We tend to stay away from the resorts, except for the occasional foray to Hedonism, or similar "Lifestyles" place.
We prefer the "Real Caribbean", stuff away from the mainstream, and a bit harder to get to.
A great little place is the island of Mayreau in the Grenadines. 300 people, and no power except for personal generators. There is one small and very exclusive resort on the island, and a few small guest-houses. We only go there sailing, but we stay at anchor for a few days as it is one of the best and most beautiful anchorages I have ever seen.
They have 5 vehicles on the island, and one road. In the evening when get "Robert Righteous" on the radio, and he sends his brother-in-law down to pick us up in his pick-up truck (really classy). We then head up to Righteous' bar, "Robert Righteous and de Youth" for 50 cent drinks, and all the partying you can handle! It's one of those places where the locals will buy you drinks.
The place we like to go now when we aren't sailing is Cane Garden Bay in Tortola, BVIs. We stay in a small beach-front hotel for $40.00 a night. You walk out right onto the beach. Lots of great, and cheap, restaurants around, and great night life. We've made friends on Tortola, so half our time is spent having dinner at different people's homes. Love that place.
I really doubt I would do another large hotel or resort ever again (other than "swinger" stuff). There is just so much to see and do in the smaller, less traveled islands. And it ends up a lot cheaper too! When you get away from the tourist stuff, prices drop dramatically. Full dinner for less than $5.00 USD, drinks averaging 50 cents, it's great!
