Where To Stay In Tulum

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Finding the best accommodation in Tulum can be a little tricky as there are four distinct areas, all with pros and cons. In this post, I have broken down the three areas to stay in Tulum and listed my top picks depending on your needs and budget.

P.S. read this if you need to travel from Cancun airport to Tulum

Where to stay in Tulum

The first you need to decide before booking accommodation is where to stay in Tulum. This is particularly important because there are four very distinct areas to stay in Tulum and each one of them has many pros and cons. You are going to need to take a lot of things into consideration when choosing your accommodation in Tulum. In this post I’ve mostly included best hotels in Tulum, I actually have full blog posts on Boutique Hotels in Tulum, and Hostels in Tulum you can read if you aren’t looking for hotels.

The first time I visited Tulum I had no idea about any of this. I did no research at all and instead, I just booked the cheapest decent Tulum hostel I could find. It actually worked out ok as the hostel was pretty amazing and in a good location but there were probably better options out there but I just didn’t know.

The way Tulum is set up the town and the two beach areas are quite some distance apart. This makes walking in between the areas impossible (it is way too hot to be walking so far and there is very little shelter) so you need to keep this in mind when deciding where you want to stay in Tulum.

Lucky for you I now know better so in this post I’m going to break it all down for you so you can make an informed decision on where to stay in Tulum.

QUICK TIP: Book your tours, rental cars, and transfers through my local contacts

I’ve been working with Living Dreams Mexico for years and they are who I send all my family and friends to when they visit the Riviera Maya. I really can recommend them enough for private tours and experiences. They have solid 5* reviews on Trip Advisor and Google from almost 4000 reviewers! You can view all their tours here.

If you’re looking for private airport transfers and rental cars then Vanessa and Oliver from Turismo Channel are personal friends of mine and I can 100% recommend them to make an inquiry click here and complete the form. Someone will be in touch within 24 hours.

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet?

The Insurance companies I recommend are Hey Mondo and Safety Wing

Hey Mondo is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy.

Read my full travel insurance post here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Tulum Town

If you are on a budget you will get more for your money in Tulum town. This goes both for accommodation and eating out. Tulum is, in general, more expensive than Playa del Carmen in my personal experience, especially in the beach areas. In the town, it is much easier to find budget accommodation in Tulum (and food). So what are the pros and cons of staying in Tulum town?

Pros: Tulum town runs on either side of the main highway that runs from Chetumal to Cancun. So the most obvious benefit is that if you are arriving by road you won’t have as far to go. You will be close to the ADO bus station, taxis, and Coliectivos. Tulum Hotel Zone.

You will get more for your money here. Accommodation is much cheaper and there are lots of hotels to choose from.

You will get to mix with locals and a slightly younger crowd in Tulum town. Most of the places on the beach road close around 11 pm due to local regulations about noise. In Tulum town everywhere opens much later and the few clubs in town don’t normally even get going until 1 or 2 am.

Street food! You can’t visit Mexico and not eat street food. You won’t find much in the way of cheap eats down by the beach but if you know where to look in Tulum you will find plenty of street carts selling tacos and tortas.

Quick Tip: Book accommodation, tours, and transport ahead of time online to save money and stress. 
Best Tulum Tours: Click here to check out the top Tulum tours
Best Tulum Accommodation: Click here to check out the best accommodation in Tulum
Best Tulum Transport: Click here to book a bus, ferry, or train in Tulum

Cons: You as a 30-minute bike ride, or 10-minute taxi or colectivo journey from the beach. This isn’t so bad during the day, but if you want to enjoy the nightlife down on the beach road you are going to need to pay for a taxi as the Colectivos stop running at 8 pm.

If you rent a bike then you can cycle. BUT if you don’t know the area I would not recommend this. I cycle everywhere here in Mexico and doing this ride at night even scares me a little! None of the bikes come with lights or helmets and there are big parts of the roads with no lights. There are a lot of big speed bumps and holes in the road to add to the danger level. So I really don’t recommend cycling at night.

