Tulum is a charming town on the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico. It’s known for its Mayan ruins, white sandy beaches, deep azure cenotes, endless natural wonders, alternative arts and yoga scene, vibrant nightlife and welcoming locals, there is literally something for everyone in Tulum.
But the area of Tulum is quite spread out between the neighbourhoods in Tulum town and different areas along the coast.
You’ll want to base yourself in the perfect area of Tulum for your interests and budget, especially considering some parts of Tulum cost quite a bit more than others.
In this guide, we’ll cover where to stay in Tulum for every travel style and budget, whether you’re a backpacker, family, or somewhere in between!
Read on to learn more about our picks for the best places to stay in Tulum.
Looking for the best hostel and hotels? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Tulum.
If you’re travelling on a budget, we’d recommend checking out Tulum’s best hostels. They’re affordable, offer super comfy beds and you’ll be able to meet like-minded travellers from all over the world!
There are also epic VRBOs in Tulum to suit all budgets.
Psst! Just a sec.
Hostels in Tulum are running Black Friday deals.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Book now with up to 55% OFF. Limited time offer.
Stylish container studio | Best Airbnb in Tulum
Palmar Stay offers a completely different concept in Tulum in terms of design and sustainability. They are fully equipped shipping containers, fitted with 24/7 Air Conditioning, a double bed, a full private bathroom and a private outdoor living room. The containers were turned into beautiful apartments immersed in the middle of the Mayan jungle. It is located just across the street from the white sanded beach of the Mexican Caribbean, you will find the best beach clubs, restaurants, boutique shops and many of the beautiful cenotes that Tulum has to offer. Since it’s so unique, we’d consider this one of the best Airbnbs in Tulum – if not THE best!
LUM | Best Hostel in Tulum
This super stylish hostel isn’t just located in the heart of the main area, it’s also our pick for the overall best hostel in Tulum. It’s a super chic place with a minimalistic interior design. You can choose between dorms and private bedrooms, but each option offers a crazy comfy bed and a strong AC. Breakfast isn’t included but you can get a free bike to ride around the area if you feel like it. There’s an on-site bar and a great common area, which is perfect to meet like-minded travellers and have some pre-drinks before a night out!
Zamas Hotel | Best Beach Hotel in Tulum
Located on an unspoiled beach house in Mexico, within Tulum National Park, the colourful, rustic cabins offer a tranquil paradise away from home. The hotel features an open-air restaurant, massages and beauty treatments, and more!
This property is one of the best values in Tulum.
Playa
The Playa area of Tulum is the perfect base for first-time visitors and anyone wanting to stay on the beach.
Pueblo
The Pueblo neighbourhood is located at the heart of Tulum. Sitting on both sides of highway 307, this neighbourhood is ideally situated for exploring all that the region as to offer.
Col Huracanes
East of the Pueblo neighbourhood is Col Huracanes. A relatively small neighbourhood, Col Huracanes is also where you’ll find the best and liveliest nightspots in Tulum. From clubs and bars to pubs and cafes, this is where to stay in Tulum for nightly fun.
Ruinas
The Tulum Ruinas neighbourhood is located outside of the city and northeast of the beach. It is an archaeological site where you’ll find the top tourist attraction in Tulum, the Mayan Ruins.
Aldea Zama
Aldea Zama is a small neighbourhood located to the south of Tulum city centre. On the border of the national park, this neighbourhood is a short distance from the Mayan Ruins and a quick walk to the beach.
Tulum is a smaller town on the Yucatan peninsula in eastern Mexico. Located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is a perfect picture of paradise with its white-sand beaches, aquamarine waters, and vibrant green palm trees.
Tulum is most famous for the impressive Mayan Ruins that sit high atop a cliff overlooking the sea. As a former port city, Tulum was one of the last walled cities to be built by the Mayans and is incredibly well preserved.
Each year, thousands visit Tulum to wander around these relics of bygone times, lounge on the white sand beaches and explore the nearby cenotes.
Whether you’re interested in history and culture or natural scenery, there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied in this charming, alternative town.
To help you plan your time in Tulum, this guide will break down the town’s “must-sees” and top attractions by interest.
