I stepped off my airport shuttle into the balmy Mexican air, excited to start my stay at Lunaya Hotel in Puerto Escondido. Located in the trendy La Punta area, this boutique hotel caught my attention with its stunning minimalist design and promise of a peaceful beach getaway. After spending a week here in January 2024, I can confidently say this place exceeded all my expectations.
My journey to find the perfect hotel in Puerto Escondido led me to this hidden gem, sitting just steps away from the golden sands of Playa Zicatela. The combination of modern luxury and laid-back beach vibes made this adults-only property stand out from other options in the area.
Let me take you through every detail of my incredible stay at this architectural masterpiece.
Location & Accessibility
The hotel sits in an ideal spot, just 10 kilometers from Puerto Escondido International Airport. Getting here was a breeze – I booked the hotel’s shuttle service, and within 20 minutes, I arrived at my destination. The friendly driver helped with my luggage and shared interesting facts about the area during the ride.
Right outside the hotel’s entrance, you’ll find yourself immersed in the casual beach culture of La Punta. The location strikes a perfect balance between convenience and tranquility. A one-minute walk takes you to the beach, where you can catch stunning sunsets or try surfing lessons.
I particularly loved how easy it was to explore on foot. Within a five-minute walk, I discovered charming coffee shops, local restaurants, and cute boutiques. My favorite morning ritual became walking to Ojitos Abiertos, a nearby café, for their amazing coffee and fresh pastries.
The property’s position at the end of the main street means you get the best of both – quick access to everything while staying away from excessive noise. I felt safe walking around at all hours, as the area has good lighting and a constant flow of people during the day and early evening.
First Impressions & Design
Stepping through the entrance, I was immediately struck by the hotel’s stunning architectural design. Clean lines, natural materials, and thoughtful lighting create an atmosphere of calm luxury. The combination of concrete, wood, and clay elements showcases Mexican craftsmanship in a modern way.
Natural light floods the spaces through carefully placed windows and openings. The design maximizes privacy while maintaining an open, airy feel. Each corner reveals another beautiful detail – from handcrafted light fixtures to custom-built furniture.
The hotel’s layout guides you naturally from the entrance to your room, with lovely touches like potted plants and subtle lighting along the way. Everything feels intentional and perfectly placed, creating a sense of peace as soon as you enter.
What impressed me most was how the design incorporated the natural surroundings. The walls frame views of sky and palm trees, making you feel connected to nature even while indoors. The color palette of soft whites, grays, and natural tones creates a soothing backdrop for relaxation.
My Room: A Private Sanctuary
My room surpassed all expectations with its generous size and beautiful design. The space featured high ceilings, smooth concrete walls, and large windows that brought in plenty of natural light. A comfortable king-sized bed with premium linens became my perfect spot for afternoon naps.
The private plunge pool proved to be my favorite feature. I spent countless hours floating in the cool water, reading books, and listening to the distant sound of waves. The pool’s design, with its clean lines and perfect temperature, made it hard to leave.
The bathroom deserves special mention – spacious and spa-like, with a large soaking tub, separate rain shower, and high-end toiletries. I appreciated thoughtful touches like plenty of fluffy towels and excellent lighting for makeup application.
A small kitchenette area came equipped with everything needed for basic meal prep – refrigerator, coffee maker, and essential utensils. The filtered drinking water system meant no need for constant bottle purchases, an eco-friendly touch I really valued.
The room’s terrace provided a lovely outdoor living space. I enjoyed morning coffee and evening drinks here, surrounded by tropical plants and cool breezes. The furniture was both stylish and comfortable, perfect for lounging.
Amenities & Services
The hotel offers a carefully curated selection of amenities that enhance the stay without feeling excessive. The saltwater rooftop pool provides another option for swimming, with stunning views of the surrounding area. I spent several sunset sessions here, mesmerized by the changing colors of the sky.
Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the well-equipped gym and daily yoga classes. I joined a morning yoga session on my second day – the instructor was excellent and adapted the class to suit different skill levels. The garden area provides a peaceful setting for meditation or reading.
The concierge service stands out for its personalized attention. They arranged several activities for me, including a memorable horseback riding excursion along the beach and a relaxing massage in my room. Every request was handled promptly and professionally.
Beach access comes with extra perks – the hotel provides umbrellas and chairs for guests. This made beach days much more comfortable, and I didn’t have to worry about carrying heavy equipment back and forth.
The Dining Experience
While the hotel doesn’t have its own restaurant, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise. The staff provided excellent recommendations for local dining options, all within walking distance. I discovered some amazing spots I might have missed otherwise.
My favorite breakfast spot became a small café just two minutes away, serving fresh smoothie bowls and Mexican coffee. For lunch, I often grabbed quick bites from nearby beach restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood and local specialties.
Dinner options proved equally impressive. The hotel sits close to Chicama, serving excellent Peruvian cuisine – I had some of the best ceviche here. Another standout was a small Mexican restaurant recommended by the staff, where I tasted authentic Oaxacan mole.
Having a kitchenette in my room meant I could also prepare simple meals when I wanted to stay in. The nearby mini-market stocked fresh fruits, snacks, and basic cooking ingredients. I loved making morning smoothies with tropical fruits bought from local vendors.
Guest Experience & Atmosphere
The adults-only policy creates a peaceful, sophisticated atmosphere throughout the property. During my stay, I met interesting travelers from around the globe, all seeking a similar blend of relaxation and style.
The hotel maintains high standards of cleanliness and maintenance. Common areas are impeccably kept, and daily room service ensures everything stays fresh and tidy. I noticed staff regularly tending to the gardens and pools, keeping them in perfect condition.
Security measures struck the right balance between safety and discretion. The key card access system and 24-hour staff presence made me feel secure without being intrusive. The hotel’s location in a safe neighborhood added to my peace of mind.
Small touches made big differences – like the WhatsApp group created for easy communication with staff, or the detailed area guide provided at check-in. These elements showed careful consideration for guest comfort and convenience.
Final Thoughts
My week at Lunaya Hotel created memories I’ll cherish for years. The perfect location, stunning design, and attentive service combined to create an exceptional stay. This place sets a new standard for boutique hotels in Puerto Escondido.
The property’s attention to detail, from the architectural elements to the guest services, makes it stand out in the best possible way. If you’re looking for a sophisticated beach getaway that combines style, comfort, and prime location, Lunaya Hotel delivers on all fronts.
This hidden gem deserves its five-star ratings across the board. The only downside? You might find it hard to leave. I’m already planning my return visit to this slice of paradise in Puerto Escondido.
