Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel

The grounds at Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel are truly one-of-a-kind. The property is spread out over several acres and includes pathways that look and feel like you're in the middle of a tropical jungle instead of on a luxury resort. Hidden pathways lead to a deep blue ceynote with a pier, small tributary, and clearings set with natural wooden furniture and sculptures. Golf carts ferry guests to and fro, or there are bikes to borrow -- which beats walking in the heat. The open-air lobby has a thatched roof supported by dramatic white columns and marble steps leading to the reception and concierge desks. There are clusters of stylish wicker furniture and two statues of ancient Mayan gods. A serene pool surrounded by thick green vegetation gives the lobby a zen-like atmosphere.This is an adults-only property so it's completely free of splashing and noise from little ones. Most of the couples who stay here are sophisticated, so it's not the party scene found at some resorts in nearby Cancun. However, the occasional on-site wedding can bring noise.

This hotel is located off the beaten path; it's not quite in Cancun or Playa del Carmen, but still on the beach. Expect a 35-minute drive to Cancun International Airport; shuttles can be arranged for a fee or there's free parking at the hotel for those who rent a car. There's nothing within walking distance, but many guests choose to stay at this all-inclusive because they want the convenience of not having to leave the property to enjoy various types of activity and cuisine.

There are 128 room options at Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel. Guests choose between luxe suites or casitas. The Beachfront Casitas are the most luxurious option, and the only rooms with ocean views. This option is spacious and styled with minimalist decor. Think: tile floors, white walls, white wicker headboards, natural wooden furniture, and white sofas in front of flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms go above and beyond with large dressing rooms including his-and-hers vanities with bowl sinks and Bulgari toiletries. Outside, each has a wooden patio with tables and chairs and a small plunge pool overlooking the ocean, plus soft sun loungers. Spacious Suites have the same decor but wood floors. You won't get beach views, but there are large outdoor tubs (some suites have private pools) and jungle or ceynote views. Past guests have complained that staff has to fill up the tubs, which kills any spontaneity. Trough sinks and step-in showers with rain heads make up the luxe bathrooms. All suites and casitas have minibars stocked daily with free beer, booze, bottled water, soda, and a few snacks. Wi-Fi is also free.

As this is an adults-only property on the beach, the features are designed for relaxation and sun. There are two outdoor pools facing the beach. The first is long and narrow, with a hot tub attached to the end furthest from the beach. Sexy white day beds topped with white pillows are lined up along this pool. The second pool is located just across a thin strip of grass from the first. This pool is rectangle shaped and larger, though not huge, with an infinity edge. White sun loungers and umbrellas flank it.The Spa by Blue Diamonds allows all guests to use the steam room, sauna, and outdoor and indoor swimming pools free of charge. The space is semi-outdoor, spotlessly clean, and sleekly designed with natural elements. A variety of specialty treatments, including couples' massages, are available for a fee. The fitness center is one of the best we've seen at an all-inclusive. It includes state-of-the-art Kinesis workout gear. Personal trainers are available for a fee. Yoga and pilates classes are also available.This property doesn't provide on-site entertainment like shows or karaoke, but that's part of the peaceful and intimate charm. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but it's supposedly spotty.

Food, booze, and snacks are all included at Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel, so you won't have any restrictions or hidden costs (except for room service and cigars, which do incur a fee). Further, there aren't any reservation requirements at the restaurants, which can be a problem at competing resorts. Ceviche, the semi-outdoor tapas bar overlooking the ocean, serves a continental breakfast, lunch, and snacks throughout the night. Aguamarina serves gourmet international cuisine in a contemporary dining room with panoramic ocean views, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Fusion cuisine for dinner at Ambar calls for a casual elegance dress code. A chef's table can be booked for groups up to 10. Oceanfront Pool Bar serves cocktails starting early and ending late. Rooftop Cigar Lounge serves international cigars (for purchase) and sophisticated cocktails with views of the ocean. Cafe Brulee is the spot for specialty coffees and teas in the morning.24-hour room service is available with a waiter's fee; the champagne breakfast is popular among honeymooners.

Guests at Blue Diamond Luxury Boutique Hotel have private access to the public beach. It's far enough away from Cancun that the area is pretty quiet and not overcrowded with partiers and aggressive vendors. The sand is powdery white and the blue water is clear and sparkling, with few waves and rough spots. A lifeguard is on hand and there's an attractive wooden pier where guests can lounge on cushioned chairs or jump into the ocean. Sun loungers are also set up on the beach. Towels and chairs are included with the room rate. Kayaks and paddle boards are available and it's easy to rent a jet ski or set up a snorkeling excursion via a private company that sets up shop on the beach.