Mexico has many alluring coastal destinations, but one of its top destinations has to be Tulum. Tulum was once a small sleepy beach town 81 miles (131 km) south of one of Mexico’s more popular beach destinations, Cancun. Flying entirely off the tourist radar for many years, Tulum has seen a recent tourist boom in the late 2010s due to celebrities visiting and enjoying the “hippie vibe” the down gives off.
Since its popularity has grown, Tulum now sees more tourists each year than it did before. About 2 million tourists visit this beach town every year. That’s 42 times its population! So you might be wondering what makes Tulum so popular? The town itself keeps a low profile, with not many huge resorts in the immediate town or beach area, unlike its neighboring cities, Playa Del Carmen and Cancun.
Many visitors feel the rush of the cities dissipate when they visit Tulum, and they come to enjoy a low-key, organic, and free-flowing environment. Tulum has many resorts and hotels (including the adult only version) that cater to wellness and focus on an off-the-beaten-track vacation. Although it’s safe to say Tulum is no longer off the beaten track, it is still worth experiencing for yourself. If you are looking for a boutique hotel that provides a unique atmosphere in Tulum, keep reading!
Here are our Top Picks for Best Boutique Hotels in Tulum
- Best Overall: Jungle Keva Tulum | Review
- Best Luxury: Nest Tulum | Review
- Best Budget: La Tulumeña | Review
- Best for Friends: Mi Amor a Colibri Boutique Hotel | Review
- Best for Couples: Hotel Bardo | Review
- Best for Singles: Zamna Tulum | Review
- Most Unique: Papaya Playa Project Tulum | Review
- Best Location: 16 Tulum | Review
- Best for Instagram: Casa Malca | Review
- Best for Sustainable Traveler: Kan Tulum | Review
Jungle Keva Tulum (Best Overall)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
Have a relaxing stay and connect back to nature at Jungle Keva. The lodges at Jungle Keva bring nature home by blending natural elements and modern decor into one. Each of their 5 lodges features stone, wood, and glass elements that tie in elegantly with a neutral color palette to create a calming and relaxing space. The big bright windows allow a full view of nature and daylight to enter the room.
Each lodge features an indoor/outdoor feeling shower, Luxurious bamboo sheets, a Tempurpedic mattress, Nespresso mini machine, a Meditation space, and organic toiletries. Each room is cooled with air conditioning and has ample Wi-Fi coverage.
Jungle Keva was designed with nature in mind, making sure to minimize the environmental impact of operating a hotel. Their commitment to the environment shows through each decision made while creating this beautiful hotel. The pool was built around the existing trees on the property. They operate on a well and have a state-of-the-art septic system. You can feel good about your environmental impact while relaxing in luxury!
The shared space of the hotel features the same natural elements and plenty of room to relax and unwind! The stunning communal kitchen is great for cooking up a storm with your friends or other guests. After a day of exploring Tulum, relax with a swim in the pool or one of their calm communal spaces.
Nest Tulum (Best Luxury)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 4
Less of a resort and more of a boutique hotel, Nest doesnt skimp on luxury! Nest Tulum curates a magical setting right on the Caribbean Sea. The light and airy space and the natural earth-tone decor create a relaxing and harmonious environment. The minimalist design and eco-friendly design are quintessentially Tulum.
Each of the 12 rooms at Nest are uniquely furnished, tying into the minimalist natural theme. All of their rooms are air-conditioned and have great Wi-Fi. Spend the evenings sitting on the tower roof deck of your room to watch the sunset and unwind or relax in an ocean-side lounge chair. A healthy breakfast carefully prepared with fresh local ingredients is complimentary for guests.
The hotel features a relaxing beachfront space and a natural jungle environment on the property. Discover some of their unique experiences on the property, like culinary tours, local excursions, and wellness retreats. If you’re considering to elope in Tulum, the hotel is one of the top choices for beachfront wedding!
The restaurant NÜ offers a blend of Caribbean and modern food artfully prepared for their guests. Executive Chef Luis Aguilar creates a world of flavor in each seasonally roasted menu!
Relax and enjoy your stay in nature and luxury all in one!
