Fodor's Expert Review Cabo Azul Resort

On the beach in San José del Cabo, this chic, whitewashed property is peaceful from the moment you walk through the 20-foot antique door to a waterfall wall and marble floors that lead to a breathtaking lobby centered by a circular rope structure that drops 1,200 feet from the ceiling. A staircase leads to the main focus, an open-air chapel overlooking the ocean, an obvious favorite for brides; at least two weddings take place here per week. Featuring five pools and three restaurants, this hotel-and-timeshare hybrid, has a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with spacious one- to three-bedroom villas and more than a dozen giant penthouses. The villas are more like sleek apartments with full kitchens, Jacuzzi tubs, and king beds with hypoallergenic sheets and intricately carved headboards. White-and-black decor, spacious balconies, pullout sofas, and top-of-the-line appliances are a nice touch. A salon, pool, fitness center, and full spa facility round out the perks.