• Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach (Cancún; www.fiestamericanagrand.com): This refined resort sits on one of Cancún's most alluring stretches of beach, although you'll be equally tempted by the spectacular multitiered pools surrounded by lush grounds. This all-suite resort attracts an international crowd and offers outstanding service.
  • JW Marriott (Cancún; www.jwmarriottcancun.com): This gorgeous resort affords elegance without pretense, combining classic and Caribbean styling with warm Mexican service. The inviting free-form infinity pool extends to the white-sand beach, and families feel just as comfortable here as romance-seeking couples. The hotel includes a spectacular 3,250-sq.-m (35,000-sq.-ft.) spa.
  • Presidente InterContinental Cozumel (Cozumel; www.intercontinentalcozumel.com): Surrounded by shady palms fronting the sea, this resort sits on the island's best beach, right in front of Paraíso Reef. The dive center here is excellent and the Maya-inspired service is warm and personalized. Beachfront "reef" rooms and suites occupy the resort's most exclusive section and include 24-hour butler service and hammocks.
  • Grand Velas (south of Puerto Morelos; www.rivieramaya.grandvelas.com): Put away your old notions of all-inclusive resorts as cheap and tacky. This new "one price for everything" wonder pampers guests with elegant, understated decor, award-winning gourmet restaurants, luxe suites with beachfront plunge pools, a spa that outshines most others . . . in short, just about every luxury accoutrement ever invented.
  • Hacienda Xcanatún (outskirts of Mérida; www.xcanatun.com): With its large, boldly designed suites built with extravagance in mind, acres of tropical gardens, private spa, excellent restaurant, and ample staff, this hotel masters the difficult trick of being compact in size but expansive in offerings.
  • Hacienda Puerta Campeche (Campeche; www.luxurycollection.com): Not a hacienda at all, really, this gorgeous hotel was created out of several adjoining colonial houses. This makes for a large property (especially for having only 15 rooms), with an open area in back featuring a pool and tropical gardens under ancient crumbling walls. From any vantage point the hotel is beautiful -- both in overall layout and design details. And the service is impeccable.
  • Parador San Juan de Dios (San Cristóbal; www.sanjuandios.com): Any luxury hotel in San Cristóbal must capture the atmosphere of this ancient town balanced between European and native worlds. Here it is presented with grace and beauty, a place where one can relax in the oversize colonial rooms or outside amid the extensive grounds.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.