La Tulumeña (Best Budget)
Price: $
Stars: 4
If you want to feel Tulum’s vibe without the price tag, you need to stay at La Tulumeña. This home away from home boutique hotel features cozy natural elements and all the great amenities you would expect to find in Tulum! La Tulumeña is located right in the heart of Tulum’s town, making it a perfect choice for exploring the beach or the city.
Natural elements like plants, wood, and stone are featured throughout the property but with a splash of vibrant Mexican colors! The pop of color adds life to the hotel. Guests receive a complimentary Mexican breakfast each morning, prepared lovingly with local ingredients.
The rooms are cozy and comfortable, featuring elegant decor and natural elements. Enjoy a delicious meal or drink on their garden patio before heading into the city on a Nubile to easily explore Tulum! Experience the best of Tulum at La Tulumeña without blowing your budget!
Mi Amor a Colibri Boutique Hotel (Best for Friends)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
Mi Amor a Colibri Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to stay when visiting Tulum with your best friends! This lush playful garden oasis is the dream destination, sure to please everyone in the group. This boutique hotel is located in the hotel zone of Tulum on the Caribbean sea. Steps away from Playa Las Palmas and Playa Paraiso, it would make an excellent stay for those looking to snorkel in Tulum. Enjoy a complimentary bottle of Mezcal to enjoy with your friends when you check in!
The hotel is designed in an Art Deco style with plenty of color and life throughout the property, taking care to incorporate its own style with the vibe of Tulum. Guests can unwind in a playfully fun yet natural environment. Grab a drink, swim in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean, or enjoy a meal at their premium restaurant. Chef Paul Bentley blends Mexican and Mediterranean fare to create unique and flavourful menu items.
Each room at Mi Amor features a king-size bed, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a rain shower, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a wireless speaker. Upgrade to a premium room and experience a group trip like no other! Their premium rooms feature a chic balcony and plunge pool, perfect for snapping group photos!
Relax after a day of exploring Tulum with a fire ritual, healing bath, or deep tissue massage in their soothing spa. You can also book an experience through the hotel, like their Mystic experience, that brings you into ancient Mayan culture through food, sound, and spiritual ceremonies. Other excursions and experiences like Mezcal tasting, chef’s tables, and Tulum excursions are also available to book.
You won’t regret your next group trip when you choose to stay at Mi Amor a Colibri Boutique Hotel.
Hotel Bardo (Best for Couples)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 4
Get ready to have a romantic stay in Tulum at Hotel Bardo. This boutique hotel sets the stage for the perfect romantic getaway in the heart of the Tulum jungle. Its luxurious natural design flows seamlessly into the landscape of the Jungle. It feels like an elegant and exotic stay that puts you in touch with nature. Hotel Bardo is a beautiful jungle oasis just 1 mile (2 km) outside Tulum town center.
This adult-only space features all the peace and quiet you can imagine. Stay in one of their spacious loft-style villas that feature a private dipping pool and jungle garden, which set the tone for a romantic evening alone with your partner. Each room is outfitted with complimentary toiletries, robes, and soft sheets. Room service is available for any needs you might have.
Hotel Bardo has created a space where guests can have a moment of mindfulness and calm during their stay in Tulum. The minimalist touches, earth tones, and deep hues of the room decor relax you and create an environment for the perfect night’s sleep. There is a pool in the common area for all the guests to enjoy and many hammocks, lounge chairs, and quiet spaces to relax in.
Enjoy the healing experiences offered at the hotel, like Temazcal, sunset, and sound healing ceremonies that will put you more in touch with yourself and help you find inner peace. They also offer healing spa services and yoga classes. While in Tulum, bring your yoga practice to a new depth with an insightful yoga retreat after your stay.
Feed your soul at their onsite restaurant – Milum. They offer a wide selection of menu items that you can indulge in the restaurant or in the privacy of your own villa. A stay at hotel Bardo brings a holistic luxury lifestyle to the Mayan Jungle. It gives guests an experience they will never forget!
Zamna Tulum (Best for Singles)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the nightlife of Tulum? If you want to keep the party going all night long, Zaman Tulum is the place to stay. Singles and couples alike will love the 15 eco-chic cabins that look out onto the natural landscape and cenote. Kayak, snorkel, swim, or take a boat ride around the “in-house” cenote! The rooms are the perfect space to unwind after an afternoon in the pool to gear up for an eventful evening.
