Desire Pearl Riviera Maya Resort (Clothing optional, Couples Only)

The Desire Group's higher-tier property — clothing-optional, strict couples-only, and openly oriented around the lifestyle and uninhibited-couples market. 88 suites, smaller and more upscale than the Riviera Maya sister property, and a 94.3 score at $6,959 a week.

Honest about what it is: Desire Pearl is the more polished of the two Desire properties, with better food and a quieter atmosphere, but the brand's identity is the same — clothing-optional public spaces, themed programming, and a guest mix that's not subtle about what it's there for. Travelers should know the category before booking, not discover it.

What you're paying for: the cleaner and more luxurious of the two clothing-optional resorts in Mexico, at a price that prices into the broader Riviera Maya adults-only market rather than the niche. For couples in this segment who want the upgrade over the standard Desire, Pearl is the right call. For couples shopping a regular adults-only week, the Playa Mujeres or Maroma options are the alternative — the Desire properties are not interchangeable with mainstream adults-only resorts.