Far and Away

When employees have been very, very good, send them to one of these fabulous destination resorts.

Whether rewarding top sales performers or buttering up potential customers, the following destination resorts combine an arresting location, temperate weather, and a host of activities to fill any dance card. All have business facilities if work is a part of the trip; others offer child-friendly programs when the family is in tow. Luxury comes at a price, but may be worth the expense for the stars in your universe. Mark Silver, co-founder and partner of Factory Communications, an 11-person PR firm in New York City, routinely sends employees who reach quarterly goals on four-day trips. "It forces them to take a nicer vacation than they might otherwise," he says. "The perk motivates people and makes them stay. When you find package deals, it's also a savvy alternative to giving a cash bonus because it seems like you're giving more."

La Quinta Resort and Club

La Quinta, Calif.

Why: With the recent renovation of its 800 rooms, the oldest and one of the most famous hideaways in the Palm Springs area has been restored to its former 1926 glory. Set against the Santa Rosa mountains, the resort (and its 41 pools) promotes rest and relaxation. For doers, there are more than 90 holes of golf, tennis, and an outdoor spa; a Kids Camp keeps children four and over occupied with games and activities. (Doubles from $175; 800-598-3828; www.laquintaresort.com)

Explore: Head to funky Korakia hotel, a lovely Moroccan villa, for cocktails (www.korakia.com). Visit Joshua Tree National Park (www.nps.gov/jotr), about an hour's drive away, or the shops at Cabazon Outlets (www.cabazonoutlets.com).

When: High season runs from December to early May; rates dip significantly from June to September.

Ritz-Carlton South Beach

Miami

Why: With its wide beach, beautiful habitues, and festive atmosphere, South Beach is both a classy and casual destination. Housed in a Morris Lapidus art deco gem, the Ritz offers 74 poolside cabanas. Arrange for the hotel's official cars--a 1961 candy-apple-red Chevrolet or a 1957 Thunderbird convertible--to shuttle you about. (Doubles from $329; 800-241-3333; www.ritzcarlton.com)

Explore: Tucked away in a villa on a secluded street, Casa Tua (305-673-0973) serves simple, outstanding Italian cuisine in a sublimely romantic setting. If you love the nightlife and like to boogie (and don't have an early Monday morning flight) check out the Sunday night beach soirees at the Raleigh Hotel (1775 Collins).

When: November to March

Kiawah Island Golf Resort

Kiawah Island, S.C.

Why: Half an hour from Charleston, this 10-mile resort with five golf courses, 28 tennis courts, and three pools--not to mention one of the best beaches in the country--could double as a camp getaway for grownups. The resort also has a variety of activities for children and teens should you tote the family along. (Doubles from $199; 843-768-2121; www.kiawahresort.com)

Explore: History buffs might consider a walking tour that concentrates on the siege of historic Charleston ($15; www.civilwarcharleston.com). Indulge at the luxury spa at the just-opened the Sanctuary hotel (www.thesanctuary.com).

When: Even in winter months temperatures hover at 60 degrees on the coast. Summer brings temperatures up to 90, and vacationing families take over most of the island.

Westgate Park City Resort and Spa

Park City, Utah

Why: For winter sport fanatics, this resort with the Wasatch Mountains as a backdrop might just be the (lift) ticket, with access to 140 ski runs. (Villas from $199; 877-846-1043; www.wgparkcity.com) Come summer, outdoor options include golf, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Explore: There is a 30,000-square-foot spa on the premises, but the Nordic-inspired Stein Eriksen Lodge in town offers a menu of treatments exclusively for men (435-649-3700; www.steinlodge.com). For good eating, try Grappa (435-645-0636) or Riverhorse Cafe (435-649-3536).