From pulsating gay nightlife venues to laid-back beach clubs, Tulum, Mexico offers a diverse array of experiences for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. And we should know, as we're part-time Tulum residents! Whether you're dancing the night away under the stars or lounging on a pristine beach, Tulum's free-spirited and inclusive atmosphere are sure to leave you captivated and wanting more. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey to one of Mexico's best gay travel destinations.
Overview
Tulum attracts LGBTQ+ travelers from around the world with its stunning beaches, unique hotels, incredible restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. There's also unbelievable cultural attractions in the region from Mayan ruins to over 6,000 cenotes (sinkholes) on the Yucatan peninsula. We can guarantee you’ll never run out of things to do in the Riviera Maya, which stretches from Cancun to Playa del Carmen to Tulum!
TULUM TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to Tulum? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
Travel Insurance – Don’t leave home without it! SafetyWing offers super affordable travel insurance with straightforward pricing and flexible extensions—even if your trip is already underway. Protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses and travel mishaps while you explore Tulum and beyond.
Hotel Discounts – Unlock unbeatable deals with Hotels.com. Create a free account to save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels. Plus, you can snag perks like free room upgrades—perfect for enjoying the city in style.
Car Rental Deals – Hit the road with Discover Cars and find the best rental rates worldwide. Compare prices from top providers and score incredible discounts. Their inexpensive full coverage option gives us peace of mind, and free cancellations up to 48-hours before pickup ensure flexibility when plans change.
Foreign Exchange & Money Transfers – Save on foreign exchange and money transfers with Wise. Not only do we use it for sending money between our U.S. and Mexican bank accounts, but its fair rates and transparent fees make it a go-to for travelers everywhere.
e-SIM Cards – Stay connected abroad with Airalo. An e-SIM is the easiest way to avoid hefty roaming charges. Just download the app, purchase a local or regional data plan, and toggle between your plans with ease. We love the convenience!
Surfshark VPN – Safeguard your personal data when using public Wi-Fi and stream your favorite shows abroad with Surfshark VPN. This budget-friendly product lets you bypass content restrictions, avoid censorship, and secure unlimited devices with ease.
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. By booking services or shopping through these links, you’ll save money AND help keep our blog posts and videos coming your way. Thanks for the support!
Private plunge pool at The Beach Tulum
Where to Stay
Looking for the perfect place to stay? From luxurious beachfront resorts and stylish downtown hotels to social gay men-only hotspots, we’ve rounded up the best options for you! Check out our Guide to the Best Gay Hotels in Tulum for the top LGBTQ+ stays, from budget-friendly options to five-star splurges.
🌟 Pro tip – Thinking about staying in Tulum long-term? Whether you're looking for a stylish condo in Aldea Zama or a jungle hideaway in La Veleta, finding the right rental can be tricky. Check out our How to Find a Long-Term Rental in Tulum guide for insider tips on securing the best deals and avoiding common pitfalls!
Cenote Dos Ojos
Things to Do
From ancient ruins to breathtaking cenotes and jungle adventures, Tulum is packed with unforgettable experiences. For our curated list of the best things to do in Tulum, read our full guide here. But if you're looking for our favorite must-do experience, don’t miss this one:
Muyil River Float – For a one-of-a-kind eco-adventure, head to Muyil in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a UNESCO-protected nature reserve just south of Tulum. Here, you can float down an ancient Mayan canal, surrounded by mangroves, crystal-clear water, and incredible wildlife. The journey starts with a boat ride through lagoons, followed by a peaceful lazy river float where you’ll drift effortlessly through the untouched beauty of the region. It’s a magical, off-the-beaten-path experience that showcases the natural side of Tulum. We take all our fist-time visitors here!
For even more epic activities, check out our full guide to the 7 best things to do in Tulum!
Kin Toh at Azulik
Where to Eat and Drink
Tulum’s food scene is a perfect mix of boho-chic dining, beachfront seafood spots, and hidden jungle gems. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset dinner, a vibrant food truck park, or casual bites after a beach day, here are our top picks:
Kin Toh – Best for Sunset. If you’re looking for that Tulum ‘WOW’ factor, Kin Toh at Azulik is the place to be. Perched high above the jungle, this treehouse-style restaurant is famous for its iconic nest tables and panoramic sunset views. Expect an elevated fine-dining experience with gourmet fusion cuisine and craft cocktails. Just be sure to book well in advance, especially during high season.
Hartwood – Best for a Farm-to-Table Feast. A Tulum institution, Hartwood is one of the hardest reservations to get in town—and for good reason. This off-grid, open-fire restaurant sources all its ingredients locally and serves up some of the freshest seafood and meats in the region. With a daily-changing menu and a romantic candlelit atmosphere, this is a must-visit for foodies looking for an authentic, eco-conscious dining experience.
