One of Mexico’s most popular coastal towns, Tulum is known for its paradise-like setting, long palm-fringed beaches and beachfront resorts. Located in the state of Quintana Roo, 2 hours from the famous Chichén-Itzá ruins in the Yucatan, it is a relaxing stop-off point for a holiday in south-east Mexico. But where should you stay in Tulum?
In this guide, we’ll share the best areas to stay in, which hotels to consider, as well as key things you need to know to make the most of your experience. For each area, we’ll go into detail on its atmosphere, the accommodation on offer and our picks, as well as things to do.
Things you need to know
Before going into detail on each area to help you decide where to stay in Tulum, here are some key things you need to know about the city. This’ll give you a better idea of the city.
Our favorite places to stay
If you’re in a hurry, here are our top places to stay in Tulum:
- $ these tents, facing Las Palmas beach
- $$ this hotel, in Tulum town center
- $$$ these bungalows, near the Paraiso beach
Map of different areas to stay in Tulum
Here’s a map which includes our picks of hotels and flats. You can also use this map to pinpoint the different areas we’ll cover in this guide.
We’ve used the following colour code: green for budget hotels, blue for mid-range hotels and red for luxury hotels.
Essentials to stay in Tulum
Areas where to stay in Tulum
Now lets take a closer look at the neighborhoods we recommend staying in Tulum.
Accommodation near the beach
Playa de las Ruinas, Santa Fe, Paraiso, Las Palmas, Tulum’s beaches are more popular than ever. Staying as close as possible to these is the best way to take advantage of the various activities on offer in this seaside resort.
This popular seafront is home to prestigious hotels and luxury tents. The price range is fairly high all along the coast. There are also a number of luxury resorts, some of which offer rooms with sea views. In any case, to find accommodation here, it's best to plan ahead as much as possible, as this is the busiest area of Tulum.
While you’re there, it’s worth paying a visit to the castle and surrounding ruins. These Mayan ruins are a must see, as is the national park nearby. But it is above all the long stretches of sand and turquoise water that are the town's major attraction, perfect for a variety of activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving.
The area can be lively and bustling in places, with its bars and restaurants. However, the coastal road where these hotels are located is overall far removed from any hustle and bustle. You'll need your car if you want to travel further out from your accommodation. Or you can opt for a bicycle or scooter.
In any case, the various hotels here are just a stone’s throw away from the clear waters.
Hotel recommendations
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Facing Las Palmas beach, luxury tents and hammocks await you here. The beautifully decorated shared bathroom is surrounded by nature. The restaurant serves traditional and healthy cuisine.
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A private beach, a swimming pool, a restaurant and huts made from traditional materials … this place is a paradise. It is an excellent spot to stay in Tulum.
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These cosy, traditional bungalows are just moments away from the sea. A restaurant and private beach are available to guests. Free parking.
Staying in Tulum center
You can also consider staying in Tulum town center. It is around fifteen minutes' drive from the coast. Colourful and dynamic, it's a great way to enjoy the seaside without breaking the bank.
Here, the streets are filled with small shops, cocktail bars and restaurants serving local cuisine. What better way to enjoy your evenings. Unlike the classic Tulum beach holiday, here you can both enjoy the coastline and some of the liveliness.
If you don't own a car, you'll need to rent a scooter to get around the coastline. Public transport will not be enough.
You'll find plenty of accommodation here. These small, comfortable hotels are much cheaper than those on the coast. The centre is therefore the perfect choice for those on a tight budget.
Our top picks
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The swimming pool and spacious rooms make this a pleasant and charming place to stay. Well located, they offer great cocktails in the bar and free parking. Don’t overlook this one.
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This high-end hotel offers a very nice setting. It boasts a swimming pool, modern design and an à la carte Mexican restaurant. Parking is free. It’s a great place to stay in Tulum.
Should you stay outside Tulum?
Lastly, there is one alternative option if the other two areas don't suit you. You can stay in Tulum’s outskirts. Being more out of the way you're sure to find cheaper accommodation. And you’ll also get away from the hustle and bustle!
Accommodation prices are more affordable than in the hotel resort area. There is less on offer, but there are a few establishments, ranging from small hotels to large complexes.
Accommodation on the outskirts is also a good option during the resort’s busy periods at the height of the season. Don’t expect much atmosphere here, however, as there's not much to do in the area. Instead, you can relax and recharge your batteries, as well as enjoy beaches that are less busy.
Note though that you’ll need a car to get around.
Where to stay in Tulum's outskirts
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Farther inland, this accommodation is one of the cheapest you'll find. It boasts a swimming pool, car park and restaurant. You'll surely want to admire its architecture.
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This apartment hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a car park. Close to the city centre, classy and modern, the apartments have everything you need.
OVERVIEW
Now you know of some interesting alternatives for your stay in Tulum. To sum up, the coastline allows you to be as close as possible to the sea, but also to the ruins. It’s the most popular area, and the most expensive too as it’s usually the reason people come to Tulum!
To keep your budget down, or if everything is fully booked on your dates, consider the centre, which is both livelier and more authentic. Or stay a little further away. In any case, it is one of Mexico’s most famous seaside resorts and attracts many tourists. Don’t wait to book your accommodation.