110° Magazine’s Top Pick! #21

110° Magazine’s Top Pick! #21
Mahekal Beach Resort - Playa del Carmen, Mexico (Friend-Cations)

Nestled between the dense Riviera Maya jungle and Playa del Carmen’s longest stretch of beach lies Mahekal Beach Resort, elevators are not found on-property, and the buildings are not much taller than the palm trees surrounding them. Hand-laid, stone pathways lead to 196 private bungalows, steps from the sandy beach, complete with open-air terraces and crochet hammocks. This raw-luxe retreat offers the perfect mix of relaxation and fun, complete with four swimming pools, five restaurants and bars, and nearby adventures. www.mahekalbeachresort.com

If you’re a travel or “experience” junkie like me, you’re always dreaming of your next vacation. With wanderlust in mind, I have rounded up the hottest trip suggestions to consider for your future travels. I’ve categorized them to suit your travel preference, and researched a variety of options that include destinations from all over the world {for the adventurous traveler}, close to home {for the cautious traveler}, and all the way across the border {for those planning their great escape}.

From adults-only resorts for those quarantined at home with littles and romantic retreats for lovebirds forced to social distance from their sweetie, to family getaways that are much needed. For frontline workers missing quality family time and friend-cations for besties who want to kick Zoom to the curb, we’ve got you all covered.

1 Little Palm Island Resort & Spa - Little Torch Key, Fla.

The only private island resort in the U.S., 4-acre Little Palm Island is hidden discreetly off the fabled coastline of the Florida Keys. Open to guests 18 and older, and so remote it’s only accessible via boat or seaplane, it’s a best-kept secret among U.S. presidents and celebrities alike. The resort boasts 15 thatched-roof bungalows, a world-class spa with two-story atrium and the property’s signature ‘Dining Room’ restaurant, complete with sweeping views of the ocean. www.littlepalmisland.com

2 Coco Plum Island Resort - Dangriga, Belize

Home to lush jungles, secret waterfalls, and mystical Mayan ruins, the country of Belize offers utter seclusion and tranquil respite for moms and dads looking for a kid-free vacay. Here, parents can escape to Coco Plum Island Resort, a private island, adults-only resort (that’s all inclusive, too) and hosts no more than 42 guests at a time. With miles of uninterrupted seascape to peruse, settle into the mangrove-fringed nirvana via private oceanfront accommodations or swaying hammock; choosing to be as relaxed, or adventurous as you wish. www.travelbelize.org

3 Bungalows Key Largo - Key Largo, Fla.

The luxury, adults-only Bungalows Key Largo celebrated its grand opening Dec. 19, 2019, as the first and only all-inclusive resort in the Florida Keys. Steeped in timeless island elegance, the boutique, waterfront oasis features an intimate 21+ guest capacity and 135 private bungalows dotted across the property’s 12 acres, each boasting their own bougainvillea-laden veranda with an oversized soaking tub and outdoor garden shower. www.bungalowskeylargo.com

4 CHIC by Royalton - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Located along the shores of the Dominican Republic, CHIC by Royalton rewards couples with an adults-only, All-Exclusive™ vacation by capturing a lively poolside atmosphere, with 320 stylish suites, nightly themed parties, mermaids in the pool, foam parties, and live DJs. For an elevated experience, guests can upgrade to Diamond Club™ where they’ll enjoy luxuries, such as a private lounge with complimentary snacks and top-shelf beverages and enjoy indulgences such as personal butlers, a private pool and an exclusive beach area. www.chicresorts.com

Romantic Retreats

{for lovebirds who survived the stress of SIP and are ready to relax and renew}

5 Pelican Grand Beach Resort - Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Unlike its overly modernized, trendy and sometimes pretentious neighbors, Pelican Grand Beach Resort is Fort Lauderdale’s luxurious hideaway found off the beaten path. Perfect for lovers as it’s close enough to enjoy all South Florida has to offer, yet far enough away to quiet the sound. Couples can rekindle in the insanely gorgeous, 12th floor ‘Sky Suite’ penthouse — aptly named for its location at the top of the resort. www.pelicanbeach.com

