The Good Better and BEST Tulum Hotels in 2024

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Tulum, the first thing to know is you need to ask yourself WHAT KIND of Tulum experience you’re looking for.

Relative to other places in Mexico, Tulum is NOT easy to get around and where you stay can have a huge significance on how much you pay as well as what kind of experience (and therefore what kind of impression) you have on Tulum.

You can pay $50 a night in Tulum (or less) and you can easily pay $500+ a night in Tulum (or way, way more).

Read on for helpful tips and suggested places to help you make the best decision for you!

Spoiler: this is one of the more modern and “relatively inexpensive” places I’ve stayed. It’s generally around a hundred bucks. See the latest price by clicking here.

Should you stay on Tulum Beach or Tulum Pueblo?

The first question you should ask yourself is budget. In the “earlier days of Tulum” choosing “affordable vs. expensive” was as simple as “beach or town (pueblo)”.

Now, Tulum is growing significantly and there are MORE options than “just town”. Namely: La Valeta and Aldea Zama. Read on for more info on that, but first… Tulum Beach.

Spoiler: Azulik is the famous hotel on Tulum beach known for being the TULUM VIBE. Tbh, it’s true. And tbh, it’s expensive AF. You’ll pay A LOT for a room, see the latest price by clicking here.

If you choose a hotel on Tulum Beach

Expect what you see in the photos of Tulum. The unique Tulum aesthetic and architecture, the wooden structures, the boho vibes. THIS is the Tulum that most people fall in love with before they travel here (and love once they arrive).

Also expect a significantly higher price point. While it’s not “impossible” to find less expensive places (in the same way you can find a meal in NYC for $1 – i.e. dollar pizza), generally you’ll find rooms for $300 or more.

The key thing to know – you should choose beach during the BEST times of the year to be on Tulum Beach.

A problem that many people don’t understand is the seaweed. In the hot summer months, the beaches are filled with seaweed and it looks ENTIRELY different.

Another thing, if you choose to stay on Tulum Beach, it means you’re in the MOST touristed place, will not interact with the locals, and will (beyond the lodging) be paying the most expensive price for everything (food, drinks, tours, etc).

If Tulum Beach is still something you’re interested in, below is a lineup of hotels I suggest looking at. I cover many more in a blog post you can check out by clicking here.

• Azulik Tulum Beach (click to see)
• La Zebra (click to see)
• Delek Tulum (click to see)
• Selina Tulum Beach (click to see)
• Radhoo Hotel (click to see)

If you choose a hotel in Tulum Pueblo (Town)

Tulum Pueblo (also called “Tulum Town”) like any place, has areas that are populated and nice, and other parts that aren’t so nice or aren’t so safe.

The further off the “main tourist path” you go, the further you’ll be away from other tourists. Naturally. So keep that in mind if you don’t speak fluent Spanish or if it’s your first time traveling in Mexico.

I’ve stayed “deep in Tulum town” (i.e. 5 blocks off the main roads) amongst the locals, with bars on the windows and 15 foot metal gates to get in.

Was it ok? Yah it was ok. Was it great? No it was not great. Did I do it again? No I didn’t do it again, but then again not everyone is a solo female traveler.

Did it feel unsafe? Sure! Of course it did! I mean come on, I was traveling alone!

Was I ok? Yep sure was – but I had also been recently biking across Ethiopia. So like I talk about in this “traveling alone in Tulum” tips video (click here), “is it safe” is a relative question.

On the positive side of things – staying in Tulum Town will not only give you local vibes and experiences as well as a chance to go off the beaten path, but a chance to REALLY experience Tulum while spending significantly less.

If you choose a hotel in Aldea Zama or La Valeta

I’ll be very honest about these two neighborhoods, but I’ll start by saying they are both “very new”. Tulum is growing significantly and it’s important to know that these are “newer” areas that are still up and coming.

Aldea Zama is a very “sterile” and under construction part of Tulum. You’ll find VERY (very) nice condos, brand new airbnb rentals and other vacation properties that are INSANELY inexpensive, VERY brand new and will advertise themselves as being “close to everything” or “close to the beach” (they are not).

The challenge with both these areas is you either need to be willing to bike a lot (in relatively unsafe conditions) or drive (which in Tulum, with the presence of the cartel – can be very unsafe. Read “can be” – not “is”).

Wait, but what about taxis?

This is the PERFECT place for taxis to scam you. Why? You have zero negotiation power.

If a taxi drives by and quotes you a 10x price to get somewhere because clearly you’re a tourist – what are you going to do? Just “wait” for the next one? These areas are still up and coming so there are not a million taxis driving by regularly like they do on the Tulum Beach road.

If you want more tips on how to get around, you might want to read this blog post about getting around Tulum by clicking here.

La Valeta is very up and coming and many of the roads are not yet paved. This means potholes, dirt roads and not-so-easy to walk around areas.

A lot of the REALLY cool looking hotels ended up looking NOT cool at all when I arrived in person.

You can expect more bare bones hotels here that have a taste of the Tulum aesthetic, but super basic rooms (at very inexpensive prices).

Anyone I know that has stayed in and airbnb, villa or house rental has loved the space and hasn’t loved the location.

Don’t miss the VIDEO VERSION of this blog post with more helpful tips! Click here or see the video below!

The Good Better and Best Hotels in Tulum

For every trip I take I’m spending not hours, not days, but weeks on research. It’s one thing “to just travel a place”, but it’s another thing to be a travel content creator who wants to CREATE content about that place, and it’s an added layer if you want to create HELPFUL CONTENT about that place.

Translation: Read on for a summary of the research I’ve done, the reviews I’ve read and summarized, the places I’ve stayed and a taste of the above research (or actual experience).

Good: Live Tulum Hotel in Tulum Pueblo ($)

This spot advertises itself as a 4 star hotel and is a great spot (!!), but ABSOLUTELY NOT a 4 star hotel. If you’re traveling WITH someone, the longer 7-15 minute walks into town won’t feel that bad, but if you’re alone, this spot will feel “just a few blocks too far”.

Live Tulum is a “longer stay” style hotel with kitchens, larger living room spaces and more. So you can spread out at this place, but by no means does it feel modern nor does it have any of the Tulum vibe.

You will however, save a buck as this place is relatively inexpensive.

Key things to know about Live Tulum Hotel

• Price: A hundred-ish dollars or less per night ($)
• Location: Tulum Town (on the outskirt)
• What to love: Spacious rooms at a great price
• What NOT to love: “Just ok” location, won’t feel like a Tulum property
• Recommended for: People staying in Tulum awhile wanting more space and a kitchen

Bottom line: I stayed here for 4 nights or so, half the time alone, half the time with my boyfriend. It was fine. I didn’t love nor hate it, for the price point it’s great.

Good: BAU Hotel in Tulum Pueblo ($)

I was really excited to check out this property. It gets great reviews, is located close to the ADO bus (easy for getting in/out of Tulum), but when I rolled up on my bicycle, I took one look and thought “not for me”. The RIGHT person needs to stay here.

Bau is bare bones, in an odd neighborhood and just gives me weird vibes all around as a solo female traveler.

Key things to know about BAU Hotel

• Price: VERY inexpensive. Options for dorm rooms <$15-$20/night and private rooms <$60-$75/night ($)
• Location: Tulum Town near the bus station “in the local neighborhood”
• What to love: Price
• What NOT to love: Odd location
• Recommended for: A super short stay or someone who loves hostels

Good: Selina Tulum Town Hotel in Tulum Pueblo ($)

Everyone knows Selina Tulum Beach – this hotel has been there a LONG time, but the town location is brand new.

But what does “brand new” mean? It means that it’s newly opened as Selina Tulum Town, but it was previously a different hotel establishment.

Translation: this place has a really pretty Selina aesthetic, but it’s like putting perfume on to hide the fact that you didn’t take a shower and you’re also out of deodorant.

If you like hostels, you might LOVE this place. I talk about it at length in the full review video below. Watch it by clicking here or reading the blog post by clicking here!

Key things to know about Selina Tulum Town Hotel

• Price: VERY inexpensive. Options for dorm rooms <$20/night and private rooms <$75/night ($)
• Location: Tulum Town (on the outskirt)
• What to love: Great community events like yoga and dance classes, well decorated
• What NOT to love: It’s beyond basic and a very dated space when you look at the details
• Recommended for: Someone who loves hotels

Better: Hilton Motto Tulum in Aldea Zama ($$)

The Motto by Hilton Tulum is one of those hotels that perfectly blends modern design with a laid-back vibe, making it a great option for travelers who want style and comfort without being right in the middle of the beach action.

Located in Aldea Zama, it’s the perfect spot if you’re looking to chill out after a day of exploring or just want a stylish place to relax. It’s super close to all the fun things Tulum has to offer while still giving you a peaceful, modern escape.

Sadly (most importantly) if you want a place that doesn’t have bugs so you can “escape the jungle”, you might LOVE this place.

I talk about this as well as my honest review in the full review video below. Watch it by clicking here or reading the blog post by clicking here!

Key things to know about Hilton Motto Tulum Hotel

• Price: Low to mid ($100-$150/night)
• Location: Outskirt of Aldea Zama
• What to love: It’s brand new and modern
• What NOT to love: Location is odd, the rooms are all the same size (and VERY small)
• Recommended for: Solo travelers wanting to escape the jungle and feel “relatively safe” in Tulum

Better: Aloft Tulum Hotel in Aldea Zama ($$)

The Aloft Tulum Hotel is where modern meets cool, offering a chic and vibrant space for travelers who want to be close to the action but still enjoy a relaxed vibe.

Located near Tulum’s hotspots, this hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a stylish base with all the essentials, from a rooftop pool to sleek, comfortable rooms. v

Whether you’re planning to explore Tulum’s famous beach clubs or just kick back with a cocktail in hand, Aloft Tulum has you covered.

I talk about this as well as my honest review in the full review video below. Watch it by clicking here see it below!

