Villa Kati Kaan, Tulum

Tranquil and breathtakingly beautiful, it offers a private white sand beach kissed by the sparkling turquoise waves of the Caribbean. It’s a marvel: a rare jewel in the Sian Kaan biosphere, which is a natural Unesco World Heritage site and Mexico’s largest nature preserve with flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Fronted by the sea, the property is backed by the Campechon lagoon; the natural, freshwater marine aquifer for MesoAmerica, featuring canals carved by the Maya in 500 BC. New, airy, and light-filled, the villa fits well with its unique surroundings. A blend of Mayan and modern styles, its heart is an immense palapa, artistically woven with native palms and rising three stories. The house is constructed with warm hardwoods and features chukum plaster, a natural clay that filters the air, regulates temperature and shines with a touch-inviting luminosity. Throughout the house, details make the difference: custom-made wood furniture was specially designed for the Kati Kaan modern esthetic. The linens are Frette, the bedcovers are simple: locally woven soft cotton in tasteful designs with a shot of Mayan color. The stone floors are hand-hewn, smooth and perfect for bare feet. The decor incorporates native flavor with local artists’ work in painting, weaving, ceramics and glass. Up on the roof is the 360? view of the sea and the lagoon. Featuring a jacuzzi, bar, and lounge area, it’s the perfect place for watching spectacular sunsets or the peering into the inky dark skies of Sian Kaan, where stars look close enough to touch. The villa was designed to respect nature and have low environmental impact. It’s been carefully created to circulate fresh sea breezes and cool, both day and night. Awnings and umbrellas offer protection from mid-day sun and provide pleasant areas to relax, read, or rest. On the beach, there are thatch-roofed palapas, lounge chairs, cotton covered beach beds, and even a pergola-covered table for dining on the sands. Local, made-to-order, eco-friendly products grace the bathrooms and a catchment system recycles gray water to minimize waste. The pool is saltwater with no harsh chemicals. A well-considered guest experience means there are convenient light switches, multiple charging outlets and AC units in every room. Screened windows bar errant insects. Adjustable shutters and blackout curtains for sliding glass doors provide privacy if desired. The entire house and pool area is wired for sound with Sonos—all set to play from Spotify. 21% tax and 5% service charge are not included. A security deposit is required. Minimum stay 3 nights all seasons, 7 days Christmas & NY

Campechen Lagoon 3.5 miles into the Sian Kaan Biosphere park 35 minutes from Tulum town