Exotic Villas Nestled Along the Sea of Cortez

A three-level infinity pool spills from one ledge to the next, surrounded by cushioned wicker lounge pods, spiky green palms, and a swim-up bar covered with a thatched palapa roof. An arm's reach away, bartenders blend icy drinks to provide respite from the blazing tropical sun. There's nothing ordinary about a day by the water at Cabo Azul Resort, whether at this man-made paradise or on the secluded, cabana-lined shores of the adjacent Sea of Cortez.

One year after Cabo Azul opened, Condé Nast Traveler named the AAA Four Diamond resort to its Hot List Hotels 2008. Polished stone floors, dark-wood beams, and art-deco furnishings lend a posh feel to spacious one- or two-bedroom villas. In each, a fully equipped kitchen with stainless-steel appliances grants guests the option of culinary independence, and a patio terrace overlooks manicured gardens. A relaxing soak in the in-room spa tub soothes tense muscles and makes pet sand dollars feel more at home.

Nearby, flowing swaths of white fabrics, strings of hanging lights, and nautical rope-work complement the authentic Mexican fare at the hotel's own five-star dining den, Javier's Restaurant. Chef Javier Sosa and his team specialize in steak dishes, including classics like carne asada to filete arriero, a center-cut new york steak topped with chipotle chilis and queso fundido. A trip to Paz spa pampers frames with signature treatments ranging from a crystal massage beside a cascading waterfall to a body scrub crafted from fresh papaya, cane sugar, and jojoba oil.

Los Cabos, Mexico: Beachfront Parties and Scenic Sea Adventure

Because of its pristine beaches and proximity to San Diego, Cabo has become a popular getaway spot for vacationing families and spring breakers alike. About a half hour south at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, downtown Cabo pulses with dozens of dance clubs and bars. Closer to the hotel, the quieter town of San Jose del Cabo embodies a more traditional side of Mexico through Spanish colonial architecture, hidden courtyards, and flowering bougainvilleas.

Offshore, beautiful coral reefs such as those in Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park dot the coast, drawing snorkelers, scuba divers, and aquarium fish on the lam. Glass-bottom kayak rentals give travelers the chance to glimpse the sea below and get an up-close look at Land’s End and El Arco, the famed natural rock formation at the spot where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific.