Written by Heather Whipps

It's tough to choose the best beach in the Riviera Maya - that would be a bit like choosing a favorite child. But let's just say that the people (the RM's chicest locals) have spoken, and have decided that there are few in the region quite like Xpu-Ha, which is both stunningly gorgeous and offers just the right amount of distraction in the form of cool beach resto-bars serving the freshest ceviche, plus calm snorkeling just offshore.

Overlooking this scene from a private, 50-acre family jungle estate is Bel Ha, a four-bedroom beachfront oasis with full staff. Designed and built by one of Mexico's most renowned beach house architects, this amazing getaway for up to 8 guests is the perfect way to take advantage of everything this incredible area has to offer, while being pampered from morning to night surrounded by a thousand shades of tropical green.

One of two private outdoor palapas for guests - the other one is at the beach.

Sprawling across 9,000 square feet, this house is the perfect example of luxury without stuffiness. Everything at Bel-Ha was designed to be part of the natural environment surrounding it, which includes the soft sand, of course, but also thick jungle, manicured gardens, and even a natural cenote. Its minimalist design sourced mahogany and other woods from the tropical forests of the Yucatan and Chiapas, so nothing here feels out of place. The feeling of effortlessness is just a result of the designer's skill, however: Bel-Ha takes care of the little details, with all its spaces and features built very purposefully to keep guests happy, relaxed, and enjoying each other's company.

And they should be able to do that easily -- Bel-Ha offers no less than seven terraces, a fully equipped bar room, multiple lounges and two outdoor palapas. One of those is right out front on the beach, accessible via a short path through a garden of sea grapes.

Bel-Ha pays homage to Mexican design and building materials.

You might choose to spend your entire vacation fully relaxed and being pampered, without leaving Bel-Ha's grounds (we're including the beach here, naturally). For guests wanting to inject a bit more activity into their holiday, Bel-Ha is well-positioned to explore both the town of Playa del Carmen, with its amazing restaurants and bars, as well as the ruins and small-town vibe of Tulum. A bit further afield, the ruins of Coba and Chichen Itza, plus countless cenotes are yours to explore.