XELA TULUM OPENS ITS DOORS IN A PRIVATE VILLA PARADISE
Hidden amidst the swaying palms lining the shores of Tulum Beach is XELA, a unique concept of laidback luxury hospitality at the gateway to the wild and authentic. XELA is a soulful retreat welcoming travelers, adventurers and like-minded spirits to gather deep in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean. An intimate haven, XELA emanates an ambiance of genuine openness and accessible charm, interwoven with an effortless allure that remains uniquely its own. XELA evokes a sense of exclusivity and refinement, embracing you in the warmth of a luxury seaside retreat.
XELA is one of the upgraded original properties on a picturesque stretch of Tulum Beach previously owned by a chic European family. In a place that has become a hub of jet-set travelers, today, XELA is a most private sanctuary, an oasis safeguarded by nature’s embrace—unfurling an ambiance of solace, seclusion and serenity. A space born from meticulous craftsmanship, where every element is crafted with an unwavering commitment, a feat achievable only when every ounce of passion and soul infuses the space. The guardians of XELA, Namron Hospitality, and its jet-set owners weave the threads of bespoke hospitality and sustainable principles into the property’s fabric.
XELA heralds the embodiment of what Tulum yearns for—a serene expanse intricately designed to evoke a sense of ease, tranquility, and an all-encompassing “beach house” ambiance. Each facet caters to the essence of the pause and disconnection guests seek. For many beachgoers, collecting seashells is a favorite pastime. For some, it is a natural meditation. It is both a right of passage for children and a calming activity for adults. There is something so special about finding the perfect, whole, unique specimen washed ashore and hidden amongst a vast spread of sand. Thus, the inspiration at XELA (pronounced shell-a) is guided by curiosity and the sea sounds that some shells echo when pressed against one’s ear.
ASK ALEX
We’ve spoken with the founder and fellow beach-lover at XELA, Alex:
Can you explain the importance of preserving the property’s genuine essence?
The hotel was a family villa before it was expanded, but it was important to us to maintain the intimacy of a home versus feeling like a hotel. When I told guests we were closing for renovation, they responded, “Please don’t change it much. This place is so special!”
I would argue with anyone that our block is the best location on the beach. Quiet but still with good shopping and dining, the best neighbors with endless options within walking distance.
Unique interiors that don’t scream Tulum but rather a worldly vibe.
Could you provide some information about the villa’s past history?
The villa was built and owned by a chic couple from Europe. They were part of the original hippie chic founders of the Tulum we know today. She was a designer from Belgium with shops across Europe, and he was a British avante-garde artist. They often rented the villa to a list of well-known celebrities. We would love to tell more, but we honor discretion and hope these celebs come to see us again now that we’re receiving guests.
What are some of your favorite elements at XELA?
It’s quite neat that the facade color changes with the time of day and the light. From sand to orange to pink to brown.
I also think it’s interesting that all the neighboring properties were once connected, and the hotel was a family villa that was expanded and converted into a boutique hotel. I love that the style feels old but still modern, a little wabi-sabi. Imperfectly perfect, perfect in its imperfection. The shelves and surfaces are full of vintage finds from around the world, found treasures from bazaars, flea markets and roadside shops from Muyil to Mexico City And even Morocco.
I love to frame corals I find on the beach in Tulum too, and display artists I discover at art fairs or even in ceramic shops. Our doors at XELA are custom-made of recycled wood to give the appearance of an old hacienda door, and the wood detail on the facade is the old deck from Casa Laha, reusing some of the materials from what we deconstructed.
The rooftop is amazing, too! It is the highest point on the beach and has panoramic views jungle to the sea and back again. Truly the star feature.
What does your perfect Tulum trip look like?
My favorite trips to Tulum are when we avoid cars and rarely wear shoes! For me and my husband, this defines barefoot luxury and true relaxation. Being connected to the earth through the soles of your feet is grounding and creates balance in your body and mind. It also gives a sense of freedom that we rarely experience at home, where “no shoes, no service” is a tagline.
As you may assume, our favorite spots are within walking distance from XELA. First on my list is Descalzo, which translates to barefoot. It’s a quaint but lovely cenote, just a short stroll down the beach road. The food and drinks are fantastic, and it’s owned and operated by a local Mexican family. Next is the Casa Violetta restaurant. Violetta was one of the original Tulum hotspots when it opened 25 years ago. The vibe is old-school Tulum, but it still exists because the service and food are wonderful. I recommend the Roman-style thin-crust pizzas (truffle is my favorite!) and the Brussels sprouts. The beet quesadillas are also worth a try.
If we decide to get in a car, we usually experience the Muyil ruins followed by the “river float.” This half-day excursion is unforgettable and allows you the chance to float in the clear cenote waters for over an hour at a snail’s pace.