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Planning a trip to Tulum and wondering where to stay? You’re in the right place!
Tulum may be small on the map, but choosing the right area can make a huge difference to your experience. And from beachfront eco-retreats to buzzy neighborhoods and jungle-shrouded villas, there sure is a lot to choose from.
We have been traveling to Tulum for years and know just how difficult it can be to choose! That’s why we’ve broken it down by area and shared our favorite accommodation options in each one. Whatever your vibe and budget, we’ve got you covered, so let’s get into it.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Tulum is the Hotel Zone, where jungle meets sea and barefoot luxury is the norm.
We recommend Ikal Tulum Hotel for its beachfront bungalows, outdoor showers, yoga on the sand, and an on‑site beach club serving incredible tacos and seafood.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Where to Stay in Tulum Map
- Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Tulum
- Important Tip: Book Now or Cry Later
- Where to Stay in Tulum
- Top Activities to do in Tulum, Mexico
- Thanks for reading!
- Renting a Car in Mexico
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Where to Stay in Tulum Map
Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Tulum
Tulum is one of Mexico’s dreamiest beach destinations, but if you can’t work out where to stay, then don’t worry, because you’re not alone! There are lots of distinct neighborhoods to choose from, and each one has its own vibe, so you truly are spoiled for choice. It’s a nice problem to have, but you still want to make sure that you choose the right area because it can really shape your experience!
We’ve broken down each area for you so that you can get to know the unique personality of each district before you book a spot. From yoga retreats to jungle treehouses, we’ve covered it all, so keep on reading and let us help you find the perfect base.
- Tulum Beach (Zona Hotelera) – This is Tulum’s most iconic strip, and there’s a big wellness focus here with plenty of boutique eco-hotels and luxury beach stays on offer. Ikal Tulum Hotel is a rustic beachfront retreat that offers yoga classes right on the sand every morning.
- South Tulum Beach – This is a quieter stretch further down the coast that’s perfect for going off grid, so it’s ideal if you’re seeking a secluded getaway or a romantic escape away from the nightlife and noise. Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins is an amazing jungle retreat just steps from the beach.
- Tulum Centro (Central Tulum) – This is a way more down-to-earth area, which is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in Tulum’s colorful local life and be surrounded by taco stands and energetic bars. Layla Tulum is a beautiful Moroccan-themed hotel that won’t break the bank.
- Aldea Zama – Aldea Zama is a leafy and modern residential hub between the beach and town, with boutique condos, cafés, and a relaxed, livable feel. Aloft Tulum is a modern hotel with a rooftop pool and lots of shops and restaurants close by.
- La Veleta – This is an up-and-coming area that’s evolving fast, with a growing number of boutique hotels and trendy restaurants, plus easy cenote access! Kan Tulum Hotel is a stunning eco-chic hotel that offers a bucket-list stay that won’t break the bank.
- Holistika Area – This is a peaceful pocket centered around the Holistika wellness retreat, offering yoga stays, spiritual escapes, and art-filled jungle paths. And of course, Hotel Holistika Tulum is the go-to choice for wellness travelers and creative souls.
- Soliman Bay – This is a quiet crescent bay just north of Tulum that offers barefoot luxury and tons of privacy, so it’s perfect for a peaceful escape. Cielo Maya Beach Tulum delivers an elegant and secluded beachfront stay.
Important Tip: Book Now or Cry Later
Multiple Tulum trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Tulum accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Tulum
Tulum Beach (Hotel Zone)
Tulum Beach—aka the Hotel Zone—is the most famous and popular part of Tulum. If your dream trip involves waking up to ocean views, sipping green juice by the beach, and drifting from yoga to boutique shopping, then this is your spot. It’s a beautiful stretch of coast that’s lined with upscale eco-resorts, trendy beach clubs, and boho-chic boutiques.
The Hotel Zone runs along a narrow coastal road with jungle on one side and the sea on the other. It’s a walkable area, although there aren’t a ton of sidewalks, so you do just need to be aware of your surroundings as you explore.
This is one of those areas that’s great for almost anyone—you really can’t go wrong! It’s ideal for couples on a romantic trip, but anyone craving Tulum’s barefoot luxury vibe will love it.
There’s plenty to do here, too. The Tulum Ruins are just a 10-minute drive away—if you’re wondering whether they’re worth a visit, check out our full Tulum Ruins Review here.
