Tulum Nightlife: Guide to the Best Bars, Clubs, Parties & More
Looking for the best ways to enjoy the Tulum nightlife scene?
Tulum has quickly become one of the hottest party destinations in Mexico. With its gorgeous beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and lively mix of locals and travelers, Tulum nightlife promises an exciting scene.
This guide will highlight the best bars, clubs, restaurants, and nightlife activities in Tulum to help you plan a truly unforgettable night out.
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- Use booking.com for accommodations
- My favorite travel insurance is SafetyWing
- Find great tours and activities on Viator
Tulum Nightlife: Where to Drink, Dance, Eat & Explore
Whether you’re looking for the best bars, clubs, restaurants or activities this guide will show you exactly where to enjoy that Tulum nightlife.
Best Bars in Tulum
Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar
With its festive Latin music and energetic atmosphere, Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is a lively spot perfect for groups of friends looking to kick off an evening out.
Their famous two-for-one mojito happy hour, from 5-7pm, draws in both budget-conscious travelers and cocktail lovers looking o take advantage of sunset specials before hitting the town.
Casa Jaguar
While mezcal and Oaxaca go hand in hand, for mezcal aficionados in Tulum Casa Jaguar is a must-visit thanks to their exhaustive collection of fine Mexican spirit. Lit by candles and string lights, the jungle ambiance also makes it a wonderful bar for couples seeking a romantic mezcal tasting before dinner.
Go later on weekends, after 12AM when they bring in DJs, if you want to sample mezcals while dancing the night away.
La Zebra
Fashionable jet-setters flock to the bar at Hotel La Zebra for its upscale yet tropical vibe. Grab a signature cocktail and relax on one of the chic cabana beds. Or, take a dip in the swim-up bar overlooking the beach to take in a perfect sunset.
Insiders know to arrive around 6pm for both people watching and taking in the colors over the sea.
Papaya Playa Project
Younger crowds ready to party with drinks in hand will adore Papaya Playa Project’s lively bars, especially the swim-up bar built right into the infinity pool.
Arrive on a full moon Saturday when they host all-night beach bonfires and DJ parties perfect for mingling, dancing and even taking a midnight dip.
Los Amigos
For an authentic and lively locals scene without high drink prices, Los Amigos is the place. Take advantage of tacos and drink specials earlier in the evening, around 8 or 9pm, then stay for live music performances kicking the energy up a notch around 11pm on select nights.
It’s perfect for solo travelers looking to meet others and have a low-key fun night out.
El Tabanco
Offering over 100 tequila varieties, El Tabanco is ideal for tequila aficionados looking to sample fine aged spirits.
Their sunset happy hour from 5-7pm draws in patrons ready to take advantage of half-priced margaritas before staying for live music later on.
La Eufemia
For beachside cocktails and Mediterranean tapas plates, La Eufemia is perfect around 6pm before the crowds arrive.
Their chill ambiance and ocean views are ideal for low-key couples’ nights, with acoustic music picking up pace on weekends around 10pm.
El Calamar
El Calamar’s seaside perch makes it great for post-beach sunset drinks starting around 6:30pm. People watch while enjoying 2-for-1 mojitos and craft cocktails.
Later at night on weekends, El Calamar transforms into a nightclub so arrive earlier to experience it as a laid-back bar.
La Barracuda Cantina
Kitschy decor and rock music create a high-energy party vibe at La Barracuda Cantina.
It doesn’t get busy until after midnight, so go late and come ready to stay a while if you want to experience this bar at its liveliest. People often dance on the tables late into the night on weekends.
Batey Limones
Specializing in artisanal limoncello, Batey Limones lets you sample citrusy homemade liqueurs rarely found elsewhere.
Go post-dinner from 10pm-midnight to try limoncello cocktails and relax in their cozy lounge areas. The chilled out atmosphere makes it great for low-key conversations.
Best Clubs for Tulum Nightlife
Rosa Negra
With dazzling LED lights and world-class DJs, Rosa Negra is one of Tulum’s most high-energy nightclubs. Go late night on weekends when this two-story club is at its liveliest.
