10 Best Tulum Airbnbs + Safety Tips in 2023
Are you looking for the perfect Airbnb in Tulum, Mexico? Look no further!
As a travel blogger that lives in nearby Playa del Carmen, I’ve become a bit of an expert on where to stay in the area!
Tulum offers a wide range of Airbnbs and vacation rentals, from luxury villas to jungle hideaways to budget-friendly apartments–all providing the comforts of home and beautifully decorated with Tulum’s distinct bohemian design aesthetic!
In this post, I’m sharing my top recommendations for the best Tulum Airbnbs, as well a step-by-step guide for finding the perfect Airbnb in Tulum Mexico, and important tips for renting and safety.
Read on for my complete Tulum Mexico Airbnb guide!
Best Airbnbs in Tulum Mexico
Here are some of my top picks for the best Tulum Airbnbs and vacation rentals:
Best Beachfront Tulum Airbnbs
These are the best Airbnb Tulum beachfront properties:
Travelista Tip: Aside from Airbnb, I would also recommend checking rates on Booking.com or VRBO as you can often find the exact same listing for a lower price.
1. Casa Bonita
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 6
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 3 (3 Beds)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 3
This Tulum beach Airbnb is a 3-bedroom home in the beautiful Mahayana complex that offers guests a beachfront bohemian paradise made from local materials, and complete with an oceanfront swimming pool.
2. Vida Silvestre
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 4
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 1 (3 Beds)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 2
These eco-villas offer a sustainable retreat with fully-equipped cottages, a swimming pool, and an outdoor garden area close to the sea.
3. Villa Blanca
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 10
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 4 (6 Beds)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 4.5
This Tulum beachfront Airbnb is an ultra-luxe 4-bedroom private villa that offers guests breathtaking views from its oceanfront location, complete with a pool, outdoor patio, and plush lounge beds on the sand.
4. Hidden Treehouse
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 2
- 🛏 Bedrooms: Studio (1 Bed)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 1
This treehouse suite is set among tropical palm trees, offering a cozy jungle retreat just steps from the beach.
5. Suites Tulum
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 2
- 🛏 Bedrooms: Studio (1 Bed)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 1
Suites Tulum offers modern jungle lofts with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and a beautiful outdoor seating area–just a 2-minute walk to the beach.
Best Airbnbs in Tulum Town
These are the best Airbnb properties near downtown Tulum:
6. Villa Guacamaya
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 10
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 3 (4 Beds)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 3.5
Consistently rated as the best Airbnb in Tulum, this cute and colorful 3-bedroom private home boasts tons of natural light, trendy decor, and an outdoor pool with sun loungers.
7. Casa Zambo
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 2
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 1 (1 Bed)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 1
Located in the Aldea Zama development, this 1-bedroom condo boasts an outdoor terrace with a private plunge pool and stylish accommodations for a modern jungle experience.
8. Sun in Soul Tulum
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 11
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 4 (7 Beds)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 4
This 4-bedroom luxury villa has stunning floor-to-ceiling windows, a private pool, and a jacuzzi, making it one of the best places to stay for large groups or a Mexico bachelorette party.
9. Nahouse Jungle Lodges
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 2
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 1 (1 Bed)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 1
Nahouse Jungle lodges offer a natural and unique experience in the jungle, with rustic-chic accommodations and stunning views of the surrounding nature.
10. Sanah Villa Tulum
- 👨👩👧👦 Capacity: Sleeps 2
- 🛏 Bedrooms: 1 (1 Bed)
- 🛁 Bathrooms: 1
This trendy Airbnb Tulum villa is straight out of a magazine featuring beautiful arched doorways and an outdoor pool in a private jungle setting.
About Airbnb in Tulum Mexico
Airbnb and home rentals have become a popular option for travelers looking for affordable accommodations with the comforts of home.
What are Tulum Mexico vacation rentals like?
Tulum offers a variety of vacation rental options, from beautiful beachfront properties to modern apartments to more secluded jungle hideaways.
You can choose from a private room in a host’s home, an entire apartment or condo, or even luxury villas with multiple bedrooms and modern amenities like a pool or hot tub.
While there are many luxury rental options available, it’s important to keep in mind that Tulum’s accommodations are often much more rustic than in other parts of the world.
That means you may find rentals with outdoor showers, mosquito nets, and off-the-grid electricity. And the infrastructure in Tulum can be unreliable, causing occasional power and water outages.
