By now, everyone has heard of the pristine white beaches and small-town vibe that you can find in Tulum, Mexico. It is one of the hottest destinations for travelers and those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path vacation compared to the nearby Playa Del Carmen or Cancun. Tulum is the perfect place to relax, unwind and soak in the culture of Mexico’s famous Yucatan peninsula.
Tulum has hidden away from the tourist radar for many years before Instagram put it on the map. Tulum attracted over 2.2 million tourists in 2018 before the Covid-19 pandemic, and numbers are forecasted to skyrocket in the coming years. The “hippie chic” aesthetic is something you can find all over Tulum. The white sandy beaches and trendy restaurants make it a hot spot for young travelers, celebrities, and Instagram influencers. In recent years it has become easier to find plenty of resorts in this tiny Mexican town that accommodate every type of traveler and budget.
Choosing a resort in Tulum can be overwhelming, with many options and packages to choose from. We have found 10 of the best resorts in Tulum for every type of traveler and budget!
Check out our top choices for the best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum, Mexico
- Best Overall: Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an | Review
- Best Luxury: Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya | Review
- Best Budget: Sunscape Akumal Beach Resort and Spa | Review
- Best for Friends: Bahia Principe Grand Tulum | Review
- Best for Families: Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa | Review
- Best for Couples: UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya | Review
- Most Unique: Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort | Review
- Best Location: Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort | Review
- Best for Instagram: Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya | Review
Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an (Best overall)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
The Luxury Bahia Principe Luxury Sian Ka’an is located 15 miles (24 km) north of Tulum town center and 25 miles (41 km) south of Playa Del Carmen, bordered by the beautiful white sandy coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and the Mayan jungle. This adult-only paradise is one of the best places to relax during your vacation.
On the property, you can find excellent amenities like a spa, 4 pool areas, and one of the best golf courses in Mexico, featuring two courses (18 and 9 holes) that weave in and out of the jungle and cenotes. If you’re visiting to play, don’t forget to pack your favorite clubs in a golf travel bag for maximum protection during the flight.
Is pool not your thing? Float in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean sea on the resort’s private stretch of beach. If you’d like a bit more adventure, you can check out one of their famous shows, try salsa, or take a culinary/mixology class. They make the perfect vacation date night!
The resort is located close to the town of Akumal, where tourists can easily get up close and personal with sea turtles and other marine wildlife. Head south to Tulum to see the ruins, check out the cuisine and beach nightlife, or pay a visit to Mexico’s famous Cenotes like Calavera, Dos Ojos, and Grand Cenote. In Tulum, you can find many bars and restaurants that serve all kinds of food and treats, from Japanese to authentic Mexican street food.
Choose from over 420 of their luxurious and modern rooms for your beach getaway, and treat yourself to some overdue rest and relaxation. There are 17 restaurants with plenty of culinary options, from local modern food to Japanese and Mediterranean, with something for every palette.
This resort also offers the following:
- Access to the complex’s restaurants and facilities at Bahia Principe Luxury and Bahia Principe Grand hotels.
- 1-hour paddle surf, kayak, tennis, catamarans for hire or snorkeling rental (per day)
- In pool diving lesson (1 per guest)
- Transportation around the resort
- Games and activities
- Waiter service
- Lounge chair, umbrella, and towel service for the pool and the beach
This resort has o much going on, including unlimited access to its partner resorts. Making it the best all-inclusive resort overall!
Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya (Best luxury)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 5
Enjoy Mexico in the lap of luxury at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya. This stunning resort is 13 miles (22 km) north of Tulum and 27 miles (44 km) south of Playa Del Carmen, easily accessible by car, taxi, or bus. The resort is perched on a pristine stretch of white sandy beach right beside the crashing waves of the Caribbean Sea.
There are 735 rooms at this family-friendly resort that feature a private balcony with either resort or ocean views. Each room is decorated in a natural and chic style, with calm and relaxation in mind. You can easily fall asleep while enjoying the ocean sounds from your window. If you’re feeling hungry, you can choose from over 13 upscale restaurants and bars at the resort serving a variety of top-quality cuisines from all over the world. The elaborate and stylish decor sets the stage for a delicious meal.
Relax in what feels like your own private stretch of beach on the Yucatan Peninsula at the Hilton. There are plenty of comfortable beach lounge chairs and umbrellas to get just the perfect amount of sun. Enjoy unlimited beverages beachside through their beach service.
The Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya is close to many local attractions in Akumal and Tulum, as well as the popular cenotes and adventure sports in the area. You can join a wine tour at the resort, visit the spa or fitness center, and try a yoga class. There are 8 pools and 5 jacuzzies, an on-site beach, and a special family zone featuring a splash pad, cinema, and all-day buffet.
This resort also offers the following:
- Brand new facilities opened in 2022
- Seasonal events like Christmas tree lighting and New years eve
- Access to Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya and amenities
- Elevated dining experiences
- Upgraded rooms, amenities, service, and private experiences through their Enclave option
- Daily cultural activities
- Personalized welcome amenities and concierge
- Nightly music and entertainment
- Pristine beach
- Wedding and conference options
If you’re in the mood for a luxurious stay in the Riviera Maya, look no further than the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya.
Sunscape Akumal Beach Resort and Spa (Best budget)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
Is it possible to get an all-inclusive vacation experience without spending tons of money? At Sunscape Akumal Beach Resort, it is! This beautiful all-inclusive is located 15 miles (24 km) north of Tulum and 26 miles (43 km) south of Playa Del Carmen. Nestled right on the shore of the Caribbean Sea, you can smell the salt water!
This beautiful resort doesnt compromise on amenities whiles still offering its guests the best price possible. They have over 358 rooms that fit the bright and modern decor of the resort. Each room is comfortable and clean, perfect for a good night’s rest. There are 8 restaurants on the property that serve a wide range of cuisine, including local Mexican fare, Italian and Mediterranean. They also have a 24-hour option if you are in the mood for a midnight snack! There are also 8 bars serving a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Swim up to one of the pool bars and request any drink you’d like!
The children’s section includes an activity room, games, a splash pad, and a dedicated kid’s pool to keep kids entertained all day! Check out Rex Dino Land for dino-themed activities and games. Teens aren’t left out of the fun either; at Sunscape, there is a Teens club with games, sports, and fun activities.
Adults can relax at the spa, work out in the gym, take a dip in one of the 11 pools on-site, or go kayaking, snorkeling, or paddleboarding! There is live entertainment every night and a theatre for a cozy movie night. If you’d like to adventure off the resort, it is conveniently located close to Tulum and Akumal, as well as some of the hottest attractions in the Riviera Maya!
This resort also offers the following:
- Spanish lessons
- Child care (for an extra cost)
- An elevated experience with their Club Level option
Save some money and still enjoy what the Riviera Maya offers by choosing Sunscape Akumal.
Bahia Principe Grand Tulum (Best for friends)
Price: $$
Stars: 5
Looking to get the vacation plans out of the group chat? This stunning resort is the perfect place to gather with a group of friends to enjoy the Riviera Maya. Bahia Principe Grand Tulum is located 14 miles (23 km) north of Tulum and 26 miles (42 km) south of Playa Del Carmen. The second resort on the list from the Bahia family is Grand Tulum.
This stunning resort incorporates a clean, neat aesthetic combined with modern and lively decor. You and your friends can choose from over 774 rooms with their own personal balcony. They have fantastic room options with 1 or two bedrooms accommodating up to 4 people, which is excellent for a group trip! Make a reservation for pals at one of their 5 on-site restaurants, with plenty of options and accommodations for specific diets and allergies. After dinner, party it up at one of the 7 bars on the property. Pick your vibe beach, pool, or resort!
Spend your day soaking in the sun on the complimentary beach chairs or relaxing by the pool. Take in the culture during the evening with a live show highlighting the history and culture of the region. Relax at the spa or play 36 holes of golf! If you’d like to head off the resort property, the best activities in the Riviera Maya are right at your doorstep, from jungle treks, Tulum nightlife, to hidden cenotes!
This resort also offers the following:
- Access to the restaurants and facilities at Bahia Principe Grand Coba
- 1-hour paddle surf, kayak, tennis, catamarans for hire or snorkeling rental (per day)
- In pool diving lesson (1 per guest)
- Games and activities
- Waiter service
- Lounge chair, umbrella, and towel service for the pool and the beach
Take your friends with you on an unforgettable vacation in Mexico’s Riviera Maya at Bahia Principe Grand Tulum!
Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa (Best for families)
Price: $$
Stars: 4
Planning your next family getaway? Be sure to pick the right resort to accommodate children of all ages. Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa is located 6 miles (9 km) north of Tulum and 35 miles (57 km) south of Playa Del Carmen.
This family-friendly resort has 432 rooms to choose from, with many large rooms and suites that can host groups of up to 7 all in one room! Each room is simple and modernly decorated with a garden or ocean-view balcony. They have 24-hour room service for any of your family’s needs that may come up in the middle of the night.
Kids will go crazy for the Explorer’s Club, which offers many supervised programs and activities like crafts, games, and a rock wall. The water park has 6 waterslides, 2 giant buckets, and a splash and play area. Make sure you take advantage of the Weekly pool party, kayaking, and intro to diving course (in the pool). Teens can enjoy lots of sports and games at the Core Zone Teens Club.
Now that the kids have fun, time to think about yourself! Relax in a Bali bed by the beach or one of their many pools. Grab a drink from the swim-up bar or one of their 6 other bars on site. Visit the spa or take a Cocktail or cooking lesson. Enjoy the evening by brushing up on your dancing skills with a dance lesson, or immerse yourself in the culture with a Spanish class. The whole family can enjoy the elaborately themed dinners and big-screen movies by the beach.
This resort also offers the following:
- Swim out rooms and suites
- Upgraded experiences and amenities through their Club Preferred
- Unique spa pantry where you can learn how to make products using local ingredients
- Beach camping adventure for kids with the Explorer Club
- Turtle release program
- Beachside fitness classes
Dreams Tulum Resort and Spa is where you’ll want to bring your family back year after year!
UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya (Best for Couples)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 5
Light a fire with your loved one for an anniversary, honeymoon, or just because! UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya is located 20 miles (33 km) north of Tulum and 19 miles (32 km) south of Playa Del Carmen. Live it up in luxury at this adult-only, eco-chic resort with its own stretch of private beach.
Relax with your significant other in one of their 448 rooms, each with an ocean or terrace view. This resort features a classy, upscale vibe with plenty of rustic and natural touches throughout the property. Dine in style at one of their 5 unique restaurants that focus on incorporating all the senses into your dining experience. Each restaurant and cafe is unique and has a wide variety of menu items from all over the world but with one key element, locally sourced ingredients cooked to perfection by a seasonally rotating chef. Plan a breakfast in bed (or any meal) with their unique menu available through their 24-hour room service.
Truly relax and enjoy one of their many spa services, including beauty treatments, salons, barbers, and various massage therapies. Explore the beautiful white sandy beaches on the property or enjoy a day by one of their 3 fully serviced pools. Keep it going and enjoy a drink at one of their 5 bars, serving craft cocktails, wines, and beer. As the sun sets, you can enjoy evening performances and late-night snacks. Catch a DJ set at the 20°87° pool.
For the adventurous couple, enjoy the complimentary Single and double sea kayaks
Or SUP boards and hit the waves!
This resort also offers the following:
- Swim-up rooms and suites
- Vacation with a cause volunteer program
- Mixology master class
- Yoga classes
- Local host service (for an extra fee)
Forget all your worries, relax and enjoy time with your partner at the UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya.
Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort (Most unique)
Price: $$$
Stars: 4
Experience the magic of the Riviera Maya, relax and get back to nature at Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort. This resort is located 16 miles (26 km) north of Tulum and 24 miles (40 km) south of Playa Del Carmen. Get up close with flora and fauna of the area at this resort!
Their clean and modest suites come with all the necessities you need to have a home away from home. Choose from one of their 324-rooms with an ocean or a garden view to set the tone. Dine in at one of their 7 restaurants and bars that serve a variety of cuisine from sushi to steak! At Akumal Bay Beach and Wellness, the focus is on providing quality service and allowing their guests to relax and get in tune with themselves.
They offer a variety of yoga classes, including meditation, vinyasa, restorative, Hatha, sound meditation, and many more. They also provide a variety of spiritual healing classes like Bhutta Shuddhi (which focuses on visualization and mantra repetition), Rasas Emotional Healing (focusing on freeing obstructed emotions), and Havan Fire Ceremony (an ancient ritual found in the Vedas).