The mix of disco, funk, and electronic music will keep you dancing all night. It’s popular for bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Blue Venado
For an underground, casa-style club, check out Blue Venado, located in the jungle just outside central Tulum.
Local DJs play reggaeton, salsa, merengue, and Latin beats while patrons let loose and dance into the morning hours. Good for meeting locals. Go very late, arriving around 2-3AM.
La Cueva
Nestled amid natural limestone caves, La Cueva provides a uniquely ambient setting for late night dancing.
Neon lights illuminate the underground cave dance floors. Come very late night or early morning, especially on Sundays for the reopening party that starts at 5AM!
Panchakarma
With aerialists, fire dancers, and circus performers, Panchakarma offers a colorful, acrobatic club experience near the beaches of Tulum.
House and trance music thump while partiers dance and take in the surroundings. Best on Friday and Saturday nights when performances go until dawn.
Clubzama
Deep in the Tulum jungle, Clubzama’s lengthy wooden pier leads you to a lively open-air dance floor surrounded by lush vegetation.
Clubzama plays mostly electronic and house music until the early morning hours, and is a good spot for late night after parties following time at the beach clubs.
Gitano
Famous for its mezcal cocktails and ‘Jungle room,’ Gitano is the place to see and be seen with its lavish decor and world-class DJs spinning techno and house tracks.
Bottle service is a must for VIP treatment. Go late and dress to impress at this upscale club. Sundays feature vibrant beach parties perfect for mingling with jet setters and models.
Papaya Playa Project
On Saturday nights, Papaya Playa Project transforms into a lively beachfront nightclub where resident and guest DJs play electronic, house and reggaeton for a stylish crowd.
Go after midnight to dance in the sand under string lights. The tropical beach vibe makes it popular with vacationers and bachelor/bachelorette groups.
Best Tulum Restaurants
Hartwood
Foodies and couples seeking a romantic dinner should visit Hartwood for its rustic Yucatan cuisine crafted from local ingredients over an open fire.
Reserve well in advance and arrive just before sunset, around 6:30pm, to experience Hartwood at its finest: when vibrant flavors and the jungle setting come alive.
Posada Margherita
Posada Margherita’s beachfront Italian fare and candlelit tables make it perfect for a couples’ date night.
Come for sunset around 6pm to catch the views, then linger over wine and Tulum’s famous seafood pasta dishes. End the evening watching the beachfront fire dancing show which starts around 9pm.
El Asadero Steakhouse
Carnivores and big groups should spend an evening at El Asadero, a Brazilian rodizio barbecue spot with ample portions of grilled meats sliced tableside.
Arrive hungry at around 8pm and pace yourself through the endless parade of skewers until you’re satiated. The lively atmosphere is best on weekends.
The Traveler’s Table
Celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique experience? Book a seat at the traveler’s table and indulge in a 5-course gourmet experience complete with cocktails and wine pairing.
La Popular
After a night out, La Popular stays open until 4am on weekends, making it the go-to spot for revelers to grab authentic Mexican street food and mezcal.
The simple tacos and elote hit the spot late at night, especially when you want fast casual grub before heading back to your hotel at 2am.
El Camello Jr.
Another top late-night option, El Camello Jr serves massive burritos and comfort food for those looking to soak up the night’s drinks.
Head here post-partying at around 1 or 2am when you’re craving big portions of quintessential Mexican staples in a casual open-air setting. They serve up delicious food until dawn.
Arca
Led by an acclaimed local chef, Arca serves innovative takes on traditional Yucatan cuisine. Foodies should visit to try the tasting menu featuring unique ingredients.
Make reservations for 8:30 or 9pm to experience the creative dishes as the chef intended. Sit at the chef’s counter to watch the artful preparations.
Cetli
Offering a gourmet twist on Mexican street food in a relaxed bistro setting, Cetli is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Go midday or around sunset between 6-7pm to try tacos, quesadillas and other upscale handheld bites on the patio. The vibe and flavors work well for low-key dates.
