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WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM

Where to stay in Tulum

Where is the best area to stay in Tulum?

By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023

Tulum is a lovely Caribbean beach town on the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo. It’s in the heart of the Riviera Maya just 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and 90 minutes south of Cancun by car.

 

Once inhabited by Mayans, Tulum is known for its archaeological ruins. For a tranquil holiday, Tulum is your place, because it’s smaller in scale than other popular locations and doesn’t have many all-inclusive hotels. (For that, try Cancun or Playa del Carmen.) It’s a great place for diving, as it’s close to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. You can also visit a number of cenotes, once used for water supplies by the Mayans. Check out Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site nearby, with its winding canals and tropical rainforest.

 

The best place to stay in Tulum is the Zona Hotelera because of the wide variety of fabulous hotels and places to eat. This area has the best upscale resorts, beach clubs, bungalows, and even eco-friendly cottages. It’s also right next to the beach, so you have immediate access to the coast. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and bars to choose from with ocean views, fabulous cuisine and a great nightlife.

BEST LOCATED HOTELS IN TULUM
Hotel   Avg price
Hotel Coco Tulum
203€ - 221$
Maya Tulum Resort
215€ - 234$
Hotel   Avg price
Hotel Cabañas Tulum
515€ - 561$
Nomade Tulum
527€ - 574$
Hotel   Avg price
Ana y Jose Charming Hotel and Spa
404€ - 440$
La Zebra a Colibri Boutique Hotel
465€ - 507$
Azulik Hotel
681€ - 742$

 

If you are interested in where to stay in Tulum, you may also be interested in where to stay in Cancun, where to stay in Puerto Vallarta, where to stay in Playa del Carmen and where to stay in Mexico DF

 

Zona Hotelera, the best area to stay in Tulum

 

Zona HoteleraThe Zona Hotelera is the best place to stay in Tulum for its great variety of fabulous accommodations. Just 15 minutes south of the downtown area by car, you will definitely find something that suits your tastes here. There are beautiful beachfront villas, boutique hotels, cabanas and more. Many of them include extras, such as yoga and cooking classes, massages, or kayak and bike use.

 

While some areas along the coast are rather rocky or lined with seaweed, the beach in front of Zulum Beach Club is claimed to be the most spectacular. It’s highly recommended for its soft, white sand and turquoise water.

 

There are a number of excellent restaurants to enjoy in this area with a variety of cuisines from American, Chinese, Italian, and authentic Mexican. If you love seafood try out the highly rated Pink Lobster.

 

 

Hotels in Zona Hotelera

 

 

 

Recommended hotels in Zona Hotelera:

 

 

Encantada TulumEncantada Tulum: Residing on Tulum Beach, Encantada Tulum is an excellent hotel for those who want to enjoy the sun and the sand.

 

With views of the Caribbean Sea, the hotel provides a serene and relaxing atmosphere making it the perfect place to stay for couples who want to experience the best of Tulum Beach.

 

Comprised of eight luxury rooms steps away from the beach, the hotel makes it easy to enjoy the sand and the sun. Wine and Dine at Nu and Itzik garden, where you can find the perfect spot to enjoy a romantic meal while watching the sunset. The Wellness Spa is great to erase all your stress.

 

 

 

La Valise TulumLa Valise Tulum: Sitting on Tulum Beach, La Valise is a beautiful boutique hotel that offers stunning views of the sea. The hotel is just a short walk from the beach and features an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour front desk.

 

La Valise's beachfront rooms and suites are decorated in a contemporary style making them ideal for couples or honeymooners. The hotel's on-site restaurants, Nu and Itzik Garden serve fresh seafood dishes and have an outdoor dining area with beautiful views of the water.

 

Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the nearby Mayan ruins, La Valise is the perfect place to stay in Tulum.

 

 

 

 

Other areas to stay in Tulum

 

Tulum City Center (Tolum Town)

Tulum City CenterLocated to the northeast of the Zona Hotelera, Tulum City Center is the best place to stay for those on a budget. This area offers a number of less expensive accommodations and food options than the Zona Hotelera, as this is where the locals live and hang out as well. In the City Center you will find a number of adults only hotels, boutique hotels, hostels, and even budget boutique hotels. There are also options to rent condos and apartments.

 

Although you’re not right on the beach in this area, you definitely have more choice of restaurants, cafes, and bars for a thriving nightlife. If you want to get to the beach, you can reach it in 10 minutes by bus or taxi. Cenote Calavera, a natural sinkhole named because it looks like a skull, is about the same distance from the City Center and is a great place for a refreshing swim.

 

 

Hotels in Tulum City Center

 

 

 

Recommended hotels in Tulum Town:

 

Hotel BardoHotel Bardo: Located in Tulum town, Hotel Bardo is a beautiful, modern, and minimalist boutique hotel that offers its guests a unique and unforgettable experience.

 

The hotel's Villas, each one with an en-suite bathroom, a private jungle, and a private pool. Hotel Bardo's signature restaurant Milum offers a variety of menus including international cuisine, as well as a bar and lounge area, where guests can relax and enjoy the incredible sunset. The Temazacal born from the Mayan tradition is the perfect way to heal and find forgiveness.

 

Hotel Bardo is ideal for couples seeking a special and unique place to stay in Tulum, making it a perfect choice!

