With its history, slice of Caribbean coastline, amazing food and vibrant culture, the town of Tulum might just be your dream destination. Not only are there beaches, but the ancient ruins of a Mayan port!
But where do you stay? That depends… are you more into the cultural side of things, or would you rather be close to the beach? Or perhaps you’re looking for the best of both worlds?
So we’ve looked into it and found a bunch of the best hostels in Tulum. And we’ve split them all up into handy categories so you can find the one that’s right for you.
Whether you’re looking for something truly budget, want to splash out, party or simply make a few friends, we’ve got you covered. Let’s have a look at the coolest hostels in Tulum!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Tulum
#1 Best Overall Hostel in Tulum – Day Tripper Hostel
#2 Best Party Hostel in Tulum – Hostel Che Tulum
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Tulum – Weary Traveller Hostel
#4 Best Hostel near Tulum Mayan Ruins – Posada los Mapaches
#5 Best Hostel in Tulum Centre – Amorcito Corazon
#6 Best Hostel on Tulum Beach – Bambu Gran Palas and Cenote
#7 Best Hostel near Tulum Bus Station – Mama’s Home
#8 Best High-end Hostel in Tulum – LUM
#9 Best Budget Hostel in Tulum – Lucky Traveller All Inclusive
#10 Best Hostel with a Private Room in Tulum – Culum Tulum
#1 – Day Tripper Hostel
Best Overall Hostel in Tulum
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle 4, Poniente No, SN Manz. 0042, lote 003 Dept
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Day Tripper Hostel…
Just a few blocks from downtown Tulum, we can’t help but like where this place is located. Apart from that, the comfort and cleanliness on offer here, as well as the cool nook-style bunks, and the fun, pop art decor of the whole place, easily makes this the best overall hostel in Tulum.
Day Tripper Hostel is perfect for…
Want to stay somewhere with a friendly atmosphere? Day Tripper is the place to go. The staff here are friendly indeed, and are always good for a chat – plus they’re helpful, with plenty of tips on what to do and onward travel. Conveniently located in walking distance to the bus station, you’ll also get a free breakfast here.
Editor’s Recommendation! These are the staff pick for the top hostels in Mexico (for all budgets!)
#2 – Hostel Che Tulum
Best Party Hostel in Tulum
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Polar e/ Geminis Norte y Libra Norte
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostel Che Tulum…
This place is the best party hostel in Tulum, and with the slogan ‘feel alive’, you sort of know what you’re getting yourself in for. It’s definitely the place for good times. There are nightly parties, daily events, and all sorts of things to keep you busy, which we can’t argue with.
Hostel Che Tulum is perfect for…
Sociable party people! Of course, this place is all about partying, but when the drinking stops and the day begins, it’s also a great place to hang out and make friends, thanks in part to the swimming pool (always a good icebreaker). They really know how to get the party going here!
Not sure what to bring? Have a look at our (must read) packing list for Mexico.
#3 – Weary Traveller Hostel
Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Tulum
- Cost – $$
- Location – Avenida Polar Pte, Entre Beto Norte y orion Norte
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Weary Traveller Hostel…
It’s always a good sign when a place is run by backpackers for backpackers, so that’s something we like about this top hostel in Tulum. The owners here create a great warm and welcoming atmosphere; plus it comes equipped with everything you might need to make your stay comfortable.
Weary Traveller Hostel is perfect for…
Solo travellers, of course. There’s nothing better than arriving somewhere by yourself and being made to feel at home as soon as you step through the door. Complete with a big, well-stocked kitchen and nice common areas, plus things like yoga classes and happy hours, it’s pretty easy to meet people here.
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#4 – Posada los Mapaches
Best Hostel near Tulum Mayan Ruins
- Cost – $$$
- Location – Carretera Federal cancun Chetumal, Frente entrada de las Ruinas Tulum
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Posada los Mapaches…
We like Posada los Mapaches since it’s a sweet, family-run affair. The owners create a super friendly and very homely atmosphere; there’s also fantastic attention to detail (clean, serene environment and nice decorative touches). That, its tropical gardens, and the location – right opposite the entrance to the ruins themselves – make it the best hostel near Tulum Mayan Ruins.
Posada los Mapaches is perfect for…
Want to get to know the local life in the area? Then staying at this recommended hostel in Tulum is a great idea. Not only will you be able to chat with the local owners, but you’ll get to eat some hearty homecooked food, too. One of the many cherries on top is free bicycle hire.
TOP MEXICO TRAVEL TIP: It’s a crime to visit Tulum and not go Cenote Diving! Find out more about Tulum diving in Mexico here.