Plus, you’ll find some of the area’s best beach clubs here, including Papaya Playa Project and Casa Malca. We loved all of the dining options here, too, which ranged from upscale restaurants to jungle pop-ups with wood-fired menus. We also found great drinks pretty much everywhere we went!
Pros
- Stunning beachfront setting with a luxury, wellness-focused vibe
- Easy access to beach clubs, boutique shopping, and top restaurants
Cons
- Expensive, with few budget-friendly options
- Limited public beach access and busy roads
Mi Amor Tulum – $$$
Mi Amor Tulum is an adults-only boutique hotel perched on a rocky stretch of coastline just north of the main beach strip. If you’re looking for a secluded stay with ocean views, this is the place for you. The pool area is super stylish with lots of cute pink sunbeds, and there are also private clifftop cabanas overlooking the coastline.
There’s an excellent on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean-Mexican fusion, and while this property is a short bike or taxi ride from the buzzier part of the Hotel Zone, that’s part of its charm. You get the tranquility of a tucked-away spot with the beach and the ruins just minutes away!
Rooms and suites range from $180 to $1,100 USD per night, depending on the season and category.
Check availability and book this boutique stay here!
Ikal Tulum Hotel – $$
Ikal Tulum Hotel strikes a beautiful balance between eco-conscious design and comfort. It’s a beachfront property that’s nestled between the palm trees, so you get to enjoy rustic jungle vibes and wake up to the sound of the ocean each morning.
Well, that and the complimentary yoga classes, which are led right on the beach by some seriously talented instructor! The rooms are rustic-chic, with comfy beds, organic details, and outdoor showers in some units. There’s also a stylish beach club and restaurant on site, which serves the best tacos and seafood.
All in all, this is a great choice if you want a more grounded, nature-focused experience without straying too far from Tulum’s best spots. Accommodations range from bungalows to oceanfront suites and tree houses, and you can expect to pay between $90 and $1,200 USD per night.
Book your beachfront stay at Ikal Tulum Hotel here!
La Conchita Tulum – $$
La Conchita Tulum is a rustic eco-hotel tucked just off the beachfront, near the quieter northern end of the Hotel Zone. It offers great value for its location, with simple but spacious rooms, tropical gardens, and a relaxed, homey vibe that feels more like staying in a beachside guesthouse than a resort.
The property is steps from the sea and close to beach clubs, restaurants, and the Tulum Ruins. It’s especially well-suited to travelers who want easy beach access without paying top-tier prices. Breakfast is often included, and the friendly staff help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Rooms typically range from $150 to $450 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
South Tulum Beach
South Tulum Beach is the place to go if you’re looking for a quiet, secluded escape that feels worlds away from the busier Hotel Zone. Located further down the coast, this stretch of beach is more peaceful, less developed, and surrounded by raw natural beauty. It’s ideal for anyone looking to unplug, slow down, and enjoy a more back-to-nature experience in Tulum.
The beach here is wide, soft, and often nearly empty. This is a real win considering how popular Tulum is! We love coming here to enjoy long walks or read under palm trees.
As for the hotels, they tend to be eco-friendly and use solar power and composting toilets. The WiFi around here is hit or miss (mostly miss, if I’m being honest), but that’s kind of the point. This is where we stay when we want to get off the grid and enjoy pure peace and tranquility.
South Tulum is not the spot for nightlife, shopping, or café-hopping, but there are a few upscale beach clubs around. And if you’re happy to dine on-site or take a taxi into town when needed, the trade-off is well worth it.
Pros
- Peaceful and romantic, perfect for unplugging
- Beautiful, quiet stretch of beach with boutique eco-resorts
Cons
- Far from nightlife, shops, and town amenities
- Patchy cell service and Wi-Fi in some areas
Hotel Shibari – $$$
Hotel Shibari is a luxury wellness resort tucked deep in the jungle along South Tulum Beach. It’s a beautiful blend of rustic elegance and modern indulgence, with striking architecture and elevated jungle walkways. But my favorite part of this property is that instead of a swimming pool, it has its own private cenote! That’s definitely not something you come across often, even in Tulum.
Each suite is incredibly private, with plunge pools, outdoor tubs, and lush jungle views. The vibe here is calm and restorative, with daily yoga, a sumptuous on-site spa, and sound healing sessions. And although this is a jungle property, you can easily walk to a number of beach clubs from here.
Rooms start at around $250 USD per night but can reach $1,000+ depending on the suite and season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins – $$
For something truly unique, Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins offers stylish eco-stays in the jungle! The treehouse-style rooms are elevated, circular structures with thatched roofs, open-air showers, and lots of natural charm. If you’ve always wanted to stay in a glamorous jungle treehouse, now’s your chance! The views are incredible, to say the least.
This place is a little adventurous, a little romantic, and totally Tulum. There’s also a rooftop restaurant where you can enjoy Mexican and international cuisine that’s all cooked on a wood-fired stove. The sunsets from here are just amazing! Rates typically fall between $75 and $350 USD per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Alquimia Hotel Boutique – $
Alquimia Hotel Boutique is a charming budget-friendly option located right on the sand in South Tulum Beach. It offers rustic beachfront cabins, hammocks under the palm trees, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect if you’re looking for something affordable that still has that chic Tulum vibe.
While the rooms are fairly simple, they’re still stylish, and the beachfront setting is incredible for the price. There’s a beach bar, daily wellness activities, and an on-site restaurant with yummy wood-fired pizzas and specialty drinks. It’s ideal for travelers who want the location and views without the usual Tulum price tag.
Expect to pay between $70 and $300 USD per night for a double room, although suites can reach $1,000+ USD during peak season.
Book this budget-friendly stay at Alquimia Hotel Boutique here!
Tulum Centro
If you’re looking for a more down-to-earth and local experience, Tulum Centro is the perfect choice! We love this part of Tulum because it feels more authentically Mexican than other areas. Don’t get me wrong, Tulum Beach delivers amazing vacation vibes, but if you’re interested in seeing the town’s personality and everyday buzz, this is the area you should choose.
Tulum Centro is where most locals live, and it’s a bustling area that’s packed with authentic street food. Everywhere you look, you can find taco joints and local markets, as well as plenty of practical amenities. We also love hopping between all of the fun local bars here!
Centro is an inland part of town, and it’s about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the coast, but you can easily access the beaches by hopping in a taxi or renting a bike. It only took us 10-15 minutes to cycle from Tulum Centro to Paradise Beach.
Finally, this is one of the most affordable parts of Tulum! So while it’s not the quietest or most scenic area, it’s ideal for anyone who wants to explore beyond the highly curated, luxury side of Tulum.
Pros
- Budget-friendly hotels, food, and transport
- Great street food and local nightlife
Cons
- Not a beachfront area
- Noisier and less polished than beachside areas
Layla Tulum – $$
Layla Tulum is one of the most stylish stays in Tulum Centro, with a boutique feel and a rooftop pool that’s perfect for sunset drinks. The hotel has a cool, Moroccan-inspired design with mosaics and pointed arches throughout. The rooftop pool area is particularly beautiful, and it’s perfect for snapping envy-stirring photos.
The location is super central, as it puts you right in the heart of the action. Yet once you’re inside the property, it feels like a super serene retreat. There’s a fantastic restaurant on site, and there’s a complimentary continental breakfast buffet each morning. Expect to pay around $175 to $350 USD per night, depending on the season and room category.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Casa Agape Hotel Tulum – $$
Casa Agape is a sleek and modern all-suite hotel tucked just off one of Tulum Centro’s main streets. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and beautifully decorated with artisanal touches, handwoven fabrics, and boho flair. You can step outside and be right in the thick of it, while the small pool and garden area offer a quiet spot to unwind after a day out exploring.
The rooms are well-sized and stylish, with thoughtful design details and comfy beds. This place has a youthful and trendy vibe, and the staff are super friendly with tons of tips on everything from restaurants to public transport. King suites typically range from $120 to $300 USD per night.
Reserve your stay at Casa Agape here!
Kaab Tulum – $
Kaab Tulum is an affordable hotel with spacious rooms and leafy grounds on the edge of Tulum Centro. It offers great value for the price with an outdoor pool, free parking, and a peaceful location in a quieter part of town. But don’t worry, it’s still within walking or biking distance to restaurants, shops, and transport links.
