Finding Stillness with Friends: A Wellness Retreat at Tulum's La Zebra
In Tulum, under watchful palm leaves and beside the calming ocean, I found balance at La Zebra. More than a getaway, it was a reconnection with dear friends and a gentle return to myself. Days unfolded with yoga, eco-excursions, and endless conversations.
I arrived in Tulum with my closest friends, craving a break from the relentless pace of my life in San Francisco. As we stepped into La Zebra, the warm breeze carried a sense of solace, whispering promises of peace into our souls. I felt my tightly wound nerves begin to unravel, knowing this was a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul.
My career as a senior executive demands so much of me, but here, amid the gently swaying palms and the soothing lull of the ocean, I am reminded of what truly matters, balance, connection, and self-care. Sharing this journey with those who understand my quest for authenticity and sustainability makes it all the more meaningful. Together, we seek not just wellness but renewal.
As I settle into the rhythm of the retreat, my earlier fears of losing touch with self-care and eco-conscious living begin to fade. The aroma of sea salt intertwines with the earthy scent of local ingredients, grounding me in the moment. Here, amidst nature's embrace, I start to reclaim bits of myself I feared were lost to the daily grind.
Top 7 Ways La Zebra Tulum Transforms a Friends' Getaway into a Nature-Inspired Retreat, 2025
As the new year approaches, La Zebra offers a serene and introspective canvas, perfect for friends seeking mindfulness and cultural richness.
Sunrise Yoga
Just as dawn breaks, there's nothing quite like the rhythmic sound of the ocean waves blending with the gentle breaths of friends synced through yoga poses. This morning ritual at La Zebra sets a calming tone and deepens the bond between us, fostering a shared sense of peace.
Eco Wellness Rituals
Partaking in the temazcal rituals, surrounded by the vibrant jungle, we find renewal. The heat and steam symbolize a release of stress, each exhale shared becomes a step towards profound relaxation and unity.
Culinary Journeys
Every meal is a mindful celebration. Whether it’s enjoying a communal breakfast of vibrant tropical fruits or savoring a dinner adorned with spices fresh from the market, our conversations mirror the rich and earthy tastes.
Harmonious Design
The artful blend of natural materials and artistic touches creates a sanctuary that's equally stimulating and soothing. Each space invites us to pause, admire, and photograph, stitching design tales from nature’s own palette.
Cenote Exploration
Floating in the cool serenity of a cenote, enveloped by lush vegetation, our thoughts swim freely. It’s here that friendships are revitalized, where laughter is our most natural expression.
Cultural Immersion
Walking through ancient ruins and learning from local guides, history comes alive not just in stories but in shared laughter and collective awe. Each moment is enriched by our deepening understanding and appreciation.
Mindful Escapes
In quiet nooks drawn to private reflections, surrounded by sea breezes and distant bird songs, I pen my thoughts, nurturing the gentle growth of our experiences into memories that resonate beyond the journey.
What other friends said about their recent wellness getaway at Tulum La Zebra
From the December 6, 2025 analysis of: Tripadvisor (2,503 reviews) Google (508 reviews) Reddit (53 conversations) Booking (176 reviews) Expedia (180 reviews)
Visitors have consistently highlighted the rejuvenating atmosphere at Tulum La Zebra as an ideal setting for both relaxation and meaningful connections. Reviewers enjoyed the exquisite blend of natural beauty and wellness offerings that support a deep sense of calm and introspection.
How I Curated These Reviews
Navigating countless reviews often felt like wading through a digital swamp, irrelevant testimonials strangled the helpful ones. Vamonosco TailorStay revolutionizes this experience by offering a review curation tool that I have come to trust deeply. It scans and evaluates thousands of reviews from TripAdvisor, Google, Booking, Expedia, and Reddit, intelligently filtering the noise to present insights from travelers sharing similar priorities to mine. Rather than skimming through uninspiring comments, TailorStay surfaces insights that matter, allowing me to focus on experiences that ring true to my values and expectations. With my wellness-friends-getaway on the horizon at Tulum-La Zebra, TailorStay curated reviews that resonated with Terraform care about sustainable dining, tranquil settings, and genuine service. Not only did it highlight where the hotel succeeded, but it also presented honest critiques, empowering me with a well-rounded perspective. Reading these like-minded travelers' experiences made my booking decision feel instinctive, as if guided by trusted friends who had walked these sandy paths before me.
