Xela Tulum - Member of Design Hotels

I’ve provided my full review below. To find out more, I’ve captured my experience on the YouTube channel: Little Hidden Gems Full review: Xela Tulum is a hidden gem surrounded by lush palm trees and greenery giving it serene paradise vibes. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the warmest staff, who treated me not just as a guest, but like an old friend. They remembered my name, made thoughtful suggestions for activities, and went above and beyond to ensure my experience was unforgettable. My room? A dreamy sanctuary complete with its own private pool, the perfect escape to unwind in total tranquility. The real highlight, though, was their attention to the little details like when they surprised me with a birthday celebration set up in my room, complete with balloons, a delicious cake, and a handwritten card wishing me the best upon my arrival. The staff also helped me navigate Tulum with personalized tips on where to eat and what to do, and even arranged for a personal driver to take me on excursions. It was the ultimate birthday getaway, blending relaxation, adventure, and heartwarming hospitality. Couldn’t have asked for a better place to celebrate!

This property was once a family home, and the transition to a hotel successfully kept that familial warmth and connection. The staff are instantly your friends, the decor tells stories of adventure and love for nature, and the views perfect in every way

We absolutely loved our stay at Xela! It is a 4+ star hotel in every way - from accomodations (room, gym, access to amenities, food, pool, beach location), location in Tulum, experience, and the staff. We loved our room and they spoiled us with our own coffee in the room, treats delivered each night, view of the beach, and anything we needed at any time (I loved my green tea several evenings). Their service was incredible with access to chat with them via Whatsapp. They were always there, even when we were on the beach and needed another fish taco. Paula, Iván, and Victoria were great, in addition to so many others. I highly recommend staying here if you want a big more of a chill stay in Tulum but still access to Clubs if that's your jam. :) My husband is usually ready to go home and after spending an ENTIRE week at Xela, he still wasn't ready.

Xela is truly a gem that stands apart from the rest of the Tulum strip. We stayed in the Coqui room and were blown away by how pristine, peaceful, and beautifully designed everything was. The room was spacious, spotless, and so relaxing, truly it was the perfect retreat. What really made the stay unforgettable was the staff, who were genuinely warm, attentive, and went above and beyond. If you’re looking for a romantic, quiet escape with thoughtful touches and true hospitality, this is it.

I have so much to say but not a lot of time. Will try to get the main points written here for you all. First of all, book this hotel and don't even consider another. Its incredible for so many reasons. I have stayed at many great hotels (Aman resorts, Four Seasons, Rosewood, etc) and in some weird ways this was one of my favorites ever. Its small, so its more like staying in someones house, and the rooms are not over the top luxury, but they are perfect. The hotel decor and feel is just wonderful and the most you will ask for at any beach hotel anywhere. There are 6-8 little cabanas on the beach which are all great and do not fill up so there is no waking up early to have to get a spot. And yes, this hotel is on the beach. I was confused about that when I booked it, but its beachfront and many of the rooms are almost right on the beach. But don't worry, if you get a room in the garden side its equally as great and charming. The staff is wonderful, and you will end up saying goodbye (and hugging) to all of them before you leave. Since its a small venue you get to know everyone and they get to know you. They have a whats app so everything during the stay is to you within minutes after you message them. At first I was not sure about that, but wow, no more waiting around for waiter to show up to order, or to call a front desk that does not answer. Its incredible. There is a mart right near by that has great prices on snacks, alcohol, and drinks which is also nice for those of you wanting to pick up a little something. But the food at the hotel is amazing, so not to worry if you do not have anything with you. The hotel was actually the best food of anywhere we ate in Tulum Beach. I checked out all the other top rated resorts in the area and at the end of the day, I do not think anyone of them beats Xela. They may be as nice, but not better. The reason everyone says this is in a great location is because its close enough to walk to the busy part of Tulum beach, but far enough away that you do not get the late night noise. It is also near many of the other top resorts so you can walk to those with ease. For those of you new to Tulum a few notes, Tulum Beach and Tulum are not that close to eachother, and from Xela to downtown Tulum is 20-30 minutes. We just stayed in Tulum beach. Also, the Tulum airport is almost an hour from the hotel which is kind of annoying (its 2 hours from the Cancun airport). But the good news is the Tulum airport is so small and quick that coming out of there or flying from there is extremely easy and fast, so you do not deal with the large lines to get in and out of the country. That is a big game changer compared to the Cancun airport. Anyway, for those of you that go to Xela enjoy and take great care of the hotel and staff. You will love it!

My wife and I had an amazing stay at Xela to celebrate her birthday. The property was gorgeous, the food was fantastic, the staff was lovely, and the location was perfect. An absolutely delightful stay. We would gladly go back for another visit would highly recommend the hotel.