The main attraction at Zamna Tulum is the festivals and events hosted here year-round. International EDM DJs play at Zamna Tulum in various festivals and events that feature hoop dancers, fire breathers, and entertainment.
Chef Maximiliano Sola brings a primitive element to the dishes created at their onsite restaurant FIRE. Taste local fresh ingredients cooked over 10 hours in a fire cage. Dishes inspired by his Argentinian heritage are sure to delight your taste buds.
If not attending a festival, there are plenty of other places to keep the night alive. Zamndais located just 4 miles (8 km) outside Tulum Centro, where you can find all the best bars and nightclubs. A stay at Zamna Tulum will be many nights to remember!
Papaya Playa Project Tulum (Most Unique)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 4
Get the experience of an upscale resort in Tulum in a more authentic, boutique environment. Papaya Playa Project merges local culture, nature, and sustainability to open the door for an unparalleled stay for their guests. Get in touch with your spiritual and creative energy on your next trip to Tulum.
Papaya Playa Project was designed using a “Chukum” method of cooling, a technique used by the Maya made with the resin of the Chukum tree. The rooms and hotel interior are all designed using local materials and textiles used by the indigenous populations around Mexico. Feel the spirit of Tulum and nature as you walk through the hotel.
They offer Cabañas, Casitas, and Villas for guests to stay in with various services. Get a home away from home experience in a Villa where meals are taken care of for you, served daily in your villa. After breakfast, enjoy your private beachside cabana or private pool. Your personal butler will take care of your needs during your stay.
Casitas offers an excellent stay for smaller groups or couples. Relax in a loft-style casita or your own private dipping pool. The cabañas are just as luxurious, each featuring air conditioning, luxurious sheets, an outdoor sitting area, and a hangout space.
Eat and drink in style at their beachside restaurant or check out one of their unique events hosted each week. For a truly unique and immersive experience, take a guided tour to see the Star Collector project, a larger-than-life art installation on the property. Papaya Playa Project is the perfect way to get in sync with Tulum’s laid-back rhythm.
16 Tulum (Best Location)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
16 Tulum becomes a memorable tropical getaway for every guest that walks through their doors! This boutique hotel is located in Tulum Town center, where all the best restaurants, bars, and shops are located. It is also a 2 mile (4 km) drive to Tulum beach and everything the beachfront offers.
All the rooms surround a magnificent main pool, garden, fire pit, and lounge with views of the Jungle. There are 5 swimming pools, 1 jaccuzi, outdoor lounge areas, a dining room, a kitchen, and a bonfire pit on the property. Inside the rooms, guests can relax in a minimalist, natural setting where stone, wood, and plant life are the main features.
A stay at 16 Tulum is the best way to get a luxurious stay and experience everything Tulum offers.
Casa Malca (Best for Instagram)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 4
If you have researched Tulum on Instagram, there is no doubt you’ve come across the famous Casa Malca. This boutique hotel put its name on the map through its stunningly unique art scattered throughout the property, making the perfect snap for Instagram. It’s not uncommon to see influencers and celebrities enjoying a stay at Casa Malca.
Casa Malca is well known for being a mansion once owned by Pablo Escobar. In 2012, it was bought by renowned New York art collector and gallery owner Lio Malca and turned into Casa Malca. This intriguing space blends art, nature, and luxury all in one. There are 71 sea or garden view rooms to choose from. Each is decorated with an eclectic mix of furniture and design elements for a unique stay every time. Each suite contains carefully selected art pieces to fit the room’s theme.
Each room features a comfortable king-size bed, L’Octaine toiletries, a rainfall shower, a Nespresso coffee machine, and a Bluetooth speaker. They have plenty of options, from junior and master suites to family suites and townhouses. Still, no matter your choice, you will feel like you are staying in a luxury art gallery.
Plenty of art installations can be found along the property, like hanging couches and wedding dress drapes, bright red chairs, a stunning swimming pool, hanging window frames, and more.
There are three onsite restaurants, each with a distinct vibe, Head of a Mad Man is their beach club restaurant featuring fresh grilled seafood and wine pairings. Filosofia mixes contemporary European cooking styles with local and fresh Mexican ingredients to create exciting and tasteful dishes. The dark and brooding atmosphere will feel like dining in a hidden castle library! Their final restaurant Ambrosia is light, airy, and fun, serving delicate seafood dishes like sushi and ceviche.
