Fly me to the moon: Luna Maya Beach

Only a few miles apart, the experience is very different from one Riviera Maya beach to the next. Tulum’s are the calm, bohemian, adventurous side of Playa del Carmen and Cancun’s party lifestyle. Such is the case of the secluded Luna Maya Beach.

How do I get to Luna Maya Beach?

Don’t look for Luna Maya Beach on a map as it’s often not included. Rather, look for the Zamas Hotel and Restaurant, next to it. It’s along the La Costera highway which is a continuation of the road that takes you to the Tulum Archeological site.

La Costera runs through Tulum’s oceanfront hotel zone. It’s a two-lane road surrounded by jungle. When it starts to thin out, you’ll spot the Zamas Hotel and Restaurant sign. Continue for a few yards and you’ll find a palisade with an access point from where you can see Luna Maya Beach and the big palapa of the Zamas restaurant.

The Luna Maya Beach

“Luna Maya” means “Mayan Moon” in Spanish and it’s easy to see why. It’s a small cove in the shape of a crescent moon. Though it’s so close to the road, it feels totally secluded.

The beach is lined with traditional thatched palapas and deck chairs. The waters are not as calm as on other beaches along the Riviera Maya. As there are no lifeguards, be careful if you decide to go into the sea, and don’t go too far if you’re not a strong swimmer.

Though you should bring everything you’re going to need, know the Zamas restaurant is accessible for guests and non-guests alike.

The Zamas Hotel and Restaurant at Luna Maya Beach

If you grow an appetite, grab one of the colorful chairs at the Zamas restaurant and order something to drink. It also serves traditional dishes, like breakfast egg tacos or guacamole, depending on the time of day.The hotel has many kinds of different lodgings, like rooms, cabins, and casitas in different areas, like the beach or the jungle. So, if you’d like to spend more than just a few hours at Luna Maya Beach, the Zamas Hotel is the best option.