If you’re planning a trip to Tulum, one of the hardest decisions is choosing where to stay. Beachfront cabanas, jungle retreats, or boutique town hotels – every area has a completely different atmosphere (and price tag!).
Before our visit, I wasn’t even sure whether to stay there at all. I’d read everything from glowing reviews of boho beach bliss to horror stories about sargassum, scams, and overdevelopment.
And honestly? Both are true.
In this blog you’ll find an honest review – everything you need to know about Tulum: the realities, the best areas, where to stay by season, how to avoid the sargassum problem, safety tips, and hotel recommendations. I’ve also included our personal experience at Namas Tulum, a beautiful apartment hotel in La Veleta.
Contents
- 🗺️ Tulum at a Glance: How It’s Laid Out
- ️Where to Stay in Tulum by Season
- 💗 Our Stay at Namas Tulum (La Veleta)
- Is Tulum Safe?
- The Dark Side of Tulum
- 🚗 Why Tulum Makes a Handy Stop Between Bacalar and Cancún
- 🏨 Best Hotels in Tulum by Area & Style
- Tips for Booking Your Stay in Tulum
- Final Thoughts
- Related Posts
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🗺️ Tulum at a Glance: How It’s Laid Out
Before deciding where to stay, it helps to understand Tulum’s layout. The town is divided into four main zones, each offering a different travel experience:
Tulum Beach Zone
This is the picture-perfect stretch of coast that put Tulum on the map – turquoise waters, white sand, and boho-chic hotels. It’s ideal if you dream of waking up to the sound of waves and don’t mind paying extra for the view.
But here’s the reality: the beach is often privatised, prices are very high, and from May to October, it’s usually covered in sargassum seaweed that is thick, brown, and smelly. When we visited in July, the beach was a no-go zone.
If you’re visiting in dry season, the beach zone can be stunning. But in summer? You’ll pay luxury prices for a murky view.
Aldea Zama
Aldea Zama is a newer area, halfway between town and the beach. It’s tidy, safe, and full of modern apartments – ideal if you want a middle ground between town and beach.
It’s a good option for mid-range travellers or families who want comfort and convenience.
La Veleta
La Veleta is Tulum’s up-and-coming neighbourhood. It’s quieter, greener, and full of eco-friendly boutique hotels and local restaurants. It’s inland, so you’ll completely avoid the sargassum problem.
This is where we stayed, at Namas Tulum, and it honestly made our whole experience of Tulum worth it.
The only real drawback is location – it’s not walkable to the beach, and taxis in Tulum are notoriously expensive. But if you have a car or are happy to cycle, it’s the perfect blend of calm and community.
Tulum Pueblo (Town)
Tulum Town is the most affordable area, with taco stands, shops, and small local hotels. It used to be a sleepy backpacker hub but now feels busier and more commercial.
Still, if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll find good food, authentic life, and easy access to public transport here.
️Where to Stay in Tulum by Season
🌴 Dry Season (December-April): Beachfront Bliss (Hotel Zone)
This is the best time to visit Tulum – calm turquoise water, warm sunshine, and perfect beach days. It’s also the most expensive season, so book early.
🌧️ Rainy & Sargassum Season (May-October): Head Inland
During these months, sargassum seaweed can pile up along the coast, making swimming unappealing. This is when staying inland really pays off – the jungle stays lush, prices drop, and you’ll avoid the seaweed completely.
Best areas: La Veleta and Aldea Zama.
What to do: Visit cenotes, explore Mayan ruins, and snorkel in freshwater lagoons.
Shoulder Season (November & May): Best Value & Fewer Crowds
The perfect time between high and low season. You’ll find warm weather, quieter beaches, and great hotel deals – especially at eco-retreats and boutique stays.
🌟 Tip: It’s also the best time to visit Cenote Calavera, Gran Cenote, or take a day trip to Coba or Chichen Itza before the crowds arrive.
💗 Our Stay at Namas Tulum (La Veleta)
We stayed at Namas Tulum in La Veleta and absolutely loved it. The design is simply breathtaking – minimalist yet warm, with earthy tones, natural materials, and lush greenery all around.
The design enhances a feeling of connection with Mayan heritage thanks to the use of traditional Mayan materials. The elements create a profound link between the structure and its guests. You feel totally relaxed and at peace.
Staff were incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere was laid-back but elegant. The lady who manages the properties is a kind soul – she takes in stray dogs who she nurtures back to health. She allowed us to check out late and arranged a masseuse for the final morning before our flight.
We walked to nearby cafes and restaurants each evening and felt comfortable strolling back after dark.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Tulum for a safe, stylish bohemian experience, Namas Tulum is a perfect choice.
Is Tulum Safe?
The short answer: it depends where you stay and how careful you are.
We heard stories of corrupt police and petty crime, and our taxi driver even pointed out a building that had been burned after a local fight the night before. It was a bit of a reality check.
