Planning a visit to the Riviera Maya and wondering where to stay? Don’t worry, I have your back!
Let me walk you through the best areas to stay in Tulum and my personal review of the top-rated hotels in each area. There’s something here for every budget and a wide variety of hotel types, so keep an eye out for what you want, and you will surely find it.
I personally stayed at some of these hotels, and some I got the chance to check out when I was visiting, so you can expect a detailed idea of what to expect!
Top Places to Stay in Tulum, Mexico
Let’s take a look at some of the best stays in every hotel zone in Tulum has to offer.
Hotels in The North Beach Zone
This stunning 4 km stretch of beach is a great place to stay for a relaxing vacation. There are fewer crowds in this area, so I recommend this area to anyone looking for tranquility.
Mezzanine
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍 Location: Carretera Tulum-Bocapaila, Tulum 77780 Mexico
If you’re planning a trip to Tulum and looking for a peaceful spot, the Mezzanine Colibri Boutique Hotel is worth checking out. It’s an adults-only hotel, so it tends to be quieter, and it’s right on the beach with a great view of the Mayan ruins.
The hotel is known for being very clean and having a calm atmosphere. They’ve got comfortable rooms, and the service is attentive, which is a nice touch.
One unique thing about Mezzanine is their Thai restaurant. The menu was created by a well-known Thai chef, Dim Geefay, so the food’s pretty special. They also host these monthly Luz de Luna events with things like live cooking stations and stargazing, which could be a fun experience.
Overall, it seems like a nice place to stay if you’re looking for something low-key and close to the beach.
Jashita Hotel: Best for Couples
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
📍 Location: Baia, Punta Soliman, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
A secluded beachfront and a luxurious hotel. Staying at this hotel made me feel like royalty as they offer refined amenities and personalized service.
This hotel is a great option for couples or honeymooners for a luxurious experience on a secluded beach. I’d say it’s one of the best places to stay in Tulum for couples.
Calm and clear waters and a private beach make this resort stand out from others in Tulum. The slightly rocky beach is surrounded by jungle, and guests can kayak and paddleboard for free.
Jashita Hotel has the most warm and welcoming staff that will go above and beyond to ensure your experience there is as catered to your taste as you desire.
Mi Amor
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km. 4.1, Zona Hotelera Tulum, Zona Costera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Mi Amor exudes romance and sophistication, drawing guests with its intimate ambiance and breathtaking vistas of the Caribbean Sea. It has an adult-only policy, so I felt my stay was exclusive and more serene.
Being nestled within a nature park, it has a serene and relaxing atmosphere. The archaeological sites and cenotes are only minutes away.
I feel like this boutique was meant for couples. The guest experience here is truly indulgent, and the staff really makes you feel at home.
The resort’s restaurant is a highlight, drawing acclaim for its international culinary delights, particularly the delectable fusion of French and Italian influences. The a la carte breakfast is included in room rates, which adds to the overall charm, fostering an indulgent atmosphere for couples seeking a secluded, romantic escape.
O’ Tulum Boutique Hotel
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Avenida Tankah 4 Manzana, 1 Lote 12, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This place charms visitors with its bohemian-chic vibe and laid-back ambiance. Nestled amid lush greenery, the hotel offers rustic yet stylish accommodations.
The panoramic views from the top balcony pool are a highlight, offering a serene backdrop for relaxation. While the ocean view is truly breathtaking, the beach is not the best for swimming. But that is why they have the private cenote and the infinity swimming pool!
The staff’s amiability stands out, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. This is the perfect retreat for a couple who yearns for seclusion and privacy away from the noise of the party town.
Hotels in Beach Town
I find that staying in the beach town is great for tourists looking for serenity and relaxation while still being close to the town.
Punta Piedra Beach Posada
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carretera Km4 Tulum, Av. Boca Paila, 77780 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Situated just 4 kilometers away from the town of Tulum, accessible by various means. The hotel offers easy access to an array of dining options, shops, and local crafts.
The rustic charm of this breathtaking beachfront location is worth coming back to year after year. It’s captivating and cozy, with Mexican-inspired decor and hammocks for more relaxation.
I loved laying in them as I enjoyed the sea breeze, and the restaurant serves mouth-watering seafood in a beachside setting. One remarkable thing about this island-style boutique is how close to nature it made us feel.
With a stunning beachfront, delightful breakfast, an ideal location (not overly crowded yet near charming spots), and an exceptionally friendly staff, this place really leaves a lasting impression!
What makes this place stand out are the little things: the Nespresso maker in the rooms, the signature mojitos, and the fact that you get to see turtle babies get their first swim(if you are there at the right time!).
Zamas Hotel
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Km 5 Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum, Q. Roo 77780, Mexico
Set amidst coconut palms and white sands, the hotel offers rustic chic cabanas and beachfront rooms. The hotel has an unpretentious charm and laid-back ambiance.
Steeped in a nostalgic aura reminiscent of a time before extravagant resorts prevailed, this haven encourages guests to disconnect from modernity. Its scattering of huts and bungalows, nestled within beachside or jungle settings under coconut tree shades, evokes a genuine off-the-grid experience.
The beachside restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine, focusing on sustainability. I particularly loved the bohemian vibe in this hotel, and the staff was very welcoming.
While there’s no air-conditioning, each cabaña at Zamas tells its own story, offering a unique haven adorned with wooden fixtures, white curtains, and mosquito nets, fostering a refreshing and clean environment.
Zamas’ renowned beachside restaurant elevates traditional dishes like ‘huevos rancheros’ with gourmet flair, complemented by mesmerizing ocean views at sunset. Not to be missed are their signature Bloody Marias.
Azulik
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carretera Tulum – Punta Allen KM 5 Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Azulik stands out for its avant-garde, eco-conscious design. This adults-only resort features awe-inspiring treehouse-style villas with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
The absence of electricity in the rooms fosters a unique and immersive experience, allowing guests to disconnect and reconnect with nature.
The captivating treehouse-style rooms, each with its own distinct charm and featuring handcrafted Mayan bathtubs, beckon guests to embrace luxury amid nature. The availability of plunge pools and outdoor hot tubs in select accommodations enhances the indulgent experience.
The property’s dining options, encompassing Mayan-Mexican and Japanese cuisine, ensure an exquisite culinary journey amid mesmerizing outdoor seating and panoramic views.
Daily yoga classes, a captivating on-site museum, and free Wi-Fi in communal spaces add to the allure of this rustic-luxe, off-the-grid sanctuary.
Papaya Playa Project
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort in Tulum, the Papaya Playa Project might be the best place to stay. With zero emissions and zero contamination community, this bohemian-designed hotel is absolutely gorgeous. I stayed in a beachfront casita, but they also have rustic cabanas.
Striving for sustainability, the resort limits electricity usage via generators, urging guests to carry flashlights due to turtle nesting concerns and adopting an open-air, eco-conscious approach.
Papaya Playa Project offers an array of activities catering to adventurous spirits. The on-site spa and yoga studio beckons guests with treatments, classes, and Mayan holistic healing rituals.
Water sports enthusiasts can indulge in snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and kite surfing lessons available at the resort. The tour center organizes day trips to historical Mayan ruins and the Sian Ka-an biosphere.
Hotels in The Middle Beach Zone
Want to stay at a beachfront hotel and party all night? The Middle Beach Zone is the perfect place for that. Let’s take a look at what Tulum has to offer.
Tago: Best For Party
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carretera Federal, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 6, Zona Hotelera, 77766 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This is a gem right in the middle of Tulum’s vibrant party scene. It’s a modern, elegant hotel that offers extraordinary ocean views that you can enjoy from a private terrace.
The rooftop bar is the perfect spot for sunset cocktails, and the hotel’s eco-friendly vibe adds an alluring touch.
The resort’s standout feature is its breathtaking stretch of beach, boasting one of Tulum’s finest strips, offering guests a picturesque and serene backdrop for unwinding by the sea.
Tago Tulum’s secluded yet accessible location strikes a perfect balance, inviting guests to immerse themselves in Tulum’s charm while preserving a sense of privacy and tranquility.
Ahau
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum a Boca Paila Km. 7.5 Zona Costera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Ahau stole my heart with its holistic approach and serene beachfront setting. The beach club vibes here are unmatched.
From sunrise yoga sessions to moonlit gatherings, every moment is a celebration of nature and well-being. The rustic-chic ambiance fosters a sense of inner peace.
The hotel’s focus on sustainability merges luxury seamlessly, providing holistic wellness experiences.
Culinary delights feature organic, locally sourced cuisine, while the diverse accommodations—eco-chic rooms and cabanas—blend comfort with nature, ensuring an exceptional and harmonious stay.
Dune Boutique Hotel
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km 7, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Exclusive beachfront suites amidst a jungle backdrop, Dune Boutique Hotel features stunning ocean views. It’s only 40 miles from Playa del Carmen, with an aesthetic that embraces nature and expansive balconies that open to the rooftop pool area.
The exquisite infinity-style pool adjacent to the restaurant overlooks the ocean. They provide a picturesque setting to unwind and relish delectable Italian and local cuisines.
Offering free bike rentals, hats to borrow, and a rooftop gym overlooking Tulum’s jungle, the hotel adds personalized touches, enhancing the guest experience.
Coco Tulum Zen Zone Hotel
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: km 7.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum Beach, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This hotel is a great place for those who want to party but not too hard. The zen-like atmosphere soothes instantly. Even though it’s close to the party hub, CoCo Tulum Zen Zone creates an escape.
I visited a friend at this hotel, and as soon as I walked in, it felt like an oasis for my soul. The beachside is transformed once the sun sets, as it lights up with bonfires and mellow beats.
The hotel emanates a serene and peaceful atmosphere, creating a Zen ambiance that allows guests to unwind and relax fully.
From the comfortable rooms and spacious accommodations to the rooftop lounges, every detail is designed to offer comfort and relaxation.
The Beach Tulum
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
📍Location: KM 7.2, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
A 28-room hotel that is a slice of paradise with a dash of luxury. It’s a charming stay that offers free breakfasts from two restaurants.
The property also offers a variety of activities, and it’s relatively affordable for the features provided. You can step right onto the sand from the ground-floor units; that’s how close to the beach this hotel is!
From beachside massages to gourmet dining, every aspect felt tailored to create an unforgettable experience. The personalized service of this adult-only hotel and attention to detail blew me away.
The location is excellent if you want to join the best beach parties since Ziggy’s Beach Club is right beside it. The parties at this hotspot are a must-join affair during the high season, with exquisite cocktails that you must try even if you aren’t a guest!
Cabanas Tulum – Beach Hotel & Spa
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila KM 7, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Cabanas Tulum provides a serene coastal escape. Its spacious rooms and suites, some with up to 3 bedrooms, often come with private jacuzzis.
The spa treatments and beachfront yoga sessions rejuvenated me, and the nighttime ambiance by the beach was a delightful contrast, offering laid-back gatherings under the stars.
As a sister property of The Beach Tulum, it shares the same stunning beach, Ziggy’s Restaurant, and Beach Club while offering its own dining spot, Fresco’s Beach Bar.
Hotels in The South Beach Zone
A romantic getaway, the South Beach is paradise on earth. With pristine beaches and no crowds, this is a tranquil escape for couples or solo travelers looking for relaxation.
Casa Malca
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: KM 9.5, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Nestled within Tulum’s jungles, Casa Malca merges luxury and artistry. It swept me off my feet with its immersive artwork and historical allure.
Once Pablo Escobar’s vacation home, it’s now an art-filled sanctuary discovered and renovated by Lio Malca. The estate’s transformation preserves its legacy while offering contemporary opulence.
If you love modern, retro-styled art, this place would be your heaven, as every little corner seemed to have a unique gem just waiting to be uncovered. It is best to book this hotel during the low time because tends to attract a lot of guests.
One of its best features is its steam room, which exits directly into the underground pool that screams James Turrell’s light and space art style!
La Valise
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 8.7, Tulum Beach, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
La Valise offered an intimate retreat with spacious suites featuring handcrafted Mexican furnishings and private terraces showcasing a magical panoramic view of the Caribbean.
Every dining experience here felt like a personalized journey through culinary delights against the backdrop of Tulum’s natural beauty.
The intimate ambiance extends to outstanding Mexican seafood, creative cocktails, and an open-air lounge adorned with Diego Rivera art.
Guests indulge in barefoot relaxation, with attentive staff ensuring an ultra-relaxing stay right by the ocean.
La Zebra
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 8.2, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Situated in Tulum’s bustling Hotel Zone, La Zebra is a vibrant, mid-range coastal resort offering a laid-back vibe amid the jungle landscape.
