Thompson Beach House, a Thompson Hotel

The Thompson group made a big splash when it entered the Playa del Carmen hotel scene, importing their particular brand of stylish luxury to a town that badly needed it. The first phase focused on their Quinta Avenida location, a couple of blocks inland from the beach, with its glamorous pool lounge and its quasi-urban style. But for a more barefoot, bohemian vibe, the Thompson Beach House is the place to be.

Like any Thompson hotel the look is heavily influenced by mid-century modernism, and the comforts are luxurious but not ostentatious. You’ll have at least a partial ocean view no matter where you are, as well as a private terrace, and the junior suites and suites add large soaking tubs to the already impressive bathrooms. More than pure square footage or thread count, it’s the sense of thoughtfulness that makes the accommodations so pleasing — the sense that every decision, no matter how small, has been carefully considered, right down to the snacks in the minibar.

C-Grill, the beachfront restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as tequilas, mezcals, cocktails, and craft beers. The location, obviously, offers all the expected aquatic attractions, including a variety of water sports and yoga on the beach. And the Thompson Playa del Carmen on Quinta Avenida is two blocks away, where you’ll have access a gorgeous pool and its accompanying poolside restaurant and bar.