2021 UPDATE: So apparently things got pretty crazy in Tulum over the past few years and I’m now hearing taxi drivers are charging anything from $200-$1000 pesos for a ride! CRAZY. Please be sure you either know the price or negotiate BEFORE you get in, especially if you are heading back in the evening. Or just rent a car from my friend Vanessa, tell her I sent you for a special Claire’s Itchy Feet discount! She also runs tours and excursions so can help with all your vacay needs.

If you have come to Tulum for the sole purpose of chilling out at the beach, eating at Harwood, and partying the day away at Boa Beach Club then this may not be the best choice for you.

How to get from Tulum town to the beach :

You head down Avenida Coba and you will come to a T-section. Turn left and you are on Tulum Beach Road North otherwise know as the public beach area (Playa Paradiso and Pescadores). Turn right and you are on Tulum Beach Road South or the private beach area. To know more about these two areas see below.

Tulum Beach Road North (Playa Paraiso and Playa Paradiso Public Beach Area)

This is the much quieter area closer to Tulum Ruins with a large public beach area.

Pros: This area is much quieter. You will be able to get to sleep earlier without all of the noise from the bars and the beach is also a lot quieter than the private beach on the other side.

If you want to visit Tulum Ruins you are much closer.

Cons: Most of the cool bars and restaurants that you are going to want to visit at night are other the other side on the South Beach Road area. This means a taxi ride, as it is too far to walk, especially at night in the dark.

Tulum Beach Road South (Private Beach Area)

This is the most popular area in Tulum, but because of this be prepared to pay! Hotels in this area charge on average of $300-$2000 per night! There are some alternatives though for my backpacker friends, so don’t worry. I got you covered!

Pros: This is where all of the places you will have read about are located. Harwood, Pablo Escobar house, Azulik etc. If your budget can stretch to it I recommend staying in this area for the real Tulum bohemian experience.

You are right on the beach and it’s magical.

Cons: The main one is the cost. For many people, especially my fellow solo travelers, staying in this area is too expensive for accommodation, food, and drinks.

It gets very busy in this area of town. If you prefer something a bit quieter I recommend staying on the public beach side.

Top Tip: Although this is the private beach area, the beach is actually public. So if you can sneak through one of the resorts or find one of the very small and well-hidden paths you can get on to the beach no problem. Most of the resorts will let you stay on a sunbed for the day for a minimum spend so even if you can’t afford to stay here you can pretend that you can for the day. That is exactly what I did on my first visit to Tulum.

Quick Tip: I highly recommend booking all of your Mexico transportation with GottoGo. You can search for buses, shuttles, ferries, and Flights on their website. What I love most about them is their customer service. I know these guys personally from living in Guatemala, and they look after their customers.

If anything happens and you get delayed and miss your bus, you can just call them, and they are always there to help. If you book through them, you will pay a little more than booking in person at the bus station. But it’s worth it for the ease and security. Click here to search for transportation in Mexico.

Where is the best hotel in Tulum?

When writing this post I wanted to share with you the best hotel in Tulum, in my opinion, of course. Determining the best hotel in Tulum can vary based on personal preferences, needs, and what one values most in their accommodation.

One hotel that I have personally stayed at and all you have to do is a quick Google search to see that it’s often mentioned for its exceptional qualities is La Zebra Colibri Boutique Hotel. This hotel frequently receives high praise for its combination of luxury, location, and service, making it a top contender for the best hotel in Tulum.

La Zebra Colibri Boutique Hotel – A Snapshot

• Location: Situated directly on Tulum’s beautiful beachfront, La Zebra offers stunning views and easy access to the sea.
• Accommodations: The rooms and suites are elegantly designed, blending luxury with local cultural elements, providing comfort and an authentic Tulum experience.
• Amenities: High-end amenities include a beachfront dining experience, a bar with expert mixologists, a spa, and activities like yoga classes.
• Service: La Zebra is known for its attentive and personalized service, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free stay for its guests.
• Atmosphere: The hotel manages to capture the laid-back yet luxurious vibe of Tulum, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation in a sophisticated setting.

