In a nutshell
- The tourist town of Tulum in Mexico is divided into two main areas: the lively center and the Zona Hotelera right by the beach.
- If you’re wondering where to stay in Tulum on the beach, book a hotel in the Zona Hotelera. Our tip: Radhoo Tulum – amazing location and a beautiful pool, one of the best places to stay in Tulum.
- The center is more affordable and convenient for exploring the surrounding area. If you’re looking for budget-friendly places to stay in Tulum, try Casa Almendro – great value for money.
Where to Stay in Tulum?
You basically have two options for places to stay in Tulum: the center or the Zona Hotelera by the beach. The center is about 5 kilometers from the sea.
The Zona Hotelera is stylish and touristy, while the center is more low-key, with a main street full of restaurants and hotels.
- Tulum center: Great base for sightseeing and a smart choice if you want to keep accommodation costs down.
- Zona Hotelera: Perfect if you’re looking for where to stay in Tulum on the beach and want something more special.
Overview of the districts on a map
To give you a better picture of how Tulum is laid out, here’s a map showing the two main areas where you can stay.
Where to Stay in the Zona Hotelera
The Zona Hotelera is the luxury area in Tulum and, as the name suggests, it’s made up almost entirely of hotels. Picture a long road that runs parallel to the sea with boutique hotels and resorts lined up along it.
If you book one of these hotels, you’ll automatically have access to the beach. That’s because most beaches in Tulum are private and only accessible through hotels or beach clubs.
The Zona Hotelera is definitely one of the best places to stay in Tulum if you want a white sandy beach and turquoise water just steps from your room.
Pros of staying in the Zona Hotelera:
- Unbeatable location right on the beach
- Lots of stylish boutique hotels
Cons of accommodation in the Zona Hotelera:
- Expensive compared to other areas
- Very touristy
The best places to stay in the Zona Hotelera
You’ll mostly find chic boutique hotels and luxury resorts in the Zona Hotelera.
Our top tip is Radhoo Tulum. The setting between the jungle and the beach (accessible through the neighboring hotel) is incredible. The rooms are beautifully designed, the pool is fantastic, and breakfast is delicious.
Where to Stay in the Center of Tulum
If the Zona Hotelera is out of your budget, the center is the best option. You’ll find lots of affordable places to stay in Tulum here. While the town itself doesn’t have big sights, it’s a great starting point for visiting Mayan ruins, cenotes and public beaches.
So if you’d rather explore the attractions of Tulum during the day instead of spending all your time on the beach, the center is a great choice. Plus, you’ll have a huge range of restaurants within walking distance.
Pros of staying in the center:
- Lower prices
- Convenient base for excursions
Cons of accommodation in the center:
- Not by the sea
- The town itself is not very scenic
The best places to stay in the center of Tulum
Casa Almendro is a budget-friendly option with simple but spacious rooms. There’s a rooftop terrace, a communal kitchen, and you can rent bikes right at the hotel. The hosts also share great local tips.
If you’re after a boutique hotel in Tulum, Botånica Tulum is a top pick. It has a really cool design, a relaxed atmosphere, and a fantastic breakfast.
The Best All-Inclusive Hotels in Tulum
To be honest, we didn’t find many all-inclusive resorts in Tulum that really stood out. The choice in Playa del Carmen or Cancún is much better, and both are easy to visit on day trips.
If you still prefer an all-inclusive vacation in Tulum, then the Ana y Jose Hotel & Spa Tulum is our recommendation. It has beautiful rooms, a fantastic beach location, and a lovely pool.