This place isn’t overly flashy, but it has everything you need for a comfortable stay. There’s also a small spa on site and an outdoor restaurant which does amazing octopus tacos. Rooms start around $50 USD per night and go up to $200 USD in high season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Aldea Zama
If you want a modern, peaceful base in Tulum that’s still close to everything, Aldea Zama is the area for you! It’s a planned neighborhood that sits between Tulum Centro and the beach. It offers a calm, leafy setting with wide bike paths and stylish condos, as well as lots of newer boutique hotels. We think it’s a great choice if you’re looking for comfort and convenience in a more residential part of town.
Aldea Zama doesn’t have the wild nightlife or rustic charm of other areas, but it’s clean, walkable, and safe. It’s ideal for families or digital nomads who are sticking around for a bit longer. The growing collection of wellness cafes, smoothie bars, and coworking spaces makes it feel very livable, so it’s easy to settle in and feel at home here.
You won’t find any major attractions within the neighborhood itself, but you’re just a quick bike ride away from both the beach and downtown. That means easy access to beach clubs, restaurants, the Tulum Ruins, and nearby cenotes without the noise or crowds.
We love Aldea Zama for its relaxed, low-key energy. It’s not the most “Tulum-y” area, but it’s well-connected and comfortable, especially if you’re after a more residential base that still puts you close to the action.
Pros
- Modern, peaceful, and safe neighborhood
- Easy access to both the beach and downtown by bike
- Great for families, long stays, and digital nomads
Cons
- No major attractions within the neighborhood
- Lacks the rustic, boho Tulum vibe
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Kimpton Aluna Resort Tulum – $$$
Kimpton Aluna brings a resort-style experience to the heart of Aldea Zama. We love it because it blends laid-back luxury with modern design and lush surroundings. The property features two pools (including a chic rooftop one), an on-site restaurant, a gym, and a wellness studio.
Rooms are airy, stylish, and comfortable, with balconies overlooking the gardens or pool. We think that this place is a great choice for couples or small groups who want a resort feel without being far from the beach or town.
The vibe is upscale but not stuffy, and there are daily yoga classes to help you unwind while staying active. Rooms start at $160 USD per night, while suites can go up to $1,000 USD per night during peak season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Aloft Tulum – $$
Aloft Tulum is a fresh, urban-style hotel that brings modern comfort to the jungle. It has a youthful, energetic feel with bright, modern rooms, a rooftop infinity pool, and a great bar. There’s also a fitness center, co-working space, and free bike rentals that make it super easy to get around.
The location in Aldea Zama means you’re close to both beach and town, and the hotel offers excellent value for money. It’s particularly popular with younger travelers who want clean design and solid amenities without a high price tag. Rates usually range from $110 to $200 USD per night.
Find out more and book your stay here!
Motto by Hilton Tulum – $$
Motto By Hilton Tulum is a gorgeous hotel that we think delivers amazing value for money! It’s super stylish with modern, minimalist rooms and a sleek infinity pool on the rooftop terrace, which just so happens to be an epic sunset spot!
There’s a family-friendly bistro on site that serves Mexican and international cuisine, and there’s a gym and cafe too. The property is also within walking distance to several restaurants and convenience stores.
Prices range between $95 and $400 USD per night, depending on the room category and season.
Check all the options and book your stay here!
La Veleta
La Veleta is one of Tulum’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, and it shows. This area offers a fun mixture of jungle charm and modern design, and it’s full of rooftop bars and trendy restaurants. This is where Tulum’s stylish digital nomad crowd hangs out, dividing their time between the coworking spaces and cutting-edge yoga studios.
Perhaps thanks to its young, international population, La Veleta is home to the emerging “Tuluminati” aesthetic. That means you’ll find lots of thatched rooftops, jungle plunge pools, and handwoven hammocks in every shade of beige.
While it’s not directly on the beach, La Veleta is a great option if you want to experience a more residential (but still luxe) side of town. It’s more affordable than the coastal hotspots, but there are plenty of upscale hotels and eateries. The traffic here is pretty quiet, so it’s an easy place to drive around, and you can usually get a taxi pretty quickly.
What we like about staying in La Veleta is that it’s a 10-minute drive from Tulum Centro, which makes it easy to bar hop or go on a quick taco run. It’s a similar distance from the Beach Zone, so you can also be sunbathing within 10-15 minutes of leaving your hotel!