#5 – Amorcito Corazon
Best Hostel in Tulum Centre
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Polar Poniente MZA 7 LT 10, Tulum, Quintana Roo
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Amorcito Corazon…
Being located right in the middle of the action is just one of the reasons why this is the best hostel near Tulum Centre. We also like this place because it’s got a tranquil vibe to it, making it easy to simply kick back and relax. There’s even an outdoor pool.
Amorcito Corazon is perfect for…
Enjoying a tropical Mexican getaway doesn’t get much easier than at this Tulum backpackers hostel. If you want that, but you don’t want to miss out on bars, restaurants and live music, don’t worry: all of that fun (and cultural) nightlife is just a few steps away. For extra convenience, it’s also close to the bus station.
Will you also visit Puerto Vallarta? Check out where we like to stay in Puerto Vallarta!
#6 – Bambu Gran Palas and Cenote
Best Hostel near Tulum Beach
- Cost – $$
- Location – Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km. 6.5 S/N
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Banbu Gran Palas and Cenote…
Simple and stylish – that’s just one of the reasons we like this youth hostel in Tulum. But it’s not just that, it’s how it integrates into its natural surroundings, being enveloped on all sides by mangrove swamp, which is pretty picturesque. We also can’t fault how it’s run in a sustainable way, complete with solar panels.
Banbu Gran Palas and Cenote is perfect for…
Do you like the beach? Well, then you’d better stay at this, the best hostel near Tulum Beach. It’s quite literally a stone’s throw from the shores of the beach in Tulum, which makes spending a day on the sand very convenient. The hostel also features a restaurant looking out onto a cenote (sinkhole) where you can take a dip, too. Lovely!
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#7 – Mama’s Home
Best Hostel near Tulum Bus Station
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Orion s-n Entre Venus y Sol Oriente
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Mama’s Home…
Located down a quiet street, just a few steps away from the bus station, we love this place not just because it’s so near the bus station, but also because it’s run by very, very lovely staff. They’re helpful, welcoming and laid back. There’s also a common area where they put on activities, which is nice.
Mama’s Home is perfect for…
If you were looking for the best hostel near Tulum bus station, then this is it. It’s not just convenient, but it’s a genuinely lovely place to stay. The warm, welcoming atmosphere at Mama’s Home – which also includes a hostel cat named Amanda – is something you’ll feel sad to leave!
Editor’s Note: Get to know the city from these great hostels near Tulum Beach!
#8 – LUM
Best High-end Hostel in Tulum
- Cost – $$
- Location – Esquina Calle Alfa Nte. & Calle Sagitario Ote., Tulum
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like LUM…
With its polished concrete, plenty of potted plants, funky tiles, we really are in love with the aesthetic at LUM. Arguably the coolest hostel in Tulum, we wish we had friends who had houses like this because we’d definitely be chilling there all the time. Comes complete with fun things like salsa lessons and drinking games, to name a few.
LUM is perfect for
Design lovers! Yes, this is definitely a hostel for those who appreciate a little bit of style (and comfort, of course). You’ll be Instagramming everything about this place. It’s very new and very clean. Needless to say, it’s quite easily the best high-end hostel in Tulum. Has a great balance between chilling and socialising.
#9 – Lucky Traveller All Inclusive
Best Budget Hostel in Tulum
Why we like Lucky Traveller All Inclusive…
Of course this place is going to be the best budget hostel in Tulum: it’s all inclusive! And to be honest, that’s why we like it. Practically everything on offer in terms of drinks and meals (even tours) are included in the nightly price. We love that it caters for different dietary requirements… and the full bar isn’t so bad either.
Lucky Traveller All Inclusive is perfect for…
On a budget but feel like splashing out a little bit? Then the all-inclusive nature of this fun hostel in Tulum is going to be perfect for you. Not only is it cheap, but it’s also got tons of things, like a sushi bar, Netflix TVs, tours, a pool (complete with bar), free bicycle rental… the list goes on!
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#10 – Culum Tulum
Best Hostel with a Private Room in Tulum
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Bubul Lek, Lt 10 Mz 48, Col. Maya Pax, Tulum
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Culum Tulum…
We really can’t help but like this place. The simple nature interiors are pretty stunning. Think light wood, whitewashed walls and greenery. Aside from the decor at this cool Tulum hostel, this high-end hostel isn’t for partying but rather it’s a beautiful place to stay that’s close to Tulum’s attractions. That’s without even mentioning the delicious free breakfast.
Culum Tulum is perfect for…
Couples. Almost certainly, couples will benefit from this place. Since it’s the best hostel with a private room in Tulum, the private rooms here – as you’d expect – are high-end and decidedly boutique style, with a definite focus on comfort and design. So if you’re travelling as a couple and need somewhere lovely to stay, this is it.