Why It Stands Out

La Zebra Colibri Boutique Hotel is often recommended due to its consistent excellence in providing a luxurious and authentic Tulum experience. From its beachfront location to its top-notch facilities and services, it encapsulates what many travelers are looking for in a Tulum vacation.

I am such a fan of La Zebra. Even if you decide not to stay here you need to go and eat in the restaurant! The Chef is a bit of a rising star in Mexico and his traditional Mexican food with a modern twist is phenomenal. I recently got to experience his chef’s table and it was an unforgettable night and worth every penny in my opinion. La Zebra Tulum has a great calendar of events including their popular salsa Sundays and during the high season, they play host The Mulberry project.

Located on the south side of the beach road La Zebras location is in the ideal place for those of you wanting to visit the most popular restaurants and bars on this side of the beach.

All of this and I haven’t even mentioned the rooms, which by the way are incredible. Make sure you book a room with a plunge pool.

Have you ever been to Tulum if you don’t wake up on the beach and drink a morning coffee from your private plunge pool darling?

Booking.com rating 8.9
Tripadvisor rating 5

Best Hotels in Tulum – The number 1 rated hotel

Jashita Hotel

OK so strictly speaking this is actually just outside Tulum but it is the top-rated place to stay in the area. It truly is a beautiful and tranquil place to stay, especially if you just want to chill on the white sand beaches and swim in the crystal clear waters of Tulum without so many people around. It is about a 15-minute taxi ride to get to Tulum town and 20-30 minutes from the main beach roads in Tulum. Totally worth it though if you are looking for a resort with a beautiful beach!

Booking.com rating 9.4
Tripadvisor rating 5

Top Tulum Luxury Resorts in Tulum

Dreams Tulum Resort +Spa

Again this is actually outside of central Tulum, but all of the really big resorts like this are. This is the number 2 rated resort in Tulum and if you are staying here it is worth paying for the all-inclusive service as you are a taxi ride away from Tulum’s other restaurants and bars. Dreams is an incredible resort with the postcard-perfect Caribbean beach that people come to Tulum for. It is beautifully decorated and has the feel of a retreat center rather than a huge resort.

Dreams is also a great option for family-friendly accommodation in Tulum.

Booking.com rating 8.2
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Naala Tulum

What I love about Naala Tulum is the location. It is situated right in the middle of everything but not quite anywhere haha. This means you are in the most central area to be able to easily access Tulum town and the Tulum beach road. You are still likely to need a bike or taxi to get around but it is a great location nonetheless.

I don’t know if this could be catalogized as a Luxury Hotel but, I thought it was worth mentioning. The only thing that lets it down slightly is that it isn’t directly on the beach but you can rent bicycles at the front desk if you fancy going out to explore.

Booking.com rating 8.5
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Quick Tip: View my full Mexico packing guide here including a downloadable checklist. And check out my Mexico Essentials shopping list here.

Top Boutique Hotels in Tulum

I actually wrote a whole post just on my top boutique hotels in Tulum that you can read here. But in brief, I have chosen my top two on the beach and in Tulum town for this post. Most of the beachfront accommodations in Tulum are boutique hotels so you will be spoilt for choice if this is what you are looking for.

Top Boutique Hotels in Tulum on the Beach

Mi Amor (adults only)

It is marketed as a romantic getaway. But I actually stayed here with my friend as we wanted to party at Boa Beach Club at one of their Sunday sessions and Mi Amor is right next door. It is a great location and the perfect place to spend a few days or more soaking up the Tulum vibes.

I love the attention to detail in all of the Colibri hotels with always makes them my first choice in boutique hotels in Tulum. Any hotel that has these views, amazing food, and greats me with a complimentary welcome cocktail gets my vote!

Mi Amor is located on the quieter public side of Tulum beach road next door to Boa.

Booking.com rating 9.3
Tripadvisor rating 5

Other hotels worth mentioning are Tata Tulum (Adults Only), Ana y José Charming Hotel & Spa, and Alaya Tulum.

