I am trying to find the name of a book written in the 1960's by a writer of some acclaim about a New York publicist who decides to buy a Caribbean resort/hotel while on vacation, and the misadventures that follow.

All I can think of is The Resort by Sol Stein (1980).

From Amazon:

Cliffhaven—Magnificent new resort near Big Sur. Surrounded by redwoods. Guarded by Oceanside cliffs. Protected from prying eyes. By reservation only.

Cliffhaven—Founded by a man with very special interests, catering to a very special clientele.

Margaret and Henry Brown, vacationing New Yorkers innocently driving down the sea-washed coast of California, are just the right sort of people.

Cliffhaven—It has a spectacular entrance, a three-star restaurant, lavish accommodations—and no exit!

“This novel should do for California vacation retreats what jaws did for swimming in the Atlantic.”—Los Angeles Times Book Review

“A thrilling nightmare…A Dante's Inferno…more than fulfills the remark “I read it all in one nail-biting session.”—Eli Wallach

“Not only a thriller…a parable and a warning to all who say 'It can't happen here.'”—Jewish Post and Opinion

Unfortunately the setting and the tone of the book seem wrong. Mine was a Caribbean hotel, and it is a farce.

Thanks though.

Unfortunately the setting and the tone of the book seem wrong. Mine was a Caribbean hotel, and it is a farce.

Thanks though.
I suggest you call or visit your public library and find the reader's advisory librarian. There are several different ways to find out the title and author. I'm at home right now and don't have access to those resources. (WG, librarian)