Arca – Best for a Chic Jungle Dinner.Arca is a stylish open-air restaurant nestled in the jungle with an emphasis on bold flavors and beautifully plated dishes. Think charred octopus, smoked short rib, and seasonal ceviches—all made with local ingredients and cooked over an open flame. The intimate, candlelit setting and expertly crafted cocktails make it a top choice for a memorable dinner in Tulum’s Hotel Zone.
Mezzanine Restaurant & Bar
Mezzanine – Best for Oceanfront Dining. For one of the most gay-friendly and romantic spots in Tulum, Mezzanine is a standout. Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, this upscale Thai restaurant serves up delicious curries, fresh seafood, and perfectly spiced Pad Thai. Whether you're coming for sunset cocktails or a special date night, Mezzanine never disappoints.
Palma Central – Best for Casual Eats & Live Music. If you’re looking for a laid-back, social dining experience, head to Palma Central, Tulum’s lively food truck park. With a mix of local vendors, craft cocktails, and live music, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed night out. Our go-to here is the gay-popular Asian Bodega, known for its flavorful dumplings, bao buns, and noodle dishes.
Burrito Amor – Best for Healthy Mexican Food. A Tulum classic and hands-down one of the best casual eats in town, Burrito Amor is everyone’s favorite—including ours (we seriously eat here 3-4 times a week!). Their fresh, organic burritos are wrapped in banana leaves and packed with flavor. Whether you're craving grilled shrimp, slow-cooked pork, or a vegan-friendly burrito, this spot is perfect for a quick bite before hitting the beach.
Love is Love in Tulum
Best Gay Bars & Clubs
From pulsating nightlife venues to laid-back beach clubs, Tulum has something for everyone. For the best gay bars and clubs to check out in Tulum, read our full review here.
Just Another Day in Paradise
When to Go
Tulum is a tropical paradise year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re after.
High Season (December–April) – Best Weather & Busiest Time. From December to April, Tulum enjoys perfect beach weather—sunny days in the 80s°F (27-30°C) with low humidity. This is peak season, with big crowds, bustling nightlife, and higher hotel prices. If you're traveling around New Year’s Eve or Easter, book accommodations months in advance.
Shoulder Season (May–August, November) – Fewer Crowds & Better Deals. If you prefer fewer tourists and cheaper hotel rates, consider visiting during the shoulder season. May through August brings warm temperatures and occasional showers, but the beaches are less crowded, and you’ll still have plenty of sunshine.
Low Season (September–October) – Rainy & Hurricane Risk. September and October are the rainiest months and also carry the highest risk of hurricanes. While some businesses reduce hours during this period, it’s a great time for budget travelers looking for deep discounts on hotels and tours.
Other popular times to be in Tulum are for the numerous music and art festivals like Art with Me Tulum.
Aerial View of Cancun Airport at Takeoff!
How to Get Here
By air – Most travelers to Tulum arrive via Cancún International Airport (airport code: CUN), about 75 miles (120 km) north. CUN offers frequent direct flights from major cities in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. You can also check flights to Cozumel (airport code: CZM) or the new Tulum Airport (airport code: TQO), but CUN usually has the best fares and most options.
Getting from Cancun Airport to Tulum
Taxi – Official airport taxis are available outside baggage claim, but prices are high and require haggling. This is our least recommended option due to aggressive tactics.
Private Car service – The most comfortable and hassle-free option. Pre-book a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation and an English-speaking driver will meet you at the airport with a sign, provide bottled water, and take you directly to your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle. This is our go-to method, especially when traveling with our rescue pup.
ADO Bus – The cheapest way to reach Tulum. Look for the red ADO kiosk upon arrival. If you land at Terminal 3 (where most international flights arrive), note that the bus stops at Terminals 2 and 4 before heading to Playa and Tulum, adding about 30 minutes to your journey.
Rental Car – Great if you plan to explore the Riviera Maya, ruins, or cenotes. We use Discover Cars to compare prices from top providers and score incredible discounts. Their inexpensive full coverage option gives us peace of mind (you must add liability insurance at a minimum in Mexico), and free cancellations up to 48-hours before pickup ensure flexibility when plans change.
🌟 Pro tip – Uber is not allowed at Cancun Airport, and service in Cancun is limited and unreliable. To avoid stress, we highly recommend pre-booking your transfer for a smooth start to your trip.
Other Services
Banking & ATMs – Tulum has plenty of national and international bank ATMs, making it easy to withdraw Mexican Pesos (MXN) upon arrival. We recommend getting cash at the airport (CUN, TQO) or using ATMs from trusted banks like, HSBC, Santander and Scotiabank in town. We personally would avoid ATMs on the beach road in the Hotel Zone.
Always DECLINE to SAVE!!!!