It adds to the charm, but make sure you read descriptions carefully and be prepared for a more “eco” experience where amenities like air conditioning and wifi may be more limited.
Prices for Tulum Vacation Rentals
One thing to keep in mind is that Airbnb rentals in Tulum can be quite pricey compared to other areas of Mexico.
You’ll still be able to find budget-friendly options, but expect to pay more for luxury and beachfront properties.
But if you’re willing to splurge a bit, you won’t be disappointed with the amazing properties Tulum has to offer!
Tulum Airbnb Alternatives
While Airbnb is one of the most popular booking sites for vacation rentals, Tulum also offers a range of vacation rental options on VRBO and Booking.com.
I would recommend checking out multiple sites to make sure you’re getting the best deal and finding the perfect Tulum Airbnb for your needs.
Plus, Airbnb has faced a bit of criticism in recent years for its poor customer service and lack of safety regulations, so it’s always good to compare options.
And a lot of times, you can find the exact same listing for a lower price! 🤑
Best Areas to Stay in a Tulum Airbnb
When deciding where to stay in Tulum, you can basically choose between two main zones: the beachfront Hotel Zone or the city center known as Tulum Town.
Located around 3 miles apart, these areas are not within close walking distance so you’ll need to use taxis, bikes, or public transportation to travel between them.
🚲 Related Reading: How to Get Around Tulum
Tulum Hotel Zone
Tulum’s beachfront Hotel Zone (“Zona Hotelera” in Spanish) is a long stretch of trendy beachfront hotels, designer boutiques, tropical cafes, and jungle restaurants.
This area is the heart of Tulum’s bohemian design aesthetic and luxury vacation scene.
Many Airbnb rentals in Tulum’s Hotel Zone offer spectacular views, direct beach access, and luxurious amenities like an infinity pool and outdoor showers.
It’s no surprise that the vacation rentals and Tulum house rentals located in the Hotel Zone will be considerably more expensive. However, if you can afford it, you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful Airbnb properties in Tulum.
And one of the key benefits of staying in the Hotel Zone is having easy access to the best beaches in Tulum.
There are not many public beaches in Tulum, which can make it challenging to access the beaches unless you are staying at one of the beachfront vacation rentals or visiting one of the beach clubs in Tulum.
Pros of Staying in the Hotel Zone
- Likely to have private beach access
- Complimentary beach beds and lounge chairs
- Close to trendy restaurants, bars, and nightlife
- Close to designer shopping boutiques
Cons of Staying in the Hotel Zone
- Extremely expensive
- Traffic and congestion on narrow beach road
- Far from the main highway
- More touristy and stylized
Tulum Town
Tulum Town (“Tulum Pueblo” in Spanish) is the city center of Tulum with a more local vibe and laid-back atmosphere.
Located about 3 miles from the beach, this area is home to affordable local restaurants, bars, grocery stores, and budget-friendly accommodations.
Vacation rentals in Tulum Town tend to be more budget-friendly than those located in the Hotel Zone.
And there are many new property developments and private neighborhoods such as La Veleta and Aldea Zama, where you can find modern rentals.
Plus, many vacation rental properties in Tulum Town are located within a short walk or bike ride from the main highway 307 (“Carretera Federal”), making it easier to access other areas like Playa del Carmen and the famous Mayan ruins of Tulum.
Pros of Staying in Tulum Town
- More affordable accommodations
- Close to affordable restaurants, bars, shopping, and grocery stores
- Close to the main highway for easy access to other areas
- Less touristy and more authentic Mexican atmosphere
Cons of Staying in Tulum Town
- No private beach access
- Can take up to 45 minutes to get to the beach
- Not as picturesque
- Possible construction noise
Map of Where to Stay in Tulum Mexico Airbnb
Here’s a map of the Hotel Zone and Tulum Town to give you an idea of where they are in relation to each other and the beach:
Tulum Airbnb vs Hotel
When deciding between Airbnb and hotels in Tulum, it really comes down to your personal vacation style, group size, and budget.
Tulum Airbnb vs Hotel: Service & Amenities
Hotels in Tulum typically offer more services and amenities, such as daily housekeeping, room service, on-site restaurants and bars, private beach access, and 24-hour security.
When staying at an Airbnb, you’ll forgo those extra luxuries and will have to take care of cleaning and cooking yourself.
But depending on the type of vacation rental you choose, you may have your own private swimming pool, private chef, and on-site security.
