Moving to Tulum and becoming a Tulum digital nomad sounds like such an amazing idea and it is! Many people are choosing to do and it could definitely work. With its numerous blue beaches, plenty of cenotes and, of course, the sun that lasts through the year, why would it be a bad idea?
Obviously, moving to any place and starting fresh is not easy. However, do not let that fear stop you from becoming a Tulum digital nomad! Here is a simple easy to follow guide on when to move, where to stay, things to do and even, places to work from as a Tulum digital nomad.
When to move to Tulum?
Tulum gets A LOT of sun throughout the year. This means that the summer months are going to be extremely hot. Not to mention the humidity that come with being along the coastal side. There is also a high chance of rain here. The best time to visit Tulum would be November-March. So, in case you do want to witness the best parts of Tulum this would be the time for you. The days are not too hot and the evenings are beautiful, in terms of temperature, along with some cool breeze coming your way.
As expected, the off-season is pretty much the best time. Since the holidays are a busy time, visiting Tulum during December and January would mean traffic and lots more of traffic.
Ultimately there is a small window when it comes to visiting Tulum, unless you can bear the heat.
Areas of Tulum
When it comes to choosing a place to stay or live in Tulum, it comes down to choosing between two major areas. The first one would be the beach and the second one would be the town. La Playa is what the beach is called and Pueblo is the town.
This one is a no brainer, but if you like spending your time next to the sound of waves and the sand then the beach is the one for you. Inhabiting a space here would mean that you would be close to many bars and restaurants. However, the down side is when the traffic kicks in. The beach-side is not an easy place to walk around when its filled with travellers.
The town is where the locals are. This would imply that you are going to find pretty amazing, authentic Mexican food here. Imagine having the best tacos and quesadillas for lunch while you work. Ugh, the dream! It is also, generally, easier to stay here. Just because it is the town does not mean there are not enough bars or restaurants; there are many!
The best way to commute would be using a cycle a or bike. Traveling around with taxis can get pretty expensive.
Best places to live in Tulum as digital nomads
Apart from La Playa and Pueblo, there are a couple of other neighbourhoods that are up and coming in Tulum, especially for digital nomads.
Aldea Zama
Aldea Zama is a new neighbourhood in Tulum. It has many condos and apartments. It is located between the beaches and the downtown area. This means that you are halfway there to most things, allowing you to be involved in the city; a very convenient place to stay. Aldea Zama is also known to be a quiet place.
Does this not sound like the perfect place to be in?
Unfortunately, there is a downside to this. Since the neighbourhood is new and only developing still, there might construction going on around you. This could also potentially bring some noise in.
La Veleta
La Veleta is pretty much that “posh” neighbourhood. It has eateries, yoga studios and coworking spaces opening here. It is an ideal place to be as a Tulum digital nomad.
All that said, it is also more expensive to live here when compared to the other areas. La Veleta is closer to the downtown area and so, it is further away from the beaches. It would take an hour worth of bike ride to get to the beach from La Veleta.
Best places to stay as a Tulum digital nomad
Lum
Lum Hostel is situated just 5 km from Parque Nacional de Tulum and 0.2 miles away from the center of Tulum. Laguna Kaan Luum is within 5 minutes’ walk of Lum. Lum has dorms with AC, soft beds, individual power outlets, and ample of lockers. Each rooms is provided with a separate toilet which makes this an attractive option for stay for guests.There is a bar where the guests can socialize upto 11 pm. You can use a bike during your stay at Lum. Free WIFI is available for all guests. iQue Fresco and BABEL Cafe are situated around 425 feet from the venue.
Hostal Chalupa
Located within 10 minute drive from Tulum Archaeological Site, this accommodation is just 0.3 kms away from Naná Rooftop Bar, 0.4 kms away from Temple of Doom and 0.4 kms away from Casita Xaman. This hostel is located in 2 km from the centre. It offers 24 hour front desk assistance, guided tour service and housekeeping service. The national park “Parque Nacional de Tulum” is also just a 15-minute drive from the hostel. Free WiFi and climate control are featured in certain rooms. Breakfast is offered to all guests and the guests can also cook in a shared kitchen. Facility of car rental is also available.
Che Tulum
Located in centrally, in the heart centre of the town, this hostel is just 3 kms from the beach. It is ideally located from the bus station and has two supermarkets 2 blocks down. Bars and discos are in close proximity and so night life can be enjoyed.
With 24 hour reception service, you can ask for any information about the areas to visit. Rental bikes are available. The rooms are recently renovated and provides ample privacy for guests with charging points, air conditioning, Wifi, lockers, private bathrooms and restaurant.
You can also cook in the kitchen that is fully equipped or have delicious meals at CHE Parrilla y Panadería.
Mama’s Home
Conveniently situated in Mamas Home Calle Orión Sur, Tulum Centro Centro, Tulum in Tulum City-Centre district of Tulum, this hostel is only 2.1 km from Cenote Calavera. close to Mixik and about 4.1 km from Gran Cenote, this hostel provides free carpark, a storage room and a safe deposit. It offers various dining options like Naturalmente, Enso Sushi Hamburguesas Tacos & Mas and Suculenta which are only about a 5-minute walk. The rooms come with a work desk, a bay window and a safe. A hair dryer and bath sheets are provided for. A shared kitchen is available for guests who are interested to cook.
Selina Tulum
A hub for music and art lovers, rich in wellness and culture, this is one of the most popular spots in Tulum. Located on beach road, it offers a perfect balance between price and quality. Additional discounts are provided if the guests choose to stay long. Regular live music events from DJs and friends make this place very attractive to lodgers. Free Wifi, co-works facilities, swimming pool, Beach club, bike rentals are what make this place extremely attractive. This accommodation is pet friendly and also has a 24 hour reception and security. Spacious private rooms with an ocean view is perfect for digital nomads and explorers alike!
Hostel Oryx
A hostel that combines the wonder of Mexican Caribbean with the tranquillity of the jungle. Situated in the middle of 1500 square meters of Caribbean jungle, this hostel is just a few steps from downtown. This hostel is mainly attractive for the unforgettable experience it provides. A place to rest and relax but with the best fun and good vibes. Rooms are equipped with lockers, wi-fi, air conditioning and private bathroom and also offers 24-hour bilingual reception. Some of the main features include parking in front of the property, kitchen and dining room, co-working space and all located in the renovated building in the middle of a 1500 square meters of the Caribbean jungle.
Mimosa Tulum Boutique Hotel & Hostel
A boutique hotel modern, friendly, chic and cosy this accommodation offers a fresh coastal jungle vibe infused with traditional Mexican culture and a bit whimsical. At Mimosa guests can experience a secure Teepee sleeping experience which is equipped with a queen mattress and Air Conditioning. The hostels have 6 individual beds, each with individual closet, safety deposit box, curtain for privacy, USB port, electric socket, personal light, fan and air conditioning. Guests also have access to our beautiful turquoise pool and also to the simple cosy bar with sofa seating. A wonderful experience where guests can relax and read, grab a snack, order a drink and enjoy the breeze!
Tulum Banana Hostel
To experience magical village life, Tulum Banana Hostel is the perfect stay. This hostel has 5 spacious apartments with kitchen/dining room and large windows. The hostel has 3 shared mixed apartments, 1 shared apartment for women and 1 private apartment with TV. Each of the apartment is provided with equipped kitchen, A/C, ceiling fan, lockers, bathroom with hot water, comfortable mattresses and sockets for each bed. Banana Hostel is located in the heart of the town. It is just two blocks from the main avenue and the street of the most popular bars, 7 blocks from the bus station. The guests can enjoy Caribbean sun in the pool, share moments on the terrace with bar, or relax in the common areas.
Doña Lucha Tulum
Doña Lucha Tulum is a small hostel with two beautiful rooms which has around 8 beds (4 bunk beds) and every bed is equipped with reading light, USB connection and a curtain to make the space more private.
The room has also air conditioning and a fan. It also has a fully equipped kitchen for cooking.
This hostel has a bar, free WiFi and a garden. The property is located 2.7 km from Paraíso Beach, 2.9 km from Tulum Archeological Site and less than 1 km from Tulum Bus station. A continental breakfast is available daily at the accommodation.
Beehive Experience
Beehive Experience at Holistika Tulum offers a spiritual and integral experience to guests. Guests can experience living closely with nature along with enjoying physical and mental well-being provided by meditation, yoga and vegetarian food.
Located on the outskirts of Tulum, it is far from the noise and chaos of the city. It is ideally situated close to the main landmarks and tourist attractions of the city such as Parque Nacional Tulum. Rooms are considered as a hive in which you are your own queen / king. The rooms offer guests the strong peaceful vibrations, a cool terrace to relax, WiFi, air conditioning, nice shared services.
Co working spaces for a Tulum digital nomad
CoWorking Tulum
CoWorking Tulum is not just a coworking space. It is pretty much a community where members can work. There about 20 established spaced over the various neighbourhoods like Aldea Zama, La Veleta, the beach etc. This coworking space will come in handy for you especially when you are trying to just settle in. It is reputed to have a great Fiber Optic WiFi connection. They also have discount offers on food and drinks.
Coworking spaces are definitely a great way to meet people. The CoWorking Tulum community is great for just that! It is perfect for digital nomads and entrepreneurs who want to meet and network. CoWorking Tulum also organises many events and dinners which could help you network better.
You can try out CoWorking Tulum for free on Mondays with a free day pass and an invite to a CoDining experience. There are 7, 30, 90 day passes available.
Digital Jungle
Digital Jungle makes use of a unique concept. It is a jungle-themed building in which a coworking spot is set up. The space is decorated with lots of greenery, natural lighting, heigh ceilings and pretty much anything to make you feel like you are outdoors in the jungle. Comments mention how the design of the building is actually more impressive than the inside of the building.
Digital Jungle is also known for its super-fast internet services, which means you do not have to worry about ever getting cut off from your meetings. Along with the internet, the staff also offers some wholesome nibbles while you work, water, coffee and fruit.
There are multiple options for memberships at Digital Jungle. These would include an hour pass, day pass and of course, a pass for multiple days. There is also an option to take up a monthly membership so that you can have a desk of your own.
Los Amigos Cowork
Los Amigos is the newest co working space in Tulum. It is bright and airy. This space is made for you to relax and take your work at your own pace. It has high-speed internet, as well.
The concept behind Los Amigos is to promote sustainability. Anything that you can do to help the environment is welcome here. It is advised to bring your own mug or cup to have your coffee here. This could also bring you a sense of feeling that you are working in a space that is personal to you.
You can definitely get yourself daily, weekly and monthly passes. This would also include unlimited scanning along with a limited number of copies and prints that you can take. The monthly membership comes with more perks. It allows you to use the meeting room for about 7 hours. You can also rent private offices as a part of their membership.
BABEL café
Obviously, this is not entirely a coworking space. It is a café which welcomes and so is popular among digital nomads. The WiFi is great. Of course, the food is delicious. Their menu offers a range of food from sandwiches, bagels and pastries. Their menu of coffee is also great and is commented to be of high quality.
The best thing about this café is how they have played with indoor and outdoor spaces. You have seating available according to where you would like to work.
Cafes are, also, a great place to socialise and get to know the place better. So, if that is a side mission that you want to complete then cafes are the best place for you.
Also read: How To Make Friends As A Digital Nomad
Things to do in Tulum as a Tulum digital nomad
In those times when your laptop does not consume, there are plenty of things to do in Tulum for a Tulum digital nomad. If you love water activities, then you are in luck! And, in case you do not, there are still many things to do here.
In the case of water activities, what you could do are
Jump into cenotes in Tulum
There are plenty of cenotes in Tulum. A cenote is basically a pit formed naturally, which exposes groundwater. It resulted from the collapse of bedrock.
Cenote Cristal is one of the best cenotes in Tulum. It is also the closest one to Pueblo. However, it does not make sense to call one better than the other since each cenote is probably going to give you a different experience.
Scuba diving on the Tulum reef
Tulum is one of the best places in the world to scuba dive. This is all because of the wonderful cenotes and also the Mesoamerican reef. When scuba diving in Tulum, you can also experience cave diving in the underground flooded caverns and tunnels.
Laying around on the coast of the public beaches
Riviera Maya has a few less popular beaches that you can just laze around on if you do not particularly feel like getting into the water.
Floating about on the Mayan lagoons in Sian Ka’an
One of the coolest things you can do in Tulum is to have yourself in a life jacket and float down the old Mayan trade route in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.
Apart from the water activities, the other things that you can do as Tulum digital nomad are: