Cabo, poolside.
Cabo Azul Resort & Spa

Every May, Conde Nast Traveler releases its Hot List, a collection of the best new hotels, spas, restaurants and nightspots. Check the Daily Traveler every day for a new post from this year's list.

This 332-room property just outside San Jose del Cabo somehow remains tasteful despite its large scale. The centerpiece is the vast courtyard with three massive pools (all kept at the temperature of a warm bath) that stretch down to the beach and are flanked by bamboo pods with mattresses big enough for two. The pool's proximity to the outdoor palapa-covered bar encourages guests to stay in the warm water, margaritas in hand, until well after dark. The large one- to three-bedroom villas mix Mexican touches such as dark-wood antiques and oversize lamps with amenities including flat-screen TVs, whirlpool baths, double sinks, and full kitchens--each room also comes with a sizable terrace. Other draws are the cushy spa and the romantic beachside restaurant, Javier's, with its gauzy curtains and simple but well-done local dishes. The resort's overall effect is a successful merging of form and function, and for now it remains a well-kept secret. One caveat: Watch out for the rather aggressive concierges who want to sell you everything from tours to time-shares before even showing you to your villa.

When to go: In January after the holiday/school break, to have the place almost to yourself.

Which room to book: Oceanview rooms, such as No. 2503, for an unobstructed Sea of Cortes vista.

Further reading:
* Cabo Azul Resort & Spa
* Hot List 2008