About the hotel
Hotel Esencia stands at km 265 of the Cancún-Tulum highway at Xpu-Ha, Quintana Roo, where the Yucatán jungle meets Xpu-Ha bay. The 50 Best list places it under Tulum; the site lies between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. According to the hotel, the property was originally the private home of an Italian duchess. Forbes Travel Guide names the owner as Kevin Wendle, an Emmy-winning producer.
The estate covers 50 acres. Forbes Travel Guide lists 47 suites and four villas, plus the Esencia Mansion with four en-suite bedrooms and three pools. The same source lists three restaurants, Mistura, Taiyo and Beefbar Esencia, along with a Beach Bar and a late-night bar, The Speakeasy. Other facilities include a spa and health club and two pools near the beach. The hotel is not part of a chain. Its opening year is not stated in the sources read.
Rooms and keys
Forbes Travel Guide lists 47 suites and four villas, plus the four-bedroom Esencia Mansion; no total is stated on the official homepage
Inside the hotel
Restaurants and bars
- Mistura
- Taiyo
- Beefbar Esencia
- Beach Bar
- The Speakeasy
Facilities
- Spa and health club
- Two pools near the beach
- 50-acre estate on Xpu-Ha beach
- Esencia Mansion with four en-suite bedrooms and three pools
- Private events
As listed on the hotel’s own website. See sources.
Recognition
- No. 64
- The World's 50 Best Hotels 2026
- Five-Star
- Forbes Travel Guide
Questions readers ask.
Who owns Hotel Esencia?
Forbes Travel Guide names Kevin Wendle as the owner. The hotel is independent and not part of a chain.
How many rooms does Hotel Esencia have?
Forbes Travel Guide lists 47 suites and four villas, plus the four-bedroom Esencia Mansion.
Where is Hotel Esencia?
At km 265 of the Cancún-Tulum highway at Xpu-Ha, Quintana Roo, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Sources & context.
Facts are taken from the pages listed below. Where a detail could not be confirmed it has been left out. Profile last checked 10 October 2026.