Abstract: This paper discusses evolution processes and rules of major resorts abroad and in China, and it points out that resort functions have been more and more diverse and activities developed have been changing Spa resorts have been developed ahead of other resorts and have been declining in some developed countries Resorts on beach and around city are major kinds of holiday-taking destinations today Skiing resort is a kind of winter holiday-taking place Golf course, football course, and other kinds of sport training centers have become important types of resorts New type resort operated all year round has appeared Resorts were developed in Europe first, then spreading to North America, South America, Africa, Oceania and Asia Royal and private summer places are taken as resorts and their development histories are studied in this article.

Key words: Evolution, Recreational functions, Resort, Tourism destination