Where to Stay in Tulum in 2024
Wondering where to stay in Tulum? Let’s dive in and look at some of the best beach hotels in Tulum.
Once a sleepy coastal town, Tulum has transformed into a cool, boho chic beach destination loved by hipsters, honeymooners and yogis alike. This is where the jungle meets the sea, and the beach is backdropped by large patches of wilderness and stylish treehouse hotels.
Unlike neighboring Cancun and Playa del Carmen (which has been developed over the years), Tulum retains a wild, jungly setting and unique architecture. Here there aren’t many massive all-inclusive resorts; instead you’ll find palapa-style resorts and eco lodges built from natural materials in the quintessential Tulum style.
To make the most of your Tulum vacation, you’ll need to be sure you’re staying in the right part of town for you. Here’s a detailed guide on where to stay in Tulum including the best areas and best beach hotels in Tulum.
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Where to Stay in Tulum
Tulum is split into two main areas: Tulum Beach and Tulum Pueblo (town); and it takes approximately 10 minutes to get from one to the other.
Tulum Beach faces the Caribbean Sea and is lined with chic boutique hotels, artsy resorts, and rustic beach shacks. A dusty beach road runs parallel to the beach (which you can easily navigate on foot or bicycle). Most things to do in Tulum are near the town, but there are also plenty to do at the beach.
Beachfront hotels in Tulum are definitely much more expensive than those in Tulum Pueblo. Budget travelers should base themselves in Tulum Pueblo, which is brimming with backpackers hostels and local taquerias. Those seeking peace and tranquility will prefer staying in the newly developed areas of La Veleta and Aldea Zama.
I’ve chosen these 5 best areas to stay in Tulum and have also shared the best hotels in each of these areas.
- Tulum Beach – best area for first-time visitors
- Tulum Pueblo – best area for budget travelers
- La Veleta/Aldea Zama – best area for families and digital nomads
- Soliman Bay – best area for couples
How to Get Around Tulum
The new Tulum airport is now open, along with the Mayan Train. Currently only Aeromexico and Viva Aerobus fly there from other parts of Mexico; but in 2024 several international airlines will start running their services from the US to Tulum. For now, Cancun airport still services the international flights. Read my article on how to get from Cancun to Tulum.
Tulum is big on bikes, and they’re cheap to hire in town or from your resort. It’s the best way to move around if you’re staying on the beach, as the dusty beach road often gets clogged with traffic. You can rent one of the ubiquitous turquoise bikes for just 150 MXN (US$7) per days from Ola Bike on Avenida Coba.
Besides hiring a bike, you can also catch colectivos (shared minibus or minivan-like vehicles) to go further afield. The colectivo fares are cheap, and you just need to flag them down along when you see one. Be sure to have Mexican pesos in hand to pay the fares.
I wouldn’t recommend driving within Tulum. Traffic is a problem, both on the main drag of Tulum pueblo, and along the beach road. There have been a few occasions when we got stuck in traffic here for hours; I would suggest using a bike or quad instead.
Best Areas to Stay in Tulum
Where to Stay On Tulum Beach
The Tulum Beach boasts 15 kilometers worth of hotels and stretches along the dramatic coastline from the Tulum ruins till the Sian Ka’an Reserve. Here, you won’t find big, sprawling all-inclusive resorts unlike in Cancun. Instead, the wide beach is fringed by boho chic art galleries and barefoot luxury cabañas (cabins).
Prices in Tulum Beach have skyrocketed in recent years due to its popularity and the Tulum beach hotels are more expensive than ever. But if you avoid the high season, then you won’t be disappointed with the gorgeous spearmint water here. Some of the best restaurants in Tulum are also located here, but be warned, dining here comes with a hefty price tag (min US$50 per person).
Here’s our curated list of best beachfront hotels in Tulum.
