Hotel B Cozumel

Formerly the budget-friendly Hotel Fontan, the B Cozumel is now one of the chicest boutiques on the island, featuring an almost South Beach vibe -- minus the crowds and the attitude. Everything here is laid-back and trendy, and relaxing amenities include a whirlpool built on the natural bay rocks, a small spa, and a beautiful beach with cabana beds.

All rooms have been individually decorated with unique crafts made by Mexican artisans as well as traditional patterns and fabrics from different regions in Mexico. This is part of an outstanding effort by the hotel to help domestic craftspeople; there is even a workshop space on the property where guests can learn to make various Mexican crafts from local guest artisans. Everything in the hotel can be purchased, including the bed throws, decor pieces in rooms, and other items made exclusively for the hotel and displayed in the lobby.

Rooms are fairly spacious and have bright accent walls (though sparse wall decor). They all feature flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers with free coffee, small sitting areas, and floor-to-ceiling sliding windows that open onto a furnished balcony or terrace. All but four rooms have ocean views. Bathrooms are simple but clean, and have large walk-in showers, organic toiletries, and a vanity area with lots of counter space.

For a 44-room hotel, the list of features is quite impressive, and includes a PADI-certified diving hut, a one-room spa, and yoga classes several times a week. For those who prefer a higher impact workout, the hotel also offers boxing classes on the deck overlooking the sea, as well as free loaner bikes. The gorgeous infinity pool takes center stage during the day, with lounge music and bar service. It’s not big enough for laps due to its two-tiered design, but the ocean views are excellent. The whirlpool -- built on the natural rocks that shape the bay -- is a favorite at sunset.

The hotel is built on a small natural bay with great snorkeling, and though the beach is man-made, it has fine white sand, bright umbrellas, and wooden cabana beds that do not require reservations or extra fees. A few steps help guests get in and out of the turquoise Caribbean waters.

Restaurants and bars in San Miguel are just a quick drive away, and the on-site dining option, Costenito, is a solid restaurant with retro-beach style serving Mexican fare and a wonderful selection of ceviches. Breakfast, included in the standard rate, is served here. Bar Bacan is a casual poolside spot with great mojitos.

Hotel B Cozumel is located on San Miguel’s main drag, Rafael E. Melgar, within a short drive of stores, restaurants, and bars. It is also on the coast, so it has the advantages of both worlds -- it's right on the beach, but not isolated from the action.

Cozumel is Mexico’s largest inhabited island and a snorkeling lovers’ paradise. There aren’t as many cultural or historic attractions as in Riviera Maya, but there are a few minor Maya ruins worth checking out. Cozumel's main source of income and tourism comes from the dozens of cruise ships that dock here daily year-round. There are a few upscale stores on Rafael Melgar -- San Miguel’s main drag -- and dozens of varied international restaurants, but most tourists come to Cozumel for its world-class snorkeling and unspoiled eastern beaches. There are wonderful half and full day trips to gorgeous snorkeling spots, and there are many water sports available at any of the beach clubs found along Rafael Melgar.

• 4-minute drive to Cozumel International Airport
• 20-minute walk to the ferry terminal to Playa del Carmen
• 8-minute drive to the Museum of the Island of Cozumel
• 14-minute drive to the cruise ship terminal
• 24-minute drive to the eastern beaches
• 29-minute drive to San Gervasio Maya Ruins
• 33-minute drive to El Cedral Maya ruins
• 55-minute drive to Celarain Lighthouse, boasting impressive views