More Best Hostels in Tulum
#11 – Hostal Chalupa
- Cost – $$
- Location – Av. Tulum con crucero Av. Coba
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Hostal Chalupa…
It’s new, it’s clean, it’s spacious, we can’t help but fall in love a little bit with this ace youth hostel in Tulum. The interiors have all been decorated by local artists, which gives this place tons of character. It’s a little out of town, but we like that the beach is still nearby.
Hostal Chalupa is perfect for…
If you don’t mind being slightly out of town, or if you really like being near a beach, then staying at this top hostel in Tulum will be a great option for you. Perfect for anybody who wants to relax, you’ll find a huge rooftop patio here, as well as a lounge perfect for lazy days. Free breakfast, too!
Recommended Article – have you checked out our article about the best places to visit in Mexico?
#12 – La Negrita
- Cost – $$
- Location – Kukulkan entre Zazil-Ha y Yodzonot s/n
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like La Negrita…
We like that this place is like staying in paradise… almost. It’s based on traditional Mexican architecture and is decorated to reflect the culture of the surrounding area, too. At this cool Tulum hostel, it’s all about soaking up natural surroundings: there’s a lush garden, pool and hammocks to chill in.
La Negrita is perfect for…
Want to spend time relaxing? Then you might just love this recommended hostel in Tulum. It’s a little far out of town, but the free bicycle rental makes it easy to get in and see the sights. But you might just want to while away the hours poolside. You can also rent a scooter to explore further afield.
Plan your next vacation with this comprehensive guide to Mexico’s best yachting destinations.
#13 – Pueblo Magico Tulum
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Orion Esquina Tunkul, MZ 50, L 17
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Pueblo Magico Tulum…
Colourful and creatively decorated, this Tulum backpackers hostel is close to the city centre, as well as interesting sights. So we love the cultural and fun location you get here. It’s also clean, has a fun atmosphere, and the owners are very friendly.. A little basic, but a fantastic base to explore the city.
Pueblo Magico Tulum is perfect for…
If you’re unfussy, like exploring, and want to be close to the action, then staying Pueblo Magico is just the ticket. There’s a rooftop terrace, which is great for watching the sunset (or sunrise). The host will be happy to give you plenty of tips for exploring the surrounding area.
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Tulum?
Dorm rooms in Tulum are usually in the $15 to $25 per night range. For more personal space, you can get a private room for as low as $30, but usually they cost closer to $80.
What are Hostels in Tulum Like?
Hopefully you're ready for tropical vibes! Tulum is famous for its coastline and ancient ruins, some many hostels play off these themes. Tulum is fairly small, so most hostels are centrally located and within easy reach of all the top attractions.
How Safe are Hostels in Tulum?
Tulum is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico for tourists. Of course, you should always exercise caution when traveling, but there is little chance of having an incident occur!
How to Find Hostels in Tulum?
Start your search using HostelWorld or other online platforms to compare prices and amenities. If you're traveling around Mexico, other travelers might also be able to give you suggestions about their favorite places to stay!
Best Overall Hostel in Tulum
Day Tripper Hostel
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Best Party Hostel in Tulum
Hostel Che Tulum
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Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Tulum
Weary Traveller Hostel
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Best Hostel near Tulum Mayan Ruins
Posada los Mapaches
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Best Hostel in Tulum Centre
Amorcito Corazon
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Best Hostel near Tulum Beach
Banbu Gran Palas and Cenote
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Best Hostel near Tulum Bus Station
Mama’s Home
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Best High-end Hostel in Tulum
LUM
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Best Budget Hostel in Tulum
Lucky Traveller All Inclusive
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Best Hostel with a Private Room in Tulum
Culum Tulum
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Closing thoughts on the best bargain hostels in Tulum
PS – Looking for more tips and tricks for backpacking Latin America? Check out Layer Culture!
So that was it: the best hostels in Tulum. We hope now that you have a much better idea of where you might stay in Tulum – and not all the hostels here are completely backpacker-centric, either.
There’s so much to see and do in Tulum, from snorkelling the cenotes to chilling on the beach, from trying the amazing food to simply exploring the Parque Nacional Tulum, that you’ll want a good base to do it from.
Seeing more in Mexico? While you’re in planning mode, why not check out our guide to the best day trips from Mexico City and the best hostels in Mexico City to save you time and money.
You’ll find some excellent family run places that offer up a slice of local life for you to get involved with, but there are some pretty cool hostels in Tulum that will suit you if you’re a design lover, too – get your Instagram ready for those!
However, if you can’t decide on a hostel, don’t worry: there’s always the best overall hostel in Tulum, Day Tripper Hostel. Now all you have left to do is get ready for a Mexican adventure in this cool Caribbean town!
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