Maya Tulum Resort

This resort has been carved from the jungle, quite literally, with building materials such as palm fronds, stone, bamboo, and wood. Its accommodations are white, free-standing thatched-roof huts, and the property has set aside an area with squat brick structures for Temazcal detoxifying saunas. Paths of sand, illuminated by mushroom-shaped lights, meander between palm trees and the palapa-style huts that make up its grounds. These sand paths are raked multiple times every day to keep them clear of debris and pleasant to walk on barefoot. Shoes are discouraged in the restaurant, and guests must clean the sand off their feet in the foot bath outside common areas, before entering. The open-air atmosphere of this resort makes it nearly impossible to totally escape mosquitoes and small spiders. Other wildlife, such as geckos and loud birds, make their homes at Maya Tulum. 

Due to the fact that this destination caters to yogis, it can feel like an "insider" resort. Everyone knows just where to remove their shoes, and how to store them out of the way. Travelers who are new to green lifestyles and holistic living -- or just non-yogis, for that matter -- could feel like outsiders here, or even intimidated by the culture of Maya Tulum. 

Maya Tulum is located about two hours from the Cancun International Airport, but those scheduling transfers through the resort will need to give no less than three days' notice. Downtown Tulum can be reached by a five to 10-minute drive, and the resort is a short, five-minute walk to the shopping, dining, and nightlife on the Boca Paila beach road. Taxis are plentiful in the area, and affordable for those commuting into Tulum, or surrounding areas. The resort is oceanfront, on a stunning span of beach with easy access to swimming, diving, and water sports. This beach is great for swimming on one end, and has a rocky area nearby that is perfect for exploring and crab hunting. There is no equipment rental on-site, but staff can direct guests to a nearby dive shop, within walking distance of the resort. This region is prone to vast amounts of seaweed accumulating on the shore during rainy times. When the seaweed starts to rot, it can make the beach smelly, but resort staff work hard to keep the area clear of piles of salty seaweed.

Maya Tulum prides itself on its simplicity, which is exactly what guests will find here. Accommodations are one-level, palapa-style huts, containing little more than beds with mosquito nets, plus chair and table sets. However, the furnishings are attractive, made of wood and wicker, and colorful local art decorates the mostly white walls. Each hut has a spacious interior, with high, thatched ceilings that support ceiling fans. Many of the palapas have uninterrupted ocean views. In addition to the standard accommodations, this resort offers larger villas featuring couches and outdoor living areas. There are no TVs, alarm clocks, phones, or air-conditioning in any rooms at Maya Tulum. 

Tiled bathrooms feature wooden counter tops, his and hers sinks, and the resort's own line of artisanal toiletries. Guests will find shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in their bathrooms, as well as plenty of towels. These towels cannot be removed from the huts, or used on the beach -- guests will find themselves paying a penalty fee for doing so. Showers are walk-in style, lined with blue and orange tiles. Five gallon jugs with fresh drinking water are included in each hut, for no additional charge, as the water in Tulum can be unsuitable for consumption. 

As with everything else at Maya Tulum, offerings are basic. Free Wi-Fi is available in the restaurant and lobby, with dependable signals in those locations only. Parking in a lot across the street is also free. Shuttle service to and from the airport is available, but whether or not it's free will depend on the type of room or vacation package booked. Guests must also make reservations for the shuttle no less than three days before travel. The resort's on-site restaurant focuses on vegetarian food, but also has some seafood selections. All three daily meals can be purchased, and those with food allergies or specific dietary concerns can have meals tailored to their needs. Still, meat-eaters might find the menu challenging and prefer to take their meals elsewhere. 

Bike rental is available through the resort, as are half- and full-day guided tours to local attractions. Both services will cost extra. Attendance at group yoga classes must be purchased separately, but guests are welcome to use mats and yoga props for private practice for no added fees. Maya Tulum's popular spa offers a range of services, from conventional massages and skin care, to holistic treatments based in traditional Mayan medicine, including a skin care therapy where the body is smoothed with cocoa balm. Temazcal detoxifying saunas are held in on-site brick structures and cost extra. Participation in these sweat lodge-type rituals is organized through the spa.