Tulum Nightlife Guide 2023

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Tulum Nightlife Guide: 15 Best Bars, Dance Clubs and Parties

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Tulum Nightlife Guide

During the day, Tulum’s stunning white-sand beaches and majestic cenotes are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Is Tulum Safe? Tulum Nightlife: Nana Rooftop Bar
Tulum Nightlife: Nana Rooftop Bar

Once the sun sets on this vibrant small town along Mexico’s coastline, its nightlife scene comes alive with chic bars and restaurants offering some of the best drinks around. 

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Tulum bar and party areas 

Tulum nightlife has two unique areas 

The bustling town of Tulum Pueblo,” typically just referred to as Tulum Town, lies right on the road from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Here you can find plenty of inexpensive restaurants and lodging options. You can also start your exploration of Tulum Pueblo’s budget-friendly bar scene. 

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Tulum Beach Zone is now another story. Home to many luxury boutique hotels, each offering access to its own private beach club. But if you’re looking for something more lively, head over to one of the countless jungle-side bars and restaurants for great drinks and wild jungle parties! 

With a refreshing tropical beer or a cocktail in hand, nibble on some savory tapas while swaying to salsa dancing rhythms or thumping EDM house music beats. Tulum’s rustic chic establishments are just simply perfect for any occasion!

Tips for Going Out in Tulum

  • Plan: If you’re looking for a night out in Tulum, you need to know what the best place to be on any day of the week is. Monday nights are usually relatively low-key. However, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are always busy at Battey Mojito & Guarapo Bar and Casa Jaguar, where they host wild…and thunderous jungle parties every Tuesday night! Similarly, Friday nights head to Gitano; it’s the perfect spot to start or end your weekend alone or with friends.

  • Paying in Cash: When going out in Tulum, always bring cash. Most bars won’t accept your credit cards, and if they do, you may have to pay an extra 3% surcharge for it. By bringing pesos instead of your US dollars, you can also get a better exchange rate, so it’s worth taking the time to convert some money before heading out to enjoy Tulum nightlife.

  • Tipping: Want to ensure the best service? Tipping is a common practice, and 10-15 percent of your total bill should be more than sufficient. If you notice the word “propina” on your receipt, then an additional charge for tipping has already been applied; in this case, it’s appropriate to add more money up until you reach 10-15% of the total amount. Mexican pesos are always most suitable when leaving gratuity!

  • Dress Code: Choose casual yet stylish clothing when going out in Tulum. Bohemian chic is the go-to fashion trend in Tulum’s nightlife. So leave your high heels back at home, as these terrains are tricky for stilettos, and opt for something comfortable but still looking great. It’s important to note that beachwear isn’t appropriate attire either!

  • Bug Repellant: Before you head out to outdoor locations, especially those near Tulum Beach, don’t forget to give yourself a good old spritz of bug repellant! You’ll want an extra bottle on hand for when you need to reapply…and you will need to reapply.

Best Bars and Night Clubs in Tulum  

Tulum Nightlife Batey Mojito Guarapo Bar, Mexico
Tulum Nightlife: Batey Mojito Guarapo Bar

1. Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar

– Town Center (Pueblo)

Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is a popular bar and nightclub in Tulum’s Pueblo that is known for its live music and DJs, as well as its tropical garden setting and outdoor bar.

The venue’s live bands and DJ sets start around 9 pm. Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is known for its delicious mojitos and guarapos (sugarcane juice cocktails), as well as its Mexican-inspired tapas menu. 

It can get very crowded, especially on weekends …much like every other place on Tulum… and Tuesday and Wednesday nights, so it’s a good idea to arrive early or make a reservation if possible.

Tulum Nightlife: Nana Rooftop Bar
Tulum Nightlife: Nana Rooftop Bar

2. Nana Rooftop Bar

– Town Center (Pueblo)

Nana Rooftop Bar Tulum is a popular rooftop bar and lounge located in the town center of Tulum. 

The venue is known for its chic, bohemian atmosphere and beautiful views of the jungle and the Caribbean Sea. 

Nana Rooftop Bar serves a range of cocktails and beers, as well as Mexican-inspired tapas and small plates. 

Tulum Nightlife: Gitano Bar and Club
Tulum Nightlife: Gitano Bar and Club

3. Gitano beach club

– Beach Zone

Are you a mezcal fan? For a night to remember, there’s no better place than Gitano beach club, located in the Tulum Beach Zone. 

Here you can find an alluring mezcal bar hidden in the back that hosts live DJ nights performing Friday from 11 pm, spinning tracks that keep your feet moving until sunrise beneath the lush jungle canopy! 

On Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, Gitano beach club hosts exciting early evening performances by some excellent local bands.

