Is Tulum Expensive to Visit? Cost Guide for 2025

So, is Tulum expensive? A common question many ask when visiting Tulum for the first time.

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico’s boho-chic beach town, you might be wondering how much it really costs to vacation here.

Tulum has become one of the most sought-after destinations in North America, known for its stunning beaches, boutique hotels, and vibrant nightlife.

But with that popularity comes a price tag. Compared to other parts of Mexico, Tulum is definitely on the higher end of the cost spectrum.

Still, it’s possible to enjoy this magical destination on a budget if you know where to spend and where to save. And if you’re flexible with your travel dates, checking Tulum weather by month can help you plan around the seasons and avoid peak prices.

In this updated guide, I’ll break down what you can expect to spend on accommodations, food, transport, and entertainment in Tulum, plus offer tips for saving money without sacrificing experience.

Here’s a quick overview of average daily costs in Tulum (in USD and Mexican Pesos):

Why Tulum Is Popular and How That Affects Prices

Tulum’s popularity has exploded in recent years, transforming it from a quiet backpacker town to a global hotspot for luxury seekers, digital nomads, and eco-conscious travelers.

The region’s booming tourism industry, as reflected in sources like Mexico’s national travel databases, has only fueled the growth.

What sets Tulum apart is its unique balance of rustic nature and upscale design. Picture beachfront jungle cabanas, chic beach clubs, wellness retreats, and underground techno parties.

But this demand has dramatically driven up prices. Tulum’s infrastructure hasn’t quite caught up to its tourism boom, which contributes to higher costs for basics like transportation and food. Still, it’s a dreamy place that’s well worth visiting—you just need to plan accordingly.

Where to Stay in Tulum: Hotel & Accommodation Costs

Where you choose to stay in Tulum has the most significant impact on your budget.

The beach town is split into two main areas: Tulum Pueblo (town center) and the Hotel Zone (beachfront). Prices vary drastically between them.

As a general rule, the closer your hotel is to the beach in Tulum, the more you can expect to pay per night.

Proximity to the ocean, especially in the Hotel Zone, comes at a premium, with prices rising significantly the nearer you are to the sand and surf.

Budget Hostels & Hotels in Tulum

Budget travelers will find the best deals in Tulum Town. Here, dorm beds and simple guesthouses cost around $15–$35 USD per night.

Options are basic but often include Wi-Fi and shared kitchens. Here are some well-reviewed picks:

• Mimosa Tulum: Social hostel with a pool, close to restaurants.

• Hostel Che Tulum: Daily activities and a rooftop bar, great for meeting people.

Mid-Range Hotels in Tulum

Mid-range hotels typically cost between $70 and $130 USD per night. These properties often include pools, breakfast, air conditioning, and more comfortable amenities.

You’ll find mid-range stays both in town and closer to the beach (though beachside hotels on the lower end may lack A/C or have more rustic facilities).

• Una Vida: Stylish, jungle-inspired boutique hotel with modern comforts.

• Layal Botique Hotel: Located in town but with spa amenities and a tranquil vibe.

Luxury Hotels in Tulum

Tulum’s beach zone is home to some of Mexico’s most exclusive resorts. Expect to pay $200 to $600+ USD per night, especially in the high season.

Many are boutique-style, featuring open-air designs, wellness spas, and private beach access. Here are some top luxury picks, that won’t disappoint:

• Casa Malca: Former mansion of Pablo Escobar turned into a lush art hotel.

• Azulik Tulum: An eco-luxury resort renowned for its treetop villas, absence of electric light, and surreal architecture, perfect for a digital detox or romantic getaway.

How Much Does Food Cost in Tulum?

Eating in Tulum can range from street-side tacos to high-end jungle restaurants with multi-course tasting menus.

How much you spend really depends on where you dine and how close you are to the beach.

Like many beach towns, restaurants in Tulum’s Hotel Zone charge significantly more than those in Tulum Town (also called the Pueblo).

This is partly due to location, but also because many establishments cater to luxury travelers, offering unique atmospheres and imported ingredients.

At local eateries in town, simple meals like tacos, tortas, and enchiladas typically cost $5–$15 USD (90–270 MXN). You’ll find these scattered throughout Tulum Pueblo, where it’s easy to eat well on a budget.

Mid-range restaurants in Tulum usually charge around $20–$40 USD (360–720 MXN) per person for a full meal, including drinks.

These spots often have trendy decor, vegan options, or international fusion menus, think smoothie bowls, ceviche, and wood-fired pizzas. For recommendations, check out my picks for the best restaurants in Tulum.

Fine dining is where prices climb dramatically. Expect to spend $60–$200+ USD (1,100–3,600+ MXN) per person in the Hotel Zone, especially at popular beachfront spots. These restaurants often feature jungle-chic settings, craft cocktails, tasting menus, and live music or DJs.

Alcohol can also push your budget. A cocktail at a beach club or upscale bar easily costs $15–$25 USD, while local beers usually go for around $2–$4 USD in town.

