If there’s a quintessential Tulum experience, it is undoubtedly at Encantada. As the Riviera Maya—and Tulum in particular—has experienced a surge in tourist popularity in recent years, it can be easy to fear that this beautiful Mexican destination has become hopelessly commercialized. But that is decidedly not the case at Encantada, whose eight rooms set amongst four beach-side towers are at once bohemian and luxurious, maintaining the spirit of Tulum without sparing any attention to detail.
Immediately off the busy, bumpy road of southern Tulum, Encantada serves as a respite from what feels like the rest of the world. Enter the property by walking through a shaded corridor, whose thatched roof offers a much-needed break from the relentless sun. Check-in takes place in a sand-floored lobby, where a charming staff of concierges awaits to make sure you have a welcome drink, a lay of the land, and, yes, your Wi-Fi password.
Each of Encantada’s eight rooms (two rooms per tower) has both Mayan and Spanish names and will serve as your private paradise for the duration of your stay. Beautiful hardwood floors with locally sourced knit rugs are kept impressively sand-free, while plush king-sized four-poster beds sit beneath romantic netting. The furnishings are constructed with found driftwood, while the wall hangings are macrame. For those staying in upper-level rooms, the soaring ceilings are housed beneath palapa roofs, while all rooms feature wrap-around terraces that allow a delightful ocean breeze to pass through.
Don’t worry, though—you can keep your doors completely shut and still enjoy the highly effective air conditioner and fan combination. This comes particularly in handy during the hot summer months. Linen bedding also makes hot nights a little bit cooler.
Bathrooms are expansive, with an open shower design and excellent water pressure to help wash away a day on the beach (or exploring boutiques within walking distance). Sustainability is at the heart and soul of Encantada, and staying at the hotel truly feels like a return to the way Tulum was meant to be. The property prohibits single-use plastics; drinking water is provided in a large jug (refilled daily) with beautiful glass tumblers for guest use. All toiletries (including repellent and sunscreen) are eco-friendly as well.
Speaking of the ecosystem, each room is outfitted with a handwoven sisal beach bag that is perfect for use on the private stretch of sand. There are plenty of cabanas and day beds for maximal relaxation. Between pristine white sand beaches and uninterrupted views of the Caribbean, it’s only too easy to find yourself lounging on the beach for the entirety of your stay at Encantada.
From your comfortable position on the beach, you’re welcome to order food from Encantada’s onsite restaurant (eponymously named), which also provides a daily complimentary breakfast. We’re a particular fan of this ever-important meal, especially seeing as it comes complete with coffee or tea, juice, a yogurt and granola bowl, and your choice of a delicious entree.
For a more elevated dining experience, head across the street to Nü Tulum, perhaps one of the very finest restaurants in the city. This creative fine-dining establishment highlights modern Mexican cuisine, with plates meant for sharing. Moles at Nü are sweet and unctuous, while crudos feature some of the day’s freshest catches. While a shared plates approach may invoke concerns of minuscule portions, this is not the case at Nü, where meals are as generous as they are delicious. Be sure to try a cocktail and watch a team of master mixologists at work behind the bar.
Encantada, which translates to ‘charmed’ in English, proves that a simple experience is by no means lacking in luxury. After a few days at this boutique, you’ll find that the hotel has more than earned its name.
Top Takeaways
Location: Tulum, Mexico
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: Bohemian chic with an emphasis on eco-friendliness
Food + Drink: We’re obsessed with the free breakfast at the on-site restaurant (also called Encantada), where you can also find great all-day bites for lunch and dinner. You absolutely cannot miss dining at Nü, the hotel’s second restaurant across the street, for an elevated and extremely memorable experience.
Amenities: concierge; bikes; restaurant; bar; private beach
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The service is absolutely top-notch, with delightful concierges like Isabel only ever a Whatsapp message away
5 Nearby Attractions: Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Tulum Mayan ruins, Cenote Encantado Nuan, Sfer Ik Tulum, Two Eyes Cenote
Any Personal Neighborhood Recs?: The sunset in Tulum is best enjoyed at sister property Xela’s rooftop; grab a drink from the beautiful lobby and take it upstairs for a panoramic view of the city
Rooms: 8 rooms
Pricing: Rooms start at $355/night
Closest Airport: Tulum International Airport
