Coral Tulum

Coral Tulum is a quiet, modern property set in gorgeous tropical gardens. The vibe is laid-back and peaceful, and the hotel mostly attracts couples and families looking for a relaxing, beachside retreat. Coconut palm trees and winding sandy pathways link the hotel to a private area right on Tulum's beach, which is lined with comfy cabana beds for kicking back and taking in the sea views. The palapa-covered bar and restaurant take center-stage in the common area, while the overall decor has a rustic, bohemian feel, with a strong focus on locally-sourced materials. The open-air lobby is bright and breezy, decorated with raw wood furnishings, wood-beam ceilings, and a traditional cart selling swimwear and sun lotion. Comfy couches are scattered on the sand outside the restaurant and bar, which is beautifully illuminated by fairy lights at night, making it a popular place to gather after sunset. 

This quiet, beachside hotel is a 15-minute drive from the actual town of Tulum, surrounded by other low-key hotels and restaurants. It's worth mentioning that during certain times of the year, heavy seaweed can wash up on the beach, making it difficult to swim here, but resort staff try to keep the area clear for guests. The historic Tulum Ruins are a popular sight, dating back to the ancient Mayan civilization, and take about 15 minutes to reach by car. The caverns of Grand Cenote, which are a hotspot for snorkeling and diving, are also a 15-minute drive inland. Cancun International Airport is a 90-minute drive from the hotel. 

Like the rest of the hotel, all 20 rooms have a contemporary feel with a bohemian, rustic edge. Comfort is key, with white cotton bedding and muslin drapes framing four-poster, king-size beds in the center of the rooms. Big glass doors and windows look out to stunning garden or ocean view balconies, complete with plunge pools for a private dip and swinging bamboo hammock chairs. Furniture is minimal, with raw wood desks and cozy seating areas, and soaring wooden ceilings are overhead. Modern amenities include 40-inch flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, mini-bars, free Wi-Fi, Nespresso machines, pillow and aromatherapy menus, and free bathrobes and slippers. All rooms have a separate toilet, though double washbasins and double rainfall showers are part of the main room, which may cause privacy issues for some guests. Hairdryers are provided. Free toiletries and woven beach bags are a nice extra. We also love the turndown service with ambient music, slippers by the bed, and chocolates on the pillow -- it's a particularly romantic touch.

Although Coral Tulum doesn't have a main pool, it has a lovely private beach with padded cabana beds, sun loungers, and umbrellas. The palapa-covered restaurant and bar serves Mexican-Peruvian fusion cuisine and signature Mezcal cocktails. A free a la carte breakfast is served daily, with hot and cold options such as eggs, pancakes, fresh fruit, and juices. There is a relaxing on-site spa, offering a variety of exotic massages and rejuvenating treatments. Guests also get a free welcome drink on arrival. Other services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, vehicle rentals, tour bookings, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.