Transportion

How do I get from Cancun airport to Olas?

Options include Public Transportation, Taxi Service, Private Transport, or Car Rental. Public transport is limited and lengthy, but costs are very affordable. The ADO bus runs directly from the Cancún Airport to Tulum town; it takes about two hours with a cost of around $15 USD, and then you would take a local taxi to our property also with a cost of around $35-$50 USD. Taxi services are available at the airport terminal but their cost fluctuates and a good experience can not be guaranteed. We recommend arranging a private transfer with our team to guarantee a relaxing and comfortable journey – perfect to ease you into your stay. We’ll just need 72 hours notice, and it will cost $170 USD for two people from the airport all the way directly to our villa ($360 USD round-trip). There is also the option of renting a car from the airport which we recommend as well especially if you’ll be doing a little exploring during your stay (such as visiting the beautiful colonial town of Valladolid, taking in the Mayan ruins at Ek Balam or discovering one of the hundreds of pristine cenotes).

How should we get around Tulum once we arrive?

Tulum is spread out, with the parts of the city a fair distance from each other. The Town of Tulum (the Pueblo) is on the main highway, and the beach road is where most of the hotels are located. Olas is 14 km from Tulum Pueblo center. 

We recommend renting a car if you’re looking for added flexibility and freedom. While taxis are available they tend to be rather expensive and run on “island time”. We also have bicycles available for daily rental on the property if you prefer a slower pace and a leisurely ride. Should we run out (the six we offer are first come, first serve), you can always find a few to rent just down the road from us. To stretch your legs, you can take the beach road or walk along the beach for a more scenic route. Just remember to take a flashlight when you’re walking at night as there are no street lights on the Tulum beach road.

What is the closest international airport and how long is the drive to Tulum?

You can fly into Cancun Airport, and many US cities will have direct flights. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive into Tulum – just enough time to settle into the scenery.   

Safety & Culture

How safe is Tulum?

Tulum is one of the safest cities in Mexico. It is a diverse community made up of locals (whose families have lived here for generations), expats, and people who have been drawn to Tulum’s laid back vibe. We are a community that looks out for one another. Even solo travelers can feel comfortable exploring here. As with any travel experience, exercise normal vigilance, use common sense, only take part in activities that you feel safe doing, and always respect the local culture.

Do I need to know how to speak Spanish?

Even though Mexico is a Spanish speaking country, a lot of our community speak multiple languages and our team speak both Spanish and English. It’s always nice to try and communicate with the local language, and a little effort goes a long way. But know that there is always someone close by who can help.

If I get sick or require a doctor can I find a hospital or doctor in Tulum?

Of course. We have a health center in the town if you need medical care, plus we are friends with an excellent doctor who will make house calls to Olas. 

Can I use US currency, Euros or Canadian dollars for day to day payments?

We use pesos here, and the general rule is to use the local currency within Tulum. You might find it difficult to use credit cards in slightly smaller, local shops, so it’s always good to have a little cash on hand when you’re walking around town. Just a reminder that ATMs and currency exchange is limited to $5,000 pesos a day, which is about $300 USD.

At Olas

Do you offer daily housekeeping services?

We do, although we ask guests to keep their environmental impact in mind and change towels only when necessary. Suites are cleaned each morning, but our staff keep their eyes peeled for when you leave so we can slip in without disturbing you. If you would prefer for your space to be left undisturbed during your stay just let us know.

Do I need to bring sunscreen, mosquito spray and bath products?

Don’t worry about loading your case with bath products – you’ll find local, biodegradable shampoos, conditioners and soaps in your room (made locally here in the Yucatan). The Caribbean sun is as strong as it is beautiful, so sunscreen is highly recommended. And if you’re prone to mosquito bites, sprays are certainly helpful in our tropical climate. There are plenty of eco-friendly options out there to consider – our environment is delicate and can be easily affected by toxins and chemicals.

What are the beach areas like around Olas?

All beaches in Mexico are public, but thanks to being a little more off the beaten path, we have the privilege of privacy. We neighbour the Sian Ka’an reserve (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), so the areas around our property remain serene and secluded. Walking a few feet from your room down to the sand, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy a day under the sun: beach towels, palapas for shade and plenty of lounge chairs. 

Can we book local activities and attractions?

To take the stress and guess work out of your stay, we have a villa host on hand to help you with things like local information, directions, recommendations and activities. And we’ve been locals in the area ourselves for 20 years, so lean on us to connect you with our favorite people, places, restaurants and the hidden gems of Tulum. 

How is the wifi and cell service at Olas? 

We may be off the grid, but even we need wifi (to check the weather report and make sure the breeze blows your hammock just right) and you’ll be able to access the internet throughout the property and in your suite. We recently upgraded our wifi services so if you need to connect with work while on vacay you can log into those Zoom calls and make everyone jealous with the Caribbean and palms in the background. 

It’s totally safe to leave your electronics in the room; in fact we encourage it to protect them from the humid salt air. Cell service can be spotty depending on your carrier. We recommend wifi calls for best results including FaceTime, WhatsApp, and Skype. 

Do the rooms have air conditioning?

Being that we are 100% solar powered our suites do not have air conditioning, and we love our life without it. Because the villa was built before Tulum was even recognized by Mexico, all of our spaces  were constructed with that beautiful Caribbean breeze in mind. All of our rooms face the oceans (for optimum breeze and ultimate views), and we rely on the building’s unique and thoughtful design to keep cool (palapa roofing for shade from the afternoon sun, concrete floors to keep in the coolness from the mornings, and curved walls and releases that utilize the “Venturi effect” to create stronger, constant airflow. Each suite is also equipped with floor fans if you wish to use them. 

Are children welcome on the property?

Children over five years old are absolutely welcome at our villa. 

Will I see turtles?

For your sake, we hope so as it is always a magical experience. Turtle season is May to October in Tulum. Just a reminder that mothers will lay their eggs on the beach in the evening hours, so we ask that you are careful when using flashlights on the beach at night in case of disturbing them. And if you’re lucky enough to see a turtle laying their eggs, let our host know so we can mark the area.

What is the weather generally like?

You’ll be happy to hear that our year-round temperature is a very hospitable T 80F/26C. In the summer, it can get up to 90F/32C, but those wonderful ocean breezes will keep you cool. The rainy season is from June to October, but most of the time that only means passing showers. Caribbean summers mean calm seas, mango season and turtles nesting – what more could you ask for?

What is the 4% staff gratuity? 

This 4% goes to our wonderful staff who work so hard to care for every guest. If you weren’t happy with your service, let us know and we can talk to you about your stay, And if everything was to your liking (and you don’t want to leave) then feel free to add an extra amount before you leave.