*Note: This property is now Grand Lucayan Bahamas

Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort

Casual Caribbean Living at Our Lucaya

Hurricanes are no match for the Starwood hotel group. In this season's battle for the Caribbean, the Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort came out a winner. Having successfully battened down its hatches, it continues to be the place to go for a leisurely Caribbean vacation.

This laidback lodging shares the 372-acre Our Lucaya resort complex with its sister property. But while the Radisson is slightly more sophisticated (couples gravitate to it), this hotel remains wonderfully casual. The decor in its 477 guestrooms and suites ranges from warm and cozy to airier and sun-kissed, with blonde woods and tropical blue fabrics. All, of course, feature Sheraton Sweet Sleeper beds.

The resort attracts all types of travelers, with the Sheraton usually accommodating families. There's plenty for kids to do, beginning with acres of sandy beaches. A 60-foot high stone tower waterslide is the centerpiece at the Sugar Mill Pool. And Camp Lucaya is more than just a holiday babysitting service. This thoughtfully designed kids' club entertains little ones with arts and crafts, Bahamian poetry and folklore, theme parties and beach Olympics.

Catering to the younger set is only one of the things this resort does well, though. Adults will be more than satisfied with the distractions provided just for them. The two championship courses are sure to please golfers. Designed by Dick Wilson, the Lucayan Course was built in 1962; its tropical foliage adds to the challenge. The newer Robert Trent Jones, Jr.-designed Reef Course opened in 2000. Among its highlights are wider fairways and water features on 13 of the 18 holes. If you need practice teeing off or some advice on your swing, the Butch Harmon Golf School has both indoor and outdoor facilities.

Another adult indulgence is Senses Spa. Treatments incorporate ingredients indigenous to the island. For example: Bahamian Wrapsody (we love that name), in which you're exfoliated with freshly squeezed limes, then enveloped in a rum, aloe and island spice body wrap. Therapies take playful advantage of the spa's name. Among the massages are those that ensure a sense of peace, relief or joy. Then there is the Total Senses Massage, featuring two therapists.

Gambling in the Vegas-style casino, playing beach volleyball, kayaking, hitting the outdoor tennis courts, wind surfing, snorkeling, aerobics — there's no end to the ways for working up your appetite. It's a good thing dining is given such high priority. When it comes to food, the choices are seemingly endless. If you're craving steak or seafood, head for Churchill's Chop House. And if you're in the mood for Pacific Rim flavors, pull up a table at China Beach. Iries serves Caribbean fare, and Portobellos offers Italian cuisine, which can be enjoyed al fresco beneath a pretty stone arch with views of the sea. As for java, cocktails and cigars, you're also set.

Those looking for a casual, beachfront escape will find just what the doctor ordered at the Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort.

Sheraton Grand Bahama Island Our Lucaya Resort Royal Palm Wy. Grand Bahama Island, Bahamas 242-373-1444 www.starwoodhotels.com