Mesa Holistika
Vegetarians and vegans flock to plant-based Mesa Holistika for their fresh, organic meatless fare.
Stop in for the lunch specials between 12-3pm or a leisurely dinner around 7pm to enjoy seafood-centric dishes like ceviche and “fish” tacos on the garden patio.
La Gloria del Pez
For just-caught local seafood, check out beachfront La Gloria del Pez. They excel at grilled whole fish, ceviche, and aguachiles.
Early birds should arrive just before 6pm to watch the sunset while enjoying ocean-to-table specialties. Reservations are key.
El Tabano
Tucked behind a small grocery store, local favorite El Tabano is the place for excellent cheap eats morning, noon and night.
Grab a homestyle breakfast from 8-10am, or come for the daily lunch specials served 12-3pm for unbeatable specials on Yucatan classics.
Top Tulum Nightlife Activities
Pub Crawl
A Tulum pub crawl offers the perfect night out for solo travelers, backpackers, or those simply looking to make new friends while experiencing the best of Tulum’s nightlife scene.
Knowledgeable guides hit up 3-4 of Tulum’s top bars and clubs, securing drink deals and party bus transportation so you can simply enjoy the ride.
Crawls typically run from 9pm-2am giving you primetime access to venues like Batey, Papaya Playa Project, Casa Jaguar and more. You’ll have a blast partying with your newly acquainted pub crawl crew.
Art With Me Events
During the weeklong Art With Me festival each high season, music lovers flock to Tulum for concerts, DJ sets, and lively parties. Infused with art, lights and performances from world-class DJs and musicians the parties take place beachside as well as in jungle venues.
Come ready to dance and mingle with festival goers and artists. Time your Tulum trip for late January when this lively festival is in full swing.
Full Moon Party at Papaya Playa Project
On each full moon, Papaya Playa Project fills with revelers ready to dance the night away at their iconic beach bonfire party.
Arrive around 9pm to secure a spot under the moonlight and stay late into the night joining circles of new friends drumming and swaying to music. It’s a magical experience for couples, groups and solo travelers alike.
Tortugranja Sea Turtle Release
Nature lovers and families should visit Tortugranja for their special full moon sea turtle release events.
Watch in awe as baby turtles make their journey to the sea, then stick around for live music and dancing in the sand into the night. Time your Tulum trip with the lunar calendar to catch this moving experience.
Mezcal Tasting at Casa Jaguar
For a deeper dive into Mexican spirits, Casa Jaguar offers enlightening mezcal tastings and classes Tuesday through Saturday evenings.
From 7-9pm, sip an agave elixir while learning all about its distillation process and characteristics. It’s the perfect primer before hitting Tulum’s bars and clubs.
Salsa Night at Batey
From beginners to advanced dancers, salsa lovers flock to Batey on Saturday nights for their lively salsa program starting at 11pm. Lessons from skilled instructors will get you started on your footwork before an authentic Cuban band kicks it into high gear.
Stick around to put your new moves into action and dance the night away.
Reggae Sunday at La Zebra
One of Tulum’s best day parties, Reggae Sunday at La Zebra Beach Club fills with laid-back revelers soaking up sunshine, ice-cold Red Stripes and the sounds of live reggae.
Arrive right at noon when it opens to secure beach chairs or hammocks, then stay swaying and mingling for hours under the palms.
Aside from top-notch reggae bands, highlights include beach volleyball, jerk chicken fresh off the grill and flowing mojitos from the swim-up bar.
Top Tips for Enjoying Tulum Nightlife
- Bring plenty of cash for your night out, since many venues do not accept credit cards. Have pesos ready for club covers, drinks, late night street food and the taxi ride back to your hotel.
- Join Tulum’s nightly pub crawl if you’re traveling in Yucatan on a budget, or want to meet fellow travelers while bar hopping. Stops include popular spots like Batey and Papaya Playa Project with drink specials and party bus transportation—all for one affordable price. Crawls run from 9pm-2am.
