Hotels in Tulum

Tulum Introduction

Full of ancient Mayan ruins, the town of Tulum is steeped in mysticism, meaning in recent years it has become a popular destination for New Age style relaxation. Whether you're taking a yoga class that overlooks the turquoise sea or exploring spooky underwater caves, Tulum is full of natural beauty. Inside the bustling town you'll find colourful market stalls, noisy cantinas selling tequila and lively nightclubs that spill out onto the streets.

Hotels in Tulum

Finding cheap Tulum hotels is easy, with lots of 2 and 3-star accommodation close to the beach. Designed for backpackers and budget travellers, these traditionally styled hotels have basic but comfortable rooms with free WiFi; breakfast is available and there's access to kitchen and garden areas. If you're looking for a quieter retreat, look for hotels in Tulum close to the Parque Nacional. Providing resort-style accommodation with outdoor pools and concierge services, these 4-star hotels often have wellness facilities such as spas and yoga classes on-site for total relaxation.

Where to stay

The centre of Tulum is full of busy roads teeming with cyclists and colourfully painted buildings that give it a traditional Mexican feel. There are lots of street markets selling exotic fruit and handwoven blankets, and at night there's a lively party scene, with locals and tourists dancing to Mexican hits until the small hours. Along the beach, Tulsayab is the northern area, where a lot of the luxury hotels in Tulum can be found. With white sand beaches covered in palm trees and shallow turquoise waters, it's the perfect spot to be pampered. Head south and it becomes more rustic, with yoga retreats and rocky beaches. Zama has a relaxed, hippyish feel, with unspoilt beaches and long walking trails through the lush green forests.

Things to see

The Ruins of Tulum sit atop a rocky cliff with crashing waves below, making for dramatic views as you walk towards it. Built in the 13th century to a traditional Mayan style, you can climb the giant steps and step inside the cool stone walls, with features such as ancient columns and walls still standing. With eerily blue waters and hundreds of stalactites hanging from the ceiling, the caves at Sac Actun are an unforgettable place to snorkel. Take a guided tour and you'll be shown through this series of spooky ancient caves, swimming through the clear Caribbean waters as you learn about the natural and human history of Tulum. Playa Paraiso is one of the closest beaches to the town and is a protected area of the Parque Nacional, meaning you might spot a turtle or dolphin off the coast. Sit under a palm tree on the white sand or enjoy the clear, shallow waters, where boats take scuba divers out to explore the coral reefs.

How to get to Tulum

The nearest airport is in Cancún, about a 90-minute drive north of Tulum. Cancún International Airport has flights arriving from across the USA, with a few direct services from Europe. From the airport the easiest way to get to Tulum is by a private taxi or shuttle, which can be booked in advance. The best way to travel in Tulum is by land trains, which go around the resorts, to the beach and to sites such as the ruins. You can also get around cheaply using a colectivo, an informal type of bus service where you share with others going in the same direction.