Welcome to my Tulum guide *summer lovers !
Mexico’s most stylish beach getaway.
NOMADE
Sure Tulum is naturally beautiful but what makes it so special? For me it’s all about the vibe and energy. It’s a special place with a truly magical atmosphere! A jungle meets beach vibe with eco-chic hotels attracting everyone from fashionable jet-setters to your bohemian hippy type. Whether you come to party or just zen-out and unwind there’s something for everyone. From renowned dj sets, beach club parties to yoga on the beach and healing spiritual ceremonies. There’s much to see and do and I hope this guide will help you make the most of your next trip!
It is a place of many things with one distinct heartbeat. 🤍
HOW TO GET TO TULUM:
Fly into Cancun airport and take a 1 hour 45 min private transfer / taxi, rent a car or take the ADO coach bus.
HABITAS
WHERE TO STAY:
Tulum is divided into 3 sections.
There is the main beach strip with boutique hotels, shops, restaurants and nightlife. This area is the pricier option but if money is no object then this is where you want to be! Most of the hotels here have direct access to the beach and it’s an ideal spot for a short trip.
Tulum downtown ( Pueblo ) up from the beach road by about a 10 minute drive. Here you will have a more local experience. There are hotels, local restaurants, grocery stores, banks, pharmacies, artisanal gift shops and really anything else you could need! If you have an open mind and enjoy a more cultural experience this option is the most economical however it’s a bit further from the beach.
The third area is a new development half way between the town and the beach strip called Aldea Zama and La Veleta. It is a residential area with new condo developments and villas and some shops. Ideal for someone looking to rent an entire apartment or airbnb and for those with longer stays. ( note: the roads aren’t the best in La Veleta as it is a newer area under construction) A great halfway point.
BE TULUM
HOTEL / BEACH CLUB RECCO’S:
BE TULUM* ( boho chic at its finest)
NOMADE* ( boho chic at its finest)
CASA MALCA ( Pablo Escobar old Mansion)
AZULIK (architecturally stunning)
GITANO BEACH* ( smaller but love the vibe)
NEST
PAPAYA PLAYA PROJECT* ( dj’s on the weekends)
SELINA
AHAU
IKAL
LA VALISE
TABOO/ TANTRA/ BAGATELLE/ ROSA NEGRA ( for a beach party / turn up vibe)
DIAMANTE K ( smaller more private feeling cove)
MI AMOR ( no direct beach access- only day beds but so cute overlooking the sea- great for lunch or working remotely)
RAW LOVE
WHERE TO EAT:
The food in Tulum is amazing! Several of Tulum’s restaurants are recognized as being some of the best in Mexico. It really is a foodie town, you can find everything from traditional Mexican dishes, tacos and guac to international dishes prepared with a twist. There are many healthy/vegan options with an endless supply of fresh squeezed juices, smoothies and bowls.
HARTWOOD* ( a sensory experience! )
CASA JAGUAR
ROSA NEGRA ( for dinner that turns into a party)
BURRITO AMOR*
RAW LOVE
MATCHA MAMMA
POSADA MARGHERITA ( Good Italian - beautiful rustic decor)
TAQUERIA HONORIO ( famous local taco spot)
CURRY BY PO THAI ( good Pad Thai )
ARCA
ILIOS TULUM
BAK STEAKHOUSE
LA BRASA
DEL CIELO ( great brunch spot)
ALFONSINA (cute caffe)
BONITA BURGER
CASA BANANA
LIEFS ( cute vegan food truck on Av. Coba )
HABITAS
KITCHEN TABLE
WHERE TO HAVE A DRINK / DANCE / CATCH A VIBE:
GITANO ( friday disco party)
PAPAYA PLAYA ( weekends)
ART HOTEL ( dj sets)
CASA JAGUAR ( jungle supper club vibe)
KIN TOH ( rooftop sunset aperitivo)
TREEHOUSE TULUM * ( more exclusive/ private events)
BANDERA ( in town- djs on certain days)
CONFESSIONS
VAGALUME ( I haven’t been, but hear it’s good)
THE BEACH:
Just like Tulum itself is divided into a few sections the beach is no different. There is the public beach closer to the ruins on the north side of Av. Coba and there is the private side where the boutique hotels are. To access the beach you need to walk through the hotels / beach clubs till you get to the sand. In some areas you can just put your towel down and enjoy the beach. Alternatively, for a more comfortable and elevated experience you can spend the day at one of the beautiful beach clubs. They generally have a minimum consumption spend or the option to rent a day bed.
HOW TO GET AROUND:
Tulum is spread out so choosing a method of transportation that works for you is important.
Taxis and biking are the two main ways.
Taxis in Tulum are notoriously expensive (for Mexico) and typically they will charge higher prices in the evenings and late nights. Although more expensive, it is the most convenient option especially for a short trip.
Biking is a fun way to get around and explore. Other options are to rent a scooter, ATV or a car.
( keep in mind some of the roads in Tulum are pretty bad especially the beach road and La Veleta )
To give you and idea of distance, a walk from town to beach is about a 45min, 20min by bike and under 10min car ride depending on traffic.
DIAMANTE K
OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO:
The Mayan Ruins overlooking the sea are not to be missed!
Cenotes all round Tulum are also a must see.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere reserve
Kaan Lum Lagoon
Shop Vintage at Honesta Vintage *
A day at the SPA: Yaan Healing Sancutary
Yoga on the beach, Moon Temezcal ceremonies, health and wellness classes ect.
MI AMOR
********
Tips: pack some sunscreen, bug spray and Mexican pesos!
I hope this guide has been helpful and you end up loving Tulum as much as I do!
Besitos mis Amores!
🤍🤍🤍