Beachfront resorts too often take the form of all-inclusive cruise ships on land, with cookie-cutter tropical architecture. But just because travelers go coastal doesn't mean they have to sacrifice thoughtful design. Take Ayana, in Indonesia, which has an undulating infinity pool carved into the cliffside; Miami’s COMO Metropolitan enlisted designer Paola Navone to update its art deco edifice; and in remote Puerto Natales, the Singular Patagonia’s indoor-outdoor pool draws the eye toward the Chilean horizon. Click to see these and more of the world’s best-designed beachside hotels.