Best hotel in the world for 2025 revealed by Tripadvisor — and it’s on the beach of a wild turtle sanctuary

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Tripadvisor just released its 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards, a list of the best hotels in the world that analyzes places with a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from their online community. Less than 1% of the platform’s 8 million entries earn the status.

Topping the list is the Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya in Akumal, Mexico, a luxurious, all-inclusive stay on the beach of a wild sea turtle sanctuary. In fact, its name means “place of the turtle.”

The location’s infinity pool, spa and restaurants were real standouts to guests who enjoy the “grand escape full of both relaxation and adventure” on the Caribbean Sea.

The hotel sits on the shores of the Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second-largest, home to several varieties of wild sea turtles.

“Wellness lovers will head for the fitness center, steam room, and spa, while adventurers gear up for diving and bicycle tours. Plus, the resort’s ideal location for snorkeling adds a bucket-list activity to your vacay,” Tripadvisor said.

It’s also a short trip away from the Mayan sites of Tulum and Coba.

And you won’t see any kiddos running around or splashing you in the pool: Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is an adults-only getaway that opened a decade ago and has become a favorite for couples looking to be pampered.

Each building has its own concierge who guarantees guests enjoy a seamless stay and can indulge in any way they want, whether it be a dinner table overlooking the sunset or a stocked mini-bar to enjoy the in-suite plunge pool.

Only one American location made the top 10 — the French Quarter Inn in Charleston, South Carolina, landing at No. 8.

It was lauded for its “nice mix of old-world charm and modern comfort,” as well as amenities including “cozy” furniture, Italian marble bathrooms, gas fireplaces and balconies.