Best Hotels on Tulum Beach
Budget: Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins
The super stylish and rustic bungalows at the 4-star Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins are great for those who are on a budget but still want to stay in a treehouse in Tulum! The adults-only property is a stone’s throw away from Tulum Beach, which you can get to in less than 2 minutes by foot.
In this secluded spot, you’ll stay in rattan cottages and sleep under mosquito nets, or cuddle with your loved one in a geodesic dome and stare at the stars by night. The rustic design and uber style decor makes this glamping at its best. Check rates here.
Read about other treehouse hotels in Tulum where you can stay at!
Midrange: Akkuun Tulum
This hotel’s chic and rustic interior decor – complete with palapa roof, wooden furniture, and linen beddings – reminds you that you are in a tropical paradise! Fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to views of a tropical beach stretching before you.
Even though Tulum is getting more and more built-up by the day, this adult-only hotel will make you feel like you’re on a castaway island, without sacrificing creature comforts. Check rates here.
Luxury: Casa Malca
Interested in staying in a villa owned by Pablo Escobar? Located at the edge of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Casa Malca was abandoned after Escobar, the world’s wealthiest-ever drug lord, died in 1993.
New York-based Lio Malca – who deals contemporary works by the likes of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Kaws – renovated it and transformed into an eclectic hotel. This luxurious hotel is quirky and lavish, with definitely many stories to tell. Check rates here.
Families: La Zebra a Colibri Boutique Hotel
Many of the best beach hotels in Tulum are adults-only, so we were thrilled to find this kid-friendly resort right on the waterfront. La Zebra is our go-to beach club in Tulum and we often spend weekends here with our kid.
Besides having a playground on the beach, the hotel also has large spacious family suites suitable that can accommodate up to 4! It’s not cheap, but the spectacular ocean front views and excellent food here make it worth your while. Check rates here.
Adults-Only: The Beach
If you’re looking to spoil yourself, this stunning eco-hotel impresses with lavish boho-chic decor and the beach is on your doorstep. Side note, yogis will love it here as there are free yoga classes in the morning!
We stayed at one of their divine thatched cottages – a plunge pool and hammocks come included! But don’t worry about missing out if you get a standard room, there are lots of pools hidden amongst the hotel’s gardens. Check rates here.
BONUS: Azulik Tulum
The most famous hotel in Tulum Beach has to be Azulik. This one-of-a-kind beach resort was a pioneer in creating Tulum-style beach houses with its nature-inspired design and artistic styles. The private, adults-only hotel features some of the coolest tree houses in Tulum, made from Mexican royal ebony, Khatalosh. They offer floor-to-ceiling windows providing views of the lush jungle and the Caribbean Sea.
The rooms are free of TV’s, phone or electricity so you can relax and reconnect with nature. Each tree house also has a unique Mayan mosaic bath tub, where you can have a special invigorating bath in rich mineralized cenote’s water, considered as sacred water within Mayan culture. Azulik offers a magical, back-to-basic experience, with a hefty price tag of course. Check rates here.
Tulum Pueblo: Where to Stay in Tulum on a Budget
Tulum Pueblo (Tulum Town) is just a 15-minute bike ride from the beach. The main drag, Avenida Tulum, is often chocked with traffic, especially on weekends. Its saving grace is that it’s flanked by affordable restaurants, taquerias, and backpackers’ hostels.
Tulum town isn’t particularly attractive, but it is affordable and has good transport links to pretty much anywhere. With vegan cafes and cheap taco trucks all within walking distance from bohemian hostels, this is definitely where to stay in Tulum on a budget.
Best Hotels in Tulum Pueblo
Budget: Che Tulum Hostel
This little property has a hip and urban feel to it, with edgy decor and clean yet modern dorm rooms. It’s particularly suitable for young digital nomads, who are looking for comfortable co-working spaces, after-work activities, and an inviting pool.
It’s handily located in the center of Tulum Town, so you can easily walk to cafes/restaurants and explore the area without spending a fortune. The laid-back vibe also makes it perfect for solo travellers who want to meet new friends. Check rates here.
