A Design-Driven Beachfront Retreat in South Tulum

Nestled in the lush landscapes of South Tulum, XELA Tulum redefines the concept of an intimate beachfront escape. Originally a private coastal residence, the property has been transformed into a boutique hotel that honours the region’s craft heritage while offering contemporary amenities and immersive experiences. With 12 individually designed rooms and suites, a rooftop terrace, infinity pool, and 50 meters of private beach, XELA Tulum exemplifies the intersection of nature, culture, and modern design.

An Architectural Tribute to Tulum

The hotel’s palapa roof rises like a sculptural homage to traditional Yucatán architecture, setting the tone for a design narrative rooted in authenticity. Interior designer Alex Heyde-Ballengee has infused every room and suite with a sense of place, blending Indigenous and natural materials—stone, organic woods, woven textiles—with over 100 pieces of red clay pottery sourced from Oaxaca and Francisco Uh May. Custom furniture made from Mezquite and Parota woods, Oaxacan woven chairs, Yucatecan hammocks, and henequen and jute accents create a tactile, sensory experience that feels deeply connected to the region.

Organic architecture ensures a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Each room and suite has been designed to maximise views, natural light, and privacy. The XELA Suite offers a private balcony, office space, and a freestanding Chukum-walled soaking tub, while the Palmas Suite features a secluded terrace with a personal plunge pool. The Coco and Charcoal Suites provide direct beach access, ensuring guests can immerse themselves fully in the beachfront setting. Subtle pops of orange, reminiscent of sunsets and coral reefs, alongside hammered copper details from Michoacán, bring warmth and vibrancy to every interior.

Communal Spaces Designed for Connection

At the heart of XELA Tulum lies a large, open-air living room where multiple environments flow seamlessly into one another. A sunken divan area evokes Middle Eastern design traditions, complete with a handcrafted wood chandelier and a communal table. The infinity pool stretches elegantly toward the hotel’s private beach, lined with sun loungers and artisan-made umbrellas.

The in-house restaurant serves modern Mexican cuisine with fresh, local ingredients, while the rooftop bar offers 360-degree views of both the Caribbean Sea and the surrounding Mayan jungle—an ideal vantage point for sunset cocktails. Communal areas encourage social engagement, yet the hotel retains a sense of privacy and intimacy, making it equally suited for solo travelers, groups of friends, or private buyouts.

Sustainability, Heritage, and Local Craft

XELA Tulum’s design ethos reflects a commitment to sustainability and the preservation of local craft traditions. Indigenous materials and artisanal techniques are woven into every detail, from Zapotecan ceramics to Oaxacan woven textiles. This thoughtful approach not only elevates the aesthetic of the property but also supports local communities and artisans, embedding cultural storytelling into the guest experience.

Experiences Beyond the Hotel

While XELA Tulum is a destination in itself, its location provides easy access to South Tulum’s vibrant cultural and natural offerings. Guests can explore the UNESCO-listed Tulum Ruins, swim in cenotes, or discover the pristine Sian Ka’an Nature Biosphere. The hotel curates tailored excursions and wellness experiences, including cacao ceremonies, healing sound baths, and Akashic readings, allowing visitors to engage deeply with the local culture and natural environment.

Nearby dining and wellness experiences further enhance the appeal of South Tulum. NÜ restaurant offers gourmet culinary explorations, while La Valise Spa provides rejuvenating treatments that complement the hotel’s wellness-focused offerings. Every visit to XELA Tulum is designed to be transformative, combining rest, recreation, and cultural immersion in equal measure.

The Essence of XELA Tulum

XELA Tulum represents a harmonious blend of privacy, luxury, and design-led hospitality. Every element—from the palapa roof to the carefully curated interior details and the infinity-edge pool—is conceived to evoke serenity, connection, and a sense of belonging. It is a place where the energy of Tulum, the beauty of its natural environment, and the richness of its cultural heritage are celebrated in tandem with contemporary design sensibilities.

Whether relaxing in a private suite, sharing stories in the communal living room, or exploring the vibrant South Tulum landscape, XELA Tulum offers an intimate and unforgettable experience. It is more than just a hotel—it is a beachside sanctuary that nurtures connection, inspires creativity, and embodies the best of Tulum’s natural and cultural landscape.