4 Best Hotels in Punta Bete, The Riviera Maya

Punta Bete's most luxurious jungle-beach resort is romantic and exotic, with sumptuous palapa villas that have private plunge pools, "moon bath" showers in palm-shaded gardens, and every imaginable creature comfort—from silky-soft sheets on canopy-draped king beds to soap hand-cut by your butler. The resort makes the most of its setting, greeting you with a copal smoke blessing performed by a Maya shaman, but the winding paths through deep greenery and the appearance of the occasional monkey may not be for everyone. (There's bug spray at every corner, and you are advised to use it.) Junglephobes can stick to the pool, out of the woods and steps from the beach. Meals at the two restaurants are exceptionally fine, especially at the more formal La Marea.

Tranquility and seclusion are the name of the game in these adults-only, cozy bungalows located a stone's throw from the beach. Although small, each has a bath, a queen- or king-size bed, a hammock, and a terrace that leads to a garden; the three-person suite has an extra pullout bed and a kitchenette. Added creature comforts include hair dryers, TVs, Wi-Fi, refrigerators, and coffeemakers. Meals are served in an on-site restaurant, where the menu includes seafood, grilled dishes, and brick-oven pizzas. To cool off, there's a small swimming pool and the beach is just a two-minute walk away.

This all-inclusive resort offers Mexican luxury at its best with top-notch gastronomy, stylish rooms, a certified Blue Flag beach, an outstanding spa, and lots of activities for all ages. There are three different types of suites (Zen, Ambassador, Grand Class), but they're all large and have luxury amenities like an ample terrace and a plunge pool or whirlpool tub. The resort might be a bit pricey but it's definitely worth it. 

Named after the famous pirate, this warm and family-friendly resort has multiunit cabanas plus freestanding bungalows on the beach's north end that are more private and charming. The A-frame bungalows are actually more like mini log cabins with pine furnishings from Chiapas and small lofts accessible by a ladder; each sleeps five and has a porch that faces a sandy path leading to the beach. The older units, simply decorated in shades of blue and white, have balconies, and some are practically flush with the ocean. An on-site animal refuge and a games room with Ping-Pong and billiards appeal to children.