 

 

 

Coco Hacienda TulumCoco Hacienda Tulum: Sitting in the heart of Tulum town, Coco Hacienda Tulum is an adult-only hotel making it a perfect place to stay if you want to be close to all the action yet enjoy a peaceful and relaxing vacation.

 

With its beautiful colonial-style architecture and furniture, this hacienda-style hotel will make you feel right at home. Hell Yeah, Oasis, and Casita are amazing accommodation options at the hotel, each with the Mexican Touch.

 

Eat & drink at the hotel with an unmatched culinary experience and an unique atmosphere in the restaurant and bar.

 

Coco Hacienda Tulum is an amazing host for weddings for couples who want an intimate and exclusive setting.

 

 

 

 

Playa Paraiso

Playa ParaisoPlaya Paraiso is located just north of the Zona Hotelera and just south of the Tulum ruins. As its name suggests, this beach promises you paradise. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches of the area with its wide stretch of white sand and palm trees that border the Tulum National Park. It offers a number of outdoor activities, such as scuba diving and snorkeling. You can also enjoy drinks at one of the beach bars after a long day in the sun.

 

Playa Paraiso is the best place to stay for luxury resorts that are right on the beach. Here you will find some of the best accommodations, such as the 5-star Iberostar Grand Paraiso or the Chable Maroma with its villas and suites set in a jungle landscape. There are some great places to eat next to the beach, such as the top-rated Casa Maria. If you’re craving Thai food, try Mezzanine Thai Restaurant.

 

 

Hotels in Playa Paraiso

 

 

 

Recommended hotels in Playa Paraiso:

 

Mezzanine a Colibri Boutique HotelMezzanine a Colibri Boutique Hotel: Nestling on the coast of Playa Paraiso, Mezzanine a Colibri Boutique Hotel is an intimate and stylish adults-only hideaway making it ideal for couples in search of romance and tranquility.

 

With personalized services, the suites and rooms at this luxury hotel offer the perfect setting in which to unwind and enjoy your Caribbean vacation. Surrender to the treatments at the top spa & the wellness center, dine in the gourmet restaurant offering authentic Thai flavors, or just relax by the pool with a good book.

 

When you're ready to explore, the natural beauty of Playa Paraiso and nearby Playa del Carmen are waiting to be discovered.

 

 

 

Kore Tulum Retreat & Spa ResortKore Tulum Retreat & Spa Resort: This all-inclusive adults-only retreat and spa resort is located on the Playa Paraiso, a short drive from the town of Tulum. The Kore Tulum Retreat & Spa Resort is also ideal for those who love the outdoors and adventure with its many activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and kayaking.

 

The 94 suites at the resort are elegant and comfortable, with each suite having a private balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy authentic gourmet Mexican cuisine and international dishes at the on-site restaurants.

 

For love birds wishing to recover at the wellness spa for mind and body, the resort's spa offers a variety of treatments and services.

 

 

 

 

Tankah Bay

Tankah BayLocated about 7 miles north of the Zona Hotelera, Tankah Bay is a bit more removed from Tulum and offers a quiet vacation spot right on the Riviera Maya. This is the best place to stay for families and couples.

 

The calm waters of the bay offer good swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It’s a great place for those wishing to enjoy nature and take walks on the beach.

 

There are a number of luxurious villas to rent for large parties, such as Villa Sofia, Turtle Heart Villa, Cenote del Mar, and Villa Amara. If you’re traveling in a group and aren’t pinched for price, this might be a great option. Some offer a complimentary arrival dinner, breakfast, and maid services. You will find a number of restaurants, bars and small shops in the area.

 

 

Hotels in Tankah Bay

 

 

 

Recommended hotels in Tankah Bay:

 

 

Nerea TulumNerea Tulum:  Nerea Tulum is an idyllic spot between Tankah Bay and the mindblowing greens. With its white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush jungle surroundings, Nerea Tulum is a true paradise for couples seeking excitement. Visitors can lounge on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the nearby Mayan ruins.

 

With soft-tone decorations, the 22 rooms and suites at Nerea Tulum will make you feel at home while being away. Enjoy the well-balanced meal plan with international cuisine and local specialties, as well as an extensive wine list at The Wellness Cusine and The Cozy Bar.

 

The hotel also has a world-class spa, where you can relax and rejuvenate.

 

 

Alea Tulum by Blue SkyAlea Tulum by Blue Sky: The Alea Tulum by Blue Sky is a beautiful, modern, and luxurious hotel that overlooks the stunning white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of the Mexican Caribbean. Nestled between Tankah Bay and the jungle, this luxurious space provide the perfect setting for an unforgettable vacation.

 

Featuring beachfront suites, each with a private bathroom, a spacious living room, and a dining room, and a private infinity pool, this luxury has everything you need for a truly relaxing stay.

 

Ideal for honeymooners and couples who want to spend days lounging by the pool or exploring the nearby Mayan ruins, the Alea Tulum by Blue Sky is the perfect place to call home.

Carles BarceloCarles Barceló

Running Best Location Hotels since 2009, I've always had a deep curiosity for uncovering new destinations and discovering exceptional hotels. It brings me immense pleasure to share these experiences with the thousands of readers who visit us year after year. Join me on my journey to explore the best destinations worldwide!

 

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