Planning a cheap trip to Mexico but not sure where to stay in Tulum? In this article, I’ll share my top tips for the best areas in Tulum for your vacation and my pick of the best places to stay in Tulum on a budget. Whether you’re looking for hostels, all-inclusive resorts or cheap hotels in Tulum Mexico, I’ve got you covered. I adored my trips to Tulum, and with these gorgeous hotels and hostels in Tulum, you will too!
Know Before You Go to Tulum
Before travelling to Tulum, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions in advance as hotels and tickets can sell out.
🛌 MY FAVOURITE BUDGET HOTELS IN TULUM:
$$ Coco Tulum Hotel good price for a beach-front location
$$ Maison Tulum great value family-run hotel close to the bus station
$ Hostel Che Tulum the best hostel in Tulum, with a hot tub & pool
⭐ TOP 3 TULUM ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:
1. Chichen Itza, Cenote, and Valladolid Tour from Tulum
Why Stay in Tulum Instead of Cancun?
Cancun used to be the go-to place for a beach vacation on the Riviera Maya, but Tulum is an increasingly popular destination for people looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Cancun. With its stunning beaches, lush jungles, historical ruins, and unique hotels, Tulum offers something that Cancun simply can’t match.
However, Tulum is no longer the quiet fishing village it once was. Tulum is changing, and there are now hotels and resorts to cater to every kind of traveller. Tulum is a vibrant destination that still retains a feeling of being in the real Mexico – if you know where to find it!
Tips for Finding Cheap Accommodation in Tulum
- Visit Tulum in the off or shoulder season. Avoid peak times like Spring Break and Easter as well as summer holidays in July and August and you could get some great deals on accommodation in Tulum.
- Accept a compromise. You might have to accept that you can’t have your dream Tulum hotel for your budget. Some hotels in Tulum are crazy expensive for what they offer, but you could just visit them for a beach club day pass or for a meal at the restaurant for a fraction of the price of a night’s stay.
- At beachfront hotels, garden view rooms are cheaper than rooms with a sea view – while I love waking up with a view of the ocean, consider how much time you will be spending in your room compared with on the beach and if it is worth the extra cash.
- Stay in Tulum Pueblo. I’ll talk more about the best areas in Tulum for cheap accommodation, but spoiler alert, the beachfront hotels in Tulum are not cheap!
- Don’t just think about the money. There is more to life than how much a hotel costs in Tulum – it is more about the experience and not the price – smaller local hotels can still offer excellent service!
TOP TIP: A compromise if you’re spending several days in Tulum would be to spend a couple of nights at a hotel in Tulum Pueblo to gorge on cheap local food, then move to a beachfront hotel to make the most of the beautiful views.
The Best Area to Stay in Tulum
There are two main areas for accommodation in Tulum – Tulum Pueblo, also known as Downtown Tulum, and the zona hotelera or Hotel Zone in Tulum which is spread along the beach. There are also a couple of new development areas that are seeing an increase in accommodation options as the town expands.
Downtown Tulum Pueblo – Authentic and Cheap Accommodation
If you want to experience the local culture and immerse yourself in the Tulum community, staying in Tulum Pueblo is the best option place for you. This area is located inland, away from the beach, and it’s home to many local restaurants, markets, and shops.
Hotels in downtown Tulum cater to a variety of budgets. There are plenty of great-value hotels that offer smaller, more affordable rooms with basic amenities, while other hotels in Tulum Pueblo offer a 5* luxury experience.
The hotels in downtown Tulum make for an ideal base from which to explore the town and surrounding areas, and with plenty of bars and restaurants in Tulum within a few steps of your hotel, you can get out and experience more of the local life here.
However, it is quite a long way to the beach, especially on a hot day. You’ll need to hire a bike or a car, or take a taxi to get to the beach if you don’t want to walk 45 minutes to get to the beach.
Tulum Hotel Zone – Tulum Beaches on Your Doorstep
If you’re looking for a beach vacation in Mexico, this is the place to be. Tulum Beach is a long strip of white sand beach with clear blue waters, and it’s dotted with trendy boutique hotels, restaurants, and bars. This area is great for those looking for a lively and social atmosphere but it comes with a high price tag for the desirable location.
The hotels and resorts in the Zona Hotelera or Hotel Zone, usually offer luxurious accommodations all along the beach. These hotels offer stunning ocean views and many have beachfront access, making them the perfect place for a romantic escape or family vacation if you can afford a splurge.
Beach hotels in Tulum often have amenities like private pools, world-class spas, and high-quality restaurants so with these hotels, you could have an unforgettable experience without ever leaving the hotel grounds – as long as you have the money for it.
