Mexico is one of the few countries to essentially remain open during the Coronavirus pandemic, quickly developing a framework to encourage safe tourism. This is a country with so much to offer! From the sun-soaked Pacific coasts of Cabo to the lush jungles of the Mayan Riviera, the cultural treasures in the highlands and the dynamic sprawl of Mexico City – it’s a nation that has it all.
We visited Mexico just this past November, and enjoyed an exceptionally safe and smooth journey! While there are more than just beaches to enjoy, Mexico’s coasts continue to be the main draw for visitors – and for good reason. Here are six of our favorite five-star beach resorts.
There aren’t many places we’d rather be!
Luxury Beach Resorts: Romance on the Riviera
When you think of a beach holiday in Mexico, the name Cancún likely comes to mind. Broad white beaches, cheap prices, and parties around every corner. Yet Cancún is merely the gateway to the incredible Riviera Maya region, along the eastern flank of the Yucatán Peninsula. Some of the nation’s finest luxury resorts dot the coastline, from which all sorts of adventures abound on land and sea. Jungles, temples, boat rides and beach clubs – what’s not to love?
No matter your travel goals, the Rosewood Mayakoba is an exceptional choice. Located less than an hour’s drive from the Cancún Airport, the Rosewood occupies a gorgeous swath of property which begins among winding lagoons and flows all the way down to the sparkling beachfront and the Caribbean Sea. Suites and villas of all descriptions are scattered throughout the resort, providing a perfect fit for honeymooners, large families, and everyone in between. Eight restaurants and bars offer every gastronomic sensation one could hope for! The list of experiences are endless, both on and off-property: marvel at ancient Mayan ruins, dive into a sacred cenote, then return to the resort for a curated “culinary road trip” with all the flavours of Mexico. This is a truly special property, a must for any Mexican holiday.
Rosewood Mayakoba is a tropical dream brought to life!
If you prefer to be closer to Cancún – but still want to feel secluded – the NIZUC Resort & Spa is the perfect selection. A mere ten-minute drive from the airport, the resort was named by Luxury Travel Advisor as “The Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World” in 2020. This aesthetic is on display at every turn; the stylish suites and expansive villas, the delectable dishes served overlooking the ocean, even the hand-rolled cigars prepared just for you. A visit to the Caribbean’s first ESPA-branded Spa is simply a must. Treatments combine modern products with time-honoured Mayan knowledge to rejuvenate mind, body, and soul. Traveling with your partner? A “Couple’s Ritual” takes place in the oceanfront Spa Villa, a full day of being pampered together. You’ll feel like a brand-new being!
Cuisine at NIZUC uses only the freshest seasonal ingredients to whet every appetite
Luxury Beach Resorts: Pacific Playtime
Mexico’s west coast hasn’t reached the same height of fame as its eastern flank, but for some, this is a blessing in disguise. There’s less competition for space, and more of the stunning environment to explore. Puerto Vallarta is the hub for many of the region’s best resorts, which typify the laid-back elegance of the Pacific coast.
The brand-new One&Only Mandarina is an instant contender for the region’s top property, and rivals any in Mexico for sheer quality. This is a true oasis for discerning guests; the label of “beachfront rainforest” has never been more appropriate. Accommodation is split between Treehouses and Villas, each with their own position and perks. No matter which you choose, you’ll be treated to lush greenery, private pools, and remarkable design which sees modern luxury wrought from natural elements. The villas seem to emerge from the jungle itself! The dining experience is just as exclusive: celebrity chef Enrique Olvera (whose Mexico City restaurant Pujol is hailed among the world’s best) leads the culinary team. A meal at cliffside Carao, overlooking the endless Pacific Ocean, is worth the price of admission alone.
The Treehouse you’ve always dreamed of having – jungle around and ocean below
Not far down the coast lies the resort enclave of Punta Mita, a private peninsula with resorts, residences, golf courses and more. The highlight here is The Four Season Resort Punta Mita. Perched on the edge of the ocean, this is the epitome of a bright sun-kissed coastal resort. A range of accommodations offer the perfect fit for every traveler, from an intimate Oceanfront Casita for two all the way up to five-bedroom Villas and Beach Houses. The latter are perfect for a family or a longer stay; with full kitchens, private pools, and exclusive weekly rates, it’s the perfect home away from home. When you do return, it’ll be with some unique souvenirs – such as a bottle of tequila you’ve blended yourself, with the help of local masters.
Oceanfront Casitas blend indoor and outdoor spaces to perfection
Luxury Beach Resorts: Coming to Cabo
Mexico’s geography is a bit unique when it comes to its coasts. It turns out that even when you’re on the Pacific, you can keep going west! That’s due to the Baja California Peninsula, which juts into the ocean just south of San Diego for over a thousand kilometres. At the very tip of this peninsula is Cabo San Lucas, known simply as “Cabo”. This is a much different Mexico, where jungles are replaced by sand and stone. Yet the level of luxury is just as distinct – and the parties are even better.
If you’re the type to be right in the middle of the action, the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is the place for you. The resort has a perfect location, a mere 10-minute drive through the Dos Mares tunnel that separates downtown from the ocean. This allows guests to enjoy the total privacy of a secluded beachfront property, with all the central fun only moments away. Carved into the cliff itself, all rooms in the resort offer private terraces and plunge pools from which to gaze upon the stunning ocean. Explore the marine bounty of the waters on a fishing or diving trip, then pop into town for Mexico’s best nightlife – this property ticks all the boxes.
Perfect privacy between the water and the cliffs – with downtown Cabo just minutes away
A little further down the coast, you’ll find the Montage Los Cabos. This is an exceptionally elegant resort, one for discerning travelers who really want to get away in style. At many Cabo resorts, the turbulent Pacific makes swimming a dicey proposition; not so at the Montage, which enjoys an exclusive position in a gentle bay. That means you can snorkel right from the beach, a huge perk particularly for families. Accommodations are expansive and designed with a smooth touch. Dining options reframe Mexico’s immense culinary history into sumptuous dishes, all enjoyed with the endless ocean backdrop. Tasting sessions of the finest tequila and agave are just the cherry on top!
With views like these, you might find it difficult to make it off the property!
The Luxury Travel Agency partners with all of the most exceptional properties in Mexico and around the world. At our Partner Hotels, we’ll provide you with the very lowest rates, alongside complimentary benefits such as room upgrades, daily breakfast, spa credits, VIP status, customized amenities, and so much more! In every instance, your safety and security comes first. Contact The Luxury Travel Agency today and lets plan that much-needed getaway!
Looking for more beach inspiration? Read our pieces on the best luxury beach resorts in the Maldives and the Seychelles!