- Tropical cocktails taste incredible but can pack a punch, especially in the Caribbean heat. Alternate drinks with water and be mindful of your alcohol intake to avoid overdoing it.
- Negotiate cab fares up front before hopping into taxis at night. Rideshares are not readily available, so use registered taxi stands for a safe ride.
- For Tulum’s upscale clubs, dress nicely and leave the beachwear behind.
- Avoid isolated beaches and poorly lit backstreets at night. To stay safe, go out as a group and stick to central areas with crowds after dark.
- Keep a close eye on drinks in clubs and do not accept anything from strangers to avoid the risk of spiked drinks. Always get your own drinks directly from the bar.
- Only bring essentials, like cash and ID, when going out. Keep valuables in your hotel safe to avoid pickpockets in crowded nightlife areas. This Mexico packing guide has you covered on all the important security items that you need to bring with you.
- Make sure to stay hydrated in the heat and humidity, by drinking water between alcoholic beverages. Know your limits and don’t overdo it.
Where to Stay in Tulum
With its rapidly growing popularity, Tulum offers a wide range of places to stay to fit any budget or style. Many opt to stay in Tulum itself, while others prefer accommodation in Cancun. Driving from Cancun to Tulum takes about 2 hours, so staying in Cancun is feasible for some nightlife goers.
Budget: Coco Tulum Beach Club Hotel
For budget-focused travelers, Coco Tulum Beach Club Hotel is a reliable choice with its simple yet charming beachfront cabaña lodging and hammocks overlooking the ocean, all at affordable rates starting around $50 per night.
🏨 Click here to book with Coco Tulum Beach Club Hotel
Mid-range: Ahau Tulum
In the mid-range category, Ahau Tulum balances comfort with value at around $150-200 per night; its contemporary rooms, lovely pools, and beachfront location keep guests coming back.
🏨 Click here to book your stay at Ahau Tulum
Luxury: Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort
For travelers seeking luxury, Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort is a premier 5-star option with beachfront villas featuring private pools, top-notch dining, and indulgent spa services with nightly rates averaging $800 and above.
🏨 Click to stay at Be Tulum Beach & Spa Resort
Tulum Nightlife FAQ
Below are some of the most commonly-asked questions about Tulum nightlife:
Does Tulum have good nightlife?
Yes, Tulum has developed an excellent nightlife scene with trendy beach clubs, bars, and late night venues. The mix of chic hotels and a lively local scene make it a great after dark destination.
Where is the party zone in Tulum?
Much of Tulum’s nightlife is concentrated along the main strip running parallel with the beach. Places like Gitano, Casa Jaguar, Batey and Papaya Playa Project are located right on this main road.
Is Tulum a party destination?
It’s quickly become one! With world class DJs and beach parties, Tulum now rivals more established party spots like Cancun. It’s especially lively during the high season.
Is it expensive to party in Tulum?
Drinks and clubs can be pricey, especially for high-end spots. But there are also plenty of beach bars and local venues with budget friendly prices to suit different budgets.
Is Cancun or Tulum better for nightlife?
Cancun has bigger, more crowded nightclubs attracting world famous DJs. But Tulum’s nightlife is more intimate and laid-back with a bohemian vibe. It depends on what kind of scene you prefer.
Final Thoughts: Tulum Nightlife
With its laid-back yet lively vibe and gorgeous mix of jungle and beach settings, Tulum’s nightlife scene offers some of the best partying in the Riviera Maya region.
Sip mojitos on the sand or dance the night away under the stars at one of Tulum’s uber-trendy clubs.
This guide just highlights the many after-dark options in this coastal hotspot. Tulum provides the perfect blend of natural beauty, ancient wonder and festive fun. Be sure to also read up on this Yucatan travel guide for tips on taking in Tulum’s natural beauty and fascinating Mayan history during daylight hours.
Author bio: Billy is a deaf travel blogger from Birmingham, UK. Through his blog BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, Billy dismantles the myth that travel is too expensive, and that you can still enjoy hidden gems even in popular tourist destinations.
