A complete & up-to-date accommodation guide on where to stay in Tulum in 2023.
Tulum is one of Mexico’s best vacation spots. While it’s no longer a hidden beach town, this beautiful stretch of coast on the Riviera Maya still offers a much more relaxed and laid back travel scene than nearby Cancun or Playa del Carmen.
So, whether you’re planning to stay near the beach in the Hotel Zone or in the heart of the Pueblo, this 2023 hotel and neighborhood guide will help you find the best place to stay in Tulum for your trip!
The Quick Answer for Where to Stay in Tulum
Generally speaking, there are two neighborhoods for where you'll want to book your accommodation. These are Tulum Town (Pueblo), and the Tulum Hotel Zone (Tulum Beach).
Tulum Town is a laid-back town close to the ADO bus station and has loads of hotels, guest houses, hostels, restaurants, bars, and everything else you could imagine.
Closer to the beach, the Tulum Hotel Zone is more of a luxury accommodation area with high-end resorts, spas, restaurants, and nightclubs. Below are the 3 best picks in both areas.
- Casa Malca - Perfect for couples searching for a luxury, private and relaxing resort. It's situated on a private beach surrounded by palm trees and offers luxury spa treatments and a large outdoor swimming pool.
- Mamasan Treehouses & Cabins - Stay in an epic tree house just 100m from South Tulum Beach! Features an epic root-top jungle bar with rooms overlooking the ocean.
- Myan Monkey - By far the best hostel for a party vibe and making lifelong friends. The perfect choice for backpackers looking for accommodation in a great location. Just a short walk to Tulum Center where you can find many restaurants and bars.
The Best Areas & Places to Stay In Tulum
When planning where to stay in Tulum, Mexico, there are two areas you'll want to keep in mind. These are:
- Tulum Pueblo (El Centro) - Great nightlife and a good place to stay in Tulum on a budget
Situated along the beach of Tulum. This is a great option for those wanting to watch the sunset over the Caribbean Sea from their private rooms.
- Tulum Beach (Hotel Zone) - Popular hotel area on the beach
Located in the heart of Tulum. This is a great location for those who want to feel a sense of luxury without breaking the bank whilst enjoying a fun stay.
Below is a small map showing the best areas for planning your stay in Tulum.
Stay on Tulum Beach Hotel Zone - The Best Place to Stay for Seaside Hotels
Tulum beach is lined with incredibly designed and unique hotels. The area is known for its beautiful beaches and tranquility.
In the Hotel Zone, you'll find a wide range of Tulum beach resorts, hotels, and beach bars. Accommodation in this area of Tulum is a little more pricey than in Pueblo but you will definitely receive the best service and returns for your money. That's why I've mostly listed high-end hotels and resorts here.
Additionally, the area has a range of things to check out, like the Follow That Dream sign and Cenote Encantado.
Pros & Cons of Staying in the Tulum Beach Hotel Zone
Pros:
- This area is filled with incredible beach hotels
- Walking distance from Cenote Encantado
- Views over the ocean with a fantastic sea breeze
- Many top-rated restaurants within the surrounding area
- Beautiful beaches to relax on with stunning white sand
- Instagrammable photo spots like the Follow That Dream sign and “The Woman Sculpture” are all within walking distance.
Cons:
- Accommodation and food are more expensive due to the location
- More people stay in this area during the high season which means that traffic can be worse at particular times of the day
- Affected by Sargassum Seaweed Seasons
Best Hotels & Resorts on Tulum Beach & South Tulum Beach
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
  | La Zebra a Colibri Boutique Hotel | $$$$ |
  | The Beach | $$$$ |
  | Casa Malca | $$$$ |
  | La Valise | $$$$ |
1. La Zebra a Colibri Boutique Hotel
La Zebra a Colibri Boutique Hotel is definitely one of the best places to stay in Tulum. Located right on the beach, this hotel provides a level of luxury we have seldom seen.
They offer 6 different room categories, with some of them even including private pools and open access to the Caribbean Sea. Naturally, all rooms have an air conditioner, coffee maker, private bathroom, and even a king bed! La Zebra is a convenient choice for families and groups, but certainly also for couples. The hotel offers spa treatment, massages, and even romantic therapies with a loved one. Of course, there is also a large outdoor swimming pool.
