From the Greek Isles to Mexico’s Riviera Maya, discover coastal sanctuaries that invite deep rest, aquatic exploration, or a little of both.
There is a particular kind of calm that only the sea can invoke. The steady rhythm of the waves, the clarity of the light, the vastness of the horizon. A sense of natural ease, of grounding through connection to nature. But the finest beach retreats go beyond scenic locations. From cliffside villas in Corfu to the Cycladic light of Mykonos, and Mexico’s untamed coastline, these are destinations designed for immersive escape, where luxury is felt, not declared.
Deos Mykonos
Perched above Mykonos Town, Deos offers a rare balance: panoramic Aegean views and serene seclusion, yet is only moments from the island’s vibrant heart. Each of the 40 rooms and suites features a private pool or hot tub, along with expansive terraces that frame sweeping views of the sea or the town below. Interiors are quietly luxurious, with natural textures, hand-finished details and local materials – from Tinian marble to Cretan pottery – that ground the design in its Cycladic heritage.
At Epico, Executive Chef Ilias Maslaris has crafted a Mediterranean menu rooted in island flavours, showcasing local ingredients including herbs grown on the hotel’s rooftop. Wellness is central to the experience, with a tranquil spa, marble hammam, indoor pool, and daily sunrise yoga. For al fresco relaxation, enjoy exclusive access to the private beach of Agrari and snooze under azure skies to the sound of lapping waves.
Step outside the hotel for a range of thoughtfully curated experiences designed to deepen your connection to the island. Take advantage of the sea’s proximity with a guided yacht excursion to seek out the birthplace of Apollo, snorkel through crystalline waters or sip cocktails as the sun sets over the Aegean. For something a little more land-based, take in the sights from a different vantage point with slow exploration on horseback, or a guided photo tour through the island’s iconic white-washed streets.
Ultima Corfu
Poised above the Ionian Sea on Corfu’s northeast coast, Ultima Corfu is a private villa experience on a truly exceptional scale. With six sea-view suites and 1,000 square metres of living space, it offers the intimacy of a private residence with the amenities and service of a five-star hotel.
The villa’s architecture follows the contours of the hillside, cascading down towards the water through a series of terraces, pergolas, and dual infinity pools connected by a waterfall. Indoors, the atmosphere is elegantly understated – light-filled and contemporary, with Mediterranean accents throughout.
Enjoy exclusive use of a private spa and hammam, a fully equipped gym, and a cinema room. Morning yoga, personal training, and chef-led cooking experiences can all be arranged, while a glass-panelled lift delivers you directly to the private dock. Beyond the villa, enjoy a selection of curated experiences designed to fully explore the island’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Hotel Esencia
Set on a 50-acre estate between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, between jungle and sea, Hotel Esencia is where barefoot luxury effortlessly meets refined design. Originally the private home of an Italian duchess, it has been reimagined as a discreet hideaway with a strong sense of soul. The hotel’s 47 suites and 4 villas are surrounded by lush gardens and steps from Xpu-Ha, one of the last untouched beaches on the Riviera Maya known for its clear, calm waters and white sand. Interiors combine mid-century lines with artisanal Mexican touches, while suites and villas come with a range of glorious additions – from private plunge pools overlooking the jungle, to rooftop pools and terraces for relaxing in utmost seclusion.
Dining here is both a pleasure and a discovery. Mistura brings wood-fired Mediterranean flavours to the coast, Beefbar Esencia delivers a Riviera twist on a Monaco classic, and Taiyo offers omakase beneath the palms. The Esencia Spa, inspired by Mayan geometry and healing traditions, invites deep relaxation, with treatments held in open-air palapas or tucked into the trees.
A host of curated activities connect with the region’s natural and cultural wonders. Snorkelling alongside sea turtles and colourful fish in the nearby reef sanctuary, kayaking through mangroves in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and private tours of ancient Mayan ruins are just the beginning.
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