Taco trucks, especially in Pueblo, are perfect for budget eats and late-night snacks. If you’re visiting Tulum on a budget, these are your go-tos.

Cheap Eats in Tulum

For affordable and authentic local food, stay in the Pueblo. You’ll find plenty of taco joints, tamale stands, and small family-run restaurants that offer delicious meals at local prices.

• Taqueria Honorio: Widely considered the best tacos in Tulum, especially the cochinita pibil.

• El Camello Jr.: Famous for fresh seafood and generous portions, their ceviche is a must.

• Antojitos La Chiapaneca: Budget-friendly tacos al pastor and a locals’ favorite.

These spots are casual, quick, and perfect for travelers trying to keep daily food expenses under $15–$20 USD.

Mid-Range Restaurants in Tulum

Mid-range restaurants offer a comfortable experience with creative menus and good ambiance. Most of these are located in Aldea Zama or along the beach road, but offer better value than high-end venues.

• Safari Comedor Zama: A laid-back spot serving grilled meats and fresh fish in Aldea Zama.
• Trattoria Romana Tulum: Great Italian fare at fair prices, pastas, pizzas, and wine.
• El Asadero: A steakhouse loved for its grilled meats and casual but cozy vibe.

At this tier, expect to pay around $30–$50 USD for dinner and drinks.

Fine Dining in Tulum

Tulum’s fine dining scene is world-class, and it’s priced accordingly. Upscale restaurants along the Hotel Zone combine creative gastronomy with unforgettable jungle and oceanfront settings.

• Arca: One of Tulum’s most celebrated restaurants, known for its ever-changing seasonal menu.

• Hartwood: Wood-fired dishes made from local ingredients, often booked out days in advance.

Dining here can easily run $100–$200 USD per person, especially if you’re adding cocktails or wine.

Tulum Transportation Costs: Getting Around the Area

Getting around Tulum can be easy or a bit tricky, depending on where you’re staying and how much convenience you’re after. Transportation is one of the key factors that add to the overall cost of visiting.

The first cost to plan for is your airport transfer. If you’re flying into Cancun International Airport, expect to pay around $60–$100 USD for a private transfer to Tulum.

Shared shuttle services and ADO buses are more affordable options, typically ranging from $20–$30 USD per person.

For the full breakdown, check out my guide on the best ways to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum.

Once in Tulum, you’ve got a few options for getting around. By the way at night, it’s best to take a taxi, but keep in mind that pricing surges once dawn sets:

• Taxi: Taxis are everywhere in Tulum, but they are notoriously expensive. Rides from Tulum Town to the Beach Zone can cost $15–$25 USD one way, depending on the time of day. There’s often no meter, so negotiate in advance.

• Bike Rental: One of the best ways to get around is by renting a bike. It’s eco-friendly, inexpensive, and helps avoid traffic. Daily rentals range from $8 to $12 USD, with weekly rates offering a discount.

• Scooter or ATV Rental: Scooters are a more flexible option, especially if you’re exploring cenotes or heading to other areas like Coba or the Sian Ka’an biosphere. Expect to pay $25–$35 USD per day. ATVs, while pricier, are fun for off-road exploring.

• Rental Cars: If you’re planning day trips or want maximum flexibility, renting a car might be worth it. Daily rates start around $35–$50 USD, but keep in mind parking can be limited, especially near the beach.

• Public Transport & Colectivos: For budget travelers, colectivos (shared vans) and ADO buses are incredibly affordable. A short colectivo ride can cost as little as $1–$3 USD. These are the best ways to get to places like Playa Del Carmen or even Coba without breaking the bank.

For a detailed breakdown of these options and local tips, head to my full guide on how to get around Tulum.

Cost of Activities in Tulum

Tulum offers a wide range of experiences, from cenote swims and Mayan ruins visits to beach clubs and jungle parties.

Here’s how much you can expect to spend, whether you’re exploring on a budget or splurging on exclusive experiences.

Budget experiences are still surprisingly accessible:

• Tulum Ruins entry: about $5–10 USD (100–200 MXN) 

• Cenote visits: self-guided trips cost $5–15 USD (100–300 MXN), depending on the site 

Guided tours and excursions (e.g., ruins, cenotes, Chichen Itza, and lagoon visits) typically range from $50 to $ 100+ USD per person.

Beach clubs are a major highlight and a significant spend. If you’re planning to spend the day at one, check out my guide to the best beach clubs in Tulum to find the right vibe for your budget.

• The entry or minimum spend typically ranges from $50 to $ 150+ USD per person, depending on the venue (e.g., Papaya Playa Project, Habitas).

Other activities:

• Sunset yoga, cooking classes, or wellness experiences often cost $50–100+ USD per person

• Bike, scooter, or colectivo travel to nearby ruins or cenotes may add a few more dollars or pesos per ride  

Tulum Cost of Living vs Visiting

Tulum is one of the most expensive destinations in Mexico, whether you’re just visiting or planning to stay long-term.