Review Highlights
(12 of the most relevant and recent reviews from real guests)"The wellness program at La Zebra Tulum is next level. Daily sunrise yoga on the beach, sound healing sessions, and an incredible spa. If you're into holistic health and wellness, this is your spot."
"Experience of a lifetime is an understatement when I look back on the memories I was gifted because of this little slice of paradise. I attended the wellness retreat with my best friend (shout out toChara) and was blown away by the thoughtfulness that was put into every single little detail. Chara, I just can't thank you enough. You truly couldn't have coordinated this trip any better. From our excursions to our sound baths, from the food to our workouts and everything in between. Literally every moment of every day was perfectly just what we needed. How did you do that??? The beauty of your intention to set the pace for this wellness journey was simply wonderful. It was really exceptional because we had the choice to do it all or do nothing. A perfect balance.Because of you, Chara, 8 strangers are leaving with a heart full of cherished memories and friendships I believe will last forever. It was just magical to say the least. The property is incredible in every aspect. Luxurious but quaint. I never had to ask for anything and I can honestly say every single employee I came in contact with had a smile on their face and you couldn't help but feel like they were just so happy to have us. I have to say I've never experienced that before. We felt catered to without the property feeling stuffy. A balance I believe is very hard to find. This place was absolutely top-notch and the best vacation I've ever been on. So good in fact, I will be attending every single year that I am capable. Just can't thank Chara and Lula for one of the best experiences I've ever had."
"Experience of a lifetime is an understatement when I look back on the memories I was gifted because of this little slice of paradise. I attended the wellness retreat with my best friend (shout out toChara) and was blown away by the thoughtfulness that was put into every single little detail. Chara, I just can't thank you enough. You truly couldn't have coordinated this trip any better. From our excursions to our sound baths, from the food to our workouts and everything in between. Literally every moment of every day was perfectly just what we needed. How did you do that??? The beauty of your intention to set the pace for this wellness journey was simply wonderful. It was really exceptional because we had the choice to do it all or do nothing. A perfect balance.Because of you, Chara, 8 strangers are leaving with a heart full of cherished memories and friendships I believe will last forever. It was just magical to say the least. The property is incredible in every aspect. Luxurious but quaint. I never had to ask for anything and I can honestly say every single employee I came in contact with had a smile on their face and you couldn't help but feel like they were just so happy to have us. I have to say I've never experienced that before. We felt catered to without the property feeling stuffy. A balance I believe is very hard to find. This place was absolutely top-notch and the best vacation I've ever been on. So good in fact, I will be attending every single year that I am capable. Just can't thank Chara and Lula for one of the best experiences I've ever had."
