This area, which runs along coastal Highway 400 from the Cancun airport south to the ancient ruins of Tulum, has frenetically exploded over the past ten years with hundreds of hotels and villas offering any style of accommodations you’d be searching for. There are intimate oceanfront boutique hotels, glitzy beach mega-resorts, remote jungle hideaways, and any type of all-inclusive you could imagine.

Relax on the beach, explore the ancient ruins, rejuvenate with Mayan spa treatments, snorkel or scuba at the world’s second largest barrier reef, party it up in Cancun, and enjoy some of the best guacamole you’d ever dip a chip into. Here are my favorite resorts:

Maroma Resort and Spa is the crème de la crème of the Riviera Maya. First-class accommodations, a gorgeous beach, an intimate feel, an award-winning spa, and fabulous service combine to make this not only the area’s finest, but also one of the best in the Caribbean—and good enough for Fergie and Josh Duhamel’s honeymoon. Robert Redford, Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, and Sean Penn are also frequent guests. Here it’s all about secluded barefoot luxury. Rates start at $395. 866-454- 9351; maromahotel.com.

You’ll feel like you’ve gotten lost in the jungle at The Tides—a five-star luxury jungle, that is. The sounds of the tropical forest create a true sense of serenity, just steps from the ocean. Hide out in one of the 30 jungle villas with your own private plunge pool and outdoor shower, or emerge from the forest paths to the beautiful seaside setting, complete with a white sand beach, pool, outdoor dining, and a view of Cozumel’s twinkling lights at night. Rates start at $585. 800-578-0281; tidesrivieramaya.com.

Ceiba Del Mar is a hidden gem, nestled just north of the still-authentic Mexican town of Puerto Morelos. With ocean views from every room, there’s truly not a bad spot in the resort. But if you want to splurge, the penthouse suites offer unbelievable panoramic views and first-class luxury. There’s also an aromatherapy spa, yoga on the pier, bikes to ride into town, and great food. Rates start at $324 per couple, including all meals, drinks, and snacks. 877-545-6221; ceibadelmar.com.