In an area like Tulum where there is so much diversification, it can be tricky to know where to stay. This guide should help you understand which area is best for you.
The Beachfront (Zona Hotel)
If you’re looking to party, the beachfront (Hotel Zone) is where it’s at. Lively nightclubs, full moon parties, beach clubs, restaurants, shopping, you name it. For the high-end luxurious Tulum you have all seen on Instagram which provides the ultimate party, this is the area to be. However, this comes with a price tag, and a hefty one at that.
You will be walking distance to high-end clubs, restaurants, and shops. Although Tulum beach is not the most beautiful in Mexico, with increasing amounts of seaweed taking over the shore, it really provides a luxurious feel with the pristine white sand and incredible architecture.
You will find Instagrammable spots along the beach like the “Follow That Dream” sign and the iconic hand statue. As well as the Jungle Gym which looks like something from the Flintstones with iconic views.
Top venues are Papaya Playa Project and Azulik to stay. However these come with extreme price tags.
Private huts and rooms next door to Bagatelle at xx are also a fantastic luxury option.
Where We Stayed: Naala Tulum
My friends and I opted to stay a short drive from the beach as we could not justify the extreme pricing of the beachfront. However, keep in mind that taxis to/from Tulum’s Hotel Zone are expensive. Tourists will pay roughly $30 for a 10 minute drive – and beware that prices are elevated in this area of an evening. Don’t forget to haggle and speaking Spanish should help you avoid tourist price hikes.
We stayed at Naala Tulum – just a quick five‑minute drive to the beachfront clubs and an easy walk into Tulum Centro. I’d absolutely recommend it. While it’s not ultra‑luxury, it delivers fantastic value: spacious rooms, a beautifully bohemian reception area, and genuinely great food and cocktails at very reasonable prices. They even host daily happy hours, which is always a bonus. And I can’t forget the rooftop pool – bathed in sunlight all day and nestled between the jungle trees. Pure bliss.
Tulum Centro
For those who want the more authentic side of Tulum, consider staying in Tulum Centro. You will get cheaper overall prices with a more traditional Mexican experience. It still feels super safe here and is definitely worth looking into if you’re not coming to Tulum for the ultra luxurious experience you have seen on Instagram! Not only are the hotel prices much more reasonable, but you will also find the overall price of restaurants and local shopping is much more typical with what you would expect from Mexico.
Local bars and restaurants are much more traditional in Centro too, with local delicacies on the menu and tacos being, well, everywhere!
Some hotels you should consider if you’re looking to stay in Tulum Centro are xx and xx.
No matter where you choose to stay, Hotel Zone or Centro, you should make sure to check out both areas whilst you’re in Tulum. They pose a clear juxtaposition but cool and quirky architecture.
