I know some people say they appreciate having four seasons. I respectfully disagree. Even before that bomb cyclone hit most of the U.S., many of us were pretty much over winter. That’s why it’s good news that a slew of fabulous new beach resorts have recently opened or are counting the days until their grand unveiling. Here’s where to plan your next escape.
Mukan, Yucatán, Mexico
The people behind some of Mexico’s most luxurious small hotels, including Chablé, Ikal del Mar and Hotel Esencia, took over this rustic ecolodge in the Sian Ka’an biosphere south of Tulum a few months ago. (Weirdly, small resorts are allowed on this UNESCO reserve.) They’re about to unveil an upgrade that will make the experience match the setting—more than 200 meters of virtually deserted beachfront—while preserving the rustic beach bungalows and sand paths that make shoes unnecessary.
Six Senses Fiji
Opening in April, the latest from cult-fave Six Senses will have 24 spacious villas (starting at 1,200 square feet), each with a private pool, spread across 120 acres, plus private residences. Framed with massive prehistoric Baka trees and a long white beach, the resort will have three restaurants, an ice cream shop, a DIY pizzeria and Six Senses’ signature deep emphasis on wellness in the spa.
Pink Sands Club, Canouan Island, the Grenadines
Mandarin Oriental is in the midst of upgrading this classic resort, where the powdery sand really is a pinkish hue. So are the beach umbrellas and the cushions and other accents in the 26 suites and 14 villas, all of which face the sea. The island is surrounded by one of the largest living coral reefs in the Caribbean.
Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, Honolulu
This brand-new resort in the heart of Waikiki brags that it’s just 60 steps from its doors to the shore. It’s a result of a massive, $115 million redevelopment of the historic Pacific Beach Hotel, with 839 rooms and suites that pay homage to Queen Lili‛uokalani and Hawaii’s cultural heritage. The lobby is surrounded by a 280,000-gallon saltwater oceanarium that is home to more than 1,000 marine animals, and when the project is complete, it will have five new restaurants, including two from Iron Chef Masahara Morimoto.
El Careyes Club & Residences, Costa Alegre, Mexico
Long a secret retreat for the glamorous set—Patrick Demarchelier photographed Christie Brinkley in a pool, Bruce Weber shot the CK Obsession campaign, and Cindy Crawford posed nude for Herb Ritts here—this villa community south of Puerto Vallarta finally got an intimate hotel for those who aren’t traveling with their entourage. That doesn’t mean the 35 rooms are tiny—they range from studios to a four-bedroom penthouse. Guests have access to all that has made Careyes magical since its beginning in 1968, including 20,000 acres of nature reserve, a sociable international community, five alfresco restaurants, an art gallery, film and music festivals, and a number of polo tournaments.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Andaman Islands, India
This archipelago the Bay of Bengal is increasingly becoming a favorite of in-the-know travelers, but until now it’s been short on luxurious places to stay. That’s changing in March, with the opening of Taj’s newest resort, which has 75 villas designed in the low-rise style of traditional Jarawa huts.
The Shore Club, Turks & Caicos
Relaxation and adventure are the animating spirits at this resort on Long Bay Beach (a welcome alternative to the density of Grace Bay). Along with that bright turquoise sea, it has four swimming pools, three restaurants, an extensive spa and stunning ocean views at nearly every turn.
Four Seasons Desroches Island, the Seychelles
This virtually private island—only about 100 people live here outside the hotel—is home to secluded, secret beaches and some of the best game fishing in the world. Each of the 71 accommodations has a private pool and garden, plus easy beach access.
Montage Los Cabos, Mexico
Coming this spring, the Montage group’s first resort outside the U.S. will have walk-in access to the water in Santa Maria Bay—one of the few swimmable beaches in the region. The snorkeling and diving are also outstanding. The 122 guest rooms and resort-style furnished residences emphasize indoor-outdoor living, the better to take advantage of the warm desert breezes.
Looking for another winter escape: Consider Chablé in the Yucatan.