Pros
- Great mix of jungle charm and modern amenities
- Tons of new restaurants and boutique hotels
Cons
- Some roads are still unpaved and bumpy
- Not within walking distance of the beach
Hotel Muaré – $$$
Hotel Muaré is a dreamy jungle retreat tucked into the heart of La Veleta. I think it really sums up what a Tulum vacation is all about! This high-end boutique hotel is built around nature, with villas spaced out among lush greenery.
It captures the “Tuluminati” aesthetic perfectly, and there’s a real sense of seclusion and calm. Each suite features a private plunge pool, earthy textures, and thoughtful design that blends indoor and outdoor living. There’s also a large, tranquil communal pool dotted with elegant cabanas.
The centerpiece of the property is the gorgeous on-site restaurant, Gaudea, where guests can enjoy Mediterranean-meets-Mexican cuisine in an open-air jungle setting. If you stay here, you have to try their Tlayuda! Suites generally cost between $250 and $600 USD per night, but they can climb to $1,000+ in January, which is the peak month.
Get the best rates by booking in advance!
Kan Tulum Hotel – $$
Kan Tulum Hotel is easily one of the most original stays in the area. The design is wild in the best way. The apartments and studios are housed in circular bamboo towers, which you access via spiral staircases that wind through the trees. I can honestly say that I’ve never seen another property like it!
As if that weren’t enough, this eco-focused hotel is built around a natural cenote. Staying here feels like living in an elevated jungle hideout. The rooms are rustic-chic and open-air, with earthy materials and hammocks hanging right outside your door.
And it’s not super pricey, either—in fact, we think it delivers great value for such a unique and adventurous property! Studios here start at $125 USD per night, but apartments can go up to $700 USD per night during peak season.
Check out all options and availability here!
Little Gem Hotel Tulum – $
True to its name, Little Gem Hotel is a charming and budget-friendly boutique spot in La Veleta. It’s clean, quiet, and has a welcoming, laid-back vibe. Rooms are minimal but well-designed, with bright decor and touches of local craftsmanship.
There’s a small pool for cooling off, a rooftop terrace with loungers, and a cozy breakfast area that serves fresh fruit and coffee each morning. While it’s not flashy, it’s still chic and stylish, with everything you need for a relaxing and comfortable stay.
The location is convenient, too. It’s easy to walk to nearby restaurants and bars, but it’s still super peaceful. Rooms here usually cost between $70 and $250 USD per night, depending on your chosen date and room category.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: Once you’ve picked your perfect base, don’t miss our guide to the best things to do in Tulum here for all the top beaches, cenotes, and cultural experiences.
Holistika Area
If your idea of a perfect trip involves sound baths, jungle walks, and smoothie bowls, then allow us to introduce you to the Holistika area! It’s named after the wellness hotel at its center, and it’s a peaceful neighborhood that sits on the western edge of town. It has become a hub for yoga retreats, so it’s ideal for spiritually inclined travelers who are looking to unplug.
Holistika is a quiet, lush area that is home to lots of jungle greenery and treehouse-style architecture. You won’t find beach clubs or boutiques here, but there are plenty of local art spaces and unique accommodations. This part of Tulum doesn’t just hint at wellness – it fully embraces it!
Apart from wellness retreats, there aren’t loads of amenities here. There’s little in the way of shops and restaurants, but it’s ideal for unplugging and going back to nature. The area is a little off the beaten path, so you’ll need a bike or taxi to get to the beach or the ruins, but that distance is part of what makes it feel so serene.
We love Holistika for its creative energy and slower pace. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re into yoga, art, or introspection, it can be a truly magical place to stay.
Pros
- Calm, wellness-focused neighborhood surrounded by nature
- Great for yoga lovers, creatives, and solo travelers
Cons
- Not walkable to the beach or Tulum Centro
- Limited nightlife and restaurant options nearby
Hotel Milam – $$$
Hotel Milam is a stunning adults-only hideaway tucked deep into the jungle. It’s a world-class property, and it’s arguably Tulum’s most luxurious stay. With just a handful of king rooms and villas, this place is all about peace, privacy, and modern design.
There’s a huge central pool that runs throughout the entire property, and the rooms and villas even have private swim-up pools. And while Milam feels wonderfully remote, you’re still just a short drive or bike ride from town. This is a dreamy, bucket-list stay, so if you’ve got the budget to stay here, I really can’t recommend it enough!
King rooms start at $300 USD per night but can range up to $2,000 USD for a superior villa during peak times.
