If you’re into yoga, healthy living, colorful smoothie bowls, and exploring nearby cenotes (fresh underground water sinkholes) & ancient ruins then Tulum is for you! Tulum, a true gem of the Mexican Riviera Maya. Home to a growing number of expats, digital nomads that flock to enjoy the sun, sand, food and culture. Some digital nomads will tell you Tulum is like the Bali of the West, know as one of the best co working destinations.

Ok, so you’re set on going, got your flight booked, but where do you stay? Beach, town? Hotel, Airbnb, or Hostels?

First let’s breakdown some of the best neighborhoods in Tulum

Centro (Town center)

The town center is a good place to stay if you are looking for long term stay on a budget. This area of Tulum is walkable, bike able and has access to lots of fun bars, restaurants and one of the areas where you can get some really great, authentic Mexican food for cheap! It’s a close taxi ride to the beach or a nearby cenote like La Calavera or El Gran Cenote. You can find lot’s of Airbnb options and hostel here too. A recommended hostel here is Mayan Monkey

Who is this for?

Budget travelers
Those looking for a more authentic local experience

Aldea Zama

My favorite place to stay in Tulum is Aldea Zama, price point you’ll find a lot of boutique style hotels and Airbnbs, but not as pricey as the beach. It is an up and coming location (lots of development of luxury, resort style condos) in Tulum as its close proximity to the beach and the town center. It is green and has a more residential feel. Also bike able to the town center and beach. I highly recommend staying at The Orchid Hotel. It’s gorgeous, green, sustainable and the service is impeccable. For my birthday, I booked a Nest Dinner overlooking the tree tops. It’s one of the most unique dining experiences I’ve had!

Who should stay here?

Close proximity to the beach without the beach prices
Quieter, more residential vibe

Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone)

If you stay in the Zona Hotelera be ready to spend. The accommodation can run you a couple of hundred dollars to couple THOUSAND dollars. You are in the center of the party, lot of of incredible bars, restaurants, shopping and nightclubs! I love the beach in Tulum and especially relaxing and enjoying the day or catching the sunset at a Beach Club. Lot of influencers, celebs and big spenders here. Lot of great places instagramable places like Raw Love Tulum. Nomade and Azulik are the most well know hotels in the Hotel Zone.

If you want to be by the beach, I found a great place that on the beach, close to the ruins, that is AMAZING. It’s called Ikal Tulum. The way I can describe this place is hippy, boho, boutique feel but not super snobby. The big plus points are the Miradores, treetop towers and saltwater pools.

Who should stay here?