What it is

An exquisitely ornate 204-room family resort with eight restaurants and lounges, a pristine white sand beach, sprawling spa, and multiple palm tree-lined turquoise pools.

What it isn't

Just for grown-ups. Littles are wowed here, too, thanks to a kids club complete with a bouncy castle (ages 4-12), pint-sized bathrobes, children’s menus and more.

What we think

Where the mountains meet the sea, Ras Al Khaimah is a bit of an antidote to more urban Dubai: calmer and more relaxed. You’ll feel that sense of spa-like serenity when you first step foot in your room here, thanks to ocean-inspired color palettes of seaworthy turquoise, supple sands and cloud whites. Each and every guest room here is enormous, starting at a whopping 818 square feet for a King Premier Golf Course View Room. Whichever room you book you’ll be treated like a Sheikh, with luxe amenities from the rainfall shower in the marble-lined bathroom to the robes and slippers ideal for raiding the minibar. Bonus: Each and every room has a balcony.

You're here because

The myriad restaurants and dazzling pools mean you can soak up the sun without ever leaving the property (unless you want to, of course). Plus, the spa has ultra-pampering yet unexpected treatments like pearl facials and four hand massages.

The Moment

You feel as if you’ve time traveled to the Gilded Age at Peacock Alley, an expansive space with soaring carved ceilings, opulent chandeliers and a white grand piano twinkling. But the steak sandwich on sourdough with pesto and pumpkin slaw is riveting you in the present.

Restaurants & Bars

Le Diwan - Discover Arabian culture and cuisine at Le Diwan.

Marjan - Indulge in traditional Arabic specialties.

Qasr al Bahar - 'Cross borders' with your taste buds.

UMI - Sample delicacies from Japan.

17Squared - Molecular mixology and innovative technology offer a singular experience.

Al Fayrouz - Open-air restaurant and bar overlooks the infinity pool and beyond.

Lexington Grill - Savor steak and seafood at Lexington Grill.

Peacock Alley - A modern reflection of the first Peacock Alley.

Azure - Dine on casual Italian fare by the poolside at Azure.

Camelia - Meet friends and family at Camelia for lively conversation in the lounge.

Location

Fronting a soft sand perch on Al Hamra Beach, a 27 minute drive from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport.