Where to Stay in Tulum: Best Areas and Hotels
Wondering where to stay in Tulum? Tulum is one of the most popular holiday destinations on the south-east coast of Mexico and welcomes all visitors.
Explore the ruins, swim in the Cenotes, snorkel with sea turtles, or discover the wonders near the city, where many exciting adventures await. Relax on the white sand beaches, sample delicious local cuisine, and get ready for some unforgettable days.
In this post you’ll find the best places to stay in Tulum if you’re a first-time visitor, looking for nightlife or planning a family trip.
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Where to Stay in Tulum
1. North Beach – Best for Family and Couples
Where to stay in Tulum for couples or a family? This area runs northeast from the Papaya Playa Project to the Tulum Ruins and is located in a National Park. The beachfront hotels on the white sand offer direct access to the beach and a range of water activities.
These hotels have the advantage of being in a quiet area and you can walk to the ruins. However, getting a taxi from here to the Beach Road or the town can be very expensive and can cost more than 20 USD one way. If you are arriving without a car, we recommend renting a bike to get to the Maja ruins or other beaches.
Recommended post → Best Beachfront Hotels in Tulum
Although it’s outside the main center, there are still plenty of beach restaurants and bars so you can easily find a place to eat and feel super safe as it’s located within a protected area. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Tulum if you want to get away from the noisy beach bars but still wake up next to the Caribbean Sea.
Mi Amor Boutique Hotel – Adults Only
Where to stay in Tulum if you’re planning a honeymoon? The hotel is located in a national park, which makes it private and exclusive, away from the noisy beach bars and tourists. It offers different categories of rooms, located on the oceanfront or in the palm tree-fringed jungle, but all close enough to the Caribbean Sea.
Mi Amor is the ideal setting for romance, enjoy an unforgettable private dining experience in a private cabana on the cliffs of Mi Amor. Relax and unwind with unique couples’ treatments or take part in ancient Mayan rituals.
Photo credit: Mi Amor Boutique Hotel
Villa Pescadores
The Villa Pescadores is a beautiful hotel in the national park, offering charming villas right on the beach. These rustic beach villas are comfortable and quiet surrounded by nature. The rooms are equipped with a fridge, a queen-size bed, or twin beds, each opening onto pleasant private terraces.
They offer authentic Mexican dishes every morning and afternoon, all made with the freshest local ingredients and served right on the beach. The Mayan ruins are very close by, so you can visit them on foot or enjoy the Caribbean sunset from your beachfront suite, which is just steps from the beach.
If you are traveling to Tulum with your family, this hotel is one of the best places to stay.
Photo credit: Villa Pescadores
Hotel Poc Na
Hotel Poc Na is located right next to the beach, where you will only hear the sound of the sea. Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and unwind in the gentle ocean breeze with a tropical cocktail. Pamper your body and mind with the hotel Spa service and reclaim your balance and vitality.
The hotel’s cabins offer views of the jungle and the beach, while the rooftop plunge pool room offers memorable views. Early in the morning, the hotel offers free yoga classes, and then you can have breakfast at the beachside restaurant, which serves authentic local cuisine. Immerse yourself in this tropical oasis of relaxation, refreshment, and culinary delights.
Photo credit: Hotel Poc Na
2. Party Area – Best for Nightlife
Where to stay in Tulum Beach if you are looking for nightlife? The northern part of the Tulum coast is lined with long stretches of dreamy sand, while the southern beaches are known for their vibrant atmosphere and beach clubs. The party zone covers the Papaya Playa Project to the Vagalume Beach Club. There are huge parties almost every weekend.
The city’s coastal road is definitely the most iconic destination in Mexico, where you can always find a new photo spot. Rent a pretty bicycle and take some unforgettable pictures.
Recommended post → Best photo spots
We only recommend staying in this area of Tulum for those who like vibrant night parties and loud music.
Hotel Shibari – Adults Only
Where to stay in Tulum if I’m looking for an adults-only hotel on the beachfront? Hotel Shibari is an exclusive hotel surrounded by nature, with a sparkling Cenote at its center. Explore this secret Cenote, soak in its natural crystal clear waters, and enjoy the sun on loungers.
The hotel’s more than 64 villa-style rooms offer magical panoramic views of the jungle or the Cenote. Experience unique yoga in the jungle to live in harmony with your body, mind, and spirit in the here and now. Take part in an in-depth cocoa ceremony to help release emotional blocks and achieve new mental clarity.
Shibari is the perfect hotel for relaxation, close to all the main restaurants and bars, where you can also experience the nightlife.
Photo credit: Hotel Shibari
Hotel Ma’xanab
The Ma’xanab is a beautiful boutique hotel, a peaceful little piece of paradise perfect for a couples getaway. The rooms are spacious and have everything you need for a relaxing stay. Ground-floor beachfront suites feature a private terrace with an adjustable temperature plunge pool, offering beautiful and unique sea views.
You can taste the traditional flavors of Mexican gastronomy in the hotel’s restaurant, located just steps from the Caribbean Sea. The hotel also provides free bicycles, which you can use to get to nearby places or even the ruins. This is a great alternative if you don’t want to pay for expensive taxis.
Photo credit: Hotel Ma’xanab
Dune Boutique Hotel
Located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, the Dune Boutique Hotel offers elegant accommodations and stunning views. The hotel’s meticulously designed rooms offer comfort and style, providing the perfect escape for discerning travelers. Wake up to breathtaking views of the azure Caribbean Sea or lush tropical gardens.
The hotel spa offers you the opportunity to experience the healing properties of Mother Nature every day. Explore a menu of seafood flavors and colors at the hotel’s restaurant, combined with international techniques. If you’re looking for one of the best hotels in the party zone on Tulum beachfront then Dune Boutique is a good choice.
This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Tulum if you like a vibrant nightlife but want to relax in a real luxury hotel in the daytime.
Photo credit: Dune Boutique Hotel
3. South Beach – Best for Everyone
Where to stay in Tulum if you are looking for a quieter area, but still close to the beach clubs? These hotels are located a little further south on the beach, from where you can even walk to the beach clubs or the best restaurants. You can find many local restaurants, vegan restaurants, national cuisine, or trendy restaurants here for every budget.
We recommend you try traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, panuchos, salbutes, enchiladas, and salsa with tortilla chips. This is a quieter area but still close to everything and gives off a beach vibe. We think this is one of the best areas to stay in Tulum if you’re visiting for the first time.
Casa Malca
Casa Malca is one of the most exclusive beachfront hotels on the Mayan Riviera. The hotel is perfectly located in a quieter area, away from the party zone, but still a short taxi ride if you want to party. Rooms and suites are spacious, with modern art, king beds, sumptuous rain showers, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking lush gardens or the poolside and ocean.
Treat yourself to delicious and locally inspired dishes in one of the three restaurants, or enjoy tropical cocktails at the bar or on the beach. Casa Malca is a good choice for families, groups of friends, and couples.
Photo credit: Casa Malca
La Valise
La Valise is located on one of the best beaches, in a quiet and peaceful area. The hotel offers beautiful rooms and suites on the beach or jungle side. Each room offers comfort and style, immersed in natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.
One of the hotel’s most stunning rooms is the 7-meter-high beachfront suite, with an unforgettable bathtub and king-size bed that rolls out onto a private terrace to sleep under the stars. La Valise is a totally unique hotel and special place with sea views, one of the best choices in Tulum for honeymooners.
Photo credit: La Valise
Uman Glamping & Cenote
Where to stay in Tulum if you are looking for affordable hotel close to everything? Uman Glamping is a wonderful and magical place, located right next to a Cenote. The Glampings are comfortable, and well-equipped, with air conditioning and an outdoor shower.
The peaceful jungle surrounds the Glamping, and you can use the kayaks at the Cenote for free or walk to its private beach to relax and feel the Caribbean breeze. There is a huge lounge platform in the area where you can watch the stars at night over the trees and the biosphere reserve. This place offers affordable accommodation near the beach and is a good choice for those who like nature and quiet.
Photo credit: Uman Glamping & Cenote
4. City Center
Where to stay in the city center of Tulum? If you are looking for affordable accommodation, it is best to stay in the city. The bus will stop on the main road and from there you can walk to almost all hotels in 15-20 minutes. At the hotels, you can usually rent a bicycle or scooter, which will get you easily to the beaches or the city center if you need something.
