Hyatt Zilara Cancun

Hyatt Zilara Cancun is the adults-only sibling of Hyatt Ziva, set on the Punta Cancun peninsula at the bend of the Hotel Zone. It offers the same enviable position, with Caribbean water on several sides, and a grown-up version of the all-inclusive: restaurants for couples and friend groups, bars with a good cocktail list, pools with swim-up access and an easy social atmosphere. Rooms are bright and comfortable, many with balconies, and some categories open directly onto the pool. Because the resort is adults-only, the pace is relaxed during the day and a little livelier at night.

The setting is the biggest draw. Punta Cancun is the one place on the strip where you can find calm snorkeling water in a cove, an open surf beach and a lagoon view within a few minutes of each other. The beach here is popular, the sunsets over the lagoon are good, and the combination of water types means you can choose the conditions that suit the day.

The ferry terminals for Isla Mujeres, the shopping and dining areas and the best-known clubs are all close, making Zilara an excellent base for couples and friends who plan to go out as well as relax.

The all-inclusive programme is designed for adults. Expect a choice of buffet and a la carte restaurants, a selection of bars including a swim-up option, and entertainment that leans toward music and evening shows rather than children's games. A spa offers treatments and a quiet retreat, and a gym is available for early-morning workouts. Dress codes for the specialty restaurants are smart-casual, and reservations are worth making on your first day. Rooms that open to a pool or have a private plunge pool are in demand in high season, so book early if that matters.

Compare it with the neighbouring Hyatt Ziva, which is aimed at families, and with the Hotel Zone's other adults-only options such as Live Aqua and Secrets The Vine. Zilara sits in the middle: lively, social and well located, with a polished brand standard. The airport is about half an hour away in normal traffic, and the tour desk can arrange excursions to Chichen Itza, Tulum, Isla Mujeres and the reefs.

It suits couples, friend groups and celebration trips. Light sleepers should ask for a room away from the main pool and evening entertainment, and anyone arriving late should confirm check-in arrangements in advance, and everyone should check the beach flags before swimming, since waves vary by season. Booking early for winter and holiday weeks improves your choice of room category and view.