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: Designed around the theme of the mythical Lost Continent of Atlantis, this resort expanded from a casino destination into a family destination by including vast water-park and marine-life attractions. Coral Towers lies in the middle of the resort between the other two towers--Beach and Royal--and offers middle-price accommodations.

Insider tip: Located 300 yards from the resort, Marina Village includes international brand-name shops, Bahamian arts/crafts vendors, five restaurants (including Carmines of New York and Johnny Rockets), as well as Jamba Juice and the Caribbean's first Starbucks.

What to expect: Designed after the mythical Lost Continent of Atlantis, this resort expanded from a casino destination into a family destination by including vast water-park and marine-life attractions. Royal Towers embodies a full-blown expression of the Atlantis motif, a colossus formed of stone and held together by gigantic, weathered-bronze joints.

Insider tip: Located 300 yards from the resort, Marina Village includes international brand-name shops, Bahamian arts/crafts vendors, five restaurants (including Carmines of New York and Johnny Rockets), Jamba Juice, and the Caribbean’s first Starbucks.