How to SAVE MONEY in TULUM, Mexico! The BEST Tips to Enjoy Without Breaking the Bank 😎

🌴Tulum, a tropical paradise in the Riviera Maya, is the dream destination for many tourists: crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, Mayan ruins, and even a vibrant nightlife. But did you know that you might be spending more than necessary? While it’s true that Tulum has an exclusive, luxurious vibe, you don’t have to empty your bank account to enjoy it to the fullest. In this blog, we reveal the best-kept secrets for saving money and enjoying this beautiful destination without feeling like you're going broke.

Tulum Tiktok lounge - perfectly located 1 bedroom apartment, ideal for content creators 


1. Transportation in Tulum: How to Save and Move Around Without Problems? 

Tulum is a unique destination, but it also presents several challenges when it comes to transportation. From the high prices of taxis to parking issues, getting around the city can be tricky if you don’t know how to navigate. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about transportation in Tulum, from the feared "taxi cartel" to the best alternative for exploring the city: the scooter! We'll also talk about why renting a car isn’t the most convenient option to enjoy Tulum to the fullest.


Tulum Jacuzzi Retreat - romantic apartment with 2 pools, gym, coworking, and laundry

The Taxi Cartel in Tulum: Avoid the Issues 

One of the biggest headaches for tourists in Tulum is the taxi cartel. While taxis are a common way to get around the city, the prices can be outrageous, and sometimes the drivers aren't clear about the rates, which can make for a very frustrating experience for those unfamiliar with the area. Here are some key points about the taxi situation in Tulum:
 

Inflated Prices and Lack of Meters Taxis in Tulum don’t use meters, which leaves room for abuse and inflated rates. Often, drivers can charge much higher prices than what a trip would normally cost, especially if you’re a tourist and don’t know the local fares. A short trip within the city could cost you 20 - 60 USD which is excessive for such short distances. Additionally, if you need a taxi from more touristy areas like the hotel zone, the fares can be even higher.  Unfortunately there is no UBER or similar services available. 


Solution: Avoid Taxis To avoid these kinds of issues, it’s highly recommended to avoid taxis in Tulum whenever possible. There are much more affordable and convenient options that allow you to move around the city without worries. Let’s talk about them now!

The Reality of Tulum’s Streets: Why Renting a Car Isn't Recommended 

Although renting a car may sound appealing at first, it’s not the most practical option for getting around Tulum due to several important factors. Here’s why renting a car in this destination isn’t ideal. 

Small and Congested Streets Tulum is a city that, despite its popularity, still has relatively small infrastructure, especially near the town center and the beach. The streets are narrow and cramped, which makes traffic challenging, particularly during rush hours or high season. If you decide to rent a car, you’ll likely find yourself stuck in uncomfortable traffic, which can be a stressful experience.
 

Lack of Parking Spaces One of the biggest issues with renting a car in Tulum is the lack of parking spaces. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the city doesn’t have enough available parking, especially near the beaches or in the busiest areas. Parking in the hotel zone and downtown is limited, and if you can’t find a spot, you’ll have to pay additional fees for private parking. This inconvenience can ruin your experience, as you’ll constantly be looking for a place to park your car.

 

Fines and Towing for Illegal Parking Local authorities have started imposing fines and towing vehicles that are parked illegally, especially in the more touristy areas. It’s not uncommon to see improperly parked cars being taken by the police or tow trucks, causing additional expenses and frustration. If you want to avoid dealing with these problems, renting a car isn’t the best option.

The Best Alternative: Rent a Scooter or ATV in Tulum

If you want to move efficiently and economically around Tulum, the best option is undoubtedly to rent a scooter. Scooters are very popular among locals and tourists, and here’s why it’s the ideal option: 

Affordable Price and Flexibility Renting a scooter in Tulum is much cheaper than renting a taxi or even a car. To have the best deal and more information contact us.

