7. Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Situated about 30 miles southeast of Cancun International Airport on a secluded perch along Playa del Carmen, Mexico’s northern coast, the Asian-inspired Banyan Tree Mayakoba offers vacationers easy access to the Riviera Maya’s maze of mangrove forests, freshwater lagoons and, of course, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Apart from communing with nature, guests can unwind in their villas, which feature Mayan-inspired decor, floor-to-ceiling windows and private pools and sun decks. If you’re not one to stay cooped up, Banyan Tree Mayakoba also features a bevy of facilities, including The Shack Beach Club, pools and a spa that pampers with signature treatments like The Rainforest hydrothermal therapy session. The resort’s numerous dining facilities also earn praise, but for an unforgettable meal, book a seat aboard the romantic Ixchel dinner boat, which cruises through the scenic Mayakoba lagoon.
8. Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
One of the main selling points of this Auberge outpost is its location along one of the only swimmable beaches in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. When you’re not lounging along the resort’s half-mile stretch of sand, you can take advantage of its free water sports activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, or snorkel the reef – a favorite activity of past lodgers. Aside from the beach, the resort’s accommodations also earned high praise from guests, who applauded the rooms’ ample space (guest rooms start at 760 square feet) and private outdoor showers. Other in-room amenities include terraces, soaking tubs and garden or ocean views. Outside your digs, you’ll find a spa, a fitness center, a three-tiered infinity pool, an 18-hole golf course and kids and teens clubs, among other amenities. Plus, Chileno Bay Resort & Residences is home to a restaurant headed by chef Yvan Mutiara (who once worked at the lauded French Laundry), as well as a beachside taco bar and a courtyard coffee shop. Though reviewers were impressed with the staff’s attention to detail and the resort’s variety of amenities, they expressed disappointment with the limited dining options. Also keep in mind that a 15% nightly service charge applies to all rooms.