Tulum has expanded enormously since I first arrived there. It used to be a tiny village with not much going and it quickly became a trendy spot full of luxury expensive hotels and fancy restaurants. Tulum’s hidden-gem appeal is definitely its beach surrounded by the jungle that can still be affordable if you’re staying in AirBnBs and Tulum isn’t lacking some great ones.
A few things to note about AirBnBs in Tulum is that similar to other jungle hotels most of them won’t be directly on the beach, they’re in Tulum town. If it’s on the beach it means it’s actually a hotel room, not a private property.
It’s not a problem at all, since Tulum is not really walkable so you’ll need to rent a bike to get around. The beach is really about an 8-minute ride away. Regardless of where you decide to stay bring a bug spray – Tulum is a jungle after all, so there will be mosquitos everywhere.
If you’ve never used AirBnB you can use my code to get $40 off your first stay.
Best Unique AirBnBs in Tulum
Suites Tulum
Just steps from the beach it’s a unique studio with a private pool surrounded by lush greenery. Bike rental is available on the property and if you feel like this you can get a discounted deal for nearby hotels with beach clubs.
AC is included in your stay, which is actually unusual for private apartments in Riviera Maya.
Nativus Glamping
One of the most beautiful glamping spots in the area, located in the jungle with a cenote on the property. It’s isolated enough for a peaceful stay, but close enough to the buzz of Tulum if you wish.
Bikes, paddleboards, kayaks, breakfast, and strong wifi are all complimentary.
Cenote Lodge
Beautiful secluded minimalistic home with a cenote pool right in front of it. The owners will be nearby and around to keep an eye out on things and help with anything you need. The location was very quiet compared to the busier parts of Tulum, but you will definitely need a car getting in and out of the place.
Hostel Tubo
A unique concept of bedrooms made out of concrete tubes. Tubo is centrally located with easy access to downtown and beautiful beaches, and it’s both kids and pet friendly which is unusual for Tulum properties. Cute animals on property to keep you company.
Jungle Eco Tree House
Take a swim in cenotes close to the property, have a romantic evening gazing at the stars and wake up to the sounds of nature. All of these activities are available while you sleep in a dome upon the tree.
It’s a perfect alternative for now overpriced Azulik Hotel (that’s still great, but it’s surely not the same as it was years ago – prices are ridiculous now, sadly).
Eco Bungalow Treetop
Another affordable treehouse in Tulum offering the privacy of a jungle cabana. Beautiful bamboo rooms fueled by solar power. Bonus: it’s right on the beach.
Casita Maya Loft
One of the top properties in Tulum for a good reason – it’s a private oasis. It comes with free bicycles, barbecue, pool, even pool floaties! Close enough to Tulum ruins and downtown Tulum.