Need to rent a car in Playa del Carmen?

Whenever I’m in Playa or Tulum, I always rent a car through the Turismo Channel, as they include everything in the quoted price. Car rental companies in Mexico are notoriously tricky to deal with, and nine times out of 10, they will quote you a low cost, but then when you get there, they add on all kinds of insurance and won’t give the car to you unless you pay up. It can also take weeks or even months to refund your deposit. I wrote a blog post here, which you can read for more information. If you want a quote to rent a car with the Turismo Channel, click here to complete the form.

Quick Tip: I recommend booking your Tulum tours from Living Dreams Mexico:

DREAM TULUM
DISCOVER TULUM AND COBA

Top Boutique Hotels in Tulum Town

Ok so now onto the boutique hotels in Tulum town. You will sacrifice the beach by staying in the town but you do get more for your money in this area.

Elements Tulum Boutique Hotel

This boutique hotel in Tulum town is in a great location, has free bike rental so you can easily get around at no extra cost, and a stunning pool area. There is a continental breakfast included in your stay and you are looking at an average of $200 per night rather than $500 to stay on the beach.

Other places worth mentioning are Xscape Tulum, Biwa Tulum, Secret Garden, and Hotel Posada 06 Tulum.

Top Holistic Hotels in Tulum

Be Tulum

When I’m asked where the best place to stay in Tulum to really get the ‘Tulum experience’ I always answer Be Tulum. It nails the whole jungle meets the beach vibe that Tulum is so well known for. With daily yoga from their treetop jungle studio and a wellness center carefully constructed on the jungle side of the road, you can’t get more Tulum than be Tulum.

My advice, go for a week! You won’t want to leave.

Booking.com rating 9.2
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Most popular hotels in Tulum (AKA the most Instagrammed hotels in Tulum)

Azulik

This place doesn’t really need an introduction. If you aren’t following them on Instagram yet you really need to go follow them now. This is possibly the number one most Instagrammed place in Tulum. If you can’t afford to stay there (it is around $1000 plus per night) then you can always eat in the restaurant or take a drink at the bar to get your insta shot!

Booking.com rating 8.1
Tripadvisor rating 4

Papaya Playa Project

Another Tulum favorite that needs no introduction. Think jungle meets beach in an echo-chic way. They have monthly full moon parties on the beach, regular DJ sets, and temazcal ceremonies. If you are looking for the Tulum holistic bohemium experience you should 100% add this place to your list.

Booking.com rating 7.4
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Nomade Tulum

The attention to detail here is what you pay for. Situated on the beach front this is my personal favorite for beach chic places to stay in Tulum Mexico. It is the perfect place to hide away from the world or a week or two.

Booking.com rating 8.8
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

The Best Beach Hotels in Tulum

Tulum is best known for its stunning beaches and clear waters, and it offers some of the most exceptional beachfront hotels. Here are some of my personal recommendations if you are looking to book the best beach hotels in Tulum.

Casa Malca

Well known as one of the best beach hotels in Tulum and one of the best places to stay in Tulum, offering a unique blend of luxury and artistry that captures the essence of the Tulum experience.

Nestled on the edge of a pristine beach, it’s a shining example of the best beach hotels in Tulum. The hotel’s design effortlessly combines elements of the jungle with the serene beauty of the beach, embodying an eco-chic aesthetic that Tulum is famous for.

At Casa Malca, guests are treated to an immersive experience that goes beyond the typical. It’s one of those rare places to stay in Tulum where you can witness the seamless fusion of contemporary art and natural beauty which is why I can confidently say that its one of the best Tulum hotels.

Guests can indulge in gourmet dining, relax in elegantly designed rooms, and take part in unique events that Casa Malca hosts. Whether it’s their full moon parties on the beach, regular DJ sets, or the traditional temazcal ceremonies, there’s always something happening that captures the vibrant spirit of Tulum.

Booking.com rating 7.4
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Dune Boutique Hotel Tulum

Dune Boutique Hotel Tulum is often celebrated as one of the best places to stay in Tulum, distinguishing itself as a haven of tranquility and luxury. This boutique hotel, renowned for its intimate and personalized experience, is a true gem among the best hotels Tulum has to offer.

Located in the heart of Tulum’s stunning coastal area, Dune Boutique Hotel offers a unique blend of modern elegance and natural beauty. The hotel’s design, which seamlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape, provides a serene and luxurious atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Each room is thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind, ensuring a peaceful and luxurious stay.

Guests can indulge in exquisite dining experiences, relax on the beautiful beachfront, and enjoy a range of wellness activities designed to soothe both body and mind. The hotel’s attentive staff ensures that every aspect of your stay is perfect, from the moment you arrive until you depart.

Booking.com rating 7.4
Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Luxury Hotels in Tulum

Looking for luxury hotels in Tulum? You won’t need to look hard as Tulum and luxury really do go hand in hand. That said here are two of my personal favorite Tulum Luxury hotels.

The Beach Tulum

The Beach Tulum is another gem among Tulum luxury hotels. It stands out for its modern amenities and stunning design, encapsulating the essence of a luxury hotel in Tulum. The hotel offers spacious and beautifully decorated rooms with breathtaking ocean views, making it a top choice for travelers looking for luxury hotels in Tulum.

Guests can enjoy a range of high-end facilities, including a spa, fine dining options, and private beach access. The personalized service and tranquil environment make The Beach Tulum not just one of the luxury hotels Tulum offers, but a destination in itself for those seeking an exclusive and sophisticated retreat.

Booking.com rating 9.1
Tripadvisor rating 5

Other Tulum Luxury Hotels worth mentioning:

1. Hotel Zulum: A great choice for travelers seeking a comfortable and casual beachfront hotel with all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay​​.
2. Mereva Tulum by Blue Sky: Combines luxury with a touch of rustic charm, offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle​​.
3. O’ Tulum Boutique Hotel – Adults Only: A perfect getaway for adults seeking tranquility and relaxation, with modern amenities and serene beachfront views​​.
4. Maria Del Mar Tulum – Adults Only: Tailored for adults, this hotel provides a serene and intimate beachfront experience, perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking peace and quiet​​.
5. Habitas Tulum: Known for its eco-friendly approach and immersive nature experiences, this hotel offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability​​.

Best Budget Accommodation near the beach in Tulum

Hotel Bambu Gran Palas

What a find this place was! I paid $25 to stay here for one night. It is very basic so don’t expect too much. I mean the shower was the worst I’ve had in a long time, and this is coming from someone who really doesn’t have high standards when it comes to accommodation Honestly I would have preferred a bucket of water. It was so bad I could hardly wash!

But that really was the only negative. The bed was comfortable and clean. You have an area within your bed to lock your whole backpack, a light, and a fan. Plus breakfast is included. But really the best thing about this hostel is the location. You are in staggering distance of all of the top places to eat, drink, and party on the beach in Tulum.

Now if you compare the price tag of $25 a night with a hostel in the center of Tulum it does seem pricey. But the average cost of accommodation in this area of Tulum is around $500 a night! So believe me when I say $25 is excellent value!

Also, this hotel is in the jungle and it is made of bamboo. So if you are a little bit delicate and freak out at the sight of a spider or scorpion then maybe you need to find somewhere else to stay.

Booking.com rating 7.6
Tripadvisor rating 5

The FREE Hostel

I heard about this place from some backpackers I met at a cenote. I decided to go and check it out for myself and it was pretty cool. If I’m honest it wasn’t really my vibe. The bed was uncomfortable, it wasn’t particularly clean and the food wasn’t great.

However, I must admit I’m much happier staying in Boutique hotels these days (must be my age and being on the road so long). I still love staying in hostels, I just prefer something a little more classy. I have spoken to a lot of backpackers who love it here and actually extended their stay so they could hang out here longer.

So I’ve done the cons, now for the pros. It is cheap! Like $30 for a night all-inclusive. Yep, that’s right all of your drinks, food, and even towel and bike rental are included. So yes the food was cheap (what can I say I love my food) but it was included so for the price you are paying it is great value.

