We tested the waters south of the border to find the best places to make a splash.
What are your ultimate must-haves for an unforgettable getaway? Do your honeymoon criteria include a luxe spa or the most authentic cuisine? Or are you more about the party scene? However you envision your tropical honeymoon in paradise, it’s sure to include a cool pool or two, those refreshing spots that are synonymous with the word “vacation.” And no matter your wish list, whether a picturesque infinity pool, a raucous swim-up bar or a chic rooftop location, we’ve rounded up the very best. Dive in!
Infinity Pools
Photo courtesy of One & Only Palmilla
One & Only Palmilla in Los Cabos
Known for its secluded sands, “floating beds” (overwater suspended loungers), oversize accommodations with authentic decor, and celebrity clientele, One & Only Palmilla is the epitome of a starry, luxury experience. at this Los Cabos retreat, three infinity-edge pools are staggered throughout the property. The main, adults-only vista pool is enhanced by complimentary foot massages, neck and leg pillows and chairside “Do not Disturb” signs. the pool itself is surrounded by local stones and rocks for a more natural setting. and thatch-roof palapas offer a million-dollar view of the Sea of Cortez (room rates start at $765 a night; oneandonlyresorts.com).
Viceroy Zihuatanejo in iXtapa
Paradise is found at Viceroy Zihuatanejo, a boutique, oceanfront resort in Mexico’s sleepy pacific coast region of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo. The rustic-luxe hideaway brims with traditional textiles, design patterns and tile work, and has loads of quiet spots for lounging. The main pool has an infinity edge that perfectly aligns with the pristine beach, making you feel as if you’re right on the shore. From this perch, you’ll get a sweeping view of the coastline complete with thatch-roof palapas and swaying palms. It’s also the best seat in the house for taking in the magic hour with a sundowner toast (room rates start at $342 a night); viceroyhotelsandresorts.com.
Matlali in Riviera Nayarit
Tucked deep within the lush tropical vegetation of Riviera Nayarit on the west coast, Matlali is an upscale hideaway with only 40 suites and villas. Thanks to such a limited number of accommodations, service is ultra-personalized, but the real perk is the hotel’s infinity pool, which is built into the hillside and flaunts uninterrupted views of the sublime coast. and don’t get us started on the stargazing from this vantage on a clear night — it’s the ultimate definition of romantic (room rates start at $220 a night; matlali.com)
Swim-Up Bars
Photo courtesy of Le Blanc Spa Resort
Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun
Le Blanc Spa Resort is often touted as the most romantic, adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Cancun and with good reason. Despite having 260 rooms, the property has a blissfully secluded vibe. Guests feel as if they are all alone thanks to the resort’s endless intimate spots sprinkled throughout, especially at the beach and three outdoor pools. two of the pools sport swim-up bars stocked with premium libations. And unlike other resorts in the area’s hotel zone, there are only a handful of submerged stools, which keeps the area quietly crowd-free (room rates start at $308 per person, per night and are all inclusive; leblancsparesort.com).
Nizuc Resort & Spa in Cancun
Cancun’s most prized resort opening in recent years, the 274-room Nizuc Resort & Spa boasts a private golden beach, myriad room categories (from villas to suites with private plunge pools) and six high-end restaurants. The resort’s spectacular infinity pool is large and refreshing and features a terrific swim-up bar serving frozen fruity treats, Mexican beers and craft cocktails. Sip your drink at the bar or on the edge of the infinity pool for some seriously impressive views of the sand and sky (room rates start at $345 a night; nizuc.com).
Las Ventanas al Paraíso, a Rosewood Resort in Los Cabos
All 71 suites at this elite resort enclave are tastefully appointed and many face the Sea of Cortez. The gorgeous property’s newer beachfront villas are epic and there’s an elevated level of service that effortlessly goes with the picturesque setting. Therefore, it’s not surprising to find A-list celebrities knocking back expertly crafted cocktails at the festive swim-up bar, a lively hub where guests are quick to greet and mingle over sips of hard-to-find specialty Mexican tequila (room rates start at $1,035 a night; rosewoodhotels.com).
Photo courtesy of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts
