Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas

"Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Saadiyat Island has become a cultural and architectural playground with the opening of the Jean Novel–designed Abu Dhabi outpost of The Louvre and plans for Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum. But it’s also a place to indulge in all-out luxury. The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi echoes the island's design-forward offerings. Its 306 sand-hued rooms incorporate nods to Islamic art (in the metal-trimmed headboards and lattice-accented bathroom doors) with modern amenities like Nespresso coffee makers, standalone tubs, and Le Labo bath products. An infinity pool lined with open-air cabanas looks out on the Arabian Sea, the beach sits on a protected strip of waterfront just a short walk away, and a lazy river winds its way around the palm tree–studded grounds like a desert mirage. After a day spent sinking putts on the greens at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, soothe sore limbs with a massage at Atarmia spa, then dine on international dishes that range from Italian to Middle Eastern at one of the resort’s three restaurants."

"Modish 306-room beach resort and spa on Saadiyat Island (future site of the Abu Dhabi Louvre). Modern Arabian, with scattered references to classical Islamic art and a white Cubist exterior. High-ceilinged rooms, all with balconies, feature Nespresso machines, freestanding bathtubs, and wave-shaped metal sculptures."

"Set the scene for us. Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas is a glorious beachside oasis just minutes from the city's culture precinct. The resort is one of the city's most popular, and it's immediately obvious why. Positioned within an elite cluster of big-name properties on the shores of Saadiyat Beach, Park Hyatt is just as stately outside as it is refined inside. Who stays here? You'll see plenty of European couples and families looking to make the most of the five miles of pristine beach. The property attracts day visitors, as well, who make use of the pool, spa, and seaside restaurants. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. Of the 306 rooms, suites and villas, we opted for a Sea View King room, comfortably sized with a private balcony that had views of the pool and the glistening Gulf, a king bed, a chaise-style sofa, and ample workspace. The open-plan marble bathroom featured Arabic-style sliding doors, dual vanities, a deep soaking tub and a rain shower. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention? The Le Labo toiletries give the luxurious bathroom a lift and the water views are some of the best in the capital. What do they have to eat here? There are three upscale restaurants and two more casual options; the Beach House is the best of them, thanks to its position (duh) on the beach. The Park Bar and Grill does steak and seafood. The Park Bar is a great choice for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap. The Cafe, the resort's Middle Eastern restaurant, offers a great Friday brunch and a generous breakfast other mornings. Meanwhile, for a leisurely coffee and a sweet treat, the Library offers a cozy space. Did the staff do you right? Anyone in particular stand out? On a recent visit, the food and beverage manager was friendly and attentive, ensuring that his guests were adequately cared for. And anything we missed? The beach club, pool, spa, and leisure facilities, including the gym, tennis courts, and direct access to the island's 18-hole golf course, are a big part of Park Hyatt's appeal. Another big attraction here: the Hawksbill turtles that nest on Saadiyat Island. The resort does its part to educate travelers about the creature, its habitat, and ongoing conservation efforts; an in-house marine biologist offers tours at specific times during the year. There's also a separate children's' pool and Camp Hyatt, where kids ages five and above can play in supervised surrounds for free from 9:30am to 6:30pm daily). Bottom line: Why are we staying here? Saadiyat Island is the "it" beachside destination for tourists; it's got it all: beach, sand, and surf (well, sort of). If you can afford it, this is the current hotel du jour." - Melinda Healy

"Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas is a glorious beachside oasis just minutes from the city's culture precinct. The resort is one of the city's most popular, and it's immediately obvious why. Positioned within an elite cluster of big-name properties on the shores of Saadiyat Beach, Park Hyatt is just as stately outside as it is refined inside. You'll see plenty of European couples and families looking to make the most of the five miles of pristine beach. But the property also has access to the island's 18-hole golf course and offers up some eco-tourism as well: The hawksbill turtles that nest on Saadiyat are another big draw." - Melinda Healy