That said, we felt completely safe in La Veleta. It has a friendly, local feel, and the atmosphere around Namas was calm and welcoming.
Safety tips:
- Stick to well-lit, central areas like Aldea Zama or La Veleta.
- Avoid walking alone late at night, especially near the main highway.
- Rent bikes from reputable companies or use registered taxis.
- Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or in your car.
The Dark Side of Tulum
Tulum’s beauty comes with baggage. It’s grown from a small fishing village into a chaotic tourist hotspot – and not all of it is pretty.
- Overdevelopment: There’s construction everywhere. The jungle is being cleared for new hotels and “eco resorts” that aren’t all that eco.
- Ownership disputes: Some beach hotels are built on land under dispute, and there have been occasional evictions. Always check reviews and book reputable places.
- Corruption and crime: Tulum’s boom has attracted investment – and attention – from less savoury groups. Petty crime, drug-related incidents, and police fines targeting tourists do happen.
- Prices: Tulum is no longer the budget paradise it once was. Beachfront prices can rival New York.
Despite all this, Tulum still has its moments. Cenotes, local food, and a few genuine eco-retreats make it possible to enjoy it if you go in with your eyes open.
🚗 Why Tulum Makes a Handy Stop Between Bacalar and Cancún
If you’re travelling around the Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum makes a great stopover between Bacalar (or even Belize) and Cancún Airport.
It’s a convenient base with plenty of restaurants, supermarkets, and day trips nearby. Spend a few nights relaxing on the beach or in a jungle stay before heading north – it’s a great place to recharge.
For onward travel, La Veleta is especially handy: peaceful, affordable, and close to the highway for easy access.
🏨 Best Hotels in Tulum by Area & Style
🌊 Best Beachfront Hotels
Cabana Tulum – Beach Hotel & Spa
Small, laid-back beachfront hotel with a boho-chic vibe and direct beach access.
Best For: Couples seeking relaxed luxury and spa treatments.
🌟 Rating: 9.0/10 | From: $280/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
Sana Tulum Beachfront Boutique Hotel
Elegant whitewashed suites overlooking turquoise water, with a peaceful adults-only atmosphere.
Best For: Romantic getaways and sunrise yoga by the sea.
🌟 Rating: 9.4/10 | From: $320/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
A stylish, intimate retreat right on the beach, known for its excellent service and calm energy.
Best For: Boutique charm and barefoot luxury.
🌟 Rating: 9.3/10 | From: $290/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
Zamas – Value, Family Friendly on the Beach.
Colourful beachfront cabanas with a relaxed, Caribbean feel and great on-site dining.
Best For: Families and travellers wanting beachfront comfort on a budget.
🌟 Rating: 8.7/10 | From: $180/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
🌿 Best Eco Resorts
Alaya Tulum by Ahau Collection
Rustic-luxury eco resort blending seamlessly into the jungle with yoga decks and ocean views.
Best For: Conscious travellers and wellness seekers.
🌟 Rating: 9.1/10 | From: $310/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
Habitas Tulum – Adults only
Chic tents and jungle-style villas offering a sustainable yet upscale experience.
Best For: Social, eco-minded adults and sunset gatherings.
🌟 Rating: 9.2/10 | From: $340/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
💚 Best Boutique & Value Hotels in Town
Peaceful and stylish, surrounded by jungle gardens and artistic touches.
Best For: Couples and digital nomads seeking tranquility close to town.
🌟 Rating: 9.3/10 | From: $160/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
Motto By Hilton Tulum – Zama
Modern, reliable comfort with rooftop pools and coworking space in a great location.
Best For: Convenience and brand reliability near Tulum’s hotspots.
🌟 Rating: 8.8/10 | From: $145/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
Retro mid-century design, relaxed vibe, and a palm-lined pool perfect for lazy afternoons.
Best For: Stylish travellers who love a vintage aesthetic.
🌟 Rating: 9.2/10 | From: $150/night | See Availability
Image courtesy of Expedia Partners
✨ Our Top Pick
Modern, thoughtful design and a tranquil, welcoming atmosphere that makes every stay special.
Best For: Design lovers and those seeking calm away from the crowds.
🌟 Rating: 9.5/10 | From: $175/night | See Availability
Tips for Booking Your Stay in Tulum
- Book early for December-April.
- Avoid beachfront stays during sargassum season.
- Look for eco-conscious hotels with solar power or water recycling.
Final Thoughts
Whether you dream of a beachfront cabana, a boutique eco-lodge, or a stylish hideaway surrounded by jungle, Tulum has something for every kind of traveller.
If you’re visiting in dry season, treat yourself to a beachfront stay. But during sargassum months, head inland to La Veleta or Aldea Zama for better value and a more authentic experience.
For us, Namas Tulum made our stay – peaceful, welcoming, and beautifully designed. Tulum may have changed a lot over the years, but if you know where (and when) to stay, it still has that magical mix of sunshine, style, and serenity that first made it famous.
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