Tulum, nestled on the stunning Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, has evolved from a sleepy backpacker’s paradise to a luxurious haven for travelers seeking the perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear cenotes, and well-preserved Mayan ruins, Tulum offers an experience unlike any other. This article explores the 10 best resorts in Tulum, answers common questions about the area, and helps you plan your dream vacation.
The 10 Best Resorts in Tulum
Is Tulum better than Cancun?
While both Tulum and Cancun have their unique attractions, Tulum is often considered a more tranquil and culturally rich destination. Cancun is famous for its lively nightlife, all-inclusive resorts, and crowded beaches. In contrast, Tulum provides a more laid-back atmosphere with a focus on eco-friendly, boutique accommodations and the preservation of the area’s natural beauty.
Is Tulum very expensive?
Tulum’s growing popularity has led to an increase in prices, especially when compared to other parts of Mexico. However, the cost of a vacation in Tulum can vary widely depending on your preferences. Luxurious resorts and fine dining establishments are more expensive, while budget travelers can still find affordable accommodations and eateries.
What’s the easiest way to get to Tulum from the US?
The easiest way to reach Tulum from the US is by flying into Cancun International Airport (CUN) and then taking a shuttle or renting a car for the approximately 1.5- to 2-hour drive south to Tulum.
The 10 Best Resorts in Tulum Mexico
1. Azulik
Azulik is an eco-luxury resort with 48 treehouse-like villas, designed with organic materials and built on stilts to minimize environmental impact. The resort offers a unique experience, with no electricity in the rooms, promoting disconnection from modern distractions. Azulik features a world-class spa, IK Lab art gallery, and multiple dining options, including Kin Toh, a treetop restaurant with stunning sunset views.
2. Be Tulum
Be Tulum is an adults-only boutique resort with 64 suites, each featuring private plunge pools or Jacuzzis. The beachfront property boasts a private beach club, a holistic spa offering a range of treatments and therapies, and two on-site restaurants, Maresias and Ocumare, serving a mix of local and international cuisine.
3. La Zebra
La Zebra is a family-friendly boutique hotel with 15 beachfront suites, each featuring a private terrace and stunning ocean views. The hotel offers a variety of on-site activities such as salsa lessons, Spanish classes, and mezcal tastings. La Zebra’s beach club is a popular gathering spot, and its restaurant, El Pez, serves up Mexican fusion cuisine created by renowned chef Eleazar Bonilla.
4. Nomade Tulum
Nômade Tulum features 68 rooms, including tents, suites, and villas, all designed with sustainability in mind. The resort offers a comprehensive wellness program, with daily yoga and meditation classes, sound healing sessions, and workshops on various topics. Nômade has two on-site dining options: Macondo, a plant-based restaurant, and La Popular, a beachfront seafood grill.
5. Casa Malca
Casa Malca, once the mansion of Pablo Escobar, now houses a boutique hotel with 42 rooms and suites. The hotel showcases a rotating selection of contemporary artwork and offers luxurious amenities such as a rooftop pool, private beach, and three on-site restaurants: Philosophy, Ambrosia, and the Pool Bar, which serve a mix of local and international cuisine.
6. Zamas
Zamas is a colorful beachfront hotel with 18 bungalows, each uniquely designed and decorated. The hotel’s open-air restaurant, Que Fresco, serves fresh, locally-sourced cuisine and is known for its wood-fired pizza. Zamas frequently hosts live music events, creating a lively and authentic atmosphere.
7. Encantada
Encantada is an intimate beachfront resort with only eight suites, ensuring a personalized experience. Each suite features a private terrace with ocean views and outdoor seating areas. The resort’s on-site restaurant serves locally-sourced dishes, and guests can enjoy a range of activities such as yoga classes, spa treatments, and cooking classes.
8. Papaya Playa Project
Papaya Playa Project is an eco-friendly resort with 85 accommodations, including cabanas, casitas, and villas. The resort emphasizes sustainable practices and community engagement, hosting a variety of events and workshops. Guests can enjoy the on-site beach club, spa, and farm-to-table restaurant.
9. Mezzanine
Mezzanine is a boutique hotel with nine stylish rooms, each offering ocean or garden views. The hotel’s cliffside location provides stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Mezzanine is known for its on-site Thai restaurant, which is led by Chef Garn Surasak, who brings authentic flavors from his native Thailand. The hotel is just a short drive from the Tulum Ruins, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s archaeological sites. Other amenities include a swimming pool, a beach club, and daily yoga classes.
10. Sanara
Sanará is a luxury eco-boutique hotel with 19 rooms and suites, featuring minimalist design and sustainable practices. The hotel offers a range of wellness-focused amenities, including a beachfront yoga studio, a wellness center offering a variety of treatments and therapies, and a gym with a personal trainer available upon request. The on-site farm-to-table restaurant, The Real Coconut, serves health-conscious dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients. Sanará also offers various activities and experiences, such as Mayan clay ceremonies, full moon events, and turtle nesting excursions during the appropriate season.
Each of these resorts in Tulum offers a unique experience catered to different types of travelers. From eco-friendly accommodations to luxurious amenities and wellness-focused experiences, these resorts provide a memorable stay in the enchanting destination of Tulum.
What is the safest part of Tulum to stay in?
Tulum is considered a relatively safe destination for tourists. However, it’s always a good idea to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions. The safest parts of Tulum are the beachfront hotel zone and the town center, known as “Pueblo.” These areas are well-traveled by tourists and have a strong police presence.
What is the best time of year to go to Tulum Mexico?
The best time to visit Tulum is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the high 80s Fahrenheit. The months of December to March are the busiest and most expensive, while visiting during the shoulder months of November and April may offer more availability and better deals. The rainy season, from May to October, sees more frequent showers and higher humidity, but there’s still plenty of sunshine and lower prices for those who don’t mind the occasional downpour.
Final Thoughts on the 10 Best Resorts in Tulum
Tulum is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and luxurious resorts, it’s no wonder Tulum has become a top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable vacation. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a wellness enthusiast, Tulum’s best resorts provide the perfect setting for a truly memorable getaway.
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