Endless sun, tacos at every meal, jungles to explore, and mountains framing epic sunset views are just the beginning of Mexico’s endless appeal—and we can never get enough. Looking for a little more privacy and exclusivity? Head off the beaten path a bit on your next trip and book an Airbnb rental.
Most on our list come with their own private pools and some even include private chefs, but all of them guarantee an amazing time. From Cancun to Puerto Vallarta, here are our picks on where to relax and recharge on your next Mexico escape.
Surfer Style—Sayulita
Surf chic located steps from the water, Casa Playa—a three-bedroom bungalow in Sayulita on Mexico’s Pacific Coast—is barefoot luxury at its finest. Accordion glass doors open to connect the bedrooms and living areas to the outdoors, ushering in the sounds and smell of the sea.
We especially love that this home offers room service from of the nearby Don Pedros Restaurant, which boasts a varied menu that includes a mix of flavor, including octopus carpaccio, spicy tuna sashimi tostadas, and Mexican pizza with chorizo, chiles, and black beans.
Castle on the Beach—Isla Mujeres
We love Casa Alkimia, a four-bedroom castle on Isla Mujeres, which is a 15-minute ferry ride from Cancun. The towering home has a Moroccan vibe, with bright white walls and lots of curves; inside, the style leans toward nature and neutrals, with basket lamps and raw wood railings. We’re especially taken with the rooftop lounge where you can take in 360-degree views while soaking in the private plunge pool.
Art Lover’s Dream—Puerto Vallarta
Mexican artist Sergio Bustamente created the paintings and sculptures in this three-bedroom sprawling retreat in Puerto Vallarta on the west coast. Book this home for the delights and surprises, including the palapa-covered outdoor living area, the wall of tiny sculptures catching dreams above one of the beds, and the balcony opening to a jungle of palm trees leading to the water.
Rooftop Pad—Tulum
It’s almost a shame that the interior of this Tulum gem is so lovely—including the raw-edge dining room table for eight in the open-floor plan modern main level—because you’ll likely spend most of your time on the rooftop hangout space. Surrounded by palm trees and rainforest, this space has a private, hidden gem feel.
Up on the roof level, there’s plenty of room to spread out on the day bed, outdoor dining table, and the pool. What’s more, the host works with a concierge team that includes a chef and driver for a truly five-star, pampered experience. Also of note: We like that this three-bedroom home is in a gated community.
Treehouse Charmer—Puerto Vallarta
Open-air living meets modern vibes in this Puerto Vallarta four-bedroom hideaway. While there aren’t ocean views, this home does boast a sweeping deck set higher up, making the whole place feel like a treehouse. Plus, that deck sports a pool and a collection of sun loungers with partial shade thanks to the gumbo limbo tree anchoring the space.
Inside, find pops of character and color, from the bright, bold paintings to the collection of carved wooden masks.
Big Group Luxury—Isla Mujeres
The six-bedroom Casa Isla Bajo villa on Isla Mujeres caters to groups—literally. The in-house chef reaches out weeks ahead of your stay to plan menus based on your preferences, whether those be for light fare like just-caught fish or Mexican comfort foods like enchiladas. With meals taken care of, guests have more time to enjoy the pool, set steps from the water; take a plunge with a margarita while enjoying sea views.
Open Air Relaxation—Zihuatanejo
We love how seamlessly the hacienda-style Villa Noche transitions to the outdoor living space—and right onto the beach. Part of the Las Palmas Luxury Villas boutique hotel, this villa has access to extra amenities, including several pools, a restaurant and a spread of lounge chairs and day beds on the sand.
Jungle Mansion—Cozumel
This 5-bedroom private villa gets rave reviews for its lush outdoor patio—with pool and Jacuzzi—where curling vines, palms and planters pack the space with tropical greenery. Inside, the vibe is boho-eclectic, mixing Frida Kahlo murals with street signs, candelabras, chandeliers, oversize paintings and more for a collected, maximalist feel.
Modern and Simple—Todos Santos
A departure from most beach homes, this modern, concrete two-bedroom space boasts a clean, minimalist design, lots of light, and thoughtful touches. It’s set in the town of Todos Santos on the Baja Peninsula, located about an hour north of Cabo San Lucas with a beach popular as much for surfing as it is sea turtle nests.