🌟 Pro tip – Always pay in pesos when using your credit card or cash. Paying in USD often comes with a 5-10% unfavorable exchange rate. Similarly, when withdrawing cash from ATMs, decline the ATM’s conversion offer—this avoids an extra 5-12% markup on top of the standard fee!
Co-working – For our digital nomads, head to Digital Jungle which is a great place to work. They have co-working spaces, private desks, private offices, conference rooms, and zoom booths, so something to fit all remote work needs. They have coffee and lunch as well with indoor and outdoor seating available.
Pueblo Jungle Gym
Fitness/Gym – Want to keep up your fitness routine while enjoying Tulum’s beaches and nightlife? Here are some of the best gyms in town:
Los Amigos Gym & Climbing – A top choice in La Veleta with air-conditioning, multiple levels, and a rooftop jungle view featuring boxing bags and TRX equipment.
Evolve Fitness – Conveniently located in town, this gym offers decent equipment and flexible passes. If you’re also visiting Playa del Carmen, you can grab a week or month pass valid at both locations.
Tulum Jungle Gym – This Insta-famous open-air gym on the beach lets you work out with handmade stone and wood equipment for a one-of-a-kind fitness experience. They’ve also opened a new location in town for those who prefer a more central option.
With Tulum’s fitness scene growing rapidly, you’ll also find plenty of yoga studios, boutique gyms, and outdoor fitness classes to keep you active during your stay!
Laundry – If you need a quick and easy solution for laundry, Washit Lavanderia in town is great and well-priced.
Wine/Liquor store – By far the best place to buy everything for your vacation or extended stay is Chedraui or the ‘Ched.” This massive store on Av. Coba on the way to the beach is your one stop shop for food, drink, and everything in between.
The Bar at Loba Tulum
Frequently Asked Questions & Travel Tips
Is Tulum LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes! Tulum is known for its bohemian, open-minded vibe, making it a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Can I drink on the streets?
Technically, no—but enforcement is very relaxed, especially along the beach and in nightlife areas. You’ll often see people carrying drinks between beach clubs or along the hotel zone without issue. Just avoid being too obvious in town or in front of police to stay out of trouble.
What's the best way to get around?
Tulum has no Uber or Lyft, so your main options are:
Bikes – Many hotels offer rentals, and it's an easy way to get around town and the beach road.
Scooters & ATVs – Popular for flexibility and avoiding traffic, but be careful as roads can be rough.
Taxis – Convenient but pricey and unregulated. Always negotiate before you ride.
Colectivos (Shared Vans) – A budget-friendly way to travel between Tulum and other towns like Playa del Carmen.
Rental Car – The best way to explore nearby ruins and cenotes. We use Discover Cars to compare prices from top providers and score incredible discounts.
Cinco Beach Club
What's the weather like in Tulum?
Tulum has a tropical climate, meaning it's warm year-round. Here’s what to expect:
Peak Season (December–April): Sunny, dry, and perfect beach weather.
Shoulder Season (May–August, November): Hot, humid, with the occasional afternoon shower.
Rainy Season (September-October): Rainiest months and also carry the highest risk of hurricanes.
What should I pack for my trip?
Swimsuits & beachwear – You’ll be living in them!
Light, breathable clothing – Tulum is hot year-round.
Sunscreen & sunglasses – The sun is strong, even in winter.
Bug spray – A must during the rainy season (May–October).
Waterproof phone case – Essential for beach clubs and cenotes.
Cash (MXN pesos) – Many smaller shops and taxis don’t accept credit cards.
Can I use US dollars in Tulum?
While some businesses accept USD, the exchange rate is always worse than withdrawing pesos from an ATM. To avoid losing money, pay in pesos whenever possible.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
No. Tap water is not safe to drink in Tulum. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which most hotels and restaurants provide.
Do I need to know Spanish?
Not necessarily! English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience and help in local shops and restaurants.
🌟 Pro tip – Download Google Translate to quickly translate menus, signs, and simple phrases on the go! Use the camera feature to scan text instantly—no typing needed. A total game-changer for stress-free travel!
Is Tulum safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Overall, yes, but as with any destination, it’s important to stay aware. Tulum is generally laid-back and welcoming, but some crime and scams do happen, especially at night. Here are a few safety tips:
Stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated beach paths after dark.
Be cautious with overpriced taxis and scams. Always agree on a fare before riding.
Party responsibly—Tulum’s nightlife scene is fun but can get wild, and some venues have been known for overpriced drinks or surprise charges.
Unofficial Nude Beach in Playa
Are there any LGBTQ+ nude beaches in Tulum?
There are no official nude beaches, but unofficially, parts of Tulum’s beaches are clothing-optional. Some secluded spots along the beach zone and Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve are known for attracting a nudist-friendly crowd.
In Playa del Carmen, there's also an unofficial gay nude beach, a lengthy 45-minute walk south of the Cozumel ferry pier past the Playacar resorts to a secluded stretch of sand.
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