A barefoot-luxury resort on a jungle-fringed beach.

Family-friendly (no kids under 14 allowed).

On a wide stretch of white sand just outside the town of Playa del Carmen, the Viceroy Riviera Maya gives off a fun-in-the-jungle vibe. There are 41 private villas with traditional palapa-style roofs, heated plunge pools and outdoor rain showers; at 1,000 square feet and up, they're spacious and well appointed with Balinese-style furnishings. The feeling is couples-oriented and very laid-back, with beach barbecues, a spa with Mayan rituals and yoga classes. Keep in mind that the rain forest setting means that your fellow guests may include tropical birds, spider monkeys and yes, mosquitos (the resort provides bug spray).

You want laid-back luxury that's close to Playa but not in the thick of it.

When you discover that your room comes with a soap concierge, butler service, pillow menu and his-and-hers closets.

Coral Grill - Casual beachfront dining, fresh seafood, handmade pizza and regional Mexican cuisine

La Marea - Fine dining, seafood

Friday night beach BBQ

Coral Bar