The town has plenty of great bars and clubs where you can drink and dance. If you are looking for the perfect place to enjoy the nightlife, visit Palma Central. There are plenty of delicious food trucks and local vendors where you can enjoy live music, great cocktails, cold beers, and a fantastic atmosphere. This is one of the best areas to stay in Tulum if you are traveling on a budget.
Naala Tulum
Naala is located between the city center and the beaches, surrounded by greenery. The hotel’s rooftop pool and jacuzzi are designed for swimming at sunrise or sunset, chatting comfortably in the hammocks, or simply relaxing in the jacuzzi.
The modern-style rooms have everything you need. Relax on the balcony and enjoy the garden views. The hotel restaurant offers excellent international cuisine where you can sample carefully prepared dishes, using local ingredients.
The hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, bars and a shopping centre making it a great choice for everyone.
Photo credit: Naala
UJO Condo Boutique
Where to stay in Tulum city center for couples? The UJO Condo is a magnificent Boutique Hotel in a quiet street, just a 10-minute walk from the Ado bus station. The apartment rooms are modern with kitchen facilities, quiet and the hotel has a rooftop pool which is a great place to relax.
The apartment rooms with plunge pools are perfect for a late-night dip after a long day in the city heat. You can also rent a bicycle at the hotel, which makes getting around easier. The hotel is one of the best choices if you want to stay in the city and arrive in Tulum by public transport.
Photo credit: UJO Condo Boutique
XscapeTulum
XscapeTulum is 10 minutes from the bus stop and offers a charming restaurant. The hotel is surrounded by a tropical garden, with a central outdoor pool open all year round. Enjoy relaxing by the pool, which can provide a quiet retreat from the noisy city. Bike rental is also available at the hotel, making it easier to get around the city.
The area is full of restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets, making it a great choice for those visiting Tulum town center for the first time.
Photo credit: Xscape
Unique Hotel to stay Near Tulum
Kan Tulum Hotel
Where to stay near Tulum? Hotel Kan is a very unique eco-hotel with a stunning design and its own cenote. The hotel offers a jungle experience with quality rooms in maximum comfort. All houses have rooftop viewpoints where you can enjoy the jungle views and the shades of the sunset.
It is located in a beautiful environment, a little further from the beach and the city center, but you can also rent bicycles and ATVs at the reception. KAN hotel guests enjoy special offers and exclusive access to luxury hotels on Tulum’s iconic beachfront.
The hotel is the ideal choice for discerning travelers, and couples who want to relax and unwind in the middle of the jungle.
Photo credit: Kan Hotel
Tulum: FAQ
Top Tours
Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour
Sian Ka’an and Muyil Ruins Tour
Cenote Tour in Tulum
Tulum Instagram Photo Experience
Best time to Visit
The best time to visit Tulum is between December and April. This period is the dry season, with pleasant temperatures and little rainfall.
How to Get to Tulum
The best way to get to the city is by car, ADO bus, or private transfer.
If you want the cheapest way to get there, you first have to reach the Ado bus terminal in Cancun, and from there you can travel to Tulum. ADO is the largest and most popular bus company in Mexico and the most affordable way to travel between cities.
How to get around?
The main attractions are located on the Beach Road, which you can explore on foot or by bike. If you’re in town, you can easily cycle to the coastal road, which is just 15-20 minutes away. Bike rental starts from 15 USD for 24 hours. Taxis are very overpriced in the area so we only recommend them if you absolutely need them.
How much in advance should I book a hotel?
Book at least 6 months in advance. Tulum is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico and accommodation sells out fast.
When is seaweed in Tulum?
In the last few years, the seaweed season in Tulum has lasted from March to October. However, this varies slightly each year and can also vary depending on individual beaches in Mexico. Most hotels try to do something about this and clean their private beaches daily. If you can, avoid this period or check online and on various forums to see when seaweed is possible on the beach.
Where to Stay in Tulum: Map of the Best Areas
We’ve categorized Tulum into 4 areas to help you find the best places to stay.
We hope our post on the best areas and hotels in Tulum helps you plan to choose where to stay. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
More Travel Guides about Mexico
- Ultimate Yucatan Peninsula Itinerary
- 10 Best Things to Do in the Yucatan Peninsula
- Guide to Visiting Chichen Itza
- 10 Things to Do in Tulum
- 7 Best Things to Do in Bacalar
- Guide to Visiting Cenotes Casa Tortuga
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
eSIM – Airalo
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Transfer – Bookaway
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