6 Ka’ana Resort & Spa

San Ignacio Cayo District, Belize

Located on the doorstep of an ancient Mayan city, Ka’ana Resort & Spa is nestled deep in the tropical jungles of Belize, a Caribbean and Central American country, home to lush rainforests, secret waterfalls, and mystical Mayan ruins. Ka’ana (which means “Heavenly Place” in Mayan) combines luxury, intimacy and bespoke excursions to create the ultimate reconnect-worthy romantic oasis. With sumptuous villas and suites that harmoniously balance exotic textiles and outdoor living, lovebirds can experience the mystic energy of the Mayan jungle, holistic spa treatments and local, seasonal dishes grown from the organic garden on-property. www.travelbelize.org.

7 Mystique Blue - Isla Holbox, Mexico

Located just off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, this boutique resort offers a unique vacation experience in the natural paradise of Isla Holbox. Mystique Blue is the ideal getaway for couples looking to escape from the ordinary and relax with a calm ocean breeze unspoiled by the mass tourism of other popular Mexican destinations. With 38 suites, this resort offers couples an intimate retreat where they can enjoy upscale amenities and exciting excursions, including swimming with Whale Sharks. www.mystiqueresorts.com/resort/mystique-blue

8 Beaufort Hotel - Beaufort, N.C.

Setting the stage for an amorous getaway, Beaufort Hotel is nestled along the waterfront of “America’s No. 1 Small Town.” Maritime elegance and relaxed coastal North Carolina décor only complement room views of wild horses roaming freely just across the glassy waters of Taylor’s Creek. Historic walking and culinary bicycle tours inspired by Nicholas Sparks’ Beaufort-set books, “A Walk to Remember,” and “The Choice,” are popular with active couples. www.beauforthotelnc.com

9 Hotel Du Pont - Wilmington, Del.

Opened in 1913, this landmark hotel is dedicated to delivering timeless luxury with a modern and unique sensibility. The 12-story Italian Renaissance property exudes Gilded-Age grandeur and romance, from the lavish splendor of the ornate lobby to the shimmering majesty of the Gold Ballroom, the city’s most elegant, iconic hotel invites guests to get away, together. www.hoteldupont.com

10 Hotel Duval - Tallahassee, Fla.

Whether couples are downstairs, indulging at the mouthwatering steakhouse, or up at the expansive, rooftop cocktail lounge toasting champagne, Hotel Duval shines bright in downtown Tallahassee. Following its recent multi-million dollar renovation, luxe interior design and amenities set this historic, boutique hotel apart from the rest. www.visittallahassee.com

11 The Brazilian Court Hotel - Palm Beach, Fla.

Tucked away on a residential street in the heart of Palm Beach, the landmark Brazilian Court is seductively hidden amongst elegant mansions and curtains of cascading bougainvillea. Across the threshold, a lovebirds paradise awaits – a cloistered world unto itself with lush gardens, vibrant Mediterranean colors and an awe-inspiring tropical ambiance. Whether dining al fresco in the courtyard or relaxing at the pool under a canopy of palms in chaises lined in crisp white linen, the only interruption to be heard is the whispering of lush foliage and palm trees in the balmy Florida breeze. www.thebraziliancourt.com

Family Getaways

{frontline workers who have taken risks and worked around the clock}

12 Montage Palmetto Bluff - Bluffton, SC

Nestled in a lush, 20,000-acre coastal nature preserve between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, Montage Palmetto Bluff is the ultimate family getaway, charming multi-generational guests with ample outdoor and relaxing pursuits indigenous to the South Carolina coast. From sunrise kayaking and fishing along the May River, and biking through miles of lush maritime forests, to bowling at Boundary Bowl and Game Room, and indulging in luxe treatments at Spa Montage, Montage Palmetto Bluff has something for guests of every age! With ample accommodations ranging from inn rooms, guest houses, village homes, cottages and residences, every family has the perfect home-away-from-home. www.montagehotels.com/palmettobluff

13 The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark - Monticello, N.Y. The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark presents a modern-meets-mountain family adventure in the Catskills – including New York’s biggest indoor waterpark heated to 84 degrees year-round, with more than 10 slides and water adventures boasting daring drops and gnarly waves, a not-so-lazy river and indoor-outdoor pools. All-suite accommodations welcome families of all sizes, along with seven restaurants and bars, hiking trails, free daily activities and an indoor entertainment center (ropes course, rock climbing, arcade, mini bowling, laser tag and virtual reality). www.thekartrite.com

14 Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo - River Ranch, Fla.

