Hotel Esencia

We had such an amazing trip! As always our favorite destination! The newly renovated spa was soooooo great and very much needed! We had dinner at Beef Bar after a beautiful massage. Everything was top notch! The staff is always so welcoming and accommodating and we can't wait to return!

It’s always the chicest. It was our 10th time there and the service, food, accommodation - everything - has improved on an already perfect place. I just wish I could live there. It’s an easy getaway from all major cities and is always worth every cent.

In September 2023, my husband and I had an extraordinary stay at Hotel Esencia, which quickly became our favorite hotel. The experience was flawless, and we eagerly anticipated our return. Unfortunately, our second visit in 2024 fell short in several key areas. However, after sharing this feedback, hotel management graciously offered us a complimentary stay to make things right, which we accepted during January 2025. I’m happy to report that the experience this time was much improved. The property remains unparalleled with lush, peaceful grounds. The beach is breathtaking - a nearly-private space with pristine sand and crystal-clear water. The rooms are beautifully designed, impeccably maintained, exude understated luxury, and include many well-thought out details and items one would want while on vacation (eg: flip flops, beach bags, certain toiletries like sunscreen, etc). The staff also recognized we were celebrating a birthday and did a very nice job welcoming us with birthday treats and a room upgrade. Our arrival was a fantastic experience. The spa was open during our stay and was every bit as lovely as we had remembered. During this complimentary stay, the service noticeably improved compared to our previous visit. While it didn’t quite reach the impeccable standard we experienced in 2023, it was clear the staff made an effort to ensure we were well taken care of. That said, the general service approach feels more relaxed than it once was — it is simply less polished and anticipatory, though it remains very friendly and accommodating. This attitude perhaps reflects the overall barefoot luxury vibe at Hotel Esencia, and I'm sure many guests appreciate this unobtrusive approach. Regardless, Hotel Esencia’s unique charm is undeniable. The beach, facilities, and serene atmosphere remain unmatched, creating a sense of effortless escape. Special touches like releasing baby sea turtles and swimming with manatees or seabobs continue to stand out. Overall, this recent visit reaffirmed why Hotel Esencia holds such a special place for us. While the service feels more laid-back than during our first stay, the incredible setting, well-appointed accommodations, and world-class beach make Esencia a rare gem. We are grateful to the management for their generosity and effort to improve our experience, and we look forward to seeing how the hotel continues to evolve.