Pueblo & Col Huracanes: At the centre of town, you have the neighborhoods of Pueblo and Col Huracanes. Sitting on both sides of the main highway, these neighborhoods are where you’ll find a great selection of bars, restaurants and accommodation options.
Aldea Zama: South of the city is the quiet and residential neighborhood of Aldea Zama. Perfect for families, Aldea Zama is nestled between the city and nature, and a short distance from all the town’s top attractions.
Playa: Lining the shore is the beautiful area of Playa. Combining relaxation and play, this neighborhood is great for first-time visitors to Tulum as well as anyone looking to have a beachfront stay.
Ruinas: Travel northeast along the coast and you’ll reach the Ruinas neighborhood. Home to Tulum’s top attraction, this neighborhood is also where you’ll find good restaurants, great beaches and stunning views.
Still not sure where to stay in Tulum? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered, whether you’re backpacking around Mexico or you’re on the trip of a lifetime!
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Tulum
Tulum is a small city that’s divided into three distinct areas: the beach, the ruins and the city. Within these districts are a number of neighborhoods just waiting to be explored.
Are you looking to lounge on the beach and enjoy the sun, sand and surf? Perhaps you want to explore Tulum after dark? Or, maybe you’re interested in experiencing the historic, cultural and natural side of Tulum. All of these things are possible if you stay in the right area.
Here are the top five neighborhoods in Tulum broken down by interest.
1. Playa – Where to Stay in Tulum for the Best Beaches
The Playa area of Tulum is the perfect base for first-time visitors and anyone wanting to stay on the beach.
Spanning the coastline, this is where you’ll find white sandy beaches, rustic bungalows and huts, luxurious villas, and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. It’s also home to a number of Tulum’s top eco-resorts.
A short drive from the town centre, this neighborhood is home to a good selection of hotels, bars and restaurants.
There are many travel and rental agencies located in Playa offering tours of the area as well as water sports equipment hires. Enjoy paradise at your front door by staying in Tulum Playa.
Stylish container studio | Best Airbnb in Playa
Palmar Stay offers a completely different concept in Tulum in terms of design and sustainability. They are fully equipped shipping containers, fitted with 24/7 Air Conditioning, a double bed, a full private bathroom and a private outdoor living room. The containers were turned into beautiful apartments immersed in the middle of the Mayan jungle. It is located just across the street from the white sanded beach of the Mexican Caribbean, you will find the best beach clubs, restaurants, boutique shops and many of the beautiful cenotes that Tulum has to offer.
LUM | Best Hostel in Tulum
This super stylish hostel isn’t just located in the heart of the main area, it’s also our pick for the overall best hostel in Tulum. It’s a super chic place with a minimalistic interior design. You can choose between dorms and private bedrooms, but each option offers a crazy comfy bed and a strong AC. Breakfast isn’t included but you can get a free bike to ride around the area if you feel like it. There’s an on-site bar and a great common area, which is perfect to meet like-minded travellers and have some pre-drinks before a night out!
Diamante K | Best Hotel in Playa
Enjoy rustic elegance at the Diamante K. Located on the beach this hotel is ideally situated for a holiday in paradise. It is close to the Tulum Ruins and is a short walk into town.
The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, and each room has its own private terrace. Enjoy a variety of modern amenities at this charming seaside hotel.
Things to See and Do in Playa
- Enjoy a relaxing and luxurious day at Papaya Playa Project, a stunning beach club that offers delicious food and drinks.
- Dine on authentic Italian fare, including pizza, pasta, salads and more, at Posada Margherita while enjoying an awesome view and ambience.
- Strap on a mask and snorkel in the clear blue waters of Tulum beach.
- Centre yourself at Maya Tulum by indulging in a meditation and wellness afternoon, or a yoga retreat in Tulum.
- Enjoy delicious food and a casual and cosy atmosphere at Mateos restaurant.
- Learn to scuba dive in the calm turquoise waters of Tulum, where you’ll see fun, colourful and interesting sea creatures.
- Take a stroll along Playa Paraiso, a stunning stretch of golden sand.
- Great views and delicious food are on offer at Zamas, a charming and rustic seaside restaurant.
- Rent stand up paddleboards and glide across the water as you take in great views of the Tulum and sea.