Todo santos bar Casa Jaguar
Todo santos bar Casa Jaguar

4. Casa Jaguar

– Beach Zone 

Casa Jaguar is the perfect spot for a unique and exciting dining and drinking experience! With an open-air jungle setting, you can enjoy delicious meals during the day and lively parties at night. 

Every Thursday evening Casa Jaguar hosts wild jungle parties on their back terrace beach club with international DJs playing EDM tracks from 11:00 pm until late in the night. 

If that’s not enough, they also have midweek Jungle Parties every Tuesday as well as some on Saturdays – so don’t miss out on your chance to unleash your inner animal!

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5. Papaya Playa Project

– Beach Zone

When the sun sets, the sustainable boutique hotel of Papaya Playa Project takes on a new and different life—it transforms into an authentic Tulum nightclub! 

Every Saturday night Papaya Playa Project (or PPP for the locals) beach club is incredibly vibrant, but it’s during the notorious monthly Full Moon Parties that locals know they’re in for something special. 

World-famous DJs take over and keep everyone grooving until 3 or 4 a.m. Be prepared to pay around $25 for cover charges!

The largest celebrations at Papaya Playa Project ramp up during New Year’s Eve in the beach club. Make sure you purchase tickets beforehand and arrive early!

6. La Zebra Hotel

– Beach Zone

Are you tired of simply shuffling around the dance floor? Shake up your weekend with La Zebra Hotel’s free, family-friendly salsa party

Every Sunday in La Zebra Hotel, from 6:30 to 7:30 pm, you can receive complimentary lessons from experts.

The fun doesn’t stop there, though – after learning how to cha-cha like a pro, make sure to stick around for 3 hours of blissful dancing led by a live band. 

To top it all off, come thirsty and sample their signature cocktails served at both the main beach bar and beach bar, The Mulberry Project – no admission fee required! La Zebra Hotel is located in the hotel zone on the beach.

Tulum Nightlife: Kiki Dance Club
Tulum Nightlife: Kiki Dance Club

7. Kiki

– Town Center (Pueblo)

Kiki is the one and only true nightclub in Tulum city, attracting a young crowd who don’t start getting down to party until 1 or 2 am. The mix of locals, expats, and travelers makes for a fantastic atmosphere with strong drinks and great local and international DJs! 

Open from Wednesdays through Saturdays (check their Facebook page for updates), Kiki’s unbeatable offers include no cover charge usually plus two-for-one cocktails between midnight till 2 am – it’s truly unmissable!

Santino Bar and Club
Santino Bar and Club

8. Santino Bar & Night Club

– Town Center (Pueblo)

As the heart of Tulum’s main street, Santino Bar is THE spot for locals to assemble and have a good time. 

Greeting you with its straw-lined roof, this restaurant and bar radiates an inviting atmosphere that Reggaeton music devotees will love. 

Live bands keep the dancefloor buzzing night after night while fire dancers bring a dazzling element to light up your evening!

Friendly Tip: Free drinks for the Ladies from 21:00 to 22:00.

Kin Toh Bar
Kin Toh Bar

9. Kin Toh

– Beach Zone

Kin Toh is renowned for its innovative bar design. Offering scenic outdoor “nest” seating and indoor tables surrounded by hanging catamaran nets, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste! 

Sip on carefully crafted cocktails while you tantalize your taste buds with unique dishes from our main restaurant – some love it, others don’t.

To guarantee a spot for sunsets or groups, reservations are recommended but not necessary if you’re visiting as a couple or solo traveler. 

I Scream Bar Tulum
I Scream Bar Tulum

10. I Scream Bar

– Beach Zone

I was looking for a unique way to differentiate from the multitude of Tulum’s bars and nightclubs? Look no further than the I Scream beach club. 

Not only is it an eco-friendly vegan ice cream shop, but its sustainability mission permeates beyond the menu into its aesthetic as well! 

As you step in, you’ll be surrounded by recycled materials like old car doors, windshields, and tires, which have been repurposed to form part of its decor.

Pasito Bar Tulum
Pasito Bar Tulum

11. Pasito Tun Tun

– Town Center (Pueblo)

Pasito Tun Tun stands out from the rest as many locals and tourists flock to this beloved bar in the Pueblo. 

It offers an unforgettable atmosphere for hot summer nights, especially with its spacious outdoor back garden seating area.

Get cozy with signature Mezcal cocktails as you anticipate the night’s upcoming performances from local bands and DJs. 

Artist sets usually don’t start until after 10 pm, so there is plenty of time to get in some drinks and snacks before the festivities commence!

Mezzanine Bar Tulum
Mezzanine Bar Tulum

12. Mezzanine Bar

– Beach Zone

Away from the hustle and bustle of popular tourist spots, Mezzanine Bar is an excellent option for travelers looking to enjoy some peace. 

