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Mahekal Beach Resort

Last updated: 13 November, 2022

Twenty years ago Playa del Carmen hotels had the same hammock-swinging, barefeet-in-the-sand, back-to-nature beach feel Tulum has today. Mahekal is one of the few Playa beach hotels that preserve it: with thatch-roof cabañas dotted around one of the town’s last remaining stretches of coconut grove and clustered over a long, sinuous aquamarine pool.

Most rooms sit in two-storey palapas and all come in lovely minimalist whitewash with warm Mexican-coloured textiles and organic wood art. They have a nest-like, intimate feel.

For that real Tulum feel skip the double-storeys and a casita with ocean views from beds and balconies; or a single-storey jungle bungalow – secluded behind foliage, with a towering, thatched roof and a balcony slung with a hammock.

Surrounding area

With the ocean lapping outside the cabanas and cicadas and tree frogs trilling in the trees, the feel at Mahekal is toes-in-the-sand. But Playa’s main party drag is literally 100 metres away – with a wealth of bars, restaurants, shops and nightlife. There are mosquitoes here though. Bring a net for comfortable sleeps.

Playa del Carmen itself, with pristine beaches to the north and south and a lively urban centre, offers the intimate back-to-nature feel of Tulum and Puerto Morelos and Cancun’s urban amenities and nightlife – albeit on a smaller scale. The town is close to Cozumel island (for reef dives) and the big Xcaret and Xel-Ha adventure parks.

Price

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General amenities

Key facilities

Airport transfers*
Beach: Onsite
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Kids club
Parking: Not available
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room amenities

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Hot tub (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed