You probably already know this but I’m incredibly fond of Tulum. I’ve traveled there multiple times over the last few years. But no matter how many times I go, I keep coming back. Tulum has so much to offer travelers from it’s up and coming food scene, world-famous beaches, Mayan ruins, and incredible cenotes. A single trip to Tulum simply isn’t enough to cover everything. But before you plan your trip, you might want to figure out where to book your stay in Tulum.
One thing to note about traveling to Tulum is that where you choose to stay really depends on what you plan to do. And let’s be honest – exploring the many unique hotels and accommodations Tulum has to offer is part of the entire experience.
Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico
If you’re visiting Tulum, you’ll need to decide where you want to stay — Tulum beach (playa) or Tulum town (pueblo). Depending on your itinerary and budget, making the right decision will make your trip significantly easier.
Another factor to keep in mind is if you plan on being well-connected (WiFi-wise) while in Tulum. In my experience, the hotels you find in both the Playa and Pueblo are better if you plan on working. That’s because the AirBnbs shared in this post (particularly the Jungle Eco Treehouse) doesn’t have WiFi.
This is important for me as an online educator and course creator. And if you’re a content creator, blogger, or an aspiring online business owner (which, by the way… I have lots of resources, including this free webinar on building a profitable blog), you might want to read the description of more remote AirBnbs closely.
Deciding whether to stay at Tulum beach or Tulum town really boils down to what you plan on doing. The reason this decision is so important is because the town isn’t exactly within walking distances to the beach. Here are the major differences between the two areas:
Tulum Beach (Playa)
If you’re planning to spend more time soaking up sun rays on white sandy beaches or diving into the Caribbean blue, Tulum beach is where you want to be. If this is your very first time in Tulum, staying at the beach’s hotel zone will give you the best experience. Keep in mind that accommodations in the hotel zone are on the pricier side. However, these hotels tend to be unique, follow sustainable and eco-friendly practices, and are part of Tulum’s appeal.
Tulum Town (Pueblo)
Want to explore more of Tulum’s local vibe? Staying in Tulum town is the perfect option for adventure seekers looking for a more local experience. Additionally, if Mayan ruins and cenotes are your reasons for traveling to Tulum, opt for staying in town. While you can find some stunning luxury accommodations in the pueblo, the area is also great for budget travelers.
Where to Stay in Tulum Beach
The hotel zone stretch that lines the beach is where you’ll find Tulum’s most luxurious hotels. These hotels have direct access to the beach so beach bums — this is where you want to be! Each of these hotels may have a dedicated beach club, beach access, or private beach that are only accessible to guests. But don’t worry – this stretch of beach is also accessible to the public even when certain amenities may not be. You’ll also have access to some of Tulum’s most innovative restaurants, cool bars, and luxury shops in this area.
So without further ado, here are the best hotels to stay at in Tulum beach:
Be Tulum
This adults-only resort is one of the best hotels located on Tulum beach’s hotel zone. You’ll find Be Tulum situated between the tropical forest and white sand beach. The hotel features world-class service, a private beach club, an on-site spa, and 3 on-site restaurants. And if you’re a fan of unique decor, Be Tulum’s interior is a blend of industrial-chic meets beach boho.
The rooms are large and spacious, and a few rooms come with private pools or hot tubs. Be Tulum provides free WiFi, parking, a pool, and airport shuttle. They also provide guests with free bike rentals and loaner snorkel gear.
Average cost per night: $550 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km.10, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Habitas
Reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying utmost luxury at Habitas. This plastic-free, sustainable sanctuary honors the surrounding landscape by encouraging guests to partake in eco-friendly practices without forgoing comfort and luxury. The on-site restaurant, Moro, is one of Tulum’s most innovative restaurant and bars.
At Habitas, guests will find themselves within nature through their thoughtfully designed rooms. The guest rooms are built with materials that leave no negative impact on the environment. They feature palapa roofs, canvas walls, and outdoor rain showers.
Staying at Habitas is an experience on its own. The hotel’s programming includes live, intimate concerts in their jungle courtyard, and a wellness program that combines ancient traditions and modern techniques.
Average cost per night: $200 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: KM 4.5, Av. Boca Paila, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The Beach Tulum Hotel
This elegant boutique hotel is a great option right along Tulum’s turquoise waters. It is located less than 5 miles away from Tulum’s famous Mayan ruins and features beach facing rooms. This adults-only hotel is also home to one of Tulum’s most popular beach clubs – Ziggy’s – which serves snacks and cocktails from 9 AM until sunset.