Guests relish in the relaxed atmosphere, the beachfront rooms treating their eyes to the epic Caribbean vistas. The property boasts contemporary rooms, some with plunge pools, all offering spaciousness and stunning beach views.
The vibrant, bohemian crowd gravitates here for its natural stone and wood elements, blending seamlessly with modern structures, creating an intimate coastal escape.
Their outdoor area is well crafted, with plenty of sunbeds, recliners, etc. The pools are heated, which is strangely a rarity in the area due to the warm climes. But, what really makes every stay worthwhile here is the warm, helpful nature of their servers and staff.
Nômade
⭐ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 10.5, Tulum Beach, Zona hotelera, 77880 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
I can honestly say that I had never experienced the world of holistic living and cultural immersion until my stay here. The eco-chic tents and beachfront suites provided a unique blend of comfort and connection with nature.
The property reflects the Tulum vibes with a gypsy chic ambiance that blends seamlessly with the green surroundings, offering easy access to the sandy shores. It’s a Boho paradise that fosters sustainability with plant-based dining, live music, and diverse free events.
Here’s where you go for a health and well-being reset. They have top-notch fitness trainers who can guide you with engaging yoga sessions, kickboxing, and much more.
If you want to become one with Mayan culture, the workshops and beach ceremonies are a must-try. Don’t hesitate to ask their wonderful staff for guidance, whether it’s about food, culture, or local experiences! La Popular offers beachfront dining, while Macondo serves holistic meals with an extensive breakfast buffet.
Encantada
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
📍 Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila KM 8.7, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Encantada Tulum is a haven for peace-seekers, with soulful rooms crafted by local artisans offering private terraces and solar-generated power.
Holistic wellness includes Mayan-inspired spa rituals, yoga, and sustainability initiatives. Their rejuvenating spa, solar-generated power, and commitment to sustainability stand out. Enjoy beachside dining and Nü’s seasonal, locally sourced Caribbean fare.
Alaya
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km. 8.3, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Situated amid lush jungle greenery and a stone’s throw from the shore, Alaya Tulum captivates as an idyllic retreat.
Alaya Tulum stands out with its prime beachfront location and a range of accommodations, including airy cabanas and suites with wooden floors and stunning terraces. Boasting cozy social areas, elevated treehouse lodgings, and a serene Yoga shala, it’s a haven for tranquility seekers in Tulum’s heart.
Notable features include an eco-friendly approach, offering beach activities like kitesurfing, yoga sessions, and an outdoor gym. Its Latin American restaurant, commitment to sea turtle nesting sites, and lush surroundings create a unique, eco-conscious retreat.
Sueños
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Zona Hotelera Tulum, Km 8.5, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Sueños Tulum is an artsy, eco-friendly beachfront retreat with Mayan-themed suites boasting hand-painted tiles, hammocks, and solar-powered electricity.
The lone penthouse offers stunning ocean, jungle, and lagoon views, a stone jacuzzi, and sofa beds, while the resort includes a pool, yoga studio, and complimentary breakfast.
Beautiful views and clean rooms stand out on this property. It’s a balance between accessibility and tranquility. Their stone jacuzzi is a delight at sunset during the tropical winter!
Be Tulum Hotel
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km.10, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Boho-chic decor on lush grounds, Be Tulum offers spacious rooms with contemporary furnishing and high-class bathrooms. With a beach club and two bars on site–this adults-only property has a lot to offer. The petite infinity pool overlooks the stunning beach.
While it’s a cozy hotel, the establishment showcases all types of resort-style facilities. Their luxury-styled restaurant serves Mexican food with a twist; however, all the nuances of this hotel are more Westernized than others I have mentioned here. The outdoor areas come alive at night with warm lights, giving it the most romantic ‘island’ ambiance you can ask for!
Hotels in the Pueblo
Within the heart of Tulum’s vibrant town center, these hotels offer the best cultural experience, surrounded by local markets, authentic eateries, and an energetic nightlife.
Una Vida: Best for Families
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Av La Selva Entre Kohunlich Xcaret Y, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
This boutique haven entices with eco-conscious interiors and inviting terraces, setting a serene tone. Una Vida stands out, with each villa equipped as a cozy home featuring kitchens stocked with essentials and unique, artfully designed spaces.
