Where to stay in Tulum for a blissed-out, barefoot break

Caribbean Sea-facing favourites made for the modern bohemian

The once Mexican hotspot for party people, Tulum has settled into a more relaxed rhythm of late. A welcome wave of wellness brands, yoga retreats, and eco-conscious artisans have started to set up beach-shack-style shop on and around this idyllic eight-mile strip of sand on the Yucatán Peninsula, drawing a cool, creative, chakra-chanting crowd who start the day with sunrise meditation sessions, sugar cane smoothies and acai bowls. Read on for our top three toes-in-the-sand Tulum hotels, where you can laze in shore-side cabanas and fall asleep to the sound of the sea.

La Zebra…an exotic beach retreat all about ‘jungle chic’

Soft hammocks sway gently in the warm sea breeze. Plush day beds rest on creamy sand under thatched parasols. Tastefully tropical suites stand just steps away from private plunge pools and the impossibly blue Caribbean Sea. La Zebra is as easy-going as they come, whether you’d like to grab an over-sized cushion for casual dining on the beach, or end the day with a Yucatán sound healing session overlooking the jungle. There are plenty of immersive experiences on offer here, from Mezcal cocktail tasting and local cooking classes, to swimming in secret cenotes and guided nature walks with a biologist.

Mezzanine…Riviera Maya magic in just nine rustic rooms

A small and perfectly formed retreat set to a soundtrack of waves lapping the shore, Mezzanine is the ultimate get-away-from-it-all experience. With so few other guests you’ll be well cared for, and feel instantly at home – from the welcome margarita on arrival to a piping hot tea or coffee waiting outside your room each morning. Spend the day in a hammock beside the pool, or stroll along the beach for a dip in the warm waters. When you’re hungry, snack on zingy ceviche and quesadillas from the beach menu. Sink into handcrafted wooden furniture and king-sized beds cocooned in locally sourced fabrics for a perfect night’s sleep after snorkelling with sea turtles, shopping for dream-catchers, and stumbling across Mayan ruins.

Mi Amor…an adults-only hideaway with a romantic reputation

As its name suggests, Mi Amor speaks the language of love. Nestled on a small rocky outcrop where the sea kisses the shoreline, couples seeking a more intimate escape can enjoy plenty of privacy in the clifftop cabanas – a soul-stirring setting for a sundowner or two. Breaking waves and reflection pools set the stage for Mediterranean-meets-Mexican cuisine at the hotel’s waterfront restaurant, while private tables for two can be arranged on the rocks if you’re planning to surprise a special someone. Spend a sensual afternoon in the spa with a deeply cleansing cacao wrap, or a luxurious bath filled with orange blossoms and vanilla, before taking a midnight swim beneath the stars in the infinity pool, complete with waterfall feature.

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