La Zebra Tulum - a Small Luxury Hotel

We stayed at La Zebra with our sons, who were 6 and 10 then, in April and May 2024. It was cozy, with only about 20-25 rooms, and the atmosphere was relaxed. We spent 11 days barefoot, just like everyone else. The location is splendid, the staff were very friendly and quick, and the food and drinks were really good. A chef organized and oversaw different themed evenings. Fair prices, not too expensive. Great for a relaxed beach and sand holiday if you also want quality food and drinks. Highly recommended. Good job, La Zebra!

We reserved online and paid 1,400 pesos per person, including a 1,300-peso food and drink credit. We expected to spend beyond that and brought extra cash. On arrival, we got a cabana and menus for breakfast, bar snacks, and drinks. When we asked for lunch, we were told we already had the menu, but we wanted something more substantial than ceviche or tacos, like a burger. Eventually they brought the restaurant menu, and we ordered burgers that we enjoyed. Service was extremely slow, with what looked like just two servers covering the large area. Later we asked about using our leftover credit at the Mediterranean restaurant area and learned it could only be spent on the side where we were seated. That restriction wasn't in the reservation information, so we left with about 700 pesos unused. I went to ask the other side if we could still use it before leaving, but they said it was too late, even though it wasn't yet 6pm. When I asked guest services how to complain, a staff member took out his phone and appeared to photograph us. He held it low, but the flash went off, which was really unsettling. Based on this visit, I wouldn't recommend the beach club. Our reservation information said we'd have a dedicated day bed or cabana for two and access to hotel facilities, including restrooms and showers, the rooftop pool and areas, both Mexican and Mediterranean restaurants, the Sports Bar, wellness and fitness classes at a discount, spa services, beach games and activities, a children's play area and jungle gym, and complimentary parking. It listed 1300 MX per person in food and beverage credit.

Family friendly beach club, but pretty expensive at $2800mxn for two adults and a child. The service was middling and they definitely pushed for a big tip. Food portions were small for what you pay. Feels like the name and location are what you're paying for.

We came for a week in February, technically the off season, so it was uncrowded with a wide-open beach and perfect weather. Everything felt calm and spacious. Our Sea View Ground Floor Suite with Plunge Pool was gorgeous, with a king bed, two twin pullouts, a little dining table, and a bright, spa-like bathroom. It had two rain showers, dual sinks, and a separate toilet room. The private deck and plunge pool looked out over the ocean and beach, with an unobstructed sunrise view. We messaged the concierge on WhatsApp when we wanted the pool heated like a hot tub, and they turned it on almost instantly. Service was thoughtful and seamless, from easy check-in and clear communication to the nightly surprise of pastries and a thermos of tea in different flavors, including lemongrass and hibiscus. On arrival the adults got margaritas and the kids pineapple juice. Housekeeping was meticulous, even straightening our shoes. Beach towels and cover ups were in the room, and beachside food and drink service made it easy to stay by the water all day. The hotel has about 49 rooms, so the beach didn't feel crowded and there was always room to relax without competing for loungers. We traveled with my brothers and their families, and staff worked to place our rooms near each other. It made the trip especially nice. Luxurious, relaxed, and welcoming. A few practical things: book early if you want a particular room type, we booked about five months ahead and availability was already limited. They're strict about occupancy, especially for families, and more than four people means a second room is required. The hotel can arrange round trip airport transport for $400 plus tip if you don't want to drive or take a taxi. Checkout is at noon, and staff check for forgotten items. The front desk can hold your luggage if you want to enjoy the property longer.