Villa Amara stands on a secluded beach in Tankah Bay, north of Tulum, with the clear water of a cenote on one side and the sound of the waves on the other. The oceanfront swimming pool and terrace face the sea, and snorkel equipment and beach towels are provided.
The house covers about 5,300 square feet on two levels. Five bedrooms each have a private bathroom: one has a king bed and the other four have beds that can be set up as a king or as twins, which makes it flexible for couples, friends or children. It sleeps up to 10.
A chef cooks six days a week, excluding the arrival and departure meals, and housekeeping is included, with a gardener and pool cleaning during the week. Food is paid for through a US$1,000 cash deposit on arrival, which the team uses for grocery shopping, and a weekly US$140 shopping and delivery fee applies. Bring cash for the deposit and plan the first and last day’s meals yourself.
Inside there is air conditioning, ceiling fans, Wi-Fi, a stereo with indoor and outdoor speakers, a fully equipped kitchen and a washer and dryer. Parking is on site.
The trade-off is the eco setting: in this area electricity and water are limited to avoid waste, so expect to be mindful with air conditioning and long showers. In return you get a quiet beach, a cenote next door and a house that is easy to settle into. Check-in is 3 PM and check-out 11 AM, and minimum stays vary by season.