Hotel Azúcar

Named after the sugar cane grown in the region, the Hotel Azúcar has only 20 elegant thatched-roof palapas (each named after a Veracruz sugar mill), all with curved white walls, contemporary furnishings, and terraces overlooking the water. Locally made hammocks complete the oh-so-chilled-out picture.

Everyday, fishermen haul in their catch for your dining pleasure. Start your meal with an octopus cocktail, then savor grilled red snapper with a side of bananas and beans (and cold Mexican beer, of course.) If you want some action, the local town has various bars and lounges, but save energy for a day visit to Citlaltépetl Volcano, the country's highest peak.

However, you're at the Azúcar, so why not just relax? The cushy outdoor library is stocked with books, perfect for reclining by the pool or beach. End up at the Xochicalli Spa, where you can take advantage of local treatments, like a Temazcal-style steam bath with traditional Mexican purifying herbs.