This Ritz-Carlton makes the most of its greatest asset: its setting along a stretch of white-sand Yalong Bay, backed by green mountains. A vast lagoonlike pool fronts the sea, and the resort's 450 accommodations face the beach or the pool; in any case, you can pretty much roll out of bed and be in the swim. While the ersatz Chinese temple that makes up the central building borders on ostentation, the property's size has its advantages. In addition to extensive recreational facilities, there are no fewer than eight dining venues, including Cube, smack in the middle of the pool, and the theatrical Fresh 8, an all-day dining area perfect for families. Even the less expensive guest rooms are spacious and suitelike, with vast bathtubs. The downside? At the time of our visit, the "processing" of guests had not been perfected, with long waits at check-in.
When to go: November through early March, if you like it less hot and humid.
Which room to book: Some Lagoon rooms, like No. 3129, have French doors that open right onto the sand, while an Ocean View room is the best place to take in the South China Sea.