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Jamie Ditaranto, Contributor
Forbes Vetted
Tulum is one of the trendiest vacation destinations in the world and a global stage for eye-catching hotel design and boho fashion. Influencers flock to this destination, built around the ruins of an ancient Mayan port city, not only for the photo-ops, but to partake in its rich roster of wellness and spirituality offerings and the high-end nightlife that keeps jet-setters coming back again and again. If you’re looking for a Tulum vacation free of decision-making, the best all-inclusive resorts in Tulum are available to take care of all of your food, drink, and beach club plans, leaving you plenty of time to kick back, relax, and make the most of your surroundings.
While Tulum itself has a more condensed scene of ultra-small boutique hotels and fewer bonafide resorts with all-inclusive perks, there are many resorts north of Tulum and south of Playa del Carmen where you can enjoy the best of both vacation styles. We’ve rounded up the best all-inclusive resorts close enough to Tulum to visit for the day and make it back to your hotel with plenty of time left to enjoy the top-notch amenities. Here are our picks for where to check in in 2023.
Best Overall All-Inclusive Resort In Tulum: Barceló Maya Riviera
Barcelo Maya Riviera exterior.
Courtesy of Barcelo Maya Riviera
Barceló Maya Riviera
Who Will Love It: Diehard all-inclusive lovers and anyone with a bigger is better mentality
All-Star Amenities: The largest infinity pool around, two kilometers of beachfront, a shopping mall, and an escape room
What Not to Miss: Take a short trip across the highway from the resort complex to take a dip in Cenote Azul and Cenote Cristalino
Location: The Barceló resort complex sits on the south of Puerto Aventuras, 35 minutes from Tulum
For the best overall experience, make your way to this spectacular adults-only resort with 850 suites, all of which have balconies and 500 of which have sea views. This massive property provides just about any amenity and service you can think of, not to mention its own shopping mall and events venue. If that still doesn’t sound big enough for you, this resort is also home to the largest infinity pool on the Maya Riviera, a crescent-shaped marvel of engineering bisected with pathways that lead to the beach. Naturally, you’ll find a swim-up pool bar and plenty of space to spread out, plus fun features like hydrotherapy jets and submerged lounge beds.
The friendly and professional service here is widely praised by guests and the rooms are pristine, with a contemporary minimalist design and marble details that cinch that high-end feel. Your all-inclusive package gives you access to the other resorts in the complex, so you’ll have 16 eateries to choose from every day, not to mention numerous sports facilities and activities (the resort also has its own escape room). While the adults-only resort and its infinity pool won’t be an option for family travelers, the complex still has a lot to offer in one of the best locations on the Maya Riviera. Parents can also consider the Barceló Maya Palace, which shares many of the same amenities but also includes a kids club and pool with waterslides.
Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resort In Tulum: Unico 20° 87° Hotel Riviera Maya
Patio views at Unico 20° 87° Hotel Riviera Maya.
Courtesy of Unico 20° 87° Hotel Riviera Maya
Unico 20° 87° Hotel Riviera Maya
Who Will Love It: Travelers who want to balance indulgent perks with cultural experiences
All-Star Amenities: Personalized Local Host service, spa tub preparation
What Not to Miss: Mixology and cooking classes, plus live music and art demonstrations
Location: Just south of Xpu-Ha and Puerto Aventuras, this resort is a 30-minute drive away from Tulum
Unico 20° 87° goes beyond simply providing guests with an all-you-can-indulge experience: it brings the outside in. The resort’s design invokes the Yucatan’s pre-Hispanic and colonial past and there are more than 400 lavish guest rooms, most of which have ocean views and some of which boast semi-private swim-up pools. Every last detail of this resort feels luxurious and thoughtful, from the decorative textiles to the locally-sourced and always fresh ingredients in the five restaurants. Cueva Siete is especially unique, with a menu designed to tell the story of Mayan culture through authentic cuisine.