Their spa treatments help to focus your energy and revitalize the body and mind in a natural and peaceful setting. You can enjoy relaxing on the pure white sand while listening to the waves or challenge your body by trying their paddle boards.
Broaden your mind by taking one of the many classes offered at the resort, like dance, Spanish, aqua yoga, and painting. Other activities and facilities, like tequila tasting, tennis courts, live music, and beach volleyball. Enjoy one of their many pools or find a hammock and curl up with a good book.
This resort also offers the following:
- Craft fair
- Kids Club
- Snorkeling equipment
- Airport transfers
When you stay at Akumal Bay Beach & Wellness Resort, you will come home feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated!
Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort (Best location)
Price: $$$
Stars: 4
Capture the best memories of your vacation in Tulum by staying at the adult-only Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort. This resort is 3 miles (4 km) from Tulum town center, making it the closest one on the list. Kore is perched right on the white sandy beaches in Tulum, making it great for those who want to stay close to Tulum and away from the bigger resorts.
Kore confidently blends natural and modern elements into its decor, giving it a unique look. Throughout the resort, you will find wooden touches, curved structural details, stone, and terracotta that bring it back to nature while remaining sleek and modern. Make sure to head to the beach cabanas at night to enjoy the colorful lights and hear the ocean waves.
This resort’s small and intimate setting helps set it apart from the rest. All 94 available suites are perfect for singles, couples, and groups. Expect comfort in amenities like locally made toiletries, a mini fridge, room service, and a jacuzzi. You can also choose from either a garden or ocean view suite. Once you’re all settled in, choose from one of their many services and activities to enjoy, like the spa, fitness center, library, games room, yoga classes, or bike rides. Relax by their large pool and grab a drink from the bar, but stick around for the foam party and DJ set!
Dine in style at their Nirvana restaurant or the Shangrila and experience authentic Mexican cuisine and some American and Italian favorites. After dinner, experience Mayan culture by watching their magnificent ancestral show and enjoy a special take-home gift after the show.
From the resort, it’s easy to catch a cab, bike, or walk into town to explore all the local shops and restaurants in the city. Tulum’s best attractions, like Cenote Calavera, Tulum ruins, and the famous “follow that dream” sign, are also within your reach!
This resort also offers the following:
- Wedding services
- Spiritual healing ritual
You’ll want to capture every moment you spend at Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort to show your friends and family at home!
Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya (Best for Instagram)
Price: $$$$
Stars: 5
The Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is one of the most picturesque resorts in all Tulum! Located 13 miles (22 km) north of Tulum and 27 miles (44 km) south of Playa Del Carmen. Grab your phone to capture the magic at this all-inclusive resort.
The brand-new resort brings you back to nature by incorporating wood, wicker, plant, and stone elements into its design, making it a natural relaxation heaven! You will catch many photo opportunities as you wander the property relaxing poolside, at the cabanas, and even on the way to dinner. Staying at the Conrad is one of the most luxurious experiences on the Riveria Maya.
Each suite is thoughtfully decorated with relaxation in mind. You can choose from over 349 rooms and suites with a spacious shower and private balcony with an ocean or tropical view. Relax with herbal therapy, water ritual, or sacred healing ceremony in their spa, or try a copal limpia ceremony and a guided meditation. Dine in elegance at one of their 11 global restaurants that serve a wide range of innovative dishes made with local ingredients.
Catch some sun and enjoy a cocktail at one of their 5 sparkling pools or beachside on the private stretch of white sandy beach. Take advantage of the turquoise blue waters, get out on a paddleboard or kayak, and grab your mask and fins to find bright, colorful marine life! Have an experience worth sharing and visit their Full Moon party, including a four-course dinner with wine pairing, a show, live music and DJ set, and an open bar.
The Conrad stands out above the rest with its tailored experiences like Astrology practice & Mayan calendar reading, tribal nights, breath practices, recycled materials workshops, and holistic fares. You will have a one-of-a-kind experience at this resort to share on your social media!
This resort also offers the following:
- Luxurious airport transfers
- Teen zone with DJ labs
- Kids Club
- Family dance nights
- Garden building workshops
Staying at the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya will give you an unforgettable experience from start to finish, worthy of sharing!
Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa (Honorable Mention)
Price: $$$
Stars: 4
The Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa is an excellent resort for singles, couples, families, and friends! Located 19 miles (32 km) north of Tulum and 19 miles (32 km) south of Playa Del Carmen, it’s right in the middle of all the action!
