Providing a spectacular alternative to more touristy Cancun, Tulum is about 80 miles south on the Yucatan Peninsula, renowned for its postcard-perfect beaches that edge the turquoise Caribbean sea. Here, giant sea turtles roam the sands, while glimpses of the ancient past can be discovered in pre-Columbian Mayan ruins, including temples dating back to the 13th-century.
While there are some hotels and resorts here, you’ll also find plenty of Airbnb rentals, many of which provide even more bang for your buck, along with a more authentic Mexican experience.
Private Jungle Penthouse ~ Aldea Zama
This two-story penthouse sits in a quiet complex next to a local cenote where you can enjoy free, unforgettable swims. It offers enticing indoor and outdoor living spaces, including a private rooftop with a pool, free weights, and workout equipment. Two complimentary bikes are included in the rate, perfect for pedaling to downtown or the beach, either of which can be reached with just a 10-minute ride. After a day in the sand, there’s an outdoor rain shower for rinsing off too. Inside, you’ll find all the modern essentials along with high-quality handcrafted furnishings with local wood and textiles.
Secret Oasis with a Tranquil Pool in Central Tulum
A luxurious sanctuary for up to three, this “secret oasis” is convenient to downtown, within walking distance to the many bars and restaurants, yet it’s sheltered with privacy walls and lush greenery. You’ll have your own small private outdoor area with a hammock and easy access to the shared pool. Clean and comfortable, it has one bedroom and two beds, accommodating up to three. You’ll have a kitchenette with a coffee maker and blender for mixing up margaritas or your favorite frozen cocktail, but perhaps best of all, it comes at a very low price despite the high rating.
Jungle Cabin in Town
The one-bedroom Jungle Cabin is part of a collection of eco-friendly, air-conditioned cabins, ideal for a romantic retreat. Sleeping up to two, it has lots of luxurious touches, including a comfy king-size bed, handcrafted furnishings, and organic bath products, all under a palapa roof. Purified drinking water and a Nespresso coffee machine are included, and while you won’t have a kitchen, you’ll be within a 5-minute drive of numerous outstanding restaurants. It’s close enough to town, yet far enjoy to provide a tranquil stay that feels as if you’re in a remote jungle.
Sanah Villa with Private Pool
A slice of paradise, guests have called Sanah Villa “pure magic.” It’s only a 5-minute drive to town or 15 minutes to the beach while providing the ultimate wellness escape. An exclusive private villa, it comes with a steam bath heated by the sun and volcanic stone, prepared using essential oils and local plants. Your hosts can arrange an in-villa massage, and there are gorgeous gardens to stroll through, a campfire to cozy up to, and just a 5-minute walk through the jungle brings you to two of the most magnificent cenotes in the area. You’ll have your own private pool, a king-size bed, air-conditioning, a minibar, and a coffee maker too.
Beachfront Villa with Infinity Pool, Chef Included
This beachfront villa faces the Caribbean, nestled between the jungle and the sea. Look forward to an extraordinary, panoramic view from the rooftop terrace featuring a Jacuzzi, sofa, and deck chairs. There’s a beautiful pool and even a private stretch of sandy beach where wildlife like pelicans and turtles are often spotted. Snorkeling is outstanding, with a coral reef and an abundance of tropical fish. Two paddleboards, two single and two double kayaks are provided too. Inside, you’ll have a theater room with a huge 4K Apple TV, a fully-equipped fitness room, and a long list of other impressive amenities. Did we mention the in-house chef?
Vogue Top Floor Studio with Pool & Gym
Located between the town and the beach, this exclusive penthouse-floor studio boasts a large private terrace ideal for dining under the stars on one side, with a relaxing lounge area on the other. Either way, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the nature that surrounds you in total privacy. There are two massive shared swimming pools and a jacuzzi along with a French bistro and cafe on the property too. Inside, you’ll have a kitchen with high-end appliances, including unexpected items like a regular blender and a bullet blender, a washing machine, and a 55″ Samsung Smart TV with Netflix and other online streaming apps.
Insta-Worthy Home with Pool, 24/7 Security & Concierge
Located in the exclusive La Privada community with 24/7 security, this new three-bedroom home accommodates up to 10 guests and was designed to enhance the natural beauty of the surroundings. One of the highlights is the doors that open up from the first floor to reveal the outdoor terrace, deck, and pool. The third-floor terrace provides magical stargazing while the helpful staff offers concierge services, including everything from arranging excursions and taxis to a private chef. While it might be hard to leave, you’ll find some of the world’s most spectacular beaches and the mystical Mayan ruins just a few minutes’ drive away.
Poolside Zen in the Tulum Jungle
This peaceful, private villa is part of Holistika, a yoga and wellness center, ideally located within walking distance of craft boutiques, bakeries, and restaurants. Downtown, archaeological sites and beautiful beaches are nearby too. It sleeps up to eight in three bedrooms, each of which includes sliding doors that open to a balcony. You’ll have all the comforts of home, including a full kitchen and washer/dryer. With a minimalistic look featuring natural wood and cool stone accents, it’s the perfect spot to find your Zen whether you’re indoors or out. There’s even a private pool and a garden hammock that sits beneath fairy lights.
Villa Talara Design and Luxury
This elegant sanctuary is the perfect space to melt stress away with the calming sounds of a waterfall that cascades into the handcrafted pool and views of the lush jungle. Enjoy the sounds and the sights as you sip a refreshing drink from the poolside cocktail bar or relax in the living room equipped with a Smart TV that includes satellite channels and a Bose speaker. It has a fully stocked kitchen and cozy dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows, accommodating up to 10 in four bedrooms.
Two-Story Penthouse with Private Pool
A serviced apartment in Esmeralda Boutique Hotel, this two-story penthouse in downtown Tulum is ideal for a couple. It includes high-speed Wi-Fi, icy cold a/c, a living room with magnificent views, a kitchenette, and a bedroom with a king-size bed. You can access your private pool right from the bedroom for a refreshing dip or relax on the swings just above the water. Bike rentals are available on-site when you want to go exploring or take advantage of exclusive beach club access. On-site tour bookings and 24/7 security is provided too.
OceanFront Villa Kiin
A three-story oceanfront rental, Villa Kiin is ideal for a larger group, accommodating up to a dozen guests in four bedrooms. It boasts a rooftop with a hot tub for soaking with a fabulous view and a private infinity pool that faces the ocean. A rooftop clear bottom plunge pool connects to a sister villa which can also be rented if you need more space. Snorkeling gear and a kayak are included, while chef service, ordered from a menu, can be provided upon request.
Mayan Jungle House
The Mayan Jungle House is part of Tulum’s Holistika community, nestled right in the Mayan jungle. It sleeps up to eight and includes a full kitchen, TV, Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and a private pool. It’s far more than just an Airbnb with a helpful caretaker that can set you up with a private chef and help you with just about anything else you need.