Alongside butler service, deliberately curated artwork, and signature excursions that deliver on authenticity, guests can enjoy the impeccable grounds, where you can choose to relax poolside and enjoy a drink from the swim-up bar, reserve a VIP cabana on the beach, or enjoy the spa’s hydrotherapy pools, hammam and steam rooms. If you struggle sleeping away from home, it may be worth it to splurge on a Pure Wellness room, which is specifically designed to maximize the quality of your sleep by purifying the air of irritants and providing a hypoallergenic mattress and deep cleaning service before you check-in.
Best Boutique All-Inclusive Resort In Tulum: Kore Tulum
Kore Tulum poolside accommodations.
Courtesy of Kore Tulum
Kore Tulum
Who Will Love It: Wellness-minded travelers who want to stay as close to Tulum as possible
All-Star Amenities: Oceanfront views, free bike rentals, on-property cenotes
What Not to Miss: Sign up for a spiritual sweat session during a traditional Temezcal ceremony on-property
Location: Smack-dab in the center of Tulum’s hotel zone, right on the beach road
It’s not easy to get an all-inclusive experience within Tulum’s hotel zone, which is why this 94-suite adults-only resort is the best of both worlds. Ideally positioned between the archaeological zone and the happening south side of the beach road, the property’s free bike rentals will help you save big on Tulum’s notoriously overcharging taxis. It’s the best of both worlds—more intimate than the other big resorts on the Riviera Maya and with way more perks and amenities than the other boutique hotels in Tulum. Consider it your all-inclusive oasis, where can enjoy the infinity pool, spa, gym, and nice bonuses like a cigar shop, games room, and library, without sacrificing on location.
Best All-Inclusive Resort For Couples In Tulum: Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an
Bahia Principe outdoor heated tub.
Courtesy of Bahia Principe
Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an
Who Will Love It: Nature-loving couples looking for an intimate boutique feel and an all-inclusive base for exploring nearby cenotes and shopping and dining in Tulum
All-Star Amenities: Hydrotherapy spa, exclusive off-site beach
What Not to Miss: Non-reciprocal access to other properties in the Bahia Principe complex
Location: South of Akumal, just 25 minutes driving from Tulum
When you’re traveling the Maya Riviera with your sweetheart, the contemporary jungle-embedded suites at the adults-only Bahia Principe Sian Ka’an is the perfect backdrop for romance. This all-inclusive is on the more affordable side of what you’ll find throughout the Tulum area, and it is set back a bit from the coast within the grander Bahia Principe complex, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The treetop balcony views from your apartment-like suite promise peace and privacy, and Sian Ka’an guests will have exclusive access to an off-site beach—just be aware that you will need the resort shuttle to get there.
Find quality time together by the resort’s three pools, where there is a bar serving light snacks and drinks. Your all-inclusive package grants you access to all of the restaurants in the greater Grand Bahia complex. The property is perfect for couples seeking a quieter resort atmosphere far away from the late night crowds and a home base perfect for exploring romantic adventures in Tulum and the surrounding cenotes.
Best All-Inclusive Resort For Families In Tulum: Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya
Grand Sirenis bedroom.
Courtesy of Grand Sirenis
Grand Sirenis Riviera Maya
Who Will Love It: Families with younger children
All-Star Amenities: Lazy River, colorful splash park, nature trails, kids cooking classes
What Not to Miss: The bonafide Mayan ruin on the beach may be small, but nonetheless fascinating
Location: Between Puerto Aventuras and Akumal, it’s a 35-minute drive to Tulum
If this isn’t your first time planning a family vacation, then you know it’s all about compromise. With plenty of options to keep kids busy, including a Kid’s Club, parents can relax and enjoy time to themselves as well as plan fun activities for the whole family. The Grand Sirenis Rivera Maya has everything and more, including the distinction of being one of the only resorts on the Maya Riviera where you have a real ruin right on the beach. Without going very far, you can inspire the kids and potentially whet their appetite for exploring more archaeological wonders either in Tulum or further inland on an excursion to Coba. If your family prefers to stay close to the resort, there are on-resort trails that wind through many different environments from jungles and wetlands to dunes and decorative gardens. But the biggest draw for all ages may just be the Lazy River, which adds a big dollop of carefree fun.
