Yes as it is on the far east end, a car is needed unless you don't plan on leaving the resort property. Taxi from the airport to the resort is $10 per person (assuming you have 2+ ppl) plus a couple bucks per bag, and again the 5-10pp each way as BosFlyer mentioned if you want to go out anyplace else.

If you want to stay on property for most of the time and only go out once, you could live with taxis. As mentioned Red Hook has a couple hood restaurants and good nightlife.

As for the property, it is very nice but personally I think its overpriced for the service and quality. I've had good experiences with the Marriott Frenchman's Reef which is at a more central location to other restaurants and if you want to go shopping downtown.