Of course, these types of premium vacation rentals will come at a higher price! Airbnb Tulum rentals will vary with what is offered, so be sure to read the listing carefully for any important details or amenities that are important to you.
Tulum Airbnb vs Hotel: Group Size
If you are traveling with a large group, Airbnb rentals can often be more cost-effective as they often have multiple bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate larger groups.
This often makes them more affordable than booking multiple hotel rooms.
Hotels in Tulum tend to cater towards couples or smaller groups, with most rooms only offering one or two beds. This makes Airbnb a better option for larger families or groups of friends traveling together.
Additionally, Airbnbs are a great option for larger groups because they often have a full kitchen to cook meals for your group, as well as a dining area and living room where everyone can gather and hang out together.
And many have private swimming pools! Plus, you’ll have a more intimate group experience when you’re all under one roof.
Tulum Airbnb vs Hotel: Price
Hotels in Tulum can range from budget-friendly options to extremely luxurious and expensive resorts.
Airbnb rentals also vary greatly in price, with some budget-friendly options and some expensive luxury villas.
Pretty much any type of accommodation on the beach in Tulum will come at a premium price, so if you’re willing to stay in Tulum Town, you can find much more affordable options at a vacation rental.
How to Find the Perfect Airbnb in Tulum
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find the perfect Airbnb in Tulum:
Set a budget for your Tulum vacation rental
The first step in finding the perfect Airbnb is to determine your budget. Airbnb offers a range of options, so decide what amenities and services are important to you and set a maximum price for your rental.
Determine your preferred location
Do you want to stay in Tulum Town or the Hotel Zone? Are you willing to stay slightly further away from the beach in exchange for a more affordable rental?
Are you looking for a quiet and secluded vacation rental or one that’s closer to restaurants and bars?
Take some time to consider what’s important to you in terms of location and the type of vacation experience you’re looking for.
Determine your preferred type of accommodations
Vacation rentals in Tulum offer travelers a wide range of options from jungle homes and apartments to modern condos to luxury villas.
Decide what type of accommodations you want for your trip considering the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, kitchen amenities, privacy, and whether you have private or shared pool access.
Decide on must-have amenities
Next, consider the amenities offered by your potential Airbnb rental. Will you need a kitchen for cooking meals or do you plan to dine out most of the time?
Are a private pool and outdoor space important to you? Do you want a washer/dryer to do laundry?
Once you’ve created a wish list, use the search filters on Airbnb to narrow down your options based on your must-have amenities.
Select your travel dates
Of course, the dates of your trip will determine the availability of Airbnb rentals.
If you have any flexibility with your travel dates, it can be helpful to search for Airbnb rentals during a less busy time in Tulum.
This may also lead to lower prices and better availability if you are able to travel in the low season, which typically runs from June-October.
Search and compare options
The next step is to search for vacation rental options in Tulum and compare your top choices.
Read through the Airbnb listing descriptions and reviews carefully to ensure that the rental meets all of your criteria and check availability for your travel dates.
And don’t forget to check other booking sites, such as VRBO, and Booking.com, for additional options and potential savings on the same listing.
Confirm sleeping arrangements
Be sure to confirm the sleeping arrangements for your Airbnb rental. Are there enough beds for everyone in your group? Is there an extra charge for additional guests?
Airbnb lists the bed sizes in each room so you can find out if it’s a king bed, queen-sized, or sofa sleeper.
And if you’re traveling with children, check if the Airbnb has a crib or other child-friendly amenities available.
Check reviews
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, take some time to read Airbnb reviews from previous guests.
This is probably the most important step for any Airbnb rental, but it’s especially crucial in Tulum where there are more safety risks.
Pay attention to the overall rating, as well as specific comments about the property and its location, cleanliness, amenities, and communication with the host. You’ll also want to scan for any comments regarding security issues or potential scams.
I also like to review any comments left by the host, as they can provide additional insight into the rental and their hospitality.
It’s also best to rent from a Super Host if possible, as they have a track record of providing exceptional experiences for Airbnb guests. You’ll be able to filter for Super Hosts when searching for rentals.
You can also contact the host with any additional questions or concerns before booking.
Verify cancellation policies and additional fees
Before booking the Airbnb, be sure to read the cancellation policies carefully and check for any additional fees. The price listed on the initial search results is usually never the final price!
Some Airbnb rentals may charge a cleaning fee or require a security deposit, so it’s important to factor these expenses into your budget.
And if your plans change, make sure you understand Airbnb’s cancellation policy and any potential penalties.
