5 Best Hotels in Oaxaca, Mexico

The newest addition to the luxury hotel scene in Huatulco has an enviable location on photogenic Conejos Bay beyond the main Tangolunda hotel zone. Secrets has done away with pesky all-inclusive wristbands and doesn't require reservations at any of the nine restaurants, which, combined with 24-hour room service, an impressive spa, and spacious swimming pool zones, adds up to an especially relaxed feel. All suites in the six low-rise buildings offer ocean views, but the higher you go up the hillside, the more spectacular they become. Swim-out terraces and Jacuzzi decks are upgrades to consider.

Watch migrating humpback whales while you float in the infinity pool at this glamorous eco-hotel made of five thatched-roof bungalows. On a jungle-covered cliff between Mazunte and San Agustanillo, the rooms feel more tree house than hotel, but fortunately there's not too much stair climbing needed. Access to the honeymoon suite and its 360-degree ocean views is via a dramatic suspension bridge. Cabaña No. 5 offers sweeping ocean views from everywhere, including the shower. For the ultimate in escapism, order room service via the hotel's mobile app. An excellent breakfast is served in the sleek restaurant terrace overlooking the water.

There's plenty to keep families busy (and pampered) at this luxurious all-inclusive resort on a perfect stretch of beach. The rate includes a vast array of outdoor activities—a good deal if you want to do more than just work on your tan. The Explorer's Club entertains youngsters with supervised nature-based activities while grown-ups go snorkeling or relax in the soothing spa. Parents are supplied with pagers in case they need to be reached. The light-filled guest rooms have plenty of space in which to spread out. Request a room on a higher floor for the best views. À la carte dining at five restaurants (no reservations needed), an ever-evolving buffet, 24-hour room service, and a café for morning lattes set this all-inclusive apart from others in the area.

Grupo Habita, best known for its hip hotels in Mexico City, brings its edgy flair to this boutique hideaway that draws a jet-set crowd. In the desert on a stretch of undisturbed beach 30 minutes west of Puerto Escondido, the hotel's 16 thatched-roof cabanas are decked out with luxe comforts such as private plunge pools, handcrafted natural furnishings, portable Bose Bluetooth speakers, and minibars. The beach club's saltwater ribbon pool offers 360-degree views of sky, sea, and sand while an open-air restaurant showcases tropical fruits, fresh-caught seafood, and Oaxacan ingredients. The drink of choice is house mezcal served with chili salt and orange slices. When walking the beach, watch for Casa Wabi, an art gallery–studio designed by celebrated Japanese architect Tadao Ando for Mexican artist Bosco Sodhi.

This small hilltop resort, with its trademark double-dome design, takes luxury to glamorous heights. Each suite has white leather furniture, stained concrete floors, exquisite handwoven tapestries, a hot tub, and a terrace with an ocean view. Eight corner suites have plunge pools. Golf carts take you to and from the beach, which is a long walk from the hotel. On-site dining options are limited, but exceptional ocean views are a highlight at Las Cupulas, the hotel's fine-dining restaurant.