"Location & Nearby Activities: - Only 5-10 minutes away from the best restaurants and some boutiques where you can find unique Tulum style fashion items! - There is also a street food area right across the hotel with various delicious alternatives (burgers, tacos, chicken wings, sandwiches, sushi, pizza, crepes) with a nice bar in the middle. It's affordable and delicious! We also came across a couple of musicians playing live mexican music which was an amazing experience! - While being close to all attractions it is far away enough from the northern part where it gets really loud and noisy at night. The only sound we heard at La Zebra was the sound of the waves! Wellness/Spa/Massage: - Their sister hotel next door offers yoga sessions and exercise sessions (eg Jungle Gym) in the mornings and afternoons at the beach where you enjoy the view and sound of the waves. You can easily book from their website or ask the front desk to set it up for you. - In Tulum, I wouldn't expect a lot from Massage services in general - it's not Thailand! But the deep tissue massage I got at Lula was really good (masseuse's name: Vicky). Service: - Front Desk: Front desk was very helpful and easy to reach via whatsapp. Ricardo arranged our transfers and a private tour for us including guided visit to Coba ruins, 2 cenotes and lunch with a Mayan family. It is perfect if you have kids. The tour takes only about 5 hours and you get to learn a lot, experience a lot, see a lot and when you are back - you still have a few good hours to spend at the beach! The places Esteban recommended in downtown Tulum were all amazing! Both Ricardo and Esteban helped us with all our bookings. - They bring coffee in the mornings and herbal tea in the afternoons to your room. Which allows you to have your morning coffee with the ocean view in the morning and relax before dinner. The local chocolates they offer with the tea was delicious that I bought a few bars to take home! - Beach: The service at the beach was a bit slow but compared to Tulum standards it was acceptable. The staff are very friendly. Food and Drinks: - Good variety of food available including healthy options and kids friendly options. - You can enjoy local or national beer, various cocktails made with tequila and mezcal or have classic cocktails. - They have Taco Thursdays and Street Food Sundays where you get to taste different local food and enjoy live music performance & shows. I highly recommend to try at least one of these during your stay! Rooms: - we stayed at a beach front room with plunge pool. As soon as you step outside the room you are at the beach. You can see the ocean from your bed. We enjoyed the warm plunge pool in the afternoons. - The rooms are very spacious and clean. They are surprisingly good at keeping it so clean despite all the sand going around! - Plenty of space for your clothes and empty suitcases."
"This place is paradise! We stayed for a week in the Beachfront Plunge Pool room and we couldn't be happier with our choice. La Zebra is truly a luxury boutique hotel with the ideal location, impeccable hospitality and delicious food. The room was beautifully decorated and the housekeeping staff kept it sparkling clean through our stay. The turndown service was a warm touch and we really appreciated the little surprise treats every evening. The room came with a reserved beach bed which was amazing. The beach bar staff were so friendly and prompt with keeping our mezcalita glasses full! We loved the restaurant as well. Special thanks to Felipe, Roger and German who were all so polite, knowledgeable and gave great recommendations. Another great perk is we could walk to the neighboring Lula hotel and get resident rates on their wellness classes (AMAZING studio!) and fantastic spa treatments. We also appreciate La Zebra promoting local artists by displaying their vibrant pieces on the property. We will definitely be visiting again! No complaints!"
"Perfect Gateway with Incredible Service Nestled in the idyllic setting of Tulum Beach, our stay at this hotel was nothing short of a tropical paradise. The hotel's prime beachside location offered us easy access to the azure waters and was conveniently situated right next to some of the best restaurants in the area. The staff ALWAYS went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and satisfaction, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families and relaxation-seekers alike. The cleanliness of the property was impeccable, and the culinary delights, particularly the mouthwatering tacos, were a delish experience to remember. Overall, this hotel is a haven of tranquility and hospitality in the heart of Tulum."
"The property was well maintained and had a good layout. The restaurant/kitchen that fed us for all meals was amazing. The cocktail choices were also very well selected and balanced. Lots of fresh fruit which my family likes. Room was spacious and the staff was very accommodating. The mosquito repellent that they had was an all natural variety that did not cut the mustard. Highly recommend bringing your own for dinner and activities that are not water related because you can't use repellent at cenotes or swimming with sea life."
"Absolutely loved La Zebra Tulum! The vibe is relaxed and bohemian. Perfect if you're looking to unwind and disconnect. The wellness activities (yoga, meditation) were amazing. Food options were great with lots of fresh, local ingredients."
"Loved everything about this hotel. Location is unbeatable, service is top notch, and the beach is incredible. The rooms are spacious and well-designed. Highly recommend."
"The room exceeded our expectations! It was really nice, the shower had double heads and it was very spacious! We came from a different hotel during our stay (we decided to visit another hotel since our original hotel was meh (Mezzanine). The bed was pretty comfortable! We had a room with a hot tub and it was nice to have a private "pool" when you don't always want to get in the ocean. The food was good and the area had a lot to offer. There was a food truck park across from the hotel, so we tried the pizza and it was pretty good! There are a ton of beach front sitting areas for the guests to use as well! When we first received our room, the temp was very cold so we made the temp a couple degrees warmer and the floors immediately started sweating and there were almost puddles of water. We had to call the front desk for more towels and they came and mopped the floor also. We had to turn the temp back to it's original setting for the floors to stop sweating. & the mosquitos were huge, get bug spray."