Midrange: Coco Hacienda
Escape into tropical foliage and get out into nature without ever leaving Tulum’s downtown. This cute hotel is on the edge of Tulum Centro and has a lush setting and gorgeous design of the Tulum beach hotels – at half the price.
The hotel is converted from a colonial hacienda, and the original features and architecture have been immaculately preserved. Though the interior is stunning, you’ll likely spend most of your time amongst the banana fronds and palm trees in the garden or chilling by one of the two outdoor pools. Check rates here.
Luxury: Una Vida
This hotel feels like a miniature tropical oasis in the jungle, away from the busy areas and into the quietness of the forest. Designed and built by local architects, Una Vida has 11 individual villas that blend seamlessly into the wild nature surrounding it. The villas are furnished with locally made hardwood furniture, and decorated with dream catchers and handcrafts.
With a zen like pool and common area, Una Vida is a great fit for families and couples looking to retreat into a quiet space. I absolutely loved how authentic this hotel felt, with its down-to-earth decor and flawless attention to detail. Check rates here.
Families: LiveTulum
There aren’t many family-friendly apartments in Tulum Pueblo, (we recommend families to check out La Veleta in the next section). LiveTulum is the most suitable option for families. The open plan studios at LiveTulum are colorful, edgy, and spacious. It’s quite affordable, making it suitable for family travelers on a budget.
This hotel is very close to the Tulum Archeological Site and Mystika Tulum, and within short walking distance to restaurants and shops. Check rates here.
Adults Only: Hotel Bardo
Like an Eden in the city, the adults-only Hotel Bardo provides great respite to those who are seeking some peace and quiet in a natural setting. Our friends have stayed here before and highly recommend this place for a romantic getaway!
The hotel pool feels very private as it’s surrounded by thick foliage. The hotel has stunning dark but sexy rooms, and it also runs rejuvenating yoga classes. Namaste the day away at this tranquil haven in Tulum! Check rates here.
La Veleta & Aldea Zama: Where to Stay in Tulum with Family
La Veleta and Aldea Zama are both up and coming areas of Tulum with newly developed condominiums and swanky restaurants/cafes. You’ll also find an extensive offering of affordable apartments available for short term rental here, just a few blocks from the main drag. The apartments tend to be spacious, new, and very stylishly — best of all, you can find a 1-bedroom for just $70/night.
Aldea Zama has more paved roads and developments than La Veleta, but La Veleta is closer to Tulum Pueblo. Both areas are still a little lacking when it comes to proper infrastructure, but they’ll probably look a lot slicker in a few years’ time. If you want to be somewhere more quiet and you don’t mind having to take taxis (or rent a car) to get to the beach, then La Veleta is perfect for you.
Best Hotels in La Veleta
Budget: Naay Tulum Curamoria Collection
You’ll be surprised how far your money can go in this area. With surprisingly affordable rooms, Naay Tulum is a brand new, intimate hotel that upscale rooms, a rooftop pool to refresh in, and even a small spa. It’s midway between Tulum beach and town. You will need transport to get to both areas, but the hotel offers incredible value for money. Check rates here.
Midrange: Era Hotel & Spa
You really don’t have to spend too much to stay in a slick, Tulum-style hotel. We’ve stayed at this hotel and absolutely love the design of the place. The use of bamboo throughout the building, rough stone features, and chic decoration give it so much character.
The hotel is a great option for couples and families as they have a range of accommodation types, from simple doubles to family suites and little one-bedroom apartments with sofa beds. Check rates here.
Luxury: Kan Tulum
Looking for something completely different and one of a kind? This enormous villa ticks all the boxes, including a uniquely Tulum design and an in-house cenote that acts as your own private pool! Its suites are big and spacious, with views of the pool. It’s a fantastic spot for those celebrating a special occasion or traveling with a group of friends. Check rates here.
Families: Copal Tulum Hotel
Those traveling with kids will be happy to find so many options that welcome kids in the Aldea Zama area. We have stayed at Copal Tulum several times, as apartments here are tastefully designed, huge, and really well priced. Choose from ground-floor 1-bedrooms apartments that come with your private jacuzzi, or a enormous 3-bedroom units that sleep up to 8 people!
There is a breathtaking outdoor area with a pristine pool, beach club access in sister properties, and bikes for rent. Check rates here.
Adults Only: Intima Resort Tulum
Escape to this adults-only resort if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate time with your loved one. It’s a clothing-optional resort, so feel free to let your hair down. Choose from the swim-up villas to the jacuzzi suites — all of them come with plenty of room and kitchenette. A little insider tip, some of the studio suites have spa baths! Check rates here.
Tankah Bay: Where to Stay in Tulum for Couples
Shhh! I’ll let you in on a secret: there’s still a small patch of empty, pristine beach near Tulum where you can get away from it all. Just 15 minutes north of Tulum Beach, the gorgeous Tankah Bay is a private community of eco-lodges and villas.
Being semi-private in a gated community, Tankah Bay beach is never crowded. All beaches in the Mexico are public, but the secure entrance into Tankah Bay keeps the number of visitors low. The beach is not as wide as Tulum beach, but the sand is just as fine, white, and silky.
Best Hotels in Soliman Bay
Budget: Cenotas Casa Tortuga Tulum
This lovely property is extremely good value for money. You’ll get a little studio style room, with a handy kitchen (and maybe even a balcony!). The hotel has a pool right outside the rooms, so you can wake up and jump straight in.
It’s popular because it’s close to some cenotes that are great for swimming and taking awesome holiday pictures at. It’s a small property that only has a handful of guests at once, so you can guarantee your time here will be tranquil. Check rates here.
Mid-range: Nah Uxibal Villa and Casitas
Why go for a fancy hotel room when you can get your own place for half the price and still be right on the beachfront! The casitas (which translates to “little homes”) are charming and cozy, adorned with quirky and beachy decor.
Step out of your open plan casita straight onto the golden sand! The casitas and villas at Nah Uxibal are perfect for couples looking for a laid-back coastal escape and families wanting a fun and easy holiday. Check rates here.
Luxury: Jashita Hotel
For an ultra-luxurious experience, enjoy some true barefoot luxury at the Jashita Hotel, where room rates are in the thousands. Fabulously located right by the beach, it’s an ideal spot for couples looking for an intimate setting to connect in. The decor is elegant chic, and I particularly love the soothing gardens and having the choice between three outdoor pools.
The hotel is so enticing that you’re not likely to want to leave the property, luckily you can dine on exquisite local dishes at their Pandano Restaurant. They also run beachfront yoga sessions, snorkelling trips, and diving expeditions! Check rates here.
Families: Casa Corazon
This graciously boho-chic home amongst palm trees is perfect for families. The property offers apartments on the beachfront with simple and elegant decor that creates a tranquil environment perfect for disconnecting in.
Step outside your apartment and relax on the outdoor terrace on the beach surrounded by tall palm trees that create a private and secluded spot. Check rates here.
Have You Decided Where to Stay in Tulum?
Hopefully this guide has helped you decide where to stay in Tulum. To help you plan your trip better, we’ve also compiled a super detailed list of things to do in Tulum, based on all the weekend trips we’ve done in Tulum. Feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions about where to stay in Tulum.
For those who are planning to travel more of Mexico, check out other articles I’ve written on Mexico:
- 20 Best Beachfront Hotels in Tulum
- 20 Cool Treehouse Hotels in Tulum
- Best Restaurants in Tulum
- Best Time to Visit Tulum
- 20 Day Trips from Tulum
- 30 Cool Things to Do in Tulum
- How to Get from Cancun to Tulum
- How to Visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere
- My Guide to Punta Allen
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. if you book a stay through one of my links, I get a small commission at NO EXTRA COST to you. Thank you for your support!
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