For more awesome things to do in Tulum, have a read of our guide on all the most unique activities you can do!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Pueblo Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Tulum on a Budget
The Pueblo neighborhood is located at the heart of Tulum. Sitting on both sides of Highway 307, this neighborhood is ideally situated for exploring all that the region has to offer.
From the Ruins and beach to the Cenotes and beyond, all of Tulum’s top attractions are just a short drive away.
Tulum Pueblo is also where you’ll find the best value accommodations. Boasting a wide variety of styles and options, the Pueblo neighborhood is the ideal destination for travellers on a budget. You’ll be within walking or biking distance from great restaurants, cafes and bars too.
Entire house with pool | Best Airbnb in Pueblo
If you know anything about Tulum, you probably know it’s becoming a quite popular and expensive destination. With that said, this is probably one of the best deals you will find on Airbnb in Mexico for this area, and it comes with a pool! Located on the main avenue, this bedroom has a queen bed. The bathroom has all the amenities you need, and the kitchen is beautifully decorated with furniture made by Mayan artisans.
LA PALMITA | Best Hostel in Pueblo
Normally when it comes to budget accommodations, the options we can offer you are “just” decent. However, this amazing place changes the game completely! Not a hostel, but a budget hotel, La Palmita offers you amazing rooms for an incredibly low price. Some of the studios can accommodate up to 4 people at a time and act like dorms, but there are private suites as well. Each room is equipped with a strong AC, a private bathroom and a super comfy bed. If you feel like meeting new people, just head up to the rooftop and enjoy a chill evening in the hammock while making small talk with like-minded travellers!
Meteora Stay & Coffeehouse Tulum | Best Hotel in Pueblo
This is one of the coolest hotels in Tulum with a bit of hostel vibe thrown in. Meteora Stay & Coffeehouse Tulum doesn’t just offer charming private rooms, you can also opt to sleep in a shared room. If you need to watch your expenses, you’ll have a lot of different room options to choose from. No matter which one you choose, you can definitely enjoy the refreshing shared pool, a great common area and an amazing location in the heart of Tulum’s centre. The hotel offers breakfast too (but for an additional price) at the on-site restaurant.
Things to See and Do in Pueblo
- Rent bikes and explore the best of Tulum on two wheels, a convenient option for navigating the city.
- Take a short drive to the Cenote Calavera, an otherworldly underwater cave of turquoise water that you can swim in and explore.
- Dine on cheap, delicious and authentic Mexican fare at El Camello.
- Don’t miss this chance to try the best tacos al pastor in Tulum at La Chiapaneca, an authentic and inexpensive Pueblo restaurant.
- Dive into the azure waters of Cenotes Casa Tortuga Tulum and spend a day swimming and exploring this natural wonder.
- Eat delicious empanadas at El Sudaca, an authentic Latin American restaurant in the heart of Tulum.
- Take a relaxing stroll through Parque Tymben Ka, an oasis at the centre of Tulum.
- Browse original paintings, sculptures, and ceramics at the unique MiNiAtUrE art Gallery.
3. Col Huracanes – Where to Stay in Tulum for Nightlife
East of the Pueblo neighborhood is Col Huracanes. A relatively small neighborhood, Col Huracanes is also where you’ll find the best and liveliest nightspots in Tulum. From clubs and bars to pubs and cafes, this is where to stay in Tulum for nightly fun.
As for nature, Col Huracanes is only a bike ride from the beach and ruins. You can drive to other beaches, cenotes, and more. It has a great selection of shops and is home to some of the city’s best restaurants.
La Chingada | Best Airbnb in Col Huracanes
La Chingada has a privileged location since it’s located downtown, just a few steps away from the bicycle path that leads to the beach and 3 minutes from the supermarket. In only a few minutes you can get to restaurants either by foot or by bicycle. The style and decor suit the area, as it’s all designed with local materials. This house is great for a trip with friends and it fits up to 6 guests.
Mama’s Home | Best Hostel in Col Huracanes
Located in the centre of Tulum town, Mama’s Home is a charming and cosy hostel. This hostel is close to restaurants, shops, and the best bars in the city.
It has air-conditioned rooms, a chill patio, and a relaxing common room. Enjoy a delicious, daily breakfast and a comfortable stay in Col Huracanes.
Hotel Blanco Tulum | Best Hotel in Col Huracanes
What could be worse than having to share a loud dorm while trying to cure your hangover? If you know the struggle, you’ll love this amazing hotel. The quiet and bright rooms make the way to recovery so much easier, and once you feel halfway decent again, you can head up to the rooftop pool and spend the rest of the day admiring the jungle view while stepping up your tanning game. It’s not the cheapest hotel in Tulum, but if you’re here to explore the nightlife, this place offers you the perfect space before and after your night out. And what’s even better: it’s an adult-only hotel! So no screaming kids or unnecessary loud noises!
Things to See and Do in Col Huracanes
- Spend a wild and fun night at Damajuana Mezcaleria, a vibrant nightclub that specializes in handcrafted Mezcal cocktails and hosts deep house DJs each week on the rooftop terrace.
- Live music, a great atmosphere and the best mojitos in town await you at Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar, a charming and eclectic downtown bar.
- Another hip and cool Mezcal bar is Pasito Tun Tun, where you can enjoy good cocktails, a friendly atmosphere, and great music nightly.
- Spend a day floating in the calm and beautiful blue waters at Cenote Zacil-Ha.
- Eat cheap and delicious tacos at Taqueria Honorio.
- Coffee, breakfast, art and more, the Tulum Art Club is the ideal hipster hangout for artists, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads in Tulum.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
Jetpac eSIMs work just like an app: you download it, pick your plan, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.
Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Grab an eSIM!4. Ruinas Neighborhood – Coolest Place to Stay in Tulum
The Tulum Ruinas neighborhood is located outside of the city and northeast of the beach. It is an archaeological site where you’ll find the top tourist attraction in Tulum, the Mayan Ruins.
The site of a Maya walled city, these impressive ruins stand on a 12-meter tall cliff on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Tulum Ruinas is also one of the coolest neighborhoods in this small Mexican town. In addition to the ruins, Ruinas is conveniently located near the beach and the city; it’s a great base for taking day trips throughout Tulum and the Quintana Roo state.
Stunning Jungle Penthouse | Best Airbnb in Ruinas
If you’re already choosing to stay in one of the coolest areas in Tulum, you might as well do it in style! This Airbnb is by no means a cheap place, but it does offer a shit ton (excuse the language) of bang for your buck! Overlooking the jungle, you’ll be able to enjoy a tranquil getaway with luxury touches and a location that is unbeatable.
Take your bicycle and ride to the beach or step outside your door and find yourself pretty much staring at the famous ruins. There’s space for up to 6 guests, so ideal for bigger groups or families as well. Savour sunsets from the terrace and enjoy fantastic shared amenities including a gym, hot tub, 25-meter pool, yoga area & outdoor cinema.
oOstel Smart Hostel | Best Hostel in Ruinas
This family-run hostel will make you feel like you’re at home. With some of the kindest staff, you’ll feel incredibly looked after when staying at this place. The rooms are spacious and offer super comfy beds. The ruins are a short walk from your doorstep, so exploring the area will be super easy. It’s a great place to meet like-minded travellers while being able to chill and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet away from the party streets of Tulum.
La Diosa Tulum Resort & Spa | Best Hotel in Ruinas
This charming resort is nestled between Tulum beach and the Mayan Ruins; the perfect location for a holiday in paradise. Made up of 40 rooms and private seaside bungalows, it also boasts an on-site bar, private beach and free wifi throughout.
Close to Tulum’s top attractions as well as restaurants, this hotel is a great base for your time in Tulum.
Things to See and Do in Ruinas
- Explore the Mayan Ruins, an impressive seaside clifftop site that dates back more than 500 years. Visit early in the morning to enjoy the site without the large crowds.
- Spend a relaxing day enjoying the sun, sand and surf at Playas Ruinas.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Cenotes Labnaha and swim through the beautiful system of caves.
- Discover the magic of Cenote Xel-Há, located in the heart of the jungle a short 20-minute drive from the city.
- Explore the lush natural scenery at Tulum National Park.
- Float downstream in the crystal clear waters of Casa Cenote, a river that flows through a lush green mangrove forest.
- Sit back, relax and enjoy the view at Mayan Beach, a stunning white sand beach a short walk from the Mayan Ruins.
- Go scuba diving, swimming or snorkelling through Cenote Dos Ojos, one of the most magnificent underwater cave systems in the region.