Step out of the traditional and into the artfully unconventional at Casa Malca.
Kan Tulum (Best for Sustainable Traveler)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 4
Kan Tulum is a sustainable paradise right in the heart of Tulum! You’ll notice the natural elements drawing you in as you explore the property. Driftwood, organic shapes, and woven branches are abundant throughout the hotel. The hotel connects back to the land it was developed on by respecting and including trees already there and incorporating the existing jungle floor into the property. If you’re someone who care about sustainable travel, Kan has done a lot from renewable energy to water preservation.
Each of their “treehouses” creates a natural and relaxing space for each guest. The rooms feature a modern eco decor that is the perfect space to relax in the Tulum jungle without having to “rough it” for the night. The rooms feature a king-size bed, air conditioning, a safe balcony, and premium linens. A complimentary vegetarian breakfast is included with every stay.
This hotel features some great amenities as well, like a natural pool with many spaces to relax, a bar and restaurant, a wellness spa, and a fitness center. Discover some of the hotel’s more unique amenities, like the nests that are perched around the property. Climb up to a nest of your own and enjoy a beautiful view of the Tulum jungle right from the hotel.
Connect back with yourself and nature and discover the sacred cenote located on the hotel property!
A stay at Kan Tulum will invigorate your senses and help you connect with nature during your stay in Tulum!
Honorable Mentions
Hotel Nômade
Price: $$$$
Stars: 4
Experience a next-level wellness stay at Hotel Nômade Tulum. This boutique hotel is far from the Tulum town center and the perfect place to unwind and connect back to nature and yourself. The property’s natural landscape will invite you in, and the holistic approach to Nômade life will have you returning to this hotel year after year.
Step into what feels like your own little slice of a natural wellness spa as you walk around the Ahau Tulum property. Discover wood and thatched cabanas with communal space for yoga and gathering, beachside fire pits, and a cooling infinity pool. They have three onsite restaurants, each with its own vibe. The menus at their onsite restaurant bring in local ingredients and dishes prepared for a communal table dining environment.
Hotel Nômade has many rooms, from luxurious glamping tents to master suites and treehouses. Each room is decorated with a natural eco-chic vibe that seamlessly continues the hotel’s theme. It is the perfect place to wind down after a day of activity.
Get more than what you’d expect from a stay at Hotel Nômade.
Ahau Tulum
Price: $$$
Stars: 4
Ahau Tulum is a luxurious and rustic beach resort dream! This boutique hotel is for you if you want to relax and unwind on the Tulum beaches. Ahau Tulum is designed for the eco-conscious traveler who wants an upscale beach vacation. The hotel features light and airy wood, plant, and local textiles that give it a beachy atmosphere while maintaining a luxurious status.
Each of their 24 rooms are made with eco-conscious materials and comforting touches for the ultimate beach trip! You can choose a garden or ocean-view room with all the comforts of home. You can find complimentary toiletries, rain showers, robes, handmade furniture, and premium linens in your room. Relax in comfort and style!
Enjoy Ahau’s excellent amenities like private beach access with cabanas, spa services, high-speed Wi-Fi, and bike rentals. They also offer yoga, meditation, and wellness classes. Their onsite vegan restaurant serves globally inspired dishes, all of which are vegan. Suppose you are interested in trying other options. In that case, they also offer a free shuttle to their sister properties, which have plenty of other menu options to try!
Come and see the famous “Ven a la Luz” by Daniel Popper that is now installed in a garden just outside Ahau Tulum. Whether you’re an art lover or looking for a beautiful Instagram photo, it is truly a sight to behold.
Una Vida
Price: $
Stars: 3
Relax in luxury without the hefty price tag at Una Vida Tulum! This boutique hotel is located just outside Tulum town center, making it the perfect location to stay in Tulum. The hotel is not like a traditional hotel. Instead, it is made up of separate pavilions that are connected by open-air hallways to allow a more natural and serene feeling to pour in.