"Great boutique hotel experience. Perfect location on the beach. Staff is friendly and professional. Rooms are clean and comfortable. The whole property is well-maintained. Recommended!"
"From the moment I arrived at Lula by Le Zebra, I knew I was stepping into something extraordinary. The property itself feels like a modern magical treehouse, it's earthy, intentional, and deeply connected to the land. The grounds are lush and built around the trees rather than cutting them down, with thoughtful touches everywhere: foot rinses at every entrance, outdoor shower by the beach, and a rooftop above the spa and shala where the sunrises feel sacred. My oceanside room was spacious and cool with full air conditioning, a comfortable bed, luxurious pillows, and a daybed for lounging. The hammock chair on the balcony became one of my favorite spots to just sway and listen to the sea. Turndown service with tea and cookies each night was the perfect little ritual of comfort. The Staff & Service The service at Lula is impeccable, warm, and heartfelt. Every interaction was infused with kindness. Housekeeping was consistent and always thoughtful, Rosa and Theresa especially stood out. One morning I realized I'd left behind my bathing suit cover-up and the team had already found it for me before I even asked. The staff truly care about your stay and go above and beyond in ways both big and small. The Food Was A Culinary Journey at La Zebra!!! Because I was there during low season, La Zebra's kitchen prepared meals for both properties, Lula and La Zebra. What an absolute blessing! The food was, without exaggeration, some of the best I've had in my life. Chef Raziel, with the brilliant team (Gabriel, Juan Pablo, and Daniel) alongside the attentive servers (Christian, Adolfo, Manuel, Leo, Damian), created meals that felt like love stories on a plate. Every dish was intentional and allowed the ingredients to shine. Over the course of the retreat, I enjoyed a journey through cuisines: • Whole grilled fish that felt like a feast from the sea itself • Fresh ceviche served in coconuts, both vibrant and tender • Sashimi that melted on the tongue • Grilled chicken cooked to juicy perfection • Crisp cucumber salads, colorful fruits, velvety hummus, and more Each meal arrived with 2-3 appetizers, 2 mains, and a dessert. The abundance was stunning and the freshness unmatched. They even used copal smoke and fans during meals to ease the mosquitoes, such a thoughtful detail. Truly, this team and their food were a highlight of the entire retreat. The Retreat & Wellness Experience I came to Lula for a women's wellness retreat curated by Chara, with movement offerings guided by Ricardo, Chara and others. Together they held a beautiful container that balanced structure with spaciousness. Each ceremony, from the cenote to cacao to temazcal to the floating at Sian Ka'an revealed new layers of healing and wonder. Chara's gift is her devotion to women's wellness and soul nourishment. She carefully created experiences that helped us push our edges while also allowing room to rest, to choose, to simply be. Ricardo's gentle masculine presence grounded our group, especially in the movement classes, adding balance and steadiness. I felt both supported and free throughout my stay. Final Reflection Lula by Le Zebra is not just a hotel. It is an oasis. A place where luxury and intention meet. A space where you feel both cared for and at ease. If you are considering a stay here, do it. Lula is magical. I will absolutely be back."
My Journey
A Journey to Reconnect, Revitalize, and Renew
Arrival and Settling In
As we arrived at Tulum's La Zebra, the warm air embraced us, and I could feel the weight of my everyday burdens start to lift. Joining my friends on this trip was a step toward rediscovering that balance between work and well-being that I've been craving. We settled into our eco-designed suites, where every element whispered sustainability and comfort. I noticed the simplicity in my room, elegant and calm. Over dinner, I shared my hopes for this journey, the setting sun casting its golden glow over our conversations. Despite the lingering tension of leaving work behind, I felt a flicker of excitement for the days to come.