Guest rooms come with air conditioning, minimalist decor, and amazing amenities that are eco-friendly and upscale. The property also has an on-site restaurant, spa, and shop. Their services include airport transfers, a gym, and a beautiful yoga studio.
The Beach Tulum is the perfect hotel for guests looking to spend more time in and around the ocean. The hotel offers many water activities from snorkeling, diving, turtle watching, and deep-sea fishing. But if you’re looking for tour options to the infamous Chichén Itzá, Punta Allen, or Sian Ka’an Biosphere, The Beach Tulum offers tours arranged directly through the hotel.
Average cost per night: $650 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila KM 7, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
La Valise
La Valise is one of Tulum’s best boutique hotels right on the beach. The property strikes a perfect balance between the turquoise waters of the beach, and the lush green jungles. Guests have the option to choose between beachfront suites or jungle-facing rooms.
Each guest room is thoughtfully and artfully crafted, creating a private oasis with spacious bathrooms and luxurious amenities. Rooms come with king-sized beds, air conditioning, and it features art made by local craftsmen. The hotel is also committing to practices that protect and preserve Tulum’s vulnerable ecosystem and land.
La Valise offers guests the opportunity to dine at one of the best restaurants in the Riviera Maya. Their on-site restaurant, Nü, is one of the five best restaurants in the region according to Travel and Leisure.
Average cost per night: $450 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 8.7, Tulum Beach, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Papaya Playa Project
The goal of Papaya Playa Project is to reconnect guests with nature. Papaya Playa Project’s barefoot luxury style keeps guests coming back and wanting more. The interiors are simplistic, but serve as an ode to nature, the traditional Mayan way of building, and Tulum’s overall laid back vibe.
Guests can choose between staying in one of their Casitas, Casas, or Cabanas — all of which are unique, luxurious, and sophisticated. Their new beach club features music curated by guest artists and their resident DJs. The menu also serves fresh, sustainable meals crafted to honor the Yucatan and Baja California peninsulas.
Papaya Playa Project also offers guests the opportunity to focus on their wellness. With daily oceanfront yoga classes, an on-site spa, and juice bar – you’re sure to feel nourished and invigorated during your stay. If that isn’t enough to convince you, book a session in the temazcal, a traditional Mayan steam bath that stimulates your lymphatic system and cleanses your respiratory tract.
Average cost per night: $285 USD depending on your room and the season
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Ahau Tulum
Located right by Tulum’s iconic Raw Love and Gitano retaurants, Ahau Tulum is an upscale, eco-friendly luxury rustic beach resort. Each room features furniture made out of eco-conscious materials that emphasizes the hotel’s beautiful surroundings. For the ultimate R&R, Ahau provides guests with oversized outdoor decks, patios, dining areas, and hammocks.
Ahau offers several rooms with different views to fit a range of price points. Choose from one of their full ocean view suites, a garden view palapa, or the more unique Bali hut. Guests of Ahau Tulum can enjoy amenities such as private beach access, spa services, and bike rentals. You can also partake in one of the on-site recreational activities like yoga and meditation.
Average cost per night: $300 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Carr. Tulum a Boca Paila Km. 7.5 Zona Costera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Coco Tulum
If you’re looking for the best prices on the beach, Coco Tulum is a great place to start. Coco Tulum offers guests the option to choose between staying at their property in the hotel zone, or in Tulum town. The beach property is located right by Posada Margherita, one of Tulum’s best Italian restaurants.
Guests can choose from several room options ranging in price. Depending on your budget, you could choose from a cheaper room with a shared bathroom, or a more expensive but private option facing the jungle, garden, or ocean. All rooms come equipped with air conditioning, but other amenities such as jacuzzis, hammocks, and private gardens depend on the room of your choice.
Coco Tulum’s beach club is the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning ocean view. The club is also an Instagram hotspot with its all-white furnishing and swings. So order one of their signature cocktails and relax on a swing, hammock, or beach chair.
Average cost per night: $160 USD depending on your room and the season
Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 7.5, Tulum Beach, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
O’Tulum
O’Tulum is another budget-friendly option located right on the beach. Although the hotel is located a little farther from the hotel zone, it doesn’t skimp on luxury. The property includes an affinity pool on the terrace, 3 outdoor pools, and a private pool in each room. Guests also have access to air conditioning, as well as flat-screen TVs, and certain rooms feature a balcony or patio area.
If you’re trying to save on accommodations, O’Tulum has rooms with shared bathrooms available for a lower cost. The property provides free bike rentals for all guests and is located on a popular spot on the beach for diving and snorkeling.
The Tulum bus station is located less than 7 miles from O’Tulum. However, the property provides airport shuttles from Cancun International Airport to O’Tulum.
Average cost per night: $110 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Avenida Tankah 4 Manzana, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Book your stay: https://otulumhotel.com/en/
Azulik
At Azulik, guests are encouraged to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with stillness and nature. None of their 48 rooms are equipped with electric light, air conditioning, or television – putting nature at center stage. Staying at Azulik is truly an experience you’ll never forget. Guest rooms take the form of spacious treehouses that feature a Mayan mosaic tub, where you can request a bath in sacred mineralized cenote water.
Although technology is off the menu at Azulik, there isn’t a shortage of activities for guests to partake in. Book a traditional Mayan massage, medicinal herbal bath, or a temazcal treatment. Azulik is less than 2 miles away from the Tulum Archaeological site and 2.5 miles to Tulum town.
Average cost per night: $825 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Carretera Tulum – Punta Allen KM 5, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Book your stay: https://www.azulik.com/
Casa Malca
Casa Malca is located on the unspoiled beach right on the edge of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. The property has 71 rooms that offer great views of the ocean or garden. Both Tulum town and the Mayan ruins are located a little over 6 miles from Casa Malca.
Each room at Casa Malca is decorated colorfully and eccentrically with modern art. The furniture is a blend of baroque and and modern, accentuating Casa Malca’s dedication to the unique and quirky.
The on-site restaurant, Philosophy, serves health-conscious Mexican fare using ingredients found in the Yucatan peninsula. It also serve guests stunning views of the ocean, creating a romantic setting perfect for couples. And if you’re looking to unwind and treat yourself, make an appointment at the Calma Spa. Take advantage of the Aromatherapy Steam Room, body scrub bar, sauna, and many other spa treatments.
Average cost per night: $560 USD depending on your room and the season
Address: Carretera Fed, Av. Boca Paila km 9.5, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Where to Stay in Tulum Town
If your itinerary includes exploring Mayan ruins, cenotes, day trips, and exploring local life — staying in Tulum town is your best bet. It’s an incredibly budget-friendly location with lots to explore and discover. In town, you’ll find lots of authentic local eateries serving traditional Mexican food and souvenir shops. The main drawback to staying in town? You’ll have to take a taxi to visit the beach. But if you’re alright with that, here are some of the best places to stay in Tulum town:
Hotel Bardo
This 5-star hotel is located a mile from the main bus station. Hotel Bardo has an on-site restaurant, free parking, and an outdoor swimming pool, and a bar. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, WiFi, fridge, coffee machine, and sitting area.
The concierge and front desk service at Hotel Bardo can arrange tours for guests. Additionally, Hotel Bardo is committed to creating an amazing experience that encourages guests to stay present. With an on-site temazcal, sound healing, guided meditation, yoga, and spa — guests will have the opportunity to participate in a number of wellness activities.
Average cost per night: $180 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: 77760 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Coco Hacienda
Coco Hacienda is a cozy getaway nestled against the backdrop of Tulum’s most vibrant part of town. It’s situated within walking distance of the main bus station and 2.2 miles from the Tulum Archaeological Site. The property has an outdoor pool, spa center, and an on-site restaurant for guests to enjoy.
Each room is equipped with air conditioning, a flat screen TV, and a coffee maker. For those on a tighter budget, rooms with shared bathrooms are available for a lower cost. You’ll also be able to rent a bike from the concierge desk if you want to explore town.
Average cost per night: $70 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Av. Tulum Mz. 39, Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Orchid House
Orchid House is one of Tulum town’s most popular hotels. This 5-star property features an on-site restaurant, outdoor pool, as well as access to a terrace and indoor pool. Orchid House seeks to integrate guests with local experiences without forgoing any luxury. Guests have the option of choosing between their Master, Jungle, or Garden suites — all of which offer stunning views.
Orchid House ensures that guests are comfortable at all times through their 24-hour front desk, room service, WiFi, and airport transfers. All rooms are also equipped with a coffee machine and private bathroom. If you want more space, you have the option to book a room with a sitting area.
Some of the best attractions in Tulum are located close to the hotel. Las Palmas beach is 1.3 miles away from the property, and Paraiso Beach is 1.6 miles away.
Average cost per night: $100 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Aldea Zama 77760, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Kaab Tulum
For another hotel in town that’s relatively close to Las Palmas Beach, consider Kaab Tulum. This 4-star hotel has an on-site restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor pool, and a garden. They also provide guests with a 24-hour front and concierge service desk and free WiFi.
The rooms are minimalist in style with a few boho-chic touches. A few rooms on the property feature a patio with pool view, private bathroom, and workspace. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and all guests are offered a continental breakfast. Kaab Tulum also offers guests free bike rentals, which is perfect for those hoping to explore more of town.
Average cost per night: $70 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Calle Sol Oriente Region 004, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Biwa
If you’re looking for beach resort luxury in the heart of town, Biwa Tulum is the place to stay. The rooms at Biwa are designed with coziness in mind. Some rooms even come equipped with a kitchenette. The property provides guests with accommodations like an on-site restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and terrace. Guests also have access to a 24-hour concierge desk, room service, and free WiFi available throughout the property.
At Biwa, each patio is treated to a gorgeous view of the town. The property is also a 13 minute walk to Tulum bus station. Some of Biwa’s facilities include Rooftop Hierbabuena — considered the best view in all of downtown Tulum — where guests can enjoy a drink and watch the sunset. Additionally, Biwa will soon offer guests an on-site cafe for all their caffeine needs.
Average cost per night: $90 USD depending on your room and the season.
Address: Avenida Satélite Norte, Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Casa Patrones
Want to feel like a local for a few days? Casa Patrones is a full-service apartment that’ll make you feel right at home. It’s also an incredibly budget-friendly option where you’ll get the utmost comfort for a low cost. The property is located in the local Col Huracanes neighborhood. Each room is spacious and comes with a closet, private bathroom, and free toiletries. For guests hoping to cook a few meals, Casa Patrones provides a grill and a shared kitchen.
The property is located 1.4 miles from Las Palmas Beach, 1.5 miles from Paraiso Beach, and 1.6 miles from Ruinas Beach. The interiors are minimally decorated, with stone and wood pieces that create an overall industrial-chic look. Some rooms also feature large floor to ceiling windows that let in a lot of natural light.
Average cost per night: $30 USD depending on the season
Address: Neptuno Poniente Mza 49 Lt.13, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Hotel Jungle Keva
Hotel Jungle Keva offers guests the unique experience of a lush jungle escape. This boutique hotel in the La Veleta (expat) neighborhood of Tulum infuses elements of the jungle within its decor. Jungle Keva’s main objective is to honor the environment by creating a sanctuary that inspires guests to connect with nature and themselves.
This 4-star hotel comes equipped with air conditioning, on-site restaurant, bar, garden, and an outdoor swimming pool. Guests are also treated to a patio with stunning garden views, room service, concierge service, and currency exchange.
The room decor features natural tones that accentuate the surrounding jungle’s natural beauty. It captures Tulum’s stylish, laid-back, and relaxed vibe even in the heart of town. The property also provides guests with off-site excursions and activities such as paddleboard and yoga, a boat tour of Sian Ka’an Biosphere, cenote swim, and so much more.
Average cost per night: $128 USD depending on the room and season.
Address: Calle 3 poniente Region 15 Manzana 3 Lt 07 La Veleta entre fundadores de tulum y, Calle 16 Sur, La Veleta, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Hotel Tiki Tiki
Last but not least, Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum is one of Tulum town’s most in-demand hotels. The property offers guests year-round access to their outdoor swimming pool, while some rooms offer a terrace, balcony, and sitting area. Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum’s design is unique, as it’s inspired by a Miami Beach Mid-Century Modern style.
The attention to detail in each room ensures guests the utmost comfort as they’re located within walking distance to the main road. Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum offers guests bike rentals, free parking, WiFi, and airport transfers.
Average cost per night: $70 USD depending on your room and season.
Address: Calle 6 Sur Bis, entre Av. 5 Sur y Av. 10, Calle Camino Tulum, Tulum Centro, Mariano Matamoros, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Where to Stay in Tulum on a Budget
While there are incredibly budget-friendly boutique hotels in Tulum town, opting for an Airbnb could save you even more money while offering some additional amenities. Unfortunately, there aren’t many Airbnbs located in the hotel zone along Tulum Beach. But if you have your heart set on town and want some great places and great prices, here are some of the best budget-friendly Airbnbs:
Jungle Eco Treehouse
This unique Airbnb is not only budget-friendly — it’s located within walking distance (under a mile) of Cenote Cristal. The Jungle Eco Treehouse is one of Tulum’s most remote accommodations, perfect for travelers looking for a little more privacy. This is the perfect spot for adventurers and nature lovers.
The Jungle Eco Treehouse comes with an outdoor patio nestled 100 feet above ground. And there is very low levels of light pollution, making it the perfect Airbnb for stargazing. Because you’re high above the ground, you’ll be able to spot monkeys, colorful birds, and other wildlife during the day.
Guests are treated to a complimentary breakfast, purified water (no need to bring plastic water bottles), a ceiling fan, and other cooling methods to ensure comfort even on the hottest days. Keep in mind that there isn’t any air conditioning or WiFi at this property, so disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature.
Average cost per night: $90 USD
Jungle Cabin in Tulum Town
Located to the north of the main road in Tulum town, this Jungle Cabin is a beautiful and extremely affordable option for budget travelers. The interiors are designed with great attention to detail in a boho-chic, modern-rustic style. The cabin’s structure uses natural and local material, and includes handmade furniture and one-of-a-kind pieces of decor.
The cabin is equipped with high-speed WiFi, a Nesspresso coffee machine, private patio, hammock, bikes and locks, air conditioning, and all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.
Average cost per night: $50 USD
Penthouse with Private Pool
This rare find is an affordable luxury accommodation located in the La Veleta neighborhood in Tulum town. If you’re looking for comfort, luxury, space, and privacy, you can book this penthouse complete with a full kitchen, one bedroom, 2 bath, and a heated private pool for $90 a night. It’s technically not the most affordable option on this list, but for what you get — it’s a steal.
The apartment’s design is on trend with most of Tulum’s boho-inspired decor. Guests also have access to air conditioning, cleaning services on request, beach towels, and a washer and dryer. You’ll find the private pool and outdoor lounge area on the rooftop, surrounded by sprawling views of the jungle.
Average cost per night: $90 USD
Casita Maya Loft
This luxury loft located in Tulum town is perfect for travelers looking for a little peace and quiet. The owners of this Airbnb say the best thing about this property is hearing the birds sing in the morning. The Casita Maya Loft’s decor fits the rustic, Tulum charm and style that’s popular all over town.
Guests staying at the loft have access to a fully equipped kitchen, smart TV, a spacious closet, and 2 free bikes to use at no additional cost. The property features a stone pool, outdoor lounge area, barbecue, and jacuzzi. And although the beach is a 6 minute car ride away, this Airbnb is located a few minutes and within walking distance of several cenotes.
Average cost per night: $44 USD
Book your stay
Tulum Tropical Haven
The Tulum Tropical Haven is a luxury apartment situated in the La Veleta neighborhood in Tulum town. Although the location is pretty remote and isolated, the apartment features an outdoor pool and private jacuzzi — making it perfect for a full day of relaxation. The apartment’s interior is modern with splashes of wood furnishing that makes you feel right at home with hotel-style luxury.
Guests are treated with WiFi, air conditioning, a full kitchen, free parking, and many other amenities. The apartment is also located within a mile of Tulum’s top attractions like Cenote Cristal, Tulum Beach, and Sian Ka’an Community Tours.
Average cost per night: $50 USD
Book your stay
Hotel Hopping in Tulum
Tulum is a choose-your-adventure type of destination. And with that, comes many great accommodation options to select from. This list covers some of the best places you’ll find in Tulum to suit every budget type. Whether you’re a backpacker just looking for a place to sleep, or a luxury-seeking beach bum — these hotels and Airbnbs are all committed to providing comfort. And if I’m being completely honest, exploring the many hotels in Tulum is one of my favorite things to do. Each hotel offers an entirely different experience and that’s part of Tulum’s appeal. But no matter what your budget is and where you choose to stay, you can be sure that you’ll experience Tulum’s extremely photogenic signature style.
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