Posh and pampering without pretension, the Ritz-Carlton offers unparalleled luxury and service infused with a welcome sense of place including works by top local artists and craftspeople. The 144-acre resort, as exquisitely manicured as its clientele, is anchored by a seven-story behemoth that faces Seven Mile Beach on the west and the North Sound on the east. Greg Norman designed the golf course; tennis is run by Nick Bollettieri (coach of greats like Andre Agassi); La Prairie operates the sybaritic spa; and the Ambassadors of the Environment children's program was created by none other than Jean-Michel Cousteau. The staff is professional yet discreet, knowing their business not yours. Despite its glam romantic trappings, the resort is family-friendly. Rooms are spacious, hedonistic, and outfitted with high-tech conveniences. Pros: exemplary service; exceptional facilities; marvelous local artworks including a corridor-length gallery with rotating exhibits. Cons: luxury comes with a high price tag; somewhat sprawling with a confusing layout; long walk to beach (over an interior bridge) from most rooms.
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