Find out more and book your stay here!
Hotel Holistika Tulum – $$
Hotel Holistika Tulum is the heart of the neighborhood! It’s not just a hotel, it’s a full wellness retreat, and it’s pretty iconic among those in the know. There are daily yoga and meditation classes, and the on-site restaurant, Tierra, serves super healthy vegetarian meals so you can nourish both your body and your mind!
There’s also an open-air jungle art walk and a relaxed, community-focused vibe with lots of creatively designed shared spaces that encourage connection. The rooms range from simple jungle cabins to private suites, and there’s even a co-living area for longer stays.
While it’s a little off-grid, Holistika is a perfect pick for creative souls or anyone craving rest and recharge time. Prices start at $40 USD per night for a bed in a dormitory room, while private doubles start at around $100 USD per night.
Check all prices and book your stay here!
Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum – $
Hotel Tiki Tiki Tulum is a fun, retro-style boutique hotel that stands out with its 1950s Miami-meets-jungle design. It’s small, stylish, and surprisingly affordable for what you get. The vibe is casual but curated, with terrazzo floors, bold colors, and a beautiful pool surrounded by palm trees.
The hotel is set in a quiet part of the Holistika area, so you’ll want to rent a bike or scooter to get around. There’s no restaurant, but they do offer breakfast, and some great local spots are nearby. All in all, Tiki Tiki is a fun, budget-friendly choice for design lovers and chilled-out travelers.
Suites here start at $120 USD per night and go up to $250 USD during peak season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: Want to add an unforgettable adventure to your trip? Check out our guide to the things you should know before swimming with whale sharks in Tulum here and get ready to experience the thrill of snorkeling alongside these gentle giants.
Soliman Bay
If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape that’s far from the buzz of downtown Tulum, Soliman Bay is pure magic. Well, it’s located a 20 to 25-minute drive north of town, so it’s not quite cut off from all civilization, but it’s definitely secluded. And boy, is it beautiful!
This crescent-shaped bay offers crystal-clear water, soft sand, and an incredibly tranquil vibe. So if you want to get away from the boutiques and beach clubs in the more popular areas, this is just the spot to do it.
We loved staying here because we got to slow down, snorkel in calm waters, and fall asleep to the sound of the sea. If snorkeling is on your list, don’t miss our guide on things to know before going snorkeling in Tulum here.
Soliman Bay is mostly home to boutique hotels and luxury villas, with just a handful of small restaurants tucked along the shore. There’s not much here in the way of nightlife or shopping, but that’s the whole point. You come to Soliman Bay not just to relax, but to unplug and go off the grid completely. If you’re craving total relaxation and a more private beach experience, Soliman Bay is hard to beat.
Pros
- Incredibly peaceful and uncrowded
- Great for snorkeling and water activities
Cons
- No nightlife or shopping nearby
- Need a car or taxi to reach Tulum town
Nerea Tulum – $$
Nerea Tulum is a stylish boutique hotel right on the shores of Soliman Bay. It offers gorgeous sea views, a peaceful vibe, and easy access to the water. The rooms are bright and modern with neutral tones and big windows, and most have terraces or balconies.
The hotel has a romantic on-site restaurant that serves beautifully plated meals using fresh local ingredients. We recommend choosing a hotel with an on-site restaurant because there aren’t many options around Soliman Bay! Expect to pay between $160 and $450 USD per night, depending on the season.
Check availability and book your stay at this boutique hotel here!
VR CLUB Tulum Riviera – $$
VR CLUB Tulum Riviera is a quiet beachfront spot that’s perfect for travelers who want simplicity, nature, and comfort all in one. This small hotel sits right on the bay and has a super laid-back feel. Rooms are clean and minimal, and some open directly onto the beach.
The vibe here is all about relaxation. You can spend your days swimming, kayaking, or sipping a drink on your private terrace. There’s an on-site restaurant, and the complimentary breakfast buffet is fantastic, especially the delicious beignets! If you’re looking for a calm home base in Soliman Bay without the luxury price tag, this place hits the mark.
Rooms usually range from $135 to $400 USD per night, depending on the category and season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Cielo Maya Beach Tulum – $$
Cielo Maya Beach Tulum is an elegant hotel that offers warm hospitality and stunning sea views. The hotel is small and intimate, with just a handful of rooms nestled between the beach and the jungle. Each room has a rustic-chic look with wood accents, local art, and either ocean or garden views.