That said, it’s still far cheaper than major Western cities, and how much you spend depends heavily on your lifestyle and location within Tulum. Tools like Numbeo help estimate typical costs, like groceries, rent, and restaurant prices, offering useful benchmarks for planning.

The average monthly cost of living in Tulum for one person is around $1,500–$2,000 USD, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.

If you’re staying in Tulum Town, apartments or Airbnb rentals start around $600–$800 USD per month for a one-bedroom unit.

If you want to live closer to the beach or in the trendy Aldea Zama neighborhood, expect to pay between $1,000 and $ 2,500 USD per month for modern condos or villas.

Food costs vary based on where you eat. Cooking at home and shopping at local markets can keep your grocery bill to $250–$400 USD/month. Eating out at mid-range restaurants several times a week will push that higher.

Scooter rentals are a common way to get around. Monthly scooter rentals typically cost $100–$150 USD, while a full tank of gas only costs about $5 USD. Taxis and private drivers are more expensive, especially near the beach zone.

Public transportation is available via colectivos (shared vans), which charge about $1–$2 USD per ride and connect Tulum Town with beach areas or nearby towns like Akumal.

Digital nomads and remote workers often base themselves in Aldea Zama or La Veleta, which offer better internet infrastructure, coworking spaces, and walkable streets.

These neighborhoods cater more to expats, but they’re also where prices are steepest.

While the beach zone offers the most scenic lifestyle, it’s also the priciest. A simple breakfast by the beach can cost $15 USD, and many restaurants add automatic gratuity and tourist surcharges.

If you’re looking to live more affordably, Tulum Town and nearby communities like Chemuyil or Macario Gomez offer more affordable housing and a more local vibe.

Tulum is undeniably more expensive than other parts of Mexico, like Oaxaca or Mérida.

However, for the right traveler, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, beach life, and modern comforts. Just know that the cost of paradise comes with a premium.

By the way, if you’re a digital nomad or planning a more extended stay in Tulum, be aware that prices spike during the high season.

From December through March, accommodation costs rise as travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe flock in to escape winter.

The weather is perfect, with low humidity and sunny skies, and Tulum’s party season is in full swing, with major house and techno events drawing crowds. Booking early or visiting during the shoulder season can help reduce costs.

How to Visit Tulum on a Budget: Money-Saving Travel Tips

After visiting Tulum a few times, I’ve picked up several helpful ways to save money without missing out on the experience.

First off, always carry cash. Many restaurants, taxis, and even some beach clubs in Tulum don’t accept cards, especially in town or more rustic areas.

ATM fees in Tulum can be steep if you’re withdrawing from a foreign account. Try to withdraw larger amounts less frequently, and use ATMs inside banks rather than standalone machines, which are more secure and often cheaper.

Transportation can add up quickly. Taxis are notoriously overpriced in Tulum, especially at night or between town and the beach zone.

Ridesharing apps like Uber or Bolt don’t operate here, so renting a bike or scooter is often the most cost-effective option. Walking is also a great option if you’re staying in a central location.

Take advantage of happy hour deals at beach clubs and restaurants, especially between 4–6 PM. You can enjoy cocktails and small plates at a fraction of the regular cost.

Stick to local eateries in Tulum Pueblo for budget-friendly meals. You’ll find incredible tacos, tamales, and empanadas at a third of the price you’d pay in the hotel zone.

If you’re traveling with a friend or group, splitting accommodation costs can dramatically reduce your expenses, especially if you book a stylish apartment or villa in Aldea Zama or La Veleta.

Finally, beware of common scams in Tulum, whether it’s overpriced taxis, misleading tour operators, or inflated souvenir prices. Always double-check costs in advance and rely on trusted sources or your hotel when booking activities.

Is Tulum Worth the Cost? Final Thoughts

So, is Tulum expensive? Compared to other destinations in Mexico, absolutely, especially when it comes to accommodations, dining, and transportation. But for many travelers, the experience is worth every peso.

Whether it’s lounging on a picture-perfect beach, dancing at a jungle party, or exploring hidden cenotes, Tulum offers a vibe and setting that’s hard to match.

Suppose you’re drawn to design-forward boutique hotels, holistic wellness experiences, and a unique nightlife scene. In that case, you’ll find Tulum’s pricing justifiable, especially when compared to similar destinations like Ibiza or Mykonos.

That said, Tulum is not just for luxury travelers. With the right planning, it’s still possible to enjoy a more affordable version of this coastal paradise.

Staying in town, eating at local spots, and avoiding overpriced tourist traps can help stretch your budget.

If you’re weighing alternatives, consider Playa del Carmen. It’s more affordable, highly walkable, and offers better infrastructure, but without the same wild jungle-meets-beach allure that defines Tulum.

At the end of the day, how much you spend in Tulum ultimately depends on your travel style. And if you’re curious about other destinations that offer a similar vibe to Bali and Tulum, with beaches, nightlife, and wellness culture, there are plenty of options worldwide.

And while it may be pricey compared to other Mexican beach towns, Tulum continues to attract travelers for a reason: it delivers a one-of-a-kind experience.