Wander With WHIT To: Hotel Esencia in Tulum, Mexico

One of the Riviera Maya’s most exclusive private resorts, Hotel Esencia exceeds all expectations. Hidden away in the jungle that leads to a private, undeveloped beach, this boutique estate was once the private vacation home of an Italian duchess, and fit for royalty it is.

As travel advisors we’ve seen more than our fair share of hotels. We like to think the bar to leave an impression on us is quite high. We have to say, Hotel Esencia was one of the most lovely and impressive stays we’ve ever had. So much so, they deserved their own blog post.


The moment you arrive on property, something here changes. Gone is the stress and bustling traffic at the Cancun airport or the rushed feeling you had going through security to make your flight. Once you’re here - it is all just better. Exponentially better. Upon check in your luggage is collected before you really realize what’s happened, and quite frankly, so are your worries. Every detail is handled for you.

After check in you are whisked away to your suite through the winding jungle foliage which tickles your shins as you breeze past. You are then welcomed by what can only be described as a spacious dream loft, as hotel room doesn’t quite suit. The smooth, cooling stucco and sleek, white-washed walls balance against the perfectly minimalist decor where not a bath salt is out of place. You’ll see a complimentary pair of Havanias are waiting for you on a shelf in your walk-in, along with a bright yellow striped beach bag for afternoon trips down to the sand. You’ll also find a fridge full of complimentary juice, sparkling water, and local brew.

Each morning the perfection continues, as you’ll discover a basket of homemade croissants and other flaky pastries waiting for you in a secure delivery box on your suite’s private terrace- along with a fresh carafe of coffee at the time of your choosing. Yes, you may think to yourself, this is what perfect vacations are made of.

STAY

With just over 40 suites, the property offers a variety of artfully designed bungalows and villas nestled in the lush jungle. Sprinkled with handmade local decor, no one suite is alike. Each accommodation category provides privacy and seclusion, but they all have their own characteristics and personality. Here are a few of our favorites.

Beach Suite

Hardly 50 feet from the Caribbean itself, and paired with panoramic sea views, these suites deliver the quintessential “toes in the sand” experience. Add on double showers, a freestanding tub and wraparound terrace, it’s an ideal beach bungalow perfect for couples or small families.

Rooftop Wellness Suite

Built for those looking to continue (or kick off) their health journey while away, they feature a private fitness studio off the primary bedroom. Up one floor from the living space is a spacious rooftop terrace with a heated pool and solarium with 360 views of the jungle canopy.

The Esencia Suite

The only one of its kind, the Esencia Suite sits atop the original Main House building which was created by the resort’s first owner. With sweeping ocean views, a spacious corner terrace, private plunge pool and outdoor dining for up to 20 people, it’s difficult to top.

SNACK

Mistura - Bold yet chic, this seaside open air spot is open for lunch and dinner. With a Mediterranean influence, under a “towering palapa” this seaside-to-table experience brings a creative flair to seafood dishes, classic comforts, and fresh Yucatan specialties.

Beef Bar - This international name was established in Monaco in 2005, and is a haven for meat lovers everywhere. A “true epicurean experience” the simple but decadent menu is inspiring. We highly recommend the Kobe “Karbonara”.

Taiyo - Hotel Esencia’s newest addition, this Japanese dining concept is rooted in classic Sushi tradition, but offers guests a Mexican twist. The Suzuki sushi and Esencia Maki are not to be missed.

SPA

Tucked away in its own private bungalow, a winding manicured pathway guides guests to their treatments. The cozy stream room, saunas and secluded hot tubs are open for guest use even without appointments. We indulged in an 80-minute deep tissue, which was delightful. We heard from other guests that the temazcal and ceremonial treatments were as well. After our massage, we were led to relax on low wooden lounge chairs, and weren’t ushered to do anything other than rest. We then alternated between the hot tub overlooking the jungle and rosemary infused steam room until it was time for afternoon tea on the lawn.

SEE

Hotel Esencia offers activities for every skill and fitness level. Each morning, a tranquil sunrise yoga is held for guests on the yoga terrace’s second story overlooking the ocean, near the property’s main building. They also offer off-property activities from exploring the Mayan ruins of Tulum, underwater cave diving at Rio Secreto, X-Plor the kid-friendly activity adventure park, to more calming horseback riding along the sand.

We were fortunate enough to go on a private, guided paddle boarding and swimming excursion to the property’s private freshwater cenote located just a 15-minute walk from the resort. Manatees are known for inhabiting the area, and our guide said they’re expecting two more baby calves to join the herd this spring!

For those looking to meander on their own schedule, Hotel Esencia also offers paddle boards, kayaks, and kite boards first come first serve to guests. You’ll also find tennis courts, a climate controlled fitness room, and ‘The Mirror’ fitness trainers on property.

Preferred Partner Amenities

When you book a stay at Hotel Esencia through WHIT Travel Co. you’ll have the following complimentary amenities automatically added to your reservation.

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability

  • Daily continental breakfast, for up to two in room guests served in restaurant

  • $100 equivalent spa services credit, to be utilized during stay

  • Bottle of wine

  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Ready to wander to Hotel Esencia (or somewhere fabulous) on a trip of your own with a customized itinerary? Get in touch with our team and we’ll get you ready to go!

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