Breathing New Life
The morning began with yoga on the beach, the salty breeze adding a cleansing quality to each breath. It felt like a ritual of renewal as we moved through poses with the ocean as our witness. Later, we ventured into a nearby cenote, its sacred waters inviting us to cleanse away stress and make space for tranquility. During lunch, the taste of fresh, local ingredients reminded me how nourishment truly is a form of love. That evening, as I enjoyed the sunset during a meditation session, I understood that this trip was more than a retreat; it was a journey of returning to myself.
Cultural Embrace
Today was all about immersion. Our guide led us through ancient Maya ruins, their stories whispering through the wind. It was a reminder of the time's passage and the continuity of life. Savoring a plant-based feast prepared with traditional techniques, I felt a deep connection to the culture. Such experiences reminded me of why I travel: not to escape but to engage deeply with places and people. That night, the conversations with my friends were rich and reflective, touching on our shared discoveries and the changes we wished to embrace back home.
Nature's Therapy
A guided eco-excursion took us through a lush jungle trail, each step a meditative act where I communed with the earth. It wasn't just a walk; it was therapy offered by nature's hand. Feeling the coolness of the trail's shadows, I let go of my fears about work-life imbalance. I realized that wellness is in alignment with such spaces of stillness. That evening, a mezcal tasting session brought laughter and lightheartedness, a perfect counterbalance to our day's contemplative moments. My friend's stories filled the evening air with warmth and connection.
Reflective Stillness
Today, I found solace in the sanctity of my journal, thoughts spilling onto pages, capturing the essence of my journey so far. A spa ritual later enhanced this reflection, with its fragrant oils and gentle touch; I felt renewed, both in body and spirit. As the day drifted into evening, I sat with my friends beneath the star-studded sky, reflecting on the balance and peace we had found. I realized that the transformation I sought was quietly underway, no grand epiphany, just a slow unfolding like petals in the sun.
A Hopeful Tomorrow
Departure loomed, yet I felt a profound shift within. Returning home, I carried more than memories; I had a newfound commitment to infuse my everyday life with the mindful, nurturing rhythms I rediscovered here. This getaway was a reminder of how wellness isn't just a retreat activity, but a lifelong journey, waiting to be integrated and lived. As I packed, I could imagine sharing these reflections with my son, knowing that my actions would hopefully inspire him towards a sustainably balanced life. Saying goodbye to La Zebra wasn't farewell; it was see you later, for the lessons and peace gathered here would guide my tomorrows.
Nurturing the Mind, Body, and Spirit
Experiences Tailored for a Rejuvenating Getaway
Eco-Friendly Cenote Swim
NatureDip into the mystical cenotes enveloped by lush greenery. Feel the earth cradle you as you float, where sunlight dances on the water surface, offering a silent promise of rejuvenation.
Cultural Immersion at Mayan Ruins
CultureWalk pathways trod by the ancients at the Mayan ruins. The whispering wind shares stories of time, offering insights that transcend the ages, connecting you to a deeper cultural consciousness.
Plant-Based Dining at Wild
CuisineIndulge in a delicious farm-to-table dining experience at Wild. Each bite bursts with vibrant local flavors, reminding you of the joyous dance between sustainability and indulgence.
Personalized Yoga Sessions by the Sea
WellnessAs dawn breaks, unroll your mat on the sands. Every stretch aligns body with spirit as the symphony of waves harmonizes your breath, leaving you centered and present.
Artisan Mezcal Tasting
TasteSavor the depth of tradition in a mezcal tasting with local artisans. Each sip echoes the land from which it came, providing a sensory journey into the heart of Mexico’s authentic spirit.
Sound Healing Journey
HealingLet vibrations wash over you in a peaceful sound healing session. Feel tensions dissolve as harmonics create a cocoon of calm, inviting a transformative inner peace.
A Journey of Wellness and Connection in the Heart of Tulum
As someone who thrives on wellness and seeks restoration through my travels, La Zebra in Tulum was nothing short of a hidden gem for a getaway with my friends. The gentle sound of the waves was a soothing backdrop to our morning yoga sessions, setting the mood for a day dedicated to rejuvenation and mindful connection. Here, luxury isn't just a promise, it's woven seamlessly with nature, creating an atmosphere where I felt both pampered and aligned with my values of sustainability.
