Hotel Serena Glamping Tulum

Jaime and his team at the Serena Hotel made our stay fantastic. They were so nice, helpful, and accommodating. The place is beautiful, thoughtfully put together, and feels very welcoming. I also recommend the massage, it was a mind-expanding experience. If I’m in Tulum again, I’d stay there.

Serena gave us a fantastic stay, as long as you know you’re signing up for glamping rather than a standard hotel room. The big canvas and clay houses make you feel right in the jungle. Our room was open plan, with only a short wall separating the bed and bathroom. The shower was always hot, and there was a small safe for valuables plus a little fridge for snacks and water. We had the essentials without the feel of an American resort. Breakfast was included every day and delicious. The pool area was always empty when we were there, so we could float and read. The outdoor jungle gym is a lot of fun if you want to keep up your workouts. The location worked well, close to great local bars and an easy walk from upscale restaurants, beach clubs, the national park, convenience stores, an ATM, and money exchanges. The staff were friendly and helped with whatever we needed. They even extended our stay when we didn’t want to leave. It’s a busy part of town, so you’ll hear the clubs sometimes, but that would be true at any hotel you stayed in. I’d recommend Serena to anyone who wants a fun jungle stay and doesn’t need all the polish and glamour of a resort.

We spent a week here as a couple, and I really think it’s the best beachside hotel we could have found on a budget. Our jungle room was a great space, and the other guests were quiet and easygoing. Breakfast service was lovely. They asked about dietary needs when we arrived, and since we’re pescatarian, they made us a delicious free two course vegetarian breakfast every morning in the crisp tropical outdoor common area. The staff were all so friendly. My Spanish is broken and limited, but they never made me feel embarrassed. Tipping isn’t required, though I’d personally encourage it. The location is ideal, before the traffic starts when you’re heading out by taxi from the hotel zone, and across from the beach. Restaurants and shops nearby are some of the best in town. The outdoor gym was beautiful and peaceful. Some equipment is rusty, but I could still do a lighter version of my workouts.

Our room was clean, and the bed was made every day. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the cook was especially kind and attentive. We enjoyed the tasty Mexican breakfast and the atmosphere. There’s a great view from the rooftop, though there wasn’t much up there to relax on. It would have felt cozier with somewhere comfortable to sit.