightfall.

Amenity highlights: Overlooking the ocean and melding into Cove Beach, the adults-only Ultra-Pool area is an exclusive privilege for Cove Atlantis guests. The main pool features floating daybeds, in-water lounge chairs, outdoor gaming, and lavish rental cabanas. Waters are shallow (4 feet) to encourage socializing. Guests can indulge in creative Southwestern fare at Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, the celebrity chef’s first restaurant outside the United States.

What to expect: The Reef Atlantis offers guests the comforts of home, with a pristine, white-sand beach at their doorstep and Atlantis as their “backyard.” Befitting its name, the Reef has introduced the Blue Project, an innovative approach to environmentally friendly tourism that promotes ocean and reef conservation. A percentage of the proceeds for each night at the Reef goes to reef restoration projects in and around Paradise Island.

Amenity highlights: Guests enjoy the advantages of a beachfront location, spacious suites with kitchens or kitchenettes, and full access to the myriad attractions of the Atlantis Resort. A water-themed wonderland inspired by the mythical Lost Continent, the Atlantis Resort features the Aquaventure water adventure, the vast Marine Habitat, Dolphin Cay, and The Dig, an archeological-style maze with underwater vistas of the ruins of a “lost city.” (See Entertainment section for details.) More than 20 restaurants provide a world of dining choices.