Maroma, between the jungle and the reef

Maroma sits on the Cancún–Tulum highway, about 30 minutes from Cancún airport. Its beach faces one of the largest coral reefs in the world, and behind it lie jungle gardens.

In 2023 interior designer Tara Bernerd redesigned the hotel with Mexican materials and textiles. The spaces follow a geometry inspired by the Maya master builders, and the rooms were made with local artisans. There are 19 rooms, 50 suites and 3 villas; the Signature Suites and Villas sleep up to 10 guests.

At the table, Casa Mayor cooks with local, seasonal produce, Woodend by Curtis Stone works over open fire, Bambuco is the cocktail bar and Freddy's Beach Bar sits right on the sand. Maroma Spa by Guerlain blends Maya traditions with native ingredients, and the hotel organizes outings to cenotes and reefs.

From here, Playa del Carmen is 20 minutes away, Tulum an hour and Chichén Itzá two and a half hours, should the trip include more than the hotel.