Getaways

For a sophisticated getaway, Antigua, the largest of the Leeward Islands in the eastern Caribbean, has it all. You'll find lush rain forests and verdant hills, jagged coastline with private coves and small harbors, and hundreds of white-sand beaches-one for every day of the year, tourism officials claim. So make like Christopher Columbus, who named the island in 1493, and discover.

SEE: Pass up the beach for a day to explore Antigua's heritage. The Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, set in a centuries-old courthouse in the capital city of St. John's, explores the island's history, including its geological origins and slavery past. Nelson's Dockyard is the only 18th century naval facility in the world still operating, and there are a number of restored and ruined forts to explore. The adventurous can take a rain forest safari, complete with zip line and a parachute drop.

STAY: Celeb haunt Carlisle Bay (www.carlisle-bay.com) features 82 contemporary ocean-facing suites, deluxe amenities, a quiet beach and a hip Zen vibe. Family-owned favorite Curtain Bluff (www.curtainbluff.com) is an elegant, all-inclusive resort with two beaches, 72 guest rooms and suites and a luxury spa that opened in April.

DINE: For inventive Asian cuisine in a dramatic setting, East at Carlisle Bay is a gourmet must-visit. In St. John's, eat the best island cuisine, sip tropical cocktails and hang with the locals at Hemingway's Caribbean Cafe. Roti King dishes up the best West Indian "Indian" food on the island, and lovers of elegant French cuisine shouldn't miss Chef Patrick Gauducheau's celebrated Le Bistro.

SHOP: St. John's is shopping central for authentic Antiguan wares. Made in Antigua carries local art, jewelry and jams. The Museum's Gift Shop has unique gourd handbags, Caribbean spirit dolls and pottery, and at the Arts and Crafts Market, 27 Antiguan artisans sell everything from purses to fish-scale art (don't miss Cheryl's organic soaps).

INSIDER'S TIP: Harmony Hall (www.harmonyhall.com), an 1843 plantation house and sugar mill with glorious views of Nonsuch Bay, is a museum, cultural center and social stop all in one. Dine on the patio, have a drink in the converted lookout tower, and catch the work of top Caribbean artists and sculptors in the gallery.