ZAMAS HOTEL, TULUM, MEXICO

If you want to experience the real Tulum, 

look no further than Zamas Hotel!

 

Conceived during a honeymoon romance, Zamas was one of the very first hotels upon these jungle shores. This oasis has welcomed musicians, writers, playwrights, bohemians and artists to its inspirational setting for the past 30 years. Models, techies, ocean-lovers and family groups in search of a peaceful yet chic getaway have all found their place in this luscious hideaway. 

 

Still family-run today, guests return again and again to savour the warm hospitality and sunrise-style décor, easing into the laid-back beachy charm of this little stretch of paradise.

From the moment you step off the road and onto the path flecked with seashells, coral and a dusting of light golden sand, you will notice how Zamas – unlike so many newer developments – have maintained their natural coconut grove, the palms gently swaying above you in rhythm to the ocean shoreline just strides away. Feel the seclusion and tranquillity as they shade your escape to the Tulum of yesteryear – still very much alive! 

 

With no high-risers and minimal use of concrete, Zama’s low density, eco-conscious array of unique beach front cabañas and hand-crafted palapas are a far cry from the recent block-shaped developments that provide a more contemporary experience akin to that of Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

The hip, wave-worn beach essence of Zamas Hotel not only ensures this boho boutique is the coolest waterside hangout in Tulum but provides a reminder of what it really means to come to as special a place as the Mayan Riviera. 

 

Slowly sip your welcome drink as Abigail, Daniel and Fernando check your reservation and ensure you have everything you need. You are part of the Zamas family now! Luggage is whisked via wheelbarrow to your home from home – bordered by jungle plants and delicate bursts of hibiscus flowers.

Fringed by exotic plants, the indoor restaurant and bar area is graced by one of the colourful holiday-themed frescos
Sustainable natural materials are used throughout Zamas, such as this wall surrounding the jungle rooms

Born from the twists and folds of natural driftwood and ancient jungle timber, each of the bungalows and cabañas radiate Swiss Family Robinson vibes – the ultimate get away from everyday life. Colourful stucco walls mix with playful tile mosaics in the traditional Mexican manner heightening that cast-away, avant-garde appeal.

This is a symbiosis with Nature. A chance to connect with the ocean and forest. All of the rooms are spacious yet highly intimate and each one a little different from the one next door. Feel cocooned in the Jungle Garden or Coconut Grove Bungalows, or revitalised from a night in the sea-sprayed beach front cabañas. (Wake up and start a dreamy day with a dip!) Stay for longer and try out different rooms to discover which is your personal taste and style! 

A jungle bungalow
Welcome sea breezes cool Zamas' beachfront cabanas, shaded by swaying palms
Zamas' traditional beach front cabanas

Every room offers filtered water, a security safe and mosquito nets, spotless white towels and flannels to partner the crisp white sheets of the gloriously cosy beds. Want complete escape from interference of the outside world? The total absence of TV at Zamas is powerful, allowing you to devote every moment of your stay to ‘me’ or ‘us’ time.

Awaken to the glow of sunrise, a gradual crescendo through the soft flowing curtains and white veil of mosquito nets. Even the patterns of bed runners and hand weaved cushion covers compliment the hues of the morning light. Everything is carefully designed and chosen, from a soap rest ledge fashioned from sea-smoothed wood to inventive cupboard latches and curving shelves.

Sunrise Shadows

It’s the details that illustrate the love and care 

the owners have for this retreat out of time.

Many of the rooms boast sun blushed balconies or shaded terraces, the perfect private space for your stretch routine, personal work-out sesh or pensive pre-desayuno café. Every room comes equipped with a kettle and generous stash of herbal teas, organic coffee and whitener, for a little ‘pick-me-up’ at any time of the day (or night!) 

Time for Tea

Restless sleeper? Star gazing is highly recommended from the timeless, round-backed Zamas chairs which characterise your exclusive outside space. You’ll notice how the celestial star-speckled heavens are that much more enchanting in Tulum.  

 

Connect to high-speed Wi-Fi – yes, even in the jungle (!) – as each room has its own network, along with deeply cooling AC to help you acclimatise to the humidity during those hot-season dazes!

All of these modern amenities in no way detract from the originality of the Zamas vision. The thoughtfully orchestrated blend of natural materials still closely resembles the Tulum experience before the blitz of concrete construction, the authentic hippy groove has not yet been completely lost.

Shower with the windows open wide – there are no neighbours – only rustling jungle with the delightful call of birdsong. Lather Zama’s honey bee shower gel, shampoos and conditioner before softening your skin with the delightful lemon and lime moisturiser after a day hitting the waves (or tequila!).

Immaculately cleaned each day by the most attentive of staff, every grain of sand (you will get sand between your toes in Tulum – trust!) is swept, the bed smoothed and beautified for afternoon daydreams and heady siestas. . . .   

Idle away the hours. . . . Relax and sway in one of the colourful hammocks outside your room. Feeling hungry? Then head over to the restaurant!

 

Fringed with greenery and a craggy outcrop, the open sides of the restaurant palapa not only woo the sea breezes, but offer exquisite, unforgettable ocean views. The Zamas restaurant is like no other.

 

From avo sourdough toast to yogurt and fresh fruit with Mexican honey, eggs your style to bottomless coffee and even zingy mimosas, Zamas is the place to start your day! 

. . . . . Sand Simplicity
Barefoot Bliss

The soft silky sand floor of the restaurant holds sway – one of the last few remaining along these shores. You’ll feel oh so at home. Kick back your shoes and enjoy a blissful barefoot breakfast like a true contemporary cast away. You will barely wear shoes during your stay here!