However, staying at the beach means you miss out on the “real” Mexico, and Tulum Pueblo has some fabulous local restaurants and bars to enjoy too. If you are visiting Tulum on a budget then there aren’t many cheap hotels on the beach.
Aldea Zama – Modern Developments
Zama is a newer development located between Tulum Beach and Tulum Pueblo. It’s a more upscale and modern area with luxury villas, condos, and apartments.
It’s a good option for those looking for a quieter and more luxurious experience at a lower price than the beachfront hotels in the Zona Hotelera. It’s also closer to the beach than Tulum Pueblo, but still at least 30 minutes walk.
La Veleta – Accommodation in the Forest
This area is located on the outskirts of Tulum Pueblo as the town is expanding into the surrounding forest and jungle areas. If you’re looking for a peaceful environment, while still being close to the town’s amenities, this is your best bet. You’ll still need some transport to get you to the beach and to the Tulum ruins though.
Where to Stay in Tulum on a Budget
The best value hostels and hotels in Tulum are in the ‘town’ centre of Tulum Pueblo as you pay a premium for access to the beach. I’ll start with the cheap hotels in Tulum first, but if you’re looking to meet people while you’re travelling, scroll down to see which hostels I recommend – for private rooms and dorms.
Cheap Hotels in Downtown Tulum
If you’re looking for cheap hotels in Tulum Pueblo I’ve got you covered. I stayed at the lovely Joy Tulum which was a fabulous place with cabins and an outdoor pool, but it has sadly closed. These other Tulum hotels are on my list for my next visit!
All of these are under $100 a night, and while prices may vary on different dates and for different room styles, you can get some amazing deals at these hotels for your cheap Tulum vacation!
Latino Hotel Boutique
This beautifully decorated boutique hotel in the centre of Tulum is great value for couples or solo travellers. There are also family studios available with two double beds and a private kitchenette if you’re visiting Tulum with kids.
All bedrooms have ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, and some have balconies with a hammock for chilling out at the end of a day’s sightseeing. Guests comment on the friendly staff, clean rooms and decor – as well as the great location.
There is no restaurant or breakfast on offer but you can use a shared kitchenette which has coffee ready in the mornings. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
Hotel Casa Sofia Tulum with Pool
Guests love the look and feel of this small family-run hotel, right in the centre of downtown Tulum. One guest called this hotel “an authentic Mexican gem”. The bedrooms all have ensuite bathrooms and air-conditioning and are arranged around a central courtyard where the swimming pool is.
There is a roof terrace where you can relax and take in the sunshine, and while there is no restaurant on site, the central location means you have lots of options to choose from a few minutes walk away.
If you’re looking for a friendly, traditional hotel in Tulum then this is the place for you! >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
Maison Tulum
Maison Tulum is a lovely family-run hotel just 2 blocks from the bus station in the centre of Tulum. It’s walking distance to lots of restaurants and bars as well as having a café on-site offering breakfast, home-made bread, sandwiches and local dishes.
There is also a rooftop terrace with hammocks to relax in and a garden. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, and the studio has a kitchenette where you can make your own meals.
It’s great value and guests love the friendly welcome and cozy atmosphere. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
Best Affordable Hotels in Tulum on the Beach
I won’t call these beach hotels in Tulum cheap, but they are very affordable compared to some of the luxury hotels in Tulum that go for $500 a night and more! Check out my pick for affordable Tulum beach hotels:
Coco Tulum Hotel
This simple but well-run hotel is a bargain when you consider the beautiful beachfront location. Coco Tulum is definitely one of the best affordable hotels in Tulum. The hotel has a private beach and a Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant and beach bar on site.
Room rates include breakfast which you can eat with a beach view, and you can arrange spa treatments and bike hire at the hotel. Choose garden-view rooms with shared bathrooms for the best prices, or pay more for beach views and/or ensuite bathrooms.
Guests rave about the location as well as the cleanliness of the shared facilities and the friendly staff. When you have views and reviews like that, Coco Tulum is hard to beat! >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
Glamp Ikal Tulum
The comfortable and luxurious tents at Camp Ikal give you the chance to enjoy glamping in Tulum right on the beachfront. Tents have air-conditioning and electricity, and there is wi-fi although it’s not a great signal.
The campsite is on Paraíso Beach which is just 1.3km south of Tulum Archaeological site, but you will need some form of transport to get around the rest Tulum and into town. Free parking is available onsite, or just spend all of your time chilling out here!
There is a restaurant and bar on-site although it is quiet in the evenings so you can fall asleep listening to the waves and not some thumping club music! >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
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Hostels in Tulum Pueblo
Almost all of the hostels in Tulum are in the downtown area, which is where you get cheaper accommodation. Tulum hostels are often of very high quality as many of them are newly built, with all mod-cons and facilities that you might expect in a hotel!
