Viceroy Riviera Maya, a Luxury Villa Resort

The name might be more familiar from places like Miami and Santa Monica, but the Viceroy Riviera Maya is proof that the Viceroy group is equally at home in less urban environs. Here, more than most beach hotels, the focus is less on the accommodations themselves than on the setting, a tiny enclave of tasteful, restrained development on a coast that, the rest of the way up and down, is pretty far from unspoiled.

The forty-one villas are set off the beach, hidden away within the woods, each one feeling quite private and secluded. Inside they’re minimalist, perfectly comfortable and stylish, with four-poster netted beds, marble-and-wood bathrooms, and Molton Brown products in the showers.

Hiding out, though, means missing out on what’s best about the Viceroy: the view from the beach is scenic, even if the coral reef means you’ll have to walk a bit to find a soft patch. Better still is the pool, complete with sea view; a fine view, attentive, first-rate service, and a restaurant and bar with a truly inspired selection of rare tequilas. There are no kids allowed here, so leave the family at home — there are any number of family- or singles-friendly hotels up and down the coast, but the Viceroy is best suited for couples who don’t mind being left alone together.

Please note: Viceroy Riviera Maya can only accommodate guests over the age of 16.

How to get there: Viceroy Riviera Maya is located 7 miles north of Playa Del Carmen and 40 miles south of Cancun. Private transportation is available to and from the Cancun International Airport. Airport transfers cost $200 + tax USD round trip from the airport.