Tago Tulum

Tulum, like many destinations before it, has rapidly evolved from undiscovered paradise to hotel hotspot. The best hotels, naturally, are the ones that recapture some of that ends-of-the-earth feeling, and Tago Tulum, with its close-set suites surrounded by wild greenery and its splendid little stretch of white-sand beach, combines modest size and thoughtful luxuries to create a cloistered, serene little world in the heart of one of Mexico’s most famous places.

The Ocean Front suites, naturally, are the most prized, with views of the Caribbean from the foot of the king-sized canopy bed. But the Ocean View and Jungle View options are equally attractive and equally luxe — and in all cases the interiors are a handsome mix of hand-crafted elements and contemporary design.

By day the beach club is pure serenity, with its lounge chairs, hammocks, and cabanas, and by night it supplements the social scene with the occasional DJ night and cocktails by the hotel’s mixologists. Mexican and Italian flavors meet at Tago Restaurant, and Barra Ginza dives into Japanese fare made from local seafood and produce. And there’s plenty to do off-site as well, from nature excursions and aquatic explorations to tours of the ancient Mayan ruins.