Key things to know about Aloft Tulum Hotel

• Price: Low to mid ($100-$150/night)
• Location: Outskirt of Aldea Zama
• What to love: The rooftop pool is actually really nice (and there is a second one downstairs).
• What NOT to love: The location
• Recommended for: Solo travelers, couples, groups of friends. This is a spot to go if you want to REALLY feel like “it looks like Tulum” but “you don’t feel like you ever left the USA”.

Better: Kimpton Aluna Tulum ($$$)

Reviews of the Kimpton Aluna Tulum consistently highlight the hotel’s peaceful atmosphere and modern, stylish design. Guests love the friendly and attentive staff, with many mentioning how they go out of their way to ensure a memorable stay. The rooms are often praised for being clean, comfortable, and beautifully decorated.

The rooftop pool and the hotel’s tranquil jungle setting are popular features, offering a relaxing escape. However, some reviews note that while the hotel is not directly on the beach, it’s just a short drive or bike ride away, which some guests found less convenient but manageable given the hotel’s overall appeal.

Reviews of the Kimpton Aluna Tulum consistently highlight the hotel’s peaceful atmosphere and modern, stylish design. Guests love the friendly and attentive staff, with many mentioning how they go out of their way to ensure a memorable stay. The rooms are often praised for being clean, comfortable, and beautifully decorated.

The rooftop pool and the hotel’s tranquil jungle setting are popular features, offering a relaxing escape. However, some reviews note that while the hotel is not directly on the beach, it’s just a short drive or bike ride away, which some guests found less convenient but manageable given the hotel’s overall appeal.

Key things to know about Kimpton Aluna Tulum

• Price: Low to mid ($150-$210/night)
• Location: At the entrance of Aldea Zama
• What to love: Service, design, nicer rooms and spaces
• What NOT to love: The location
• Recommended for: Someone who wants something “nice”, but doesn’t want to pay a “beach price” for it

Best: La Zebra Boutique Hotel ($$$$)

La Zebra Tulum is a beachfront resort that blends rustic charm with modern luxury, offering spacious suites with private terraces and plunge pools.

The resort focuses on relaxation and fun, with activities like beach yoga, vibrant dining options, and experiences for both families and couples.

It’s perfect for those seeking a tranquil yet adventurous escape in a stunning tropical setting. The resort consistently receives glowing reviews for its exceptional service, welcoming atmosphere, and beautiful location, making it a top choice for travelers to Tulum.

Key things to know about La Zebra Boutique Hotel

• Price: High ($250-$400+/night)
• Location: Tulum Beach (central/south hotel zone)
• What to love: On the beach, kid friendly, a more “approachable” beach club
• What NOT to love: The oruce
• Recommended for: Families, travelers wanting a Tulum Beach experience without having the “wild” parties and twerking on the property

Want to read about MORE hotel properties on Tulum Beach?

Don’t miss out on the Tulum Beach hotels blog post by clicking here!

ALL INCLUSIVE: The Secrets Tulum ($$$$)

The Secrets Tulum Beach Resort & Beach Club offers an exclusive beachfront experience that combines luxury and relaxation.

It advertises itself on the “sands of Tulum’s famous beaches”, but it’s actually VERY far from the beach. The upside? It’s an all-inclusive and it’s the only one located WITHIN Tulum (all the other ones are way outside Tulum).

The property blends the natural beauty of Tulum with stylish design, creating a tranquil environment for guests to enjoy both the vibrant beach scene and the peaceful jungle surroundings.

Key things to know about Tulum Secrets Resort

• Price: Low to mid ($350-$550/night)
• Location: In the middle of Aldea Zama
• What to love: If you want a modern Tulum vibe and an ALL INCLUSIVE and NEVER want to leave the resort, this is for you
• What NOT to love:
• Recommended for: Someone wanting an all inclusive experience with a location IN Tulum

The popular hotels that CLAIM to be in Tulum

There are several properties that advertise themselves as being in Tulum, and yes they are relatively close to Tulum (kind of like “Brooklyn is close to Manhattan” or “Oakland is close to San Francisco”), but it’s not IN the part you want to be in.

These are:

• Conrad Tulum
• Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya
• Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
• Grand Bahia Principe
• (and more)

The full youtube video talks about where they are relative to Tulum, but these are properties that get great reviews, but just know that “it’s not Tulum”, but an entirely different kind of vacation experience (that might be the perfect one for you)!

Bottom Line

When deciding where to stay in Tulum, it’s important to consider the type of vacation you want.

Tulum Beach offers stunning views, with North Beach being quieter and South Beach buzzing with beach clubs and restaurants. Anywhere you stay on Tulum Beach will be a compromise in which you’re paying a significantly higher price for location.

Tulum Town (Pueblo) provides a more local experience with budget-friendly options, but it’s farther from the beach (but a GREAT place to stay for jumping off to cenote, ruins or other tours and experiences).

Aldea Zama and La Veleta are newer, up-and-coming neighborhoods with modern amenities, but they lack a local vibe and require navigating ongoing construction and taxi challenges.

Catch more helpful tips in the full Youtube video!