4 Best Hotels in Mayakoba, The Riviera Maya

From the moment you set foot on the palapa-roofed boat that brings you to your room's private dock, the Rosewood transports you to an exotic world—one where meandering trails lead through grounds featuring a labyrinthine network of lily-strewn lagoons. In keeping with the contemporary Mexican motif, villas are crafted from indigenous materials such as wood and limestone, and many are built on stilts over the water. Every romantic room has a garden shower, plunge pool, boat dock, and rooftop sundeck; all nine accommodation categories also include personal butler service. Its romantic atmosphere notwithstanding, the resort is welcoming to families.

Set under a mangrove canopy, this sprawling luxury resort sets new standards in the Riviera Maya for sustainability and comfort—not only is it recognized for its green practices and community involvement, but it also has biodegradable bath products, a recycling program, rooftops made from recycled tires, and bicycles stationed throughout the 240-acre property. Golf carts pass every five minutes, and wildlife boat tours are offered hourly. All three types of rooms were built within the existing habitat, including standard rooms in the main building, oceanfront suites, and casitas with lagoon or mangrove views. Guests have access to the Mayakoba golf course, tennis, and the spa with its own Melipona beehive for honey treatments.

At the most recent addition to Mayakoba's selection of superluxurious resorts, guest rooms are fresh, modern—with a palette inspired by the colors of the surrounding jungle—and loaded with a wide array of deluxe amenities. There are six gourmet à la carte restaurants, including a vegan bar and a stylish Mexican bar with live music. A great spa, kids club, two outdoor pools, world-class golf course, and canal boat rides, make for great complements of an all-around outstanding resort. 

This Thai chain has brought its own traditions to Mexico's Riviera with stunning results—in addition to vaulted ceilings, lounge areas, dining rooms, private gardens, and Talavera earthenware sinks, all rooms have outdoor bathtubs and private 376-foot swimming pools, a unique perk. Guests are always greeted with a bow from the attentive staff, most of whom come from Thailand. An on-site romance coordinator can organize sunset boat tours with a private chef. The spa here is considered one of the best in Mexico, with 16 spa pavilions and state-of-the-art hydrothermal facilities.