Casa Chablé

There are just five standalone bungalows across the beach, each spaced out so you won’t bump into any neighbours. During our stay, there were only a handful of guests, so at times it felt like we were on our own private islet. Guests can also stay in one of five bedrooms in the main house, each with a private balcony. Both types of accommodation lean into their beachfront location, with neutral tones, rattan accents and furniture made by local artisans. Though you’ll feel totally remote, you’ll have access to a HD 4K smart TV, Sonos sound system and far-reaching WiFi. 

Bathrooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, with fluffy towels and robes for lounging on your deck or balcony. Just keep in mind that the showers are salt water – and bungalows have additional outdoor showers to use post-beach.

There’s just one restaurant, the beachside K’ÚUM, where a varied menu ensures you’ll never tire of the offerings – and on the short walk from your room, you might spot iguanas and tropical birds. Chef Jorge Vallejo oversees the food at all Chablé properties, while Mexican chef Williams Saurina serves a rotating menu of dishes that highlight the very best produce from the region. 

Continental breakfasts are available, though we recommend trying more traditional dishes like tropical açaí bowls, or Mexican eggs served with mole and spicy salsas. Otherwise, you’ll want to try seafood local fishermen catch from the surrounding waters. As well as tuna and lobster, more exotic swordfish and red snapper is grilled and served with salads topped with zingy dressings. Guests can also organise private dining on the lagoon dock.

The bar has an excellent array of drinks – ask the bartenders for whatever you fancy, or sample the many agave-based spirits from its extensive collection. Spicy margaritas (with real heat) blended with tropical fruits go down a treat while watching the sunset from the beach. 

You can do as little or as much as you like here. Spend a couple of days lounging on the pristine beach with its plush sun loungers and cushions, and swim in the clear waters – the sea is warmest from June to September, though the tide is particularly strong in this part of the world, so do so with caution. On calm days, you can take out kayaks or paddleboards to spot dolphins and tropical fish, and head on expert-led private snorkelling tours of the biosphere to explore the area’s second-largest coral reef. 

Elsewhere, cooking classes are available in the kitchen (where you can learn how to make various Mayan-inspired dishes and snacks) while private day tours of nearby Tulum include visits to ruins and even a cenote to immerse yourself in its cooling, healing waters. Back at the hotel, be sure to take part in sunset ceremonies over the lagoon.