But it’s not just their stunning seaside views that make this place so attractive – they also have some mouth-watering Thai food!  

Don’t forget about Happy Hour either; here, you’ll get two margaritas for the price of one! With so much on offer, there’s something everyone will love at Mezzanine Bar.

Mur Mur Bar Tulum Nightlife
Mur Mur Bar Tulum Nightlife

13. Mur Mur

– Beach Zone

Mur Mur is widely acclaimed for their restaurant that offers delicious Baja-inspired Mexican cuisine. 

However, tucked away within the walls of this establishment lies one of Tulum’s best-kept secrets – an elegant and romantic bar with a tantalizing menu of creative drinks. 

From fresh fruits to smoky mezcal and housemade herbal syrups, each sip will leave you wanting more! 

Bars and Club scene in Tulum

The bar scene in Tulum is known for its laid-back, bohemian vibe and atmosphere and focuses on mainly outdoor venues. 

There are several bars and beach clubs along the Tulum beach road, as well as in the town center, that are popular with tourists and locals alike. Many of these bars feature live bands and local and international DJs, as well as a range of cocktails and local beers.

The nightlife scene in Tulum tends to be quite seasonal, with some venues only open during peak tourist season (typically December to April). So it’s a good idea to check ahead of time to see what’s open and when.

Here is also our guide for:

Tulum Bar and Nightlife Tips

  1. Dress comfortably: The weather in Tulum can be hot and humid, so it’s a good idea to wear lightweight, comfortable clothes.

  2. Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water, especially if you’ll be out late and drinking alcohol.

  3. Plan ahead: Many of the bars and clubs in Tulum can get quite crowded, especially on weekends. It’s a good idea to make a reservation or arrive early to avoid long waits.

  4. Get a ride: Tulum can be relatively spread out, and it’s not always easy to get around on foot or bike especially at night. Consider getting a ride with a taxi, stay safe and avoid walking long distances in the dark.

  5. Stay safe: Be aware of your surroundings: As with any destination, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions when out at night.

  6. Respect local customs and laws: It’s essential to be respectful of local customs and laws. This includes respecting noise levels and not disturbing neighbors late at night.

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☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen: Remember to include a good sunscreen to protect yourself from the summer sun. I always use and suggest Sun Bum Sunscreen, which is vegan, reef-friendly, and cruelty-free.

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

The party scene in Tulum and Cancun can be quite different, as they cater to different types of travelers. 

Tulum is known for its laid-back, bohemian atmosphere, with a focus on outdoor gyms, bars and beach clubs, live bands, and yoga retreats. The party scene in Tulum tends to be more low-key and relaxed and attracts a more mature and older crowd.

Cancun, on the other hand, is known for its vibrant nightlife and party scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The party scene in Cancun is more geared towards tourists and tends to be more energetic and lively, with a mix of local and international DJs, live bands, and themed parties. Cancun attracts a younger, more diverse crowd and is known for its spring break parties and all-inclusive resorts.

Ultimately, which destination has a better party scene will depend on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a vacation.

The exact party scene can also vary from one week to the next, as new events and parties are constantly being organized. 

That being said, here are a few spots that are known for their nightlife and tend to be popular with tourists and locals alike:

Monday: Many bars and clubs in Tulum are closed on Mondays or have more low-key events.

Tuesday: Casa Jaguar hosts wild jungle parties and Battey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is also popular.

Wednesday: Battey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is the place to be.

Thursday Night: Many bars and clubs in Tulum have live music and DJ sets on Thursdays, including Gitano Jungle Tulum and Nomade Tulum.

Friday: Gitano Jungle Tulum is known for its Friday night parties, with live music and DJs.

Saturday: There are a number of bars and nightclubs in Tulum that have live music and DJs on Saturday nights, including Gitano Tulum and Nomade Tulum.

Sunday: Sunday nights tend to be quieter in Tulum, with some bars and clubs hosting more low-key events.

It’s worth noting that the party scene in Tulum can be quite unpredictable and can vary from one week to the next. It’s a good idea to check with local sources or with the venue itself to see what events are happening on a particular night.

Here are a few suggestions for things to do at night in Tulum:

  1. Head to one of the beach clubs or bars along the beach road for a drink and some live music.
  2. Check out the dance clubs and bars in the town center, which tend to be a bit more lively and cater to a younger crowd.
  3. Join a tour and visit one of the Cenotes (natural swimming holes) for a night swim.
  4. Go out for dinner at one of the many restaurants in Tulum, which often have live music or other entertainment in the evenings.

No Tulum doesn’t have an airport. The closest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport. It’s the most convenient and cheap airport near Tulum. 

Its a 1 hour 45 minute taxi ride from Cancun to Tulum.

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