In-Depth Review of Playa Viva Hotel in Juluchuca, Mexico - AFAR
"Opened in 2008 on a rewilded 200‑acre reserve between the Pacific and the Sierra Madre, this beachfront, off‑grid resort has grown from five biophilic rooms to 19 accommodations, including 2021 mobula ray–inspired bamboo tree houses. It earned B Corporation certification in January 2023 with a top hotel score of 110 thanks to low‑impact construction using local materials, a solar plant that makes the property 100% off‑grid, an on‑site 49‑acre permaculture farm supplying organic produce, biodiversity restoration projects such as a sea turtle sanctuary and nighttime nesting/incubation work with the locally run La Tortuga Viva, and a commitment to donate at least 10% of annual profits to community and environmental projects regardless of financial performance. The all‑inclusive dining focuses on health‑conscious Mexican dishes—house‑made tortillas, ceviches, chilaquiles, grilled marlin, tortilla soup and a notably good frozen basil margarita—served in an open‑air earthen dining hall; farm tours (including piglets and fruit samples) are offered. Accommodation options range from exposed beachfront tree houses (mosquito‑net beds, sweeping ocean views, minimal walls, no TV/AC) to more enclosed palapa suites and casitas that sleep families with flexible bed arrangements; one King EcoCasita offers the closest thing to accessibility with a ramp. Remote and wild (about 40 minutes south of Zihuatanejo airport near tiny Juluchuca), the setting offers dramatic surf for intermediate/advanced surfers, a beachside infinity pool alternative for families, zero light pollution, yoga retreats (popular five‑ to seven‑day programs; kids under five stay free), temazcal ceremonies, nearby archaeological sites, seasonal whale‑watching trips, and meaningful volunteer activities—but guests should note there is no lifeguard and scorpions can appear after dark, so black‑light torches are provided at check‑in." - Kathryn Romeyn
