Tulum is a place of myth and mystery, of Mayan temples, and majestic cliffs. Now, on its most exclusive and quiet southern end, comes Casa Malca. Set along a private beach, perhaps the widest of the endless white sand beaches in this corner of the Yucatan peninsula, the 71-room resort marries three spiritually inspiring elements — world-class contemporary art, nature, and laid-back luxury. The driving force behind the property, Lio Malca, is a lion in the art world, having launched retrospectives at New York's Whitney Museum and other top venues. For Casa Malca, which is by far the largest house on the Tulum beach, he brings artwork worthy of a museum. But Casa Malca is a work of art itself, set in a natural wonderland surrounded by a lush jungle and including three welcoming pools and locally influenced international cuisine. And to best showcase it, there is a staircase to the roof, which affords guests access to a bar, 360-degree views, and the best spot in Tulum to take in the sunset.