With chill mellow music playing, the restaurant is the place to be seen with your newfound Tulum tan and the social hub of this tropical escape. Read a book; get to know fellow guests and compare notes on where to visit; chat with Zamas’ friendly staff (you’ll know them all by name by the end of your stay!); sip a freshly harvested coconut or take pics for your social profiles from Zamas’ iconic colourful tables and chairs.

With table footie and more seating inside, you can also brush up your Español from the multi-lingual library or sit in the cool shade of the bar, surrounded by mural paintings and impressive sea-combed finds. 

Books Galore!
Beach Combed Finds

Time changes at Zamas. Embrace the pace. Watch the clouds drift by and the waves roll in. Their mesmerising pull is hypnotic to the eye as you ponder your menu choice. With a range of curated cocktails (don’t miss the cayenne punch of Celosa), national beers, tequilas and mezcals, refreshing hibiscus and pineapple coolers, you’re spoilt for choice! Enjoy yours from the restaurant or from the cover of a beach palapa, just tip-toes away.

The crescent-shaped beach is a bit unusual and so special to this area, a real picture postcard. And last year home to 27 turtle nests with several hundred baby turtles starting their life here at Zamas. The restaurant’s sunrise-coloured chairs and shaggy grass roof look even more exotic when viewed across the azul surf. A few rocky patches mean it’s easiest to get in and out for a swim at the far end, before a popular spot where local families take to the waves and enjoy their well-deserved down time, meaning Zamas’ stretch of beach retains that all important true Tulum experience.

Iconic sunrise-style Z-Chairs

Plentiful loungers and chairs provide table space for that Happy Hour spritz (from 3 – 6 pm . . . why limit to one hour when you can have three?!) meaning you’ll never have to rush or reserve! Solely for the pleasure of hotel guests, you can take up your beachfront position for some serious swimming and waterside wonderment at your leisure.  

 

And with the Mexi Divers school next door, its easy-peasy to organise a watery excursion to the reef or further a-wave if you’re feeling adventurous!

If you’re an early riser, don’t miss the breathtaking sunrise, the yellow red glow of the sun coming into focus on the blue horizon line across the water. Inspired by the Mayan word for sunrise, ‘Zamas’ reflects the excitement of another day in paradise through the choreography of colourful design.

Spot the timid iguanas, scurrying squirrels, graceful butterflies and chit-chacks. You may also be lucky to catch a twilight glimpse of a bat. From the restaurant, marvel at the acrobatic prowess of the local pelican squadrons, skilfully diving to catch their fish. Embrace the laid back jungle-y vibe and appreciate the simpler things in life.

And talking of fish… The afternoon Restaurant menu features hearty ceviche and a range of tacos, from super fresh pescado to small-farmed chicken. Spice up your Playa salad with a serving of Sikil Pak and tasty hummus with fresh jungle veg croutons of shapes, colours and tastes you can’t get back home!

Fancy a Dip?

Cool off from the afternoon heat in the Zamas swimming pool. Located in a quiet corner of the Jungle Garden, the pool is exclusively for hotel guests. Emerge from the cooling waters to the colourful poolside lined with murals, loungers and the classic z-chairs, all shaded by the sway of palms for a glass of punchy Celosa, with or without the Mezcal – both hit the spot! Order drinks and snacks poolside or in the cool and quiet of your room from the QR codes at each location.

Thinking of heading to Tulum as a large group? Or even hosting a beautiful beachside wedding? Are you looking for a photoshoot location? Consider booking out Casa Vallejo with its imaginative, unique design for your celebration or gathering. Featuring its own secluded garden, yoga space, and sumptuous en suite rooms, the Zamas villa comes with its own pool and is located just across the road from the beach. Step into this playfully decorated abode for a truly memorable experience!

 

And for a special event? Treat your clients, team or patrons to a bespoke soirée. The expertise of the event staff will ensure your entourage experience the magic of Zamas, whether you’re planning a full on party or have something else in mind. . .

 

Whatsapp is a favourite here at Zamas and so you can easily contact Reception for anything even if you’re out of phone signal in Mexico. Fancy a yoga class or deep tissue massage to get over your flight? Not sure about a ride back to the airport? The Front Desk can arrange all of this at your request, nothing is too much trouble.

 

With Alfonso to help guests cross the road should the traffic become a tad busy, there is also designated parking available for guests and restaurant patrons.  The watchful gaze of the nighttime security staff means you can relax and unwind and not worry about a thing!

Sunburn Saviour!

As the soothing dark of night comes to the fore, candles glint and glimmer on the Zamas restaurant tables in Victoriana style lanterns. Savour the delightful evening flavours freshly prepared by the restaurant team. 

 

The romantic hot spot for an ocean view dinner, your every wish is accommodated by Zamas’ attentive waiting staff. Dine barefoot on a range of scrummy Mexican dishes under the moon and stars. From the pineapple jams to nutritious chaya, each ingredient is carefully sourced to bring guests the pure clean flavours of Mexico – and probably the creamiest guacamole in all of Quintana Roo!  And if you like meat.. don’t miss the Dannyburger, honouring Zama’s founding father (now a grandfather!). Round it all off with another cheeky Tibble, or for something sweet there’s banana supreme, vanilla ice cream and divine chocolate cake, you’ve got to sample them all!  

Follow the path to a candlelit dinner right on the water's edge!

As the moon rises, and sleepiness sets in, laze beneath the palapa-crowned roof of your jungle or beach abode and drift off to sleep. You’ll be accompanied by the nocturnal symphony of the rustling trees and percussive beat of the rolling waves ‘till sunrise.

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11 Replies to “ZAMAS HOTEL, TULUM, MEXICO”

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