With white linen curtains blowing in the breeze, enormous hammocks swaying on private terraces and blue, blue water just metres away, Villa las Estrellas is the epitome of barefoot chic. Set in the middle of Tulum's broad white-sand stretch, this romantic beach house couldn't be better placed for a relaxing holiday. And although the number of buzzy cabana hotels lining the beach increases every year, Tulum's vibe remains lovely and laid-back.
At Villa las Estrellas you'll find a fantastic restaurant and 13 stylish, minimalist rooms under traditional Mayan palapa roofs; there's also a pool and shaded lounging area hidden in the garden. It has the feel of a private home, with loads of space and beautiful furnishings throughout - mosaicked tables, white-wood lanterns. As with everything, if you look a little closer it isn't perfect. Much of your stay here will depend on other guests - if they smoke or talk loudly you'll know about it. It's also devoid of mod cons, though that's half the point. But it's immaculately clean throughout and with celebrities booking it out for Christmas, we're clearly not the only ones with stars - estrellas - in our eyes.
Highs
- Simple but stylish and beautifully designed
- The location: amazing, uninterrupted sea views, and being able to walk straight out from the hotel onto that magnificent white-sand beach
- The restaurant offers tasty treats such as ceviche, guacamole and shrimp tacos; there are also lots of great restaurants within walking distance
- Smaller than most hotels in the area, so has more of a charming, intimate feel
- Watching pelicans fly by in formation every morning
Lows
- There have been lots of changes since we last visited so we haven't seen the newer rooms
- Recent guest feedback suggests service and maintenance has gone downhill
- It's pricey and breakfast isn't included, but you’re paying for the position and the intimate size
- Be aware that you can't flush toilet paper down the loos, you need to use their special biodegradable toiletries, and extra beds don't have mosquito nets
- The water pressure can be low if too many people are showering at the same time
Best time to go
Tulum is a year-round destination, although you might want to avoid hurricane season (they can hit any time from June to October) - seaweed can also be an issue during this time. It's sunniest here in March and April; turtles come to lay eggs in July and August, which hatch in September.
Our top tips
- Do some research online before you go if you're keen to join an organised tour round the Mayan ruins, or learn to dive before you head out here. They don't run any organised tours from the property yet
- Swipe an eye mask from your airline on the way in - the sheer curtains make it hard to sleep once the sun's come up