Esencia

The “essence” of Mexico’s Riviera Maya rests 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and takes the form of a beachfront boutique hotel on a quiet estate surrounded by palm trees, white sand, and azure waters. The 50-acre compound features white stucco haciendas with roofs covered in red Spanish tiles. The most luxurious choice is the two-story cottage with private pool and terrace, and the opportunity to hire an in-suite chef. The open-air restaurant features a palapa roof, poolside location, and Meso-American fare from chef Bernardo that include such dishes as lobster taquitos or tikin xic, a Yucatecan fish dish seasoned with achiote and orange.