Aurora Anguilla

Built in the 80s, the Aurora Anguilla was one of the first luxury resorts on Anguilla and even today is one of few on the tiny Caribbean island. The hotel impresses upon entrance; pretty domed buildings -- reminiscent of those in the Grecian islands -- dot the lush, sprawling grounds, and high ceilings create an airy atmosphere that fits in well with Anguilla's laid-back island vibe. The decor also incorporates an island theme -- brightly-colored furniture and floral prints are prevalent -- but seems a bit dated to some. Nonetheless, the gourmet restaurants, island's only golf course, and a large, modern spa made this a quality luxury pick.

Considering its small size and difficult-to-reach location, Anguilla attracts mostly couples and families looking for a tranquil vacation. At Aurora Anguilla, guests can participate in activities such as cooking classes, wine tastings, fitness classes, and golf. Though these are geared largely towards adults, families can certainly find plenty to do at the resort; there are on-site tennis courts, and non-motorized water sports are offered at the hotel's white-sand beach. The beach is certainly beautiful -- and has the white sand and turquoise waters visitors come to the Caribbean to see -- but it's not as wide or nice as the one at the nearby Viceroy Anguilla, a newer property with a sleeker, more modern vibe.

The Aurora Anguilla sits on a white-sand beach along the three-mile stretch of Rendezvous Bay. On the western side of the island, the resort is within easy reach of other luxury properties -- such as the Viceroy -- and is adjacent to its own 18-hole golf course, the only course on the tiny island.

Anguilla is a small British territory in the Caribbean that covers fewer than 40 square miles. It's less built up than many Caribbean islands, and exudes an upscale vibe -- perhaps due in part to the fact that it is harder to get to than other nearby islands. Visitors must either fly to St. Martin and take a short ferry to the island, or fly in directly (by way of a small seaplane) from San Juan Puerto Rico.

Because of its size, there are few attractions, hotels, shops, and restaurants on the island. Most gourmet restaurants are at hotels, and restaurants are often very expensive as almost everything has to be imported. But Anguilla is a gorgeous place with beautiful white-sand beaches and turquoise waters (great for snorkeling), and it has the happy-go-lucky vibe the Caribbean is known for.

• On the beach
• Next to the hotel's Greg Norman-designed golf course
• 7-minute drive to the Viceroy Anguilla
• 10-minute drive to the Anguilla Airport
• 15-minute drive to the Shoal Bay East beach, known for its snorkeling and beach bars
• 20-minute ferry ride to St. Martin

As a Aurora Anguilla property, the hotel prides itself on its food -- and for good reason. On-site dining options include a Japanese restaurant, an Italian restaurant, a Mediterranean restaurant, a poolside cafe, a beach grill, and a lobby bar. Though many foods must be imported to the island, the menus here boast fresh seafood as well as ingredients from the hotel's hydroponic farm -- a rare find not only in the Caribbean but at hotels in general. The restaurant decor, like the decor throughout the hotel, feels more island-y than upscale, but contributes to the relaxed atmosphere.