Make your reservation
Once you’ve found the perfect Airbnb in Tulum, it’s time to make your reservation!
Be sure to communicate with the host and confirm all important details, including check-in/check-out times, keying or access information, and any additional rules or expectations for the rental.
Travelista Tip: Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance for added protection during your Mexico vacation. This can cover unexpected circumstances, such as flight cancellations or medical emergencies, as well as loss or damage to personal belongings or Airbnb rental property. It’s always better to be safe than sorry during travel!
Is it Safe to Stay in an Airbnb in Tulum Mexico?
Yes, it is safe to stay at an Airbnb in Tulum but you’ll want to take the same precautions as you would in any unfamiliar destination.
This includes not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings at all times. Unfortunately, petty theft is not uncommon in Mexico.
Be sure to carefully read Airbnb host reviews around security and rent from a Super Host if possible.
It’s also important to know that drug-related crime in Tulum has increased in recent years, so it’s best not to stay out late and to avoid any illegal substances during your stay.
For solo travelers in Tulum, it’s also a good idea to pick up an inexpensive portable door lock, which is a small metal insert that can be placed on the door in the absence of a deadbolt to prevent unauthorized entry.
🚨 Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here!
Tips for Renting an Airbnb in Tulum Mexico
Follow these tips to ensure a smooth Airbnb experience in Tulum:
- Check the reviews carefully: As mentioned above, it’s important to read through Airbnb reviews carefully and pay attention to any warning signs or red flags. Be sure to look for comments regarding safety and security and only book if you feel comfortable with the property and host.
- Rent from a Super Host: Airbnb Super Hosts have a track record of providing exceptional experiences for guests and are typically reliable hosts. Be sure to add the Super Host filter when searching for rentals on Airbnb. You can also add additional filters for Airbnb Plus and Airbnb Luxe for elevated listings.
- Pay close attention to the location: Airbnb rentals in Tulum are spread throughout Tulum Town, the Hotel Zone, and other remote areas. Make sure to confirm the exact location of the rental and if it fits your desired vacation experience. Don’t forget Tulum Town is a few miles away from the beach!
- Check the cancellation policies and added fees: Be sure to review Airbnb’s cancellation policies, as well as any additional fees or cleaning charges from the host before booking. The price will normally be much higher once these are tacked on!
- Rent a vacation rental with a pool if you can: Having access to an outdoor pool in Tulum can make for a more relaxing and enjoyable vacation. If your budget allows, try to rent an Airbnb with a shared pool or consider renting out a private villa with a pool for your group.
- Purchase travel insurance: It’s always best to be prepared for any unexpected circumstances during travel. Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance to protect yourself, as well as the Airbnb rental property. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy online marketplace where you can compare policies.
Tulum Mexico Airbnbs: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about renting Airbnbs in Tulum:
Tulum Airbnb prices vary greatly, with some budget-friendly options and some expensive luxury villas.
However, accommodations on the beach in Tulum will generally come at a premium price. Staying in Tulum Town can often be more affordable.
The best time to visit Tulum is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. This is also the peak tourist season and Airbnb prices will likely be higher.
For lower prices and fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or November. Keep in mind that the hurricane season runs from June to October.
However, this can still be a good time to visit. While the chances of rain will be higher, there will still be plenty of sun.
The closest airport to fly to Tulum is Cancun International Airport (CUN), which is about a 90-minute drive away.
The easiest way to get to Tulum from Cancun International Airport is by booking a private airport transfer.
Uber is not available in Tulum (or the entire Riviera Maya region), so booking a reliable transfer ahead of time will save you the hassle and stress of figuring out transportation once you arrive.
🚗 Related Reading: Driving Cancun to Tulum: Important Info + Tips
Conclusion: Airbnb Tulum Mexico Guide
I hope this Airbnb Tulum Mexico guide has helped you in finding the perfect vacation rental for your trip to Tulum!
With careful planning, Airbnb rentals can provide a unique and enjoyable vacation experience and are the perfect place to stay in Tulum for a group or those looking for more space and privacy than a traditional hotel.
Remember to thoroughly check reviews, verify cancellation policies and amenities, and consider the location before booking.
Once you’ve got your accommodations squared away, enjoy exploring the pristine beaches, fun day trips, and Mayan ruins near Tulum!
🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?
These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:
🏨 Hotels: I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com. If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!
✈️ Flights: I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.
🚗 Rental Cars: I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.
🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation: I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!
🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.
🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.
☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.
