All hotels are not created equal—and that goes for the boutique set as well. Colibri is one hotel group that has figured out the secret: invest meaningfully in all members of your team, surprise and delight your guests at every turn, and keep your eyes on sustainability measures both large and small. This formula, while seemingly straightforward, is no easy feat. Mercurial weather patterns, numerous environmental challenges, and the rigors of small-town operations can be daunting. Yet their dedication has resulted in Tulum’s original boutique hotel group celebrating its 20th anniversary. Take a look, property by property, to see just how they create vacation magic.
Colibri Boutique Hotels CEO Brendon Leach explains the guests-first focus that makes each visit unique and memorable:
“It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come, from a small beachfront restaurant with just a few rooms to a group of boutique hotels. One thing that has remained constant since the beginning is the genuine care we have for our guests, making them feel at home. This commitment shines through in our Tripadvisor reviews, where our guests frequently highlight the quality of their experience. It’s our incredible team that makes it all possible, and I’m truly grateful for each of them.”
The magic begins when you open your eyes, either to discreetly delivered coffee service at your door (or make your own with freshly ground beans and your own ensuite French press) and continues through nightfall when you’ll find a pot of herbal tea and a perfect chocolate waiting at the foot of your bed. Throughout the day, the staff at each property ensure that visitors feel like honored guests ... but also like friends who’ve dropped in for the area’s coolest house parties. And all of the Tulum properties have reciprocal privileges, so you can mix and match, depending on the vibe du jour.
Serene and luxurious, adults-only Mezzanine—which opened in 2004—exemplifies Tulum’s boho-chic vibes. Perched on a dramatic rise with a panoramic view of the beach, Mezzanine’s Thai restaurant draws acclaim for its meticulously crafted Land of Smiles specialties crafted from locally grown ingredients. (The two-hour Thai cooking class will equip you to recreate these delicacies at home.) For ultimate indulgence, book one of the two Master Suites, which have private hot tubs and their own terraces overlooking the Caribbean.
La Zebra is the second jewel in the collection. ¡Viva México! Every detail celebrates the culture of the country, from the design and decor to the stunning chef-driven cuisine. Suites—many with private plunge pools—are scattered throughout a picturesque setting right on the water, making it ideal for couples, families, and groups of friends. Chef Eleazar Bonilla takes diners on a culinary journey throughout Mexico, focusing on authentic flavors and time-honored cooking techniques. Art also feeds the spirit, and the works of Mexican artist Enrique Diaz infuse La Zebra with color and magic.
Drink, swim, kiss, repeat: Those seeking peak Liz Taylor/Richard Burton-style Mexican romance should look no further than Mi Amor, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary. A throwback to the glamor days of 1950s Acapulco, Mi Amor dazzles with adults-only clifftop rooms inside a protected park just five minutes from the Mayan ruins. Relax in the spa—couple’s treatments are a specialty—or just while away the hours, sipping custom-created cocktails and gently swinging in a hammock chair over the infinity pool.
Wellness is the word at Lula, the latest sister in the Colibri portfolio. Start the day with yoga at the glass beachfront fitness studio—the only one of its kind in Tulum. Therapeutic sound baths, restorative ice plunges, and energetic dance classes are also on the menu. But you can also just bliss out during a massage or simply soak up the sound of the surf from your ocean-facing sunbed. Rooms and suites, some with clawfoot tubs, all offer immaculate vibes. Dine on the best of Baja Med cuisine in Lula’s Kitchen, where the shrimp tacos are succulent, and the wood-fired pizza is perfectly on point.
Tulum’s newly opened international airport is now welcoming nonstop flights from the United States, eliminating the need for a long trek from Cancun. But those who like their getaways a little farther away will want to venture to Yemaya Reefs. Nestled on Nicaragua’s Little Corn Island and kissed by the Caribbean, all the rustic-chic casitas (some with private plunge pools) are only steps from the sea.
All this natural beauty can’t protect itself, and Colibri has been committed to sustaining its surroundings for the past 20 years. The “We Care” program triumphs environmental, social, and governance responsibility, conserving and protecting the natural environment while working to support the wider community who call these special places home.
LA ZEBRA
Genuine Mexican experience with luxury hospitality, offering a unique beachfront location, immersive cultural events, and a commitment to sustainability and community.
Events: Street Food Sundays & Taco Thursday with live music and authentic Mexican cuisine
Number of rooms: 30
Socials: Instagram: @lazebratulum TikTok: La.Zebra.Tulum Facebook: La Zebra Hotel, Tulum
Website: lazebratulum.com
Reservations: 303-952-0595
LULA:
Lula balances wellness with spontaneity. Nestled on Tulum’s gorgeous beach, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking tranquility and joy-filled experiences.
Events: Daily program of activities from yoga, fitness, ice baths, sound therapy.
Number of rooms: 19
Instagram: LulaTulum TikTok: LulaTulum Facebook: Lula Hotel, Tulum
Website: lulahoteltulum.com
Reservations: 303-952-0595
MI AMOR:
A romantic sanctuary nestled in nature. Acapulco Heyday-inspired playground for couples.
Events: Romantic dinners on the rocks & Seafood Brunch
Number of rooms: 20
IG: MiAmorTulum TikTok: Mi.Amor.Tulum Facebook: Mi Amor Hotel, Tulum
Website: tulumhotelmiamor.com
Reservations: 303-952-0595
MEZZANINE:
With just 9 rooms, you’ll experience a complete boutique experience. Mezzanine combines authentic Thai flavors with a beach-chic atmosphere and some of the best views in Tulum
Number of rooms: 9
IG: Mezzaninetulum TikTok: Mezzanine.Tulum Facebook: Mezzanine Hotel, Tulum
Reservations: 303-952-0595
YEMAYA REEFS:
Located on pristine Little corn island, crystal-clear Caribbean waters, guests enjoy an immersive, nature-driven experience—perfect for those seeking a serene escape with a sustainable touch.
Number of rooms: 16
IG: YemayaLittleCorn TikTok: YemayaReefs Facebook: Yemaya Reefs