My week at Orchid Beach House was magical, but there are pros and cons.
Pros:
- Right on a beautiful beach.
- The view from my room was incredible. Sea-view rooms are limited, but all rooms are steps from the sand.
- Comfortable bed, good shower (rustic = salty water).
- The food and drinks were delicious: great tacos with fresh tortillas (fish, steak, and shrimp were my favorites), ceviches, aguachile rojo, salads, a burger, and great breakfast options. They take pride in their food.
- The staff are friendly and accommodating (beach club staff, chefs, housekeeping, front desk)
- The beach setup is quite good. It's quieter - no loud music, which I loved.
- Great massage is available in the white tent on the beach next to the hotel. Lily was incredible.
- Checkin and checkout were easy - I'm not sure what all the complaints are about; the staff takes reviews seriously and makes course corrections.
Cons:
- It's rustic - this was not a con for me, but it could be for some. You're in the jungle.
- The rooms were nicely decorated; however, there were no drawers—only shelves—and my sliding door did not lock from the inside (I never felt unsafe).
- It is easy to get taxis; however, the taxi mafia is in full force. It costs 500 pesos to go one mile; you could haggle and maybe get it for 400, but you need to factor this in.
- The kitchen closes early: 6:30 pm.
- Tulum is expensive - everywhere.
- The new Tulum airport is easier, but still a 45 drive; Transport is costly.