5. Aldea Zama – Where to Stay in Tulum with Family
Photo: Tim Gage (Flickr)
Aldea Zama is a small neighborhood located to the south of Tulum city centre. On the border of the national park, this neighborhood is a short distance from the Mayan Ruins and a quick walk to the beach.
Close to shops, restaurants and supermarkets, Aldea Zama is conveniently located. Quiet and relaxed, Aldea Zama is one of the best neighborhoods in Tulum for families on vacation. Here you’ll find a variety of family-friendly restaurants and accommodations as well as activities and rental agencies.
There’s a lot to see, do and explore for kids of all ages in Aldea Zama.
Luxury Private Casa | Another Airbnb in Aldea Zama
Why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a bit of luxury? And by a bit, we actually mean A LOT! This stunning family home offers enough space for 6 guests, so ideal for bigger families as well. The modern place is designed very minimalistic but still incredibly welcoming. You’ll have a pool in your closed community courtyard of the complex and a total of two bedrooms, all equipped with super comfy beds. The location is ideal as well, super close to shops, attractions and dining options. And on top of that, staying here won’t even break your bank!
Family jungle villa | Best Airbnb in Aldea Zama
Settle in and unwind at Villa Rubio while surrounded by the lush rainforest of the Yucatan Peninsula. Enjoy serenity on the terrace, in the top-floor soaking tub. This spacious three-story home will provide you with all the amenities you could possibly need, including a pool and a hot tub. The kitchen is fully equipped and there is even a dishwasher, which is perfect if you’re travelling with a family.
The Highline Tulum | Best Hotel in Aldea Zama
The Highline Tulum is a modern property nestled between Aldea Zama and Tulum centre. A short walk to the beach and the ruins, this hotel is close to restaurants, shops and other noteworthy attractions.
It features an outdoor swimming pool and charming garden. Each room features a balcony, coffee machine, air-conditioning, and comfortable beds.
Things to See and Do in Aldea Zama
- Take a day tour to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a lush nature park where you can see crocodiles, dolphins, turtles, birds and more.
- Dine on tacos, seafood, pasta and more at Chipi Wein, a friendly restaurant perfect for families, large groups, and couples.
- Head out into the nearby national park and keep your eyes peeled for iguanas sunning themselves and colourful birds flying throughout the trees.
- Cool down after a hot day with a refreshing and tasty helado (ice cream)
- Rent bikes and cruise throughout the city, taking in the colourful buildings and houses that line Tulum’s quaint streets.
- Rent snorkels and explore beneath the waves, spotting fish, turtles, and other sea creatures in the clear Caribbean Sea.
- Rent a beach hut and build sandcastles with the golden sand on one of Tulum’s many beaches.
- Head to La Zebra on a Sunday for a night of fun, great music, and salsa dancing.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Tulum
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Tulum and where to stay.
What To Pack For Tulum
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Tulum
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Tulum
This alternative, touristy town in the Caribbean is packed with things to do for all ages. You, of course, have the Caribbean sea and powdery beaches, nearby diving, and cenote exploring, food for all styles and budgets, Mayan ruins, and so much more!
Choosing where to stay in Tulum will largely dictate your experience, as Tulum town will grant a very different experience than staying closer to the beach, and style and expense largely vary by area. That’s why we’ve broken down the 5 best places to stay in Tulum.
Still not sure which neighborhood is right for you?
Whether you’re a solo traveller, a group of backpackers or a vacationer on a budget, we recommend the hostel Mama’s Home for its location, beautiful garden, and vibe.
Located in the Pueblo neighborhood – the neighborhood we chose for where to stay in Tulum on a budget – you’re situated near restaurants and bars for every budget, and the hostel has a communal kitchen to cook your own food. Moreover, the hostel is just a 10-minute bike ride to the beach.
Hotel Casa Sofia Tulum is the perfect stay if you want to choose a local and intimate accommodation. With only 11 rooms, the hosts pay attention to their guests at this colourful, Mexican style hotel. You’re a short walk from Tulum’s vibrant bar scene!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Mexico.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Tulum.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Tulum instead.
- Planning out an itinerary for Tulum is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Mexico.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
Buy Us a Coffee!
A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!
You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
