Where to stay in Tulum for an Authentic Experience

When visiting a destination as magical as Tulum, you'll want your accommodations to be equally extraordinary. The Villas at Mahayana and Zorba are among the most breathtaking properties along the hotel zone. They are sister properties, which represent a tiny segment of luxury villas with private beach access, offering a unique experience undoubtedly Mexican while incorporating the global vibe of Tulum.

When you first approach Mahayana and Zorba, you'll notice a few similarities. They are two separate collections of villas in Tulum nestled adjacent to one another on the beach. Both properties share a complementary aesthetic: whitewashed walls, curved angles, glass and copper lighting, handcrafted tiles, and reclaimed wood mixed with concrete. They also have similar amenities like daily housekeeping, high-speed wifi, beach activities, property swimming pools, breakfast + taco bar, security, organic toiletries and more. Both properties are exclusive to guests-only. Upon further inspection, however, you'll discover that Mahayana and Zorba have distinct personalities.

Mahayana Tulum

Mahayana is intimate and personable but also very central. Mahayana feels like private beach homes on a shared property. The abundance of lush and wild greenery between the homes helps maintain a private atmosphere. Mahayana is the hidden gem in the heart of the beach with private beachfront in the most coveted location. It is truly a magical wonderland. The grounds are filled with native plants and greenery and a variety of trees. There are lots of birds. It is the perfect for the explorers and dreamers that would like to catch a yoga class next door at Sanara (the best yoga studio in Tulum) and eat out at the many incredible options within a few minutes’ walk of the property – The Real Coconut, La Zebra, Hartwood, Arca, Meze, Gitano, and Atila (the new natural wine bar across the street). Mahayana is for those who want to be close to the action with the option to disappear behind the gates of Mahayana to their private seaside paradise.

Perfect for: Someone who likes to dine out, explore, be close to the action, dreamers, natural aesthetic, more private. Couples, solo travelers, and groups. Kids welcome.

Zorba Tulum

Zorba is the big sister and the extrovert. Zorba feels more like hotel-villas with the standout collection of private Villas around the property pool with multiple shared outdoor spaces for groups to gather. Zorba is more impressive and grand. The various villas sleep from 4 to 12 guests and the property has more of a luxury feel with the expansive central pool and a wall of gently falling water. It has an impressive entrance, generous common spaces, and more manicured gardens and trees.

Walk through the open air lobby into an enchanted village with everything you need – private Villas, the Zorba communal rooftop for sunsets, the swimming pool for dips, expansive private beachfront with loungers for sunning by the sea, and a Taco Bar for a la carte local fare. Once you enter the property there is no need to leave Zorba.

Perfect for: style conscious, luxury guests, bigger groups, families, people who like to dine out and explore, but also relax onsite.

Whichever property your choose, we would love to help make your trip to Tulum memorable. We would be thrilled to speak more about both properties and each individual villa to make sure you are matched with the perfect place to stay for your needs. When you are ready to start planning, please contact us at contact@zorbacollective.com and we can help you with a reservation at Mahayana or Zorba.