Fodor's Expert Review Xanadu Island Resort

A lovely refuge that's eco-minded, relaxed, and just a short walk to town, Xanadu lacks the pageantry of some upscale resorts but draws repeat guests year after year. Upon arriving, you can do a "nature walk" through a lush pocket of vegetation. A jungle-like patch of palms shade the hot tub and free-form pool. The mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units––all capped with thatch roofs––are tastefully furnished in earth tones and have modern amenities. The pier leads to a sparkling spot from which to start your kayak, canoe, or paddle board outing (all complimentary). No restaurant on-site, but there is a small beach bar. The digs may lack the chicness of some competitors, but are timelessly tropical. The interesting monolithic dome structures means that the buildings can withstand winds up to 300 mph (483 kph).