Found on Mexico’s paradisiacal Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum is not simply a pretty town. It contains the remains of the ancient Mayan walled port city, a pre-Columbian settlement, with a castle, cliffs, mangroves and cenotes. For holidaymakers seeking some sun, sea and sand alongside significant archaeological sites, it offers enhanced tranquillity, as compared to larger Mexican coastal destinations such as Cancun and Acapulco. There’s much to keep tourists occupied; Xel Ha (the world’s largest natural aquarium) is here, as is Sian Ka’an (a biosphere and World Heritage site). Tulum is a wonderful place in which to go swimming with dolphins, dive, snorkel, kayak and simply laze by the turquoise ocean. Here are our favourite 5-star and luxury hotels in Tulum to stay at.
Aldea Canzul
Comprising three villa buildings, Aldea Canzul exudes a contemporary rustic style. The high-end furnishings have a boho edge, ensuring the resort feels both fashionable and in keeping with its surroundings. Ideal for families and groups, the two, three and four-bedded self-catering casas include kitchens and terraces with BBQ facilities and superb views. The on-site concierge can book a private chef if you’d prefer not to cook, as well as arranging in-villa spa treatments, watersports activities and yoga classes. Tulum’s main beachfront is close enough to provide access to bars and restaurants, but far enough to afford peace and quiet.
Delek Tulum
This is true barefoot luxury – even a trip to the hotel’s bar and Mexican restaurant allows you to feel the sand between your toes. Guests are accommodated in huge thatched cabanas on stilts, with oversized mirrors artily leaning against the walls and muslin floating from four-poster handcrafted beds. The decor in the 21 suites revolves around richly hued wooden furnishings, offset by white textiles. There’s an appropriately lazy vibe here, with hammocks strung beachside and there’s a strong focus on sustainability, ensuring the local eco-system is supported rather than disturbed by its tourism.
Nest Tulum
The 12 rooms and villa accommodation at Nest back onto its private stretch of beach. Its name reflects a loose theme here, with plenty of thatching and weaving integrated throughout the resort. Much of it was built using traditional Mayan methods and local materials. Guests can lounge on comfy daybeds seaside, make use of complimentary bicycle hire, dine in several eateries and drink on the rooftop terrace. Like Delek, sustainability is big here, as such, guests are offered vegan LoredAna toiletries, recycled water and plastic-free excursions. While Nest tends to attract adult travellers, the five-bedroom villa is a good choice for older families.
La Valise Tulum
La Valise takes its interior inspiration from the natural beauty of its Tulum jungle and sea surrounds with palapa ceilings, stripped wood furniture, blonde and azure hues and Yutucan textiles. Palm-lined sandy paths connect each area of the tiny nine-roomed resort. There’s no spa, but treatments are provided in-room and the restaurant is an exotic alfresco affair serving alternative takes on familiar Mexican classics – or order room service for honeymoon seclusion in this magical hideaway.
Casa Malca
This Tulum escape will suit wannabe castaways down to the ground. Its proprietor Lio Malca has created a unique, bohemian and quirky resort. With a concealed entrance and sandwiched between wild jungle and sandy shores, it houses just 40 bedrooms filled with colourful enormous modern art pieces and oversized grand mirrors – for the ultimate treat, opt for a Master Suite beachfront with hammocks and a private terrace. The hotel and grounds are rustic, yet super stylish with an eclectic mix of baroque and contemporary design, with more oversized sculptures and artwork. Of its three pools, one has a moodily magical underground grotto and the onsite restaurants offer truly sensory dining experiences.
Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club
Having made its debut in October 2023, Secrets Tulum offers the latest in barefoot chic. The adults-only hideaway has been designed in circular blocks, with lots of neutral earthy shades and natural materials incorporated into the build. Book a junior suite, with a tropical or swim-up upgrade, or Preferred Club status for access to a private lounge, breakfast in the Rosewater seafood restaurant, a personal concierge service and an upgraded minibar. The amenities onsite include 14 bars and restaurants, a spa, rooftop and courtyard pools and another pool at the Beach Club.
Casa Chablé
Tucked away in the heart of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most expansive conservation areas in Mexico, Casa Chablé is a serene oasis. Situated just 22 miles south of Tulum, this retreat provides an all-encompassing nature experience, sprawled across 12 acres of lush tropical jungle and boasting a pristine beach stretching 656 feet. The property comprises a main villa with five bedrooms and an additional five bungalows nestled along the shoreline, ensuring guests a peaceful and exclusive stay. The decor pays homage to local customs, adorned with vibrant textiles that add a touch of colour to the surroundings. True to the ethos of its sibling locations, Casa Chablé places a strong emphasis on spa and wellness services, drawing on the rich heritage of local healing practices for its spa treatments and wellness programs. And with its beachfront location, guests can also enjoy a great selection of watersports with ease. Restaurants are led by one of Mexico’s top chefs, Jorge Vallejo, the mastermind behind México City’s award-winning Quintonil, and present a selection of innovative and artful international and local dishes all of which can be enjoyed in the beautiful surroundings of swaying palm trees or on the dock overlooking the lagoon.