Each day at La Zebra brought a new experience, from exploring cenotes hidden in lush jungles to indulging in meals that honored both local flavors and global consciousness. The fresh, organic ingredients nourished not just my body but my soul, reminding me of the joys of mindful eating. The staff's warm, intuitive service made every moment feel personalized, embodying the spirit of heartfelt hospitality that turned our retreat into an unforgettable journey of friendship and wellness.
This escape has inspired me to carry this sense of peace back into everyday life. Leaving Tulum, I felt both reinvigorated and more deeply connected to my inner balance, a reminder that the best travels are those that transform how we see ourselves and the world. I'm already planning my return to this sanctuary of calm and connection, eager to embrace its gentle beauty once more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about your stay
What's the best way to unwind at La Zebra Tulum?
Embrace the tranquility of the ocean breeze on a secluded beach. With each inhale, let the sound of waves draw you into deeper relaxation. This setting offers the perfect opportunity to practice mindfulness and reconnect with yourself while surrounded by nature's peaceful rhythm.
How can we ensure our stay aligns with sustainable practices?
At La Zebra Tulum, sustainability is prioritized through eco-friendly initiatives and locally sourced ingredients. Engage in practices that reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship, from participating in beach clean-ups to enjoying plant-based dining options that promote local biodiversity.
What wellness activities are available?
Enhance your stay with diverse wellness offerings, such as yoga on the beach, meditation workshops, and spa treatments infused with natural ingredients. Each activity is designed to help you slow down, breathe deeply, and facilitate a journey toward inner peace and rejuvenation.
How can I best experience the local culture?
Immerse yourself by taking part in cultural workshops and exploring nearby artisan markets. Whether you're tasting regional cuisine or learning traditional crafts, these experiences offer a window into the vibrant culture and foster meaningful connections with the local community.
What can I do to prepare for a digital detox?
Set intentions for your digital detox by planning activities that encourage presence. Consider journaling or engaging deeply in conversations with friends. This journey allows you to focus on the now, promoting a sense of balance while reducing the stress of constant connectivity.
Is La Zebra Tulum family-friendly?
Yes, La Zebra Tulum offers family-friendly amenities that cater to both relaxation and cultural immersion. Enjoy family yoga sessions, storytelling evenings under the stars, and eco-conscious activities that welcome children to explore and learn about sustainable practices in an engaging environment.
How do I get to La Zebra Tulum?
Reach Tulum by flying into Cancun International Airport. From there, a scenic drive or shuttle of about 90 minutes will lead you to this serene coastal retreat. Options include private transfers to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey.
Can I join group wellness sessions with my friends?
Yes, La Zebra Tulum facilitates group wellness activities perfect for friends seeking shared rejuvenation experiences. Join yoga classes by the sea or indulge in personalized spa packages designed to cater to both individual and group needs, fostering shared tranquility and bonding.
What kind of dining experiences are available?
Savor a diverse array of dining experiences featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy plant-forward dishes under softly lit canopies, each meal reflecting the harmony between wellness and culinary pleasure—a true enhancement to your journey of relaxation and balance.
How can I maintain my wellness routine while on vacation?
Stay committed to your wellness routine by incorporating tailored spa treatments, yoga, and nutritious meals. La Zebra Tulum supports your holistic wellness journey, providing serene environments and expert guidance that empower you to continue your practice effortlessly amidst your travels.
How do I stay fit without a traditional gym?
Explore alternative fitness options such as beachfront yoga or nature hikes. These activities not only maintain physical well-being but also offer sensory engagement with the environment, encouraging a connection to nature and promoting overall wellness through enjoyable movement.
What emotional benefits can I expect from this getaway?
Expect a shift from stress to serenity. This getaway offers a chance to reconnect with yourself and friends, providing emotional relief from life's pressures. Through mindful activities and nurturing surroundings, rediscover the balance that nurtures your spirit, fostering gratitude and shared joy.
About the Author
Meet the person behind this personalized travel guide