Where to Stay in Cancun-The Best Luxury Hotels

Cancun isn't just for spring break partying. Fortunately, among its nearly two hundred hotels, there are several that are not only among the best luxury hotels in terms of beautiful surroundings and stellar service, but also offer a welcome, tranquil oasis from the more hectic areas of Cancun's main hotel zone. Some are all-inclusive, others are not, but even the all-inclusives we've chosen offer excellent dining at multiple restaurants. When to go? While Christmas and New Year's, as well as March Spring Break are favorite times, prices are also correspondingly higher. Try early December, late January through February and April for lower rates. Become a TravelSort client to book The Ritz-Carlton Cancun or Playa del Carmen resorts such as the Fairmont Mayakoba or Grand Velas Riviera Maya with Virtuoso or preferred partner benefits.

Here are our top picks, primarily with couples in mind, although most also welcome (well-behaved) children and families:

1. Le Blanc Spa Resort

If you enjoy adults-only all-inclusive luxury resorts, look no further than Le Blanc Spa Resort in Cancun. Not only do all rooms offer either lagoon or ocean views, they come with a double jacuzzi, perfect for soaking and enjoying those incredible views. You'll be in for some top-notch pampering, with an almost 1:1 staff to guest ratio, and all the superbly prepared French, Asian, International and of course Mexican cuisine is included in the price, as is brand name liquor and wine. All-inclusive prices typically start at $500/night.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Cancun

The Ritz-Carlton needs no introduction, with its legendary service ethic that is beautifully upheld at its Cancun property. Each guest room and suite enjoys its own private balcony, and the gorgeous beach is just steps away. Indulge in one of the romantic oceanfront cabanas, or even a spa massage in one of them. The resort is a bit more remote than some of the others. Even so, excellent restaurants are within a 10 minute drive, though of course cuisine at the hotel is impeccable, if a bit pricey. Families are also welcomed; the hotel offers a Kids' Club for children 4-12 at an additional fee.

3. La Amada Hotel

If Le Blanc's all-inclusive prices are a bit high for your budget, consider La Amada, another all-inclusive (exclusively so, starting January 2012). Located in Playa Mujeres, a seaside resort community just north of Cancun, you're once again in a peaceful oasis yet just minutes by car from Cancun shopping and nightlife, should you desire it. Even La Amada's smallest guest residences are Junior Suites, and very spacious ones-960 square feet, including their own private balcony. Ask for one on the 3rd or 4th floor for the best ocean views, or splash out on a casita with a private rooftop pool. Bathrooms are also a treat, with double showers and rainfall showerheads, plus 3 spa jets. And each Junior Suite comes with its own private jacuzzi with both indoor and outdoor access.

4. Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach

The Fiesta Americana Grand Coral Beach is one of the larger resorts, but still manages to provide warm and friendly service, complementing its beautiful beach (protected by a coral reef, hence the hotel's name) and pools, spacious rooms, and excellent dining, especially at La Joya, with its upscale Mexican specialties. Enjoy live jazz at the bar and whatever you do, don't miss the spa, which is an entire world unto itself: a variety of aquatherapy treatments, including three pools, rock water foot therapy, sauna, ice room and more.

5. Le Meridien Cancun Resort & Spa

Without a doubt, Le Meridien is one of the top luxury values in Cancun, given its stunning facilities and under $150/night price. Swim or relax beside three gorgeous infinity pools, enjoy a treatment in the excellent spa, and get restorative rest in the ultra comfortable pillowtop beds. The buffet breakfast is well worth it, even if not included in your rate, for its myriad international and Mexican specialties cooked to order.