Stunning wood and stone aesthetic blends right in with the flora of the Riviera Maya. This resort is the perfect mix of elegance and tranquility. One of the larger resorts with over 413 rooms, there is enough room for the whole family. Each room is beautifully decorated and clean, matching the earthly aesthetic of the resort. You will find complimentary local toiletries, a flat-screen TV, and a mini-bar in each room.
Choose between 6 freshwater pools, each with unique features like a hydromassage pool, an adult-only pool, and a kids waterpark! Relaxing by the pool is as easy as choosing one! If you’d like to swim in the sea, they have a stunning stretch of white sandy beach with chairs and umbrellas, as well as a variety of water sports and activities like snorkeling, kayaking, windsurfing and pedal boats.
15 gourmet restaurants allow you a world of choice. From international cuisine to steak and seafood, it might be hard to try them all in one visit! There are 6 bars, each with its unique vibe, for the adults to choose from! Grand Palladium’s 5-star service is guaranteed, and each guest is made to feel like they are at home.
Get your daily workout at the fitness center, followed by a visit to their exclusive spa, including a jacuzzi, sauna, and vapor baths for the guests. Kids have excellent facilities too. This resort offers a baby, kids, and teen club that is designed to entertain and educate kids from 1 to 9 years old!
This resort also offers the following:
- Windsurfing, sailboat, and catamaran courses
- Diving courses
- Cabaret show
The Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa is an excellent resort for those looking to take full advantage of what the Riviera Maya offers!
Tulum is an up-and-coming off-the-beaten-path destination with a deep-rooted Mayan and modern Mexican culture that is waiting to be explored! Spend your days wandering ruins and cenotes and enjoy the cool evenings exploring the town and nightlife. If you prefer to relax, the all-inclusive resorts give you the same vibe without the hassle of going into town. It’s the best of both worlds!
Staying in an all-inclusive resort for your vacation is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the Riviera Maya in style! Tulum and Riviera Maya have everything you could want in a sunny beach destination. Choosing the right all-inclusive resort has never been easier!
FAQ
Where is Tulum located?
Tulum is located 81 miles (131 km) south of Cancun. Most visitors to Tulum fly in through Cancun International Airport, but Cozumel International Airport is nearby. Once you’ve arrived in Cancun or Cozumel, it is easy to hire a local taxi or bus to take you to your resort. Most resorts and hotels can arrange an airport transfer for you as well.
Rumor has it a brand new airport is coming to Tulum, as well as plans for constructing a new intercity railway in 2023. This would make traveling to Tulum and around the Yucatan Peninsula much easier!
Where is the nearest airport to Tulum?
The closest airport to Tulum is technically Cozumel International Airport, which is 50 miles (81 km) north of Tulum. When arriving at the Cozumel International Airport, you must take a ferry to reach the mainland. Due to this and less frequent flights, most visitors fly in through the Cancun International Airport, 73 miles (118 km) north of Tulum. Regardless, you can easily find a flight in any top flight booking site so frequency shouldn’t be an issue.
When is the best time to visit Tulum?
The ideal time to visit Tulum is between November and April when there is less chance of humidity and rain. The peak season is between December and April. The temperatures during this season are perfect for exploring the town!
Note that if you’re planning to spend most of your time exploring outside, these Tulum best hotels might be more suitable for you than an all-inclusive resort.
What makes Tulum so popular?
Tulum is well known for its boho, eco-chic vibe, which can be found in every aspect of the town, from the trendy smoothie bowl cafes to the restaurants serving locally sourced, organic food. Many exciting shops sell locally made artisan products and tours that offer the experience of getting up close and personal with the environment and culture of the area.
Visitors often choose Tulum for its white sandy beaches and proximity to local attractions like the Tulum ruins, Sian Ka’an Biosphere, Chichén-Itzá, and Grand Cenote.
How can I get around Tulum?
Tulum is not the most car-friendly town, with small streets and limited parking, it can make driving difficult, but not impossible. It is easy to have your hotel or restaurant call you for a taxi or use your resort’s car service if available. Most hotels have complimentary bikes available for guests as well. When you’re booking your hotel, you can also check the distance to the area you want to visit. Closer location will reduce your time on the road.
