Banyan Tree Mayakoba

This luxury beachfront hotel featuring Asian and Mayan-inspired decor is 12 km from the Riviera Art Gallery in downtown Playa del Carmen.

Sleek villas come with free Wi-Fi, flat-screens and iPod docks, plus private plunge pools and terrace/garden areas; some have spa treatment beds. There's 24-hour room service.

Dining options include an elegant Thai restaurant with a waterside terrace, a chic Italian eatery, and private dining on a romantic canal cruise. There's also a rooftop bar and an outdoor, poolside bar. Other amenities include a golf course, tennis courts, a spa and yoga, plus a gym and a kids' club. Parking and bike use are free.