You can get some great value private rooms in these hostels or save even more money in dorm rooms. If you’re visiting Tulum alone then hostels can be a great way to meet people and make friends.
Che Tulum Hostel & Bar
Che Tulum Hostel Bar is a popular and lively adults-only hostel situated in the heart of Tulum. The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, including dorms and private rooms, all with ensuite bathrooms. The hostel has a social vibe and is decorated with colorful and vibrant artwork, with hammocks dotted around the outdoor area.
There is a bar and restaurant on site serving up great value breakfasts and meals throughout the day, with drinking games and fun in the evenings. There is also a hot tub and swimming pool, making it a perfect spot to socialize and meet fellow travellers.
The hostel also offers free Wi-Fi, self-catering facilities, a 24-hour reception, and bike rental services so you get around town easily. Che Tulum Hostel Bar is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers and backpackers looking for a fun and comfortable stay. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
Oryx Hostel Tulum
Oryx Hostel Tulum is a beautiful modern hostel set in leafy grounds close Tulum’s vibrant downtown area. The hostel offers a variety of comfortable and spacious accommodation options, including dorms and private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
A free breakfast is provided every morning and facilities at Oryx Hostel Tulum include a communal kitchen, a spacious lounge area, and a beautiful garden with hammocks and a swimming pool.
The hostel also provides free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception, and tour booking services to help guests explore the local area. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
Hostal Doña Lucha
Hostal Doña Lucha is a cozy and charming hostel located in Tulum’s town center, with just to bedrooms – one private room and one 8 bed dorm. It’s perfect for those looking for a quieter stay in Tulum!
Both rooms have air-conditioning and share bathroom facilities. The hostel also features a fully equipped communal kitchen, a terrace with hammocks and swimming pool. Free breakfast is provided.
Hostal Doña Lucha also offers free Wi-Fi and bike rental services, reception is open from 1pm to 10pm, but there is no curfew so you can come and go as you please. >>>CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
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Tulum Hostels on the Beach
There are not many hostels on the beach in Tulum as the land here costs a lot more to build on so prices are at a premium! There are a couple of hostels here, but they don’t get the best reviews so it’s a compromise between price and quality when you’re looking at Tulum budget beach accommodation.
You decide if it is worth staying here, or staying in Tulum Pueblo and getting a taxi or a bike ride to the beach!
Selina Tulum
Selina Tulum is one of the few beachfront hostels in Tulum. It could be good if you want cheap(ish) accommodation in Tulum by the beach but don’t expect a restful stay – there is a beach club on site with loud music every night until the early hours.
The hostel gets mixed reviews from guests – people love the location, especially in rooms with a sea view and outdoor jacuzzi, but others hated the music every night and mentioned it was hard to meet other travellers as it felt more like a hotel than a hostel.
oOstel Smart Hostel – Tulum Playa
There aren’t many facilities at this hostel, it is basically just a dorm bed for the night, and there are no locks on the door so if you’re concerned about safety then I don’t recommend this place. That said, if you are looking for a no-frills cheap stay in Tulum then oOstel could work for you!
Where to Stay in Tulum for Families on a Budget
Casa Wahh – Zama
Casa Wahh is a boutique hotel in Zama neighbourhood of Tulum where you can find a great deal for your family vacation in Tulum. The property features spacious and stylishly decorated two or three-bedroom apartments that offer either a garden or pool view. All apartments come equipped with a fully-equipped kitchen with dishwasher, as well as air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, private bathroom(s) with a shower and some have a balcony or terrace.
Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, sun terrace, and lush gardens, and breakfast is available every morning for an extra fee. The hotel also has free on-site parking and guests love the high-speed free WiFi. There’s no restaurant on site but you’re within easy walking distance of the restaurants in Tulum Pueblo. >>>CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY
Playa Selva
Playa Selva is a great choice for a beach hotel in Tulum for families, offering simple but comfortable bungalows in Tulum’s Zona Hotelera. The bungalows all have a seating area and a terrace with sea views. The kitchens are fully equipped with coffee maker and dining area.
Each bungalow has a private bathroom and fans to keep you cool with the sea breeze. There is no swimming pool, but with private beach access, you can swim and enjoy the beaches in Tulum on your doorstep. It’s great value for money too, with added extras like free bike hire as a bonus >>>CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY
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Different Kinds of Accommodation in Tulum
Apartments and Airbnb in Tulum
If you like the independent life, check the options for Airbnb in Tulum here. You can also find some great deals on holiday apartments in Tulum on Booking.com too, check out their range of apartments here.
