Fodor's Expert Review Timothy Beach Resort

The only St. Kitts resort sitting directly on a Caribbean beach (until the Park Hyatt opens) is incomparably located and restful, a great budget find thanks to smiling service and simple but sizable apartments. Comfortable town-house-style units can be blocked off to form standard rooms. The oldest buildings right on the beach are larger and airier, with predictably better views. Third-floor units also have breathtaking vistas, but beware the steep climb. It's an authentic island experience, from the verdant hillside setting to the line-drying sheets flapping in the breeze. Though you get ants on the march during damp weather (don't leave food out!), bananaquits and bullfinches also share your patio breakfast. Rattling air-conditioners can detract from the idyllic atmosphere, but sparkling bathrooms with granite counters and rain showers make up for it. On the beach are the appealing Sunset Café and the Dock, with live music weekends.