Like any huge resort or boutique hotel, you’ll find stunning architecture and natural, cozy features that use a Mayan building technique. Notice the elements of hand-chiseled stone, poured chukum, and thatched palapas as you walk about the property. Inside the pavilions, you will find
Una Vida has various rooms available, from regular and king-size suites to private apartments, each featuring a natural and luxurious design. The rooms feature outdoor bathtubs, patios, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Relax and enjoy your stay in Tulum in one of these gorgeous suites.
The hotel also features two restaurants, a palapa bar, yoga, a fire pit, tezmazcal and sound healing. On the property, you will find two resort-style pools crafted with natural stone, towering palm trees, and a large shallow lounging area.
A stay at Una Vida will make your Tulum vacation a relaxing dream trip!
Tulum FAQ
When is the best time to visit Tulum?
It is possible to visit Tulum all year round, but the best time to visit this boho-chic beach town is between November to mid-January, which is when Tulum is in peak tourist season. It’s not advised to go to Tulum from mid-September to November due to the hurricane season. Generally, any other time of the year is alright to visit.
How much time do you need in Tulum?
Tulum is a great little town to escape the hustle and bustle in Cancun and Playa Del Carmen, so it can vary. If you are planning to stay elsewhere in the Yucatan and only want to visit Tulum, you would need approximately 4-5 days to do all the activities in and around Tulum. Suppose you are basing yourself out of Tulum and traveling around the Yucatan from there. In that case, you can easily spend 1-2 weeks in Tulum.
Here’s a perfect example: 4 days Tulum itinerary.
How to get around Tulum?
Tulum is a smaller town compared to its neighbor Playa Del Carmen. It can be relatively easy to get around the town center on foot or by bicycle. Tulum beach and hotel zone is a bit further away from the town and may require a tax or car rental to reach. You can quickly get around Tulum by foot, bike, taxi, or car. Keep in mind if you are renting a car that, parking in Tulum is scarce and can be challenging, and it is easier to get around on foot, bike or taxi.
Language in Tulum?
The main language in Tulum is Spanish. Due to the influx of tourists, it’s generally safe to say most people working in the tourism industry also speak some English. It is easy for tourists to get by with only English.
Where to stay in Tulum?
There are two main areas to stay in Tulum, in the town center or on the beach, and they both have pros and cons. When staying in the town center, you are closer to the cenotes, jungle adventures, and all the perks the town offers, like nightclubs, restaurants, ATMs, and transit. The only downside is that it’s a moderately longer taxi or bike ride to the beach.
If you stay on the beach, you are beside the ocean and can fully enjoy the crashing waves and shining sun each day. Usually, hotels or resorts in this area will offer amenities to enjoy or a bike rental/car service to get into the town, should you need anything. Staying by the beach means you are further away from all the perks Tulum town center offers.
Read more about where to stay in Tulum here.
Is Tulum safe?
According to OSAC (Overseas Security Advisory Council), Tulum is relatively safe to visit, but travelers should increase safety precautions and awareness while staying. Although Tulum is generally considered safe, crime can and will still happen. It is best to be on the lookout, aware of your surroundings, and protect your belongings when in crowded places.
More about safety in Tulum here.
What makes Tulum so popular?
Tulum gained popularity due to its boho-chic beach vibe. Many celebrities and influencers have flocked to Tulum to relax on the beach, attend a wellness retreat, art show, or moonlit rave. Tulum has become a hot spot for young travelers to get “off the beaten path.” Although in recent years, due to its ever-growing Instagram presence and popularity, it’s safe to say Tulum is now “on the beaten path” instead of the hidden gem it once was.
How much money do I need in Tulum?
Depending on the type of vacation you are looking for, visitors can spend anywhere from 30 USD per day to 1000 USD per day. Tulum has a variety of hostels and Airbnb for budget travelers and luxury and boutique hotels for those looking for an upscale vacation. Food is relatively cheap in Tulum, ranging from 5 USD – 30 USD per meal, and souvenirs are reasonably priced as well.
Conclusion
Tulum is a stunning one of a kind destination that is full of vibrance and life. It is the ultimate destination for travelers who want to venture off the beaten path and adventure in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Choosing where to stay in Tulum is crucial to setting the theme of your vacation, and detailed research is important before making any bookings. Whether you are looking for an eco-retreat, party hotel, or wellness resort, Tulum has plenty of options for every travel style.
