A wealth of culture, history and scenic landscapes that span from beaches to jungles make Mexico a favorite vacation destination. Popular locations such as Cancun may offer , however some may be looking for a more laid-back trip. If you’re looking for a less-traveled locale in Mexico that features ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff, pristine Riviera Maya beaches and top-tier resorts that offer endless views over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, look no further than Tulum. Situated just 2 hours south of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum features a laid-back, bohemian vibe, ancient archaeological sites and an array of luxe resorts on the beach.
Whether you’re trying to plan a great honeymoon, taking in the vibrant landscape, or just get away, you’ll find that Tulum, Mexico is great destination for relaxing. Finding the best resorts for your trip to Mexico, however, can be a challenge as there are many to choose from. Luckily, this guide will help you discover options boasting cleanliness, amenities, activities all in a prime location. Check out the 5 best resorts in Tulum, Mexico below.
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1. Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Address: Carr Chetumal Puerto Juárez KM 236.7, Tulum, QR, 77780
Amenities: Oceanfront, all-inclusive, Mayan ruins, heated pools, live entertainment
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Price: $$$
The all-inclusive Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa is nestled on the Caribbean Sea, featuring a soft, white-sand beach lined with sun loungers and cabanas. Just 12 kilometers from Tulum’s ancient Mayan ruins and the Sistema Dos Ojos cenote, it’s one of the top resorts Tulum has to offer. You’ll find a variety of luxe amenities and activities here, including 44 acres of beachfront grounds to stroll, plush rooms with private balconies and swim-out pool access and an array of dining choices with nine restaurants and seven bars onsite.
Visit the swim-up bar to enjoy your favorite cocktail while you soak up the sunshine or opt for a day of tranquility at the full-service spa. You can enjoy live Mayan shows in the evening or lounge in your private hammock. Venture to the Tulum Archaeological Zone just north of the resort, check out nearby restaurants like ICARO for South American cuisine or spend a day snorkeling, diving and swimming at the beach.
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2. Banyan Tree Mayakoba
Address: Carr Federal Chetumal-Puerto Juárez KM 298, Playa Del Carmen, QR, 77710
With a rare AAA Five-Diamond Designation, Banyan Tree Mayakoba is just over an hour from Tulum in Playa del Carmen. It’s one of the most picturesque and glamorous resorts in Tulum due to its proximity to the ancient port city and range of upscale amenities. Escape to unmatched luxury in this secluded, scenic location with world-class cuisine, palatial rooms with private plunge pools and an award-winning spa for complete relaxation and comfort.
Located within the private gated Mayakoba complex on the Riviera Maya coast, you’ll find this eco-friendly resort lacking in nothing—from restaurants serving delectable Mexican cuisine and international fare worthy of Michelin stars to incredible excursions to nearby cenotes and scuba diving coral reefs. Relax in a lounger by the pool, step out onto the sugary white-sand beach, explore the lagoons and mangroves by boat, enjoy evening entertainment or opt for a round of golf while the resort caters to your every need.
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3. Aloft Tulum
Address: Av. Coba Sur Mz5 Lt 1 Smz 1 Region 1, Tulum, QR, 77760
Amenities: Close to Mayan ruins, rooftop pool & bar, onsite dining, Tulum Centro location
AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
Price: $$
An incredibly affordable resort near Tulum Centro, the heart of the city, Aloft Tulum offers the perfect place for a getaway. It’s directly across the street from the Tulum Archaeological Zone and abundant eateries, parks and art galleries nearby. This stylish hotel features minimalist guest rooms with sitting areas, two outdoor pools and a popular rooftop pool and lounge with incredible sunsets. Schedule a massage on the outdoor terrace and choose an upgraded room with a balcony for the best views over the city.
You’ll enjoy quick access to Paradise and Las Palmas beaches and can explore the bustling downtown area with free bike rentals. A trendy restaurant and convenience store are onsite, but nearby eateries like Cervecería Tulum, Piaggia Tulum and Rosa Negra offer special options for a dinner out.
Courtesy of Hyatt Hotels Corporation
4. Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen Resort
Address: Esq 1st Ave and Calle 26, Playa Del Carmen, QR, 77710
Amenities: Oceanfront, beach club, top-rated spa, pool, swim-out suites
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Price: $$$
No Tulum best resorts list is complete without the oceanfront paradise of Grand Hyatt Playa Del Carmen Resort. Opulent design with modern accents and nods to Mayan culture, like the waterfall pyramid and terraced structures, make it an unforgettable destination on the Riviera Maya with luxe comforts like a heated pool and hot tubs, a sugar-soft white sand beach just steps from your room, private cabanas and water sports equipment rentals and a top-tier spa facility awarded the AAA Inspector’s Best distinction. This is a place to unwind in serenity and options like swim-out suites, soaking tubs and private plunge pools can take your stay over the top.
Three restaurants and bars present endless dining options, while retiring to your room means diving into luxurious bedding, enjoying a rainfall shower or taking in views from a balcony overlooking the Caribbean. Located less than an hour from the Tulum Archaeolgical Zone, excursions to the ruins are a perfect day trip. You might enjoy taking a Hidden Cenote Exploration tour in Playa del Carmen to take a dip in the clear, cool waters that were sacred to the ancient Mayan people. More world-class dining options are also nearby, including Thai cuisine at Saffron (located at Banyan Tree Mayakoba, another top Tulum resort) and five-star elevated Mexican fare at Ha’ Playa del Carmen.
Getty Images / Colin Anderson Productions pty ltd
5. Andaz Mayakoba
Address: Carretera Federal Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, QR, 77710
Amenities: Oceanfront, private gated community, onsite dining, beach club
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Price: $$
Enjoy the splendor of Tulum and the Riviera Maya at Andaz Mayakoba, nestled in the same private, gated community as the luxurious Banyan Tree Mayakoba resort. This upscale destination overlooks the freshwater lagoons and mangroves of the area and sits oceanfront on the pristine beach. Stroll the soft, white sand to reach your private cabana, book a snorkeling or diving excursion, paddle kayaks or paddleboards on the waterways or soak up the sun at one of the outdoor pools to relax.
With four restaurant choices and a full bar, take your pick among Mexican cuisine, international fare and fresh seafood options during your stay and play golf, tennis or ride the provided bicycles to explore the area. Just under an hour from the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and nearby cenotes, you can make your vacation as adventurous or peaceful as you’d like with Andaz Mayakoba as your home base. Be sure to check out nearby restaurants, like Itzam for traditional Mexican cuisine or Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar for innovative seafood and classic dishes.
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