Tucked away on some of Florida’s last untouched land next to the Kissimmee River lies Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo — a secluded Florida dude ranch where the stars shine fiercely every night — offering guests the unique experience of glamping in Luxe Teepees. In addition to its legendary Saturday night rodeo, River Ranch offers families horseback riding, airboat and swamp buggy rides, pontoon boat rentals, archery, trap & skeet shooting, and much more. www.westgateranch.com

15 Grand Memories Splash - Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Grand Memories Splash is the ideal destination for families looking to get away after quarantine. Located just steps from Bavaro Beach and set in a tropical paradise, Grand Memories Splash offers unparalleled service and contemporary accommodations. Grand Memories Splash’s onsite waterpark allows families to spend days racing down monster slides, frolicking in the wave pool and playing in the splash pad. With the supervised Kid’s Adventure program and upscale teen lounges, parents can relax knowing their young ones are creating memories that will last a lifetime. www.memoriesresorts.com/resort/grand-memories-splash

16 Ocean Key Resort & Spa - Key West, Fla.

Situated between Key West Harbor and Mallory Square, where historic Duval Street begins the old town experience, Ocean Key Resort & Spa – a luxurious oceanfront property located in the heart of Key West – invites old friends and new to reconnect with a lively, unforgettable escape to America’s Southernmost paradise. Overlooking the pristine waters where the Gulf of Mexico meets the Atlantic Ocean, the resort charms guests with 100 deluxe rooms and suites, full-service spa, live music and libations at Sunset Pier, and waterfront dining at Hot Tin Roof. www.oceankey.com

17 Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino - Las Vegas, Nev.

Westgate Las Vegas is the ultimate way to reconnect with your best gals and guys with 12 restaurants on-property, massive pool deck, and a cocktail available around every corner. Home to the world’s largest sportsbook, 15,000-square-foot hotel suites and the legendary Barry Manilow, friends can swap quarantine stories and toast to the good life. www.westgatevegas.com

18 Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica - Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Located at the base of Peninsula Papagayo in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, Planet Hollywood Beach Resort provides an upscale all-inclusive getaway, surrounded by beautiful beaches, lush jungles and only-here experiences to explore. With signature brand offerings, such as curated Costa Rican excursions, PH Spa and authentic Hollywood memorabilia, plus on-site activities like margarita making workshops and silent disco parties, Planet Hollywood Costa Rica sets the stage for the ultimate “friend-cation,” delivering besties an exotic beachfront setting, perfect for catching up and having fun. www.planethollywoodhotels.com

19 Margaritaville Beach Resort - Nassau, Bahamas

Opening in summer 2020, this resort will feature endless entertainment — an aquatic fun-zone and Fins Up! Water Park featuring slides, lazy river, climbing wall and grotto, a FlowRider® surf machine, high-tech entertainment center with virtual reality simulators, bowling, and a movie theater, a full-service marina and boardwalk plus 11 signature food & beverage concepts. All within walking distance to historic downtown Nassau. www.margaritavillebeachresortnassau.com

20 Streamsong Resort - Bowling Green, Fla.

Nestled amid 16,000 acres of stunning naturescapes and seclusion, Streamsong Resort presents an unexpected luxury escape in an inspired setting. Built as a reclamation project on former mining land, a unique topography of sand, lakes, and dunes has yielded 54 holes of highly-acclaimed, links-style golf for the ultimate guys getaway. Outdoor pursuits continue with guided bass fishing, sporting clays, archery, and a lakeside infinity pool. Ultra-modern, lodge accommodations also feature a grotto-style spa, and five distinct restaurants and bars. www.streamsongresort.com

Photos Provided