If you are looking for one of the best Tulum resorts in the Yucatan peninsula, this might be the choice for you!
2. The Beach
Sitting on South Tulum beach with an incredible ocean view, this adults-only hotel is an absolute gem amongst Tulum resorts. Situated in a great location, the Beach Tulum is just a walking distance away from many excellent restaurants and bars. Naturally, there is also an on-site restaurant with superb food.
We personally love the many amenities this hotel has to offer: daily yoga classes, a wellness center with spa treatments, tequila tastings, cooking classes, and so forth. There is simply too much to mention, but let's put it this way: there are not a lot of hotels that can brag about a hot tub and jacuzzi on the roof!
Don't miss the incredible Ven A La Luz wooden structure which is a short 2-minute walk from The Beach Tulum.
This Tulum hotel has won our hearts with its amazing staff and service, and it definitely deserves its place on this list.
3. Casa Malca
Situated on a private beach area surrounded by palm trees, the Casa Malca hotel is definitely one of the best places to stay in Tulum. Located very close to the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, and just 10 kilometers from the main Tulum town and the Myan Ruins, this hotel has a superb location.
This great place has beautifully decorated private rooms overlooking gardens or the ocean. There is an on-site restaurant and room service for those who just want to relax. The Casa Malca also offers luxury spa treatments and has a large outdoor swimming pool.
Definitely worth their great rating on booking.com!
4. La Valise
La Valise Tulum is truly special, just take a look at those pictures! The design of this hotel is treehouse-inspired, but with a modern beachfront. All rooms are artfully crafted and have water views from the bed. As this is an adults-only hotel, we found it a great choice for honeymooners.
La Valise Tulum offers plenty of activities, such as curative pre-hispanic sound healing, personalized yoga classes, sailing and snorkeling the Caribbean Sea, or embarking on a Sian Ka'an Safari. There are also complimentary yoga classes each Friday at 5 pm.
If you are looking for a beachfront hotel with private parking, surrounded by palm trees, this is a great choice!
Best Hotels for Mid-Range Budget - Tulum Pueblo
Although not situated on the beach Tulum Pueblo has its own special quirks that shouldn't be missed.
It is the perfect area for those with a lighter wallet. This area boasts an abundance of tasty and delicious food at your fingertips. Also, some of the best cenotes, like the Gran Cenote is only a short drive from the Center of Tulum– perfect as a launching pad for action-packed day trips.
Tulum Pueblo is bustling with things to do to keep you busy for your next stay.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Tulum Pueblo
Pros:
- Cheaper than the beach hotel area
- Lots of food choices within walking distance and for a much lower cost
- Public transport is readily available
- It has a great range of hotel choices
- Closer to the incredibly popular Gran Cenote
Cons:
- Traffic can be busy
- Accommodation can be fully booked out
Best Hotels for Mid-Range Budget - Tulum Pueblo
| Hotel | Price | |
|---|---|---|
  | Mamasan Treehouse & Cabins | $$$$ |
  | Orchid House | $$$ |
  | Turquoise Tulum Hotel | $$ |
  | Casa Almendro | $ |
1. Mamasan Treehouse & Cabins
Dubbed 'The Instagram influencers' dream', this treehouse-inspired hotel features bamboo suites, cabins, and geodesic domes accommodations. Located just a short walk from South Tulum beach, the Mamasan Treehouse & Cabins boasts a great location.
There is a beautiful rooftop jungle bar (using fresh organic ingredients), and guests can also enjoy a la carte breakfast for a small extra cost. Given the good location, it is also easy to get to other bars and restaurants. The Mamasan hotel offers a really unique experience: the service is exceptionally good, and the natural beauty all around the hotel is stunning.
Be aware though: pets are allowed on request, but this is an adults-only hotel!
2. Orchid House
Orchid House is one of the best boutique hotels in Tulum. Besides their beautiful rooms, they also offer an entire villa for up to 10 people, with a private plunge pool included. Therefore this is a great choice for groups.
Also for singles and couples, this is one of the best hotels in Tulum, with maximum comfort for a reasonable price. Hotel guests can experience the outdoor jungle pool (with a bar!) and enjoy the open-air restaurant Nest, an Instagram favorite. Orchid House really offers a unique experience in a quiet and private area.
Situated close to Aldea Zama with direct road access to Tulum's white sandy beaches, another thing to love is the location of this great boutique hotel!
3. Turquoise Tulum Hotel
The Turquoise Tulum Hotel is located excellently in the heart of La Veleta, from where it is easy to get to downtown Tulum by bike. It is located just 1.5 kilometers from the ADO bus station and 5 kilometers from the Tulum Archeological Site, which makes it an excellent location. Many local restaurants are also nearby.
The hotel offers 4 different room types to choose from, all with pool views or private terraces. Naturally, all rooms include wifi, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. There is easy free parking, and bikes are freely available.
If you are still looking for where to stay in Tulum on a budget, this might be the pick for you. The penthouse suite with a rooftop pool will not disappoint!
4. Casa Almendro
Casa Almendro is one of the best options for those on a lower budget. It's set on the main road in the center of Tulum, close to some of the best restaurants and just 3.2 kilometers from Playa Paraiso.
There is a relaxing feel with lots of trees throughout the property, and the hotel also features a rooftop kitchen and terrace with hanging hammocks. Private rooms feature air conditioning and free wifi, while some of them even have a fridge and kitchen. A great option as a base when exploring the incredible things to do in Tulum.
A perfect choice if you are looking to stay in Tulum town on a budget!
Tulum Pueblo (El Centro) - Where to Stay on a Budget
These choices will have you sleeping comfortably without spending your holiday savings in one night. A Perfect choice for those traveling with a lighter wallet or those looking for a more relaxed hostel vibe and pumping party scene.
Best Hotels & Hostels to stay on a budget
1. Mayan Monkey
This 3-star hostel is a fantastic place to meet new people and party through the night. The adults-only Mayan Monkey has its own nightclub and DJ!
Besides that, they also have a coffee house on site, a wellness center, and yoga classes. Located just a short drive from Paraiso Beach, this hostel is truly one of the best places to stay in Tulum if you don't mind a party or two.
There is an outdoor swimming pool, and rooms feature free wifi and private bathrooms. The equipped kitchen is shared, which makes it a great place to make some new friends!
And for those who are up for an adventure the Cenote Car Wash is a short 18-minute drive from the property.
2. Meteora Stay & Coffeehouse
The Meteora Stay & Coffeehouse has an excellent location in Tulum town. Located just 800 meters from the ADO bus station and 3.7 kilometers from the Mayan Ruins, this hostel offers a range of private rooms that can fit up to 3 people. Some have private kitchens and bathrooms.
The property boasts shared lounges and beautifully designed terraces. The hostel even has its own business center! What we loved about this place were the incredible jungle vibe and the outdoor swimming pool. It is amazing that this calming atmosphere is possible being so close to the bustling Tulum town.
This hostel has gotten some great reviews, and we fully understand why!
3. Hotel Central Station
The Hotel Central Station Tulum is located, as the name suggests, just a short walk away from the ADO bus station. However, even though this hotel is situated in the town center, it still has a somewhat quieter location. Something we liked a lot!
The rooms are equipped with wifi, air conditioning, a safe, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom. Daily housekeeping is also available. Furthermore, the Central Station Tulum is a perfect choice for larger groups, as the hotel offers big family rooms.
Not sure where to stay in Tulum with a family for a low price? This might be your best bet!
4. oOstel Smart Hostel
We end the list with the oOstel Smart Hostel: one of the best value for money for anyone on a tight budget. It is very difficult to find such a good place for such a low price.
oOstel Smart has extremely comfortable beds with cubical curtains and an electricity socket. The free wifi works well throughout the property, and there are two separate pools: one outdoor and one offering a swim-up bar! There is also a restaurant and bar on-site.
The location is excellent, as it's within close proximity to the ADO bus station and the Tulum ruins or for those who are looking for an adventure Cenote Calavera is a 7-minute drive from the hostel. For budget travelers still looking for where to stay in Tulum: there you go!
We hope you all have a wonderful stay.
After Tulum - More Accommodation & Travel Guides
I hope that this comprehensive Tulum accommodation guide has helped you plane where to stay during your next trip to Mexico's Riviera Maya!
While you're here, don't miss some of my other travel guides below!