With hammocks on the beach, a relaxing pool area, and a gorgeous cenote just steps away, this charming hotel is hard to beat. It’s a great choice for travelers who want boutique comfort, privacy, and that dreamy off-grid feeling. Rooms here cost between $100 and $400 per night.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Related Read: Once you’ve chosen your perfect base, follow our 3-day Tulum itinerary here—or check out our full 1- to 7-day Tulum itinerary here for even more ways to plan your trip
Top Activities to do in Tulum, Mexico
Now that you’ve figured out where to stay in Tulum, it’s time to fill your days with adventure! Tulum is overflowing with things to do, from swimming with wildlife to exploring ancient ruins. Here, we’ve rounded up some epic tours in Tulum, Mexico (that you don’t want to miss!) to help you make the most of your trip.
Or, here are some of our favorite tours that showcase the very best of the region:
- Snorkel with sea turtles and explore Tulum ruins – This combo tour is a must for first-timers! You’ll explore the cliffside Tulum Ruins with a guide, swim in a cenote and cave system, and then head to Akumal to snorkel alongside graceful sea turtles in their natural habitat. It’s the ultimate “all-in-one” Tulum experience. We’ve also rounded up the BEST tours to see turtles in Tulum here if that’s at the top of your list.
- Venture into the jungle on a Mayan inland expedition – For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, this inland tour takes you deep into the jungle to visit ancient ruins, hidden cenotes, and traditional Mayan villages. You’ll learn about local culture while soaking up incredible natural beauty.
- Swim with whale sharks in the Caribbean – If you’re visiting between May and September, don’t miss the chance to swim with gentle whale sharks in the open sea. This once-in-a-lifetime tour takes you by boat to the whale sharks’ feeding grounds, where you can snorkel beside the world’s largest fish.
- Sail the Riviera Maya on a private catamaran – For a laid-back, luxury day on the water, book this private catamaran cruise along the Riviera Maya. You can snorkel, sunbathe, sip drinks, and enjoy the turquoise Caribbean at your own pace. Before you go, check out our guide on things to know before booking a catamaran cruise in Tulum here.
- Zipline through the rainforest – Calling all thrill-seekers! This action-packed adventure combines ziplining, rappelling, and cenote swimming in one unforgettable half-day experience. It’s the perfect way to add some adrenaline to your Tulum vacation.
Related Read: If adventure is calling, don’t miss our guides on things to know before booking an ATV tour in Tulum here and things to know before going scuba diving in Tulum here—packed with tips for safe, fun, and unforgettable adventures.
Renting a Car in Mexico
Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to get around Mexico is in a rental car.
I struggled to get around by bus and taxi for the longest time. But after renting a car in Cancun in 2023, I never looked back. It allowed me to explore the country without worrying about tours or taxis. It was why I fell in love with Mexico and eventually decided to live here periodically.
I refuse to use local services whenever I rent a car in Mexico. The truth is they sometimes can’t be trusted or come with hidden fees (or costly insurance that doesn’t make sense.) There are even rental car scams! So instead, I use Discover Cars, the company most experienced travelers or ex-pats in Mexico recommend. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
The rates on Discover Cars are cheap, too, with the average rental costing around $25 USD per day. Full coverage insurance can be added for an extra $10 USD a day too.
Driving in Mexico also only requires a driver’s license using the Roman alphabet. If yours uses another like Japan and China, you simply need an international driving permit.
Insurance is required, but if you book with Discover Cars and get the full coverage, that’s all you need! Oh, and being over 18 is required, and if you’re over 25, your rental will be much cheaper!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
After days spent swimming in cenotes, biking to the ruins, and soaking up Tulum’s barefoot‑luxury vibe, having the right home base makes all the difference. Whether you’re tucked into a peaceful jungle retreat, steps from tacos in Tulum Centro, or waking up to waves in the Hotel Zone, the area you choose will shape your entire trip.
We hope this guide makes picking your perfect stay a whole lot easier and helps you plan a trip that’s as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be. Be sure to check out our other Mexico blogs here for more tips and inspiration—or explore some of our favorites below to start planning your getaway!
6 BEST Tours of the Tulum Ruins +Our Top Choice and Why
10 Things to KNOW Before Visiting Mystika, Tulum +Our Honest Review