This hostel is for all of the backpackers on a tight budget happy to hang out with fellow wanderest drinking beer and eating pizza and fries. The location is great for Tulum Ruins or Playa Paraiso/ Playa Pescadores, but a bike ride or colectivo journey from the town. If you want to go partying in the town or the beach at night you will need to share a taxi or risk cycling.

Another thing I liked about this place was that they have ‘free’ excursions each day. Normally to a cenote or local place of interest. You do still have to pay the entrance fee but they take you there. It’s a really great deal and for all of these reasons if you want to do Tulum on the cheap I would recommend staying here.

Booking.com rating 8.5
Tripadvisor rating 4

Best Budget Accommodation in Tulum Town

Chill Inn

This is actually the first place I ever stayed in Tulum and although it is impossible to find because there is no sign on the door it is the perfect little hideaway in central Tulum. They do an amazing breakfast and you can also rent bikes there.

I love the communal area and found the owners to be super friendly and accommodating. I actually stayed in the smaller dorm with the AC which was well worth the extra cost especially if you come during the Mexican Summer when it gets really hot!

Tripadvisor rating 4.5

Hostelworld rating 8.4

Tubo Tulum

This is my current go-to budget place in Tulum. I love the location on the main road between Tulum town and the beach. When I just need a bed for the night in Tulum because I’m working up there or visiting friends I stay here.

For the price of a night in a dorm room, you can have your only private little tube room. The breakfast is ok and I found some staff more helpful than others but still liked it a lot there.

Booking.com rating 8.5
Tripadvisor rating 4

Map of Accommodations in Tulum

Tulum Travel Guide Planning

🧳 Any recommendations on what I should pack for Tulum?

Yes! I have created a whole packing guide to Tulum which you can read here and you can also check out my packing list for Tulum on Amazon here.

🚗 Where can I book bus or private transportation while I’m in Tulum?

I strongly recommend using GottoGo. You can book almost all transport in the major Mexican tourist destinations through them online. They don’t just cover buses they also cover shuttles, ferries, and private drivers.

🎫 Where can I buy tickets for museums, attractions, and tours in Tulum?

I recommend either Viator or GetYour Guide. 

If you are traveling to Cancun you can use GoCity and save up to 55% of the initial cost of entrance tickets to various museums, tours, and attractions!

If you are traveling to Playa del Carmen then I recommend booking through my friend Vanessa at Turismo Channel. You can check out their tours by clicking here and using the following discount codes for the best prices clairecaroff (car rental), claire10off (for 10% off group tours), claireprivate (for a discount on private tours). You can also send her a WhatsApp message quoting the above codes to receive the discount.

👩‍⚕️ What is the best insurance to have while traveling?

I recommend using Heymondo for a great value policy. The app also offers you 24/7 Dr Chat. For Digital Nomads check out SafetyWing digital nomad insurance.

I have also written a blog post covering all my recommended travel insurance here

✈️ Any flight recommendations?

WayAWay offers you cheap flights with cashback. You can use this code CLAIRE22 to get 10% off. Otherwise Skyscanner or Expedia are my go-to flight searching platforms.

📱What do you use for internet connection while traveling?

I’m a big fan of personal WiFi devices and they have saved my ass so many times when traveling. I wrote a full review of the top travel WiFi devices you can read here. I personally use GlocalMe as I can either pop in a physical sim card or use their local carrier.

With regards to my phone connection, I use e-sims while traveling, so rather than having to swap out my regular sim card I can download the app and buy a virtual sim card. I recommend using eitherAirhub or Alosim. Both have great coverage of multiple countries and are very easy to use.

🛏️ What is the best platform to use for booking accommodation?

The 3 best platforms that I normally use are Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia They offer great deals and multiple options. I always check all three to be sure of the best deals.

🛅 Do you have any luggage recommendations for traveling?

I do have a complete list of the best packing and luggage products that I recommend, you can check the list here. I’m currently traveling with this suitcase and this backpack. 

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