From Huts to Paradise | Papaya Playa Project Tulum

When it started at the end of 2011, the site of Papaya Playa Project was nothing more than a collection of rustic huts dotting the pristine shores of Tulum. Today, it has grown into an eco-conscious haven where art, culture, sustainability, and great parties coexist harmoniously. Nestled between the Caribbean waters and the ancient Mayan ruins, Papaya Playa Project offers a holistic approach to hospitality.

The complex has many amenities that allow guests to find anything they need inside. The beach club invites guests to lounge by the shore with cocktails and snacks, while the spa provides a sanctuary for relaxation. For the adventurous, the natural amphitheater by the beach serves as a cultural hub, hosting music performances, parties, workshops, and artistic installations. Art, music, and self-discovery are central to the Papaya Playa experience. 

Sustainability 

The resort itself features open-air artistic installations and offers workshops on breathwork, meditation, and yoga. It also boasts three types of accommodations, the small cabañas made of natural materials and great for rustic living, the houses made with traditional Mayan techniques and materials with their own private pool, and the sprawling villas designed to minimize ecological impact. 
Finally, the on-site restaurant overlooks the sea, offering locally sourced dishes produced by the community around Tulum or from the property’s farm. 

In this sense, conservation and self-sufficiency are points of pride for Papaya. According to data presented by the hotel, 93% of the space is still a virgin jungle, while other resorts conserve only 5% when about 30% or more is required for preservation. The resort also operates with zero emissions and zero contamination, from treating water on-site to using solar energy and organic farming practices.
Guests can even participate in monthly beach cleanups and turtle protection programs, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for the natural world.

A key part of Tulum's Nightlife

Papaya Playa Project is one of the first hubs that hosted great parties in Tulum. In a sense, it was a key player in Tulum's gained popularity for parties. If you visit Tulum it is an almost mandatory visit so you can experience the "original" nightlife. 

One of Papaya Playa’s most celebrated traditions is its monthly Full Moon Parties. They are held under the night sky and feature world-renowned DJs and vibrant performances, creating a euphoric atmosphere of connection and celebration. With the moonlight shimmering on the ocean, visitors dance freely. 

During the rest of the year, they host several events on Saturdays. However, the other main set of parties is New Year’s Eve. Each year, the beach transforms into a grand party that welcomes guests from around the globe. 

You can buy tickets, or if you want a more comfortable experience book a table.