Villas, akin to forest abodes from fantasy tales, feature panoramic glass walls, terraces above the trees, and thoughtful eco-conscious design, evoking a captivating bohemian charm.
The helpful, stylish staff guides guests to hidden Tulum gems, elevating the stay. Privacy is paramount, cocooned in a tranquil atmosphere, while a pool, yoga sessions, and free beach bikes infuse energy.
Perfect for families and pet-friendly, this retreat exudes warmth and elegance at an unexpectedly accessible price point, creating a sanctuary in the Mexican jungle.
Hotel Tiki Tiki
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍Location: Calle 6 Sur Bis, entre Av. 5 Sur y Av. 10, Calle Camino Tulum, Tulum Centro, Mariano Matamoros, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Hotel Tiki Tiki stands as a charming gem, marrying mid-century modernist allure with an intimate, relaxed atmosphere. While it’s one of the more budget-friendly options, you will still get all the necessary amenities like good WiFi and air-conditioned rooms.
Located a couple of miles inland from the coastal bustle, this boutique hotel boasts 15 rooms, reminiscent of a chic Miami apartment building. Their spacious interiors are visually captivating, while the outdoors have a sprinkle of lush greenery.
The tropical-themed bar serves up tantalizing cocktails, ideal for leisurely poolside lounging on artfully designed dyed-wicker furniture. Its fusion of mid-century aesthetics and dedicated service curates an unhurried, serene ambiance, offering a refreshing escape from Tulum’s coastal buzz.
Hotels in Aldea Zama
Although Aldea is still under development, I gave it a try. This area is perfect for families, as it’s far from nightlife.
Naay
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
📍 Location: Itzamna Mza 26 Lt B88, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Naay Hotel stands as a stylish boutique haven midway between Tulum’s town center and its stunning coastline. My favorite, it’s a serene escape in a peaceful neighborhood.
With modern rooms and a focus on wellness, this was where I went to rejuvenate and relax. It’s family-oriented 1 and 2-bedroom suites cater to larger groups, fostering a comfortable stay.
The hotel’s standout feature rests atop—an alluring rooftop space beckoning with an infinity pool, a dedicated kids’ pool, and an irresistible infinity jacuzzi.
Beach or Town – Where Should You Stay in Tulum?
Choosing between the beach and town accommodations in Tulum can be a delightful dilemma. The beachfront hotels promise serene seascapes and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding amidst nature’s beauty.
On the other hand, staying in town (Pueblo and Aldea Zama) offers a more vibrant experience, with easy access to local markets, restaurants, and cultural spots. The choice ultimately depends on your preferred ambiance and activities.
Let’s take a closer look:
- Beachfronts (North, South, Middle, and the Surrounding Beachtown): Nestled against Tulum’s captivating coastline, I found that the beachfront hotels offer a glance into a world of breathtaking seascapes and a laid-back atmosphere. You must remember that the south is the party hub, while the north is more secluded.
- Pueblo: Pueblo presents a contrasting scene, bustling with a mix of midrange and affordable hotels. Its walkable center boasts authentic Mexican restaurants and a thriving nightlife.
- Aldea Zama: It’s a burgeoning luxury development midway between the town center and the beach. It boasts a serene suburban atmosphere characterized by a quiet neighborhood with boutique hotels and restaurants. However, note that much of Aldea Zama is still under construction, promising a future blend of luxury and tranquility.
Best Areas to Stay in Tulum
With so many options available, I understand it can get overwhelming. Everyone has their preferences, so different areas are more appropriate for different tourists. Here’s how I break it down;
- For families: I recommend the North Beach Zone and Aldea Zema. These are safer areas that aren’t too close to the tourist crowd but with easy access to activities.
- For couples/honeymooners: The North or South Beach Zones are more secluded and romantic, perfect for couples or honeymooners.
- For party-goers: Pueblo and the Middle Beach Zone are where you can party all night and have a fun time.
Conclusion
I hope this comprehensive guide of my top-rated accommodations across Tulum’s distinct zones was helpful. Whether you seek tranquil beachfront escapes, vibrant town experiences, or a mix of both, Tulum caters to every traveler’s preferences. With personal insights and thorough research, finding your ideal stay in this stunning Mexican destination becomes a breeze.