Best All-Inclusive Resort For Foodies In Tulum: Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa
Grand Palladium Riviera, México, Riviera Maya
Courtesy of Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa
Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Travelers who never want to eat at the same place twice, families with picky eaters in tow
All-Star Amenities: Six swimming pools, Zentropia Spa & Wellness Center; Kids’ Club
What Not to Miss: The flamboyant cooking displays at La Hacienda and Sumptuori restaurants
Location: Just north of Akumal and a 35-minute drive to Tulum
White Sands may be the second-smallest resort in the Grand Palladium Complex, but it has the most dining and drink options, with 21 bars, five buffets, and nine a-la-carte restaurants that specialize in cuisine from around the world. Your choices include everything from the steakhouse El Dorado to classic Mexican cuisine at La Adelita, American-style grilling at Ribs & More, teppanyaki shows and sushi at Sumptuori, Italian at Portofino, traditional Spanish tapas at La Lola, Thai food at the sophisticated Chang Thai, and the unmissable beachside dining experience at Poseidon—and those are just the a-la-carte options.
While most of the buffets offer standard fare, don’t miss a chance to try traditional Brazilian barbecue at Bahia E Brasa, where the meat is served rodizio style and brought right to your table. Guests will benefit from the wide amenities and activities available throughout the Grand Palladium Complex, which offers its own family-friendly activities like children’s entertainment and a babysitting service for one to three-year-olds. The resort has six pools to choose from that include a family pool and kids’ water park, as well as the more tranquil La Isla that sits just beside the center of activity at the main pool.
Best Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resort In Tulum: TRS Yucatan Akumal
TRS Yucatan Akumal beach club.
Courtesy of TRS Yucatan Akumal
TRS Yucatan Akumal
Who Will Love It: Luxury-minded travelers who want an exclusive experience within a large resort area, with the option to venture out
All-Star Amenities: Free pillow selection service; complimentary golf cart shuttle rides
What Not to Miss: The nightly six-course meal paired with live music and an acrobatic show at the Chic Cabaret
Location: Just north of Akumal, a 35-minute drive from Tulum
This adults-only resort is slightly set apart from the other resorts in the Grand Palladium Riviera Maya complex and its rooms are spacious and modern with cheeky touches only adults could appreciate, like soaking tubs located in the middle of the room. There are plenty of ways to splurge here to make a trip more special or romantic, such as opting for a furnished balcony or even a suite with an outdoor jacuzzi. Your all-inclusive stay includes airport transfers, dining at six a-la-carte restaurants, 24-hour room service, and access to the VIP area on the beach.
The grounds are blissful, decorated with native flora and fauna that bring to life the elegantly designed exteriors. If you like organized activities, the complex has plenty of fitness classes and entertainment, and there are facilities for everything from archery to tennis, plus two soccer fields, a basketball court, and a beach volley area. The Zentropia Palladium Spa is one of the best around, shared by the other sister resorts in the Grand Palladium Hotel Group complex, and your stay gives you exclusive access to the gym and hydrotherapy areas.
All-Inclusive Resort With The Best Pool In Tulum: Secrets Akumal
Pool at Secrets Akumal.
Courtesy of Secrets Akumal
Secrets Akumal
Who Will Love It: Lovey-dovey couples and travelers who like to stay close to the resort
All-Star Amenities: Preferred Club perks and private lounge, nightly entertainment at the theatre bar
What Not to Miss: Go for the upgrade and plan a memorable dinner on the beach with your sweetheart
Location: In the town of Akumal, it’s a 25-minute drive to Tulum
Even while taking in the views of the Yucatan’s soft and sugar-white sands, it’s okay to admit you’re a pool person. Salt and sand aren’t for everyone, which is why a stay at the Secrets Akumal could be for you. Boasting three large swimming pools, two outdoor hot tubs, and jacuzzi or plunge pools available in select rooms, this adults-only resort is built for soaking away stress on an all-inclusive vacation in Mexico.
From the wave-shaped infinity pool, you’ll have the best view of the beach and can order a drink without leaving the water from Manatees, the swim-up bar. The main pool is located just behind it, or head to the Lagoon Pool, which is more isolated, tucked away in a lush garden area within the resort grounds. The on-site Pevonia Spa ramps up the underground grotto vibes with a small soaking area surrounded by day beds and a cenote-inspired reflecting pool. For those looking to de-stress, the resort also has a pool complete with a hydrotherapy circuit, where you can melt the tension away with high-powered water jets.
Best Spa And Wellness Resort In Tulum: Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Bedroom view at Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa.
Courtesy of Dreams Resorts & Spas
Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
Who Will Love It: Hippies-at-heart; Parents who need a break; Travelers who want to stay close to Tulum
All-Star Amenities: Mayan-themed kids’ club and splash park with waterslides
What Not to Miss: End each night with a movie on the beach, projected on a big screen
Location: One of the closest all-inclusive resorts you can find, only a 15-minute drive away from Tulum
For wellness junkies, Tulum is a wonderland where you can heat things up in a Temezcal sweat lodge, join an ecstatic dance session, and sip and reflect among others during a cacao ceremony all on the same day. At the Dreams Tulum, the 13,000-square-foot spa is set in its own private jungle but also has treatment rooms on the beach. In addition to the traditional facials and massages you can get here, guests can peruse the spa’s pantry and select their treatment ingredients from a collection of local plants and herbs. Naturally, there is also a full-service salon, a hot tub, a hydrotherapy area, and a bar serving healthy beverages to help you rejuvenate. To get your reps in, visit the resort’s well-equipped fitness center to use the free weights or check out organized workouts that range from beach yoga and beach hiking to tennis and water aerobics.
Best Beachfront All-Inclusive Resort In Tulum: Catalonia Royal
Beachfront view at Catalonia Royal Tulum.
Courtesy of Catalonia Royal Tulum
Catalonia Royal
Who Will Love It: Nature lovers
All-Star Amenities: Disco bar, beachside service, daily activities
What Not to Miss: Upgrade to the Privileged category for access to the VIP beach area
Location: In Xpu-Ha, a 35-minute drive away from Tulum
From top to bottom, the Maya Riviera’s coastline is the stuff of dreams, and when it comes to finding the right beachfront for your all-inclusive resort vacation, privacy is king. At the adults-only Catalonia Royal in Xpu-Ha, you’ll have access to an intimate private beach only accessible by guests of the resort, which has fewer than 300 rooms. For many, the beach is the highlight, and although you’ll find many other guests lounging near the La Palapa Bar, you won’t see any traffic from other resorts. Of course, there’s no beating around the seaweed. As this is an ecological issue that affects all resorts in the area, you may see some here too, but the resort staff stays on top of clearing it out of the way.
When you’re not resting beneath the natural shade of a palm tree or swimming in the turquoise waters while looking back at the jungle-fringed shore, enjoy the spacious pool and outdoor jacuzzi or take a trip to the spa for a quick steam or sauna. The resort is smaller than you will find elsewhere on the Riviera Maya and you’ll have fewer dining options on-site, which is why it’s worth considering upgrading to the Privileged category. This not only includes larger rooms but also exclusive access to the B Loved Restaurant, where you’ll find the resort’s best dining option.
About Jamie Ditaranto, Your Tulum Guide
As a travel journalist with a passion for slow travel and language learning, I prefer to spend at least two months in each destination, a privilege that has allowed me to live in Mexico, Spain, Portugal, and Brazil. During my three-month stay in Tulum, I learned the city streets like the back of my hand, interviewed local restauranteurs and hoteliers, and frequently ventured out to discover nearby cities, cenotes, and ruins. I am familiar with the wide variety of resort and boutique hotel offerings on the Maya Riviera, as well as the many different styles of travelers who find themselves in Tulum.
With over eight years in travel media, I’ve personally reviewed and covered hotels, adventure, and travel trends for publications like Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and National Geographic. In 2023, my most recent work, as a co-author of two Lonely Planet guidebooks on Spain, will be published.
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