Zulum is located on a long stretch of beautiful Caribbean beach, and feels very tropical with its small adobe and wood buildings topped with palapa roofs. The rooms are just steps away from the main stretch of beach, and most have at least some view of the ocean from their terraces. We think the ocean front rooms are the most desirable, with terraces or balconies directly facing the ocean.

The interiors of the rooms continue the tropical theme with swinging beds, mosquito netting and sea-shell bathroom taps.

The hotel has a good mix of accommodations. The Double Rooms are perfect for families, being plenty large enough for two adults and two young children.

For its relatively small size the hotel has excellent facilities, including a restaurant, bar, beach bar, water sports and a small swimming pool. Other amenities you might not expect from such a small hotel include, room service, laundry service and even a baby sitting service.

We particularly like the location of Zulum, about midway down the long stretch of beach that heads into the Biosphere Reserve. The beach is simply beautiful, with white powder sand that stretches as far as the eye can see, and deep turquoise water. It's wide and feels fairly remote, yet is within easy walking distance of many other cabanas, restaurants and bars.

The hotel offers special rates for longer stays (and the longer stay packages also include breakfast.)