Access to Inaccessible Areas Tulum has a large number of fields and small roads, especially near the ruins, beaches, and jungle, where a car can’t easily access. Scooters, on the other hand, allow you to quickly reach these areas without space issues. Plus, you can park much easier wherever there’s space, something that’s much harder if you’re driving a car. 

Avoid the Tourist Crowds The scooter also allows you to move off the main routes, avoiding the large crowds that gather near the hotel zone or at the more popular tourist attractions. This makes your experience much more peaceful and enjoyable, without fighting for a taxi or waiting for long public transportation lines.

2. The Best-Kept Secret: Local Food vs. Tourist Restaurants 

What happens when you look for luxury restaurants in Tulum? The first thing you need to know is that Tulum is full of high-end dining options, some of which will cost you an arm and a leg. We're talking about places where food comes at exorbitant prices, with the only attraction being their "exclusivity". For example, restaurants like "Nômada" or "Hartwood" offer unique experiences, but be prepared to pay a lot for a single dish. What's the solution? Avoid tourist restaurants! 

Tulum Flirt & Chill apartment few steps from amazing waterfall cenote and restaurant

Eat Like a Local 

The first tip is to look for places where locals eat. Tulum has an incredible selection of street food and local markets that offer authentic Mexican flavors at incredibly low prices. From tacos al pastor, tortas, and quesadillas to fresh seafood at small eateries. Where? Head to Tulum’s Market or the taco stands near downtown. Street food is often underrated, and we assure you, you’ll find hidden gems that you'll want to come back to. 

Bonus Tip: If you can, try the food at beachside stalls, but be wary of falling for the luxury bar marketing! A taco in downtown could cost you around 20 pesos, while at the beach, it could cost you over 100 pesos!


3. Adventures Without Breaking the Bank: Tours and Activities 

If there's one thing tourists love in Tulum, it’s the tours: exploring Mayan ruins, swimming in cenotes, visiting theme parks... the list is endless! But many tours and activities will leave you with a surprisingly high bill. 

Look for Local Deals! To avoid missing out but saving a lot, it’s important to steer clear of booking through big hotels or tourist agencies that inflate prices. Instead, look for more affordable options that are sold directly in the center of Tulum. Local agencies offer tours to cenotes, Mayan ruins, and even visits to Sian Ka’an at a much lower price than what you’d pay at a luxury agency. Don’t be afraid to negotiate!


There are many options for tours, but sometimes the same tour can be 2 times more expensive. if you want experience the best ones at the best price contact us.

4. Nightlife: Party Without Breaking the Bank? Yes, It’s Possible! 

Tulum isn’t just about beaches and ruins! The nightlife is vibrant, with bars, clubs, and parties that attract tourists from all over the world. But like everything in Tulum, the nightlife has its price. Don’t worry, there are ways to enjoy it without draining your wallet. 

Local Bars vs. "Beach Clubs" Beach clubs in Tulum, such as Coco Tulum or Papaya Playa Project, offer an incredible experience, but the prices for drinks and entrance can be astronomical. Instead, visit the local bars in downtown, where drinks are cheaper and the vibes are just as good. Many of these bars have more affordable prices and offer a great variety of cocktails and live music. 

Take Advantage of Happy Hour Deals! Don't forget to ask about happy hours. Many bars in Tulum offer deals during the early evening, allowing you to enjoy a drink at half the regular price. Some places offer local beers for 30 pesos and margaritas for less than 100 pesos, a great way to kick off the night.

5. Accommodation: Where to Stay Without Spending a Fortune? 

Luxury boutique hotels in Tulum are tempting, but let's admit, the prices can be outrageous—especially during high season! 

Choose Accommodations Outside the Center The key is to stay in areas near the center of Tulum, away from the beach. The area of La Veleta is a great spot, where you’ll find restful accommodations. 

By searching on platforms like Airbnb or Booking, you can find affordable options, with private rooms or even cabins that let you experience Tulum at a more accessible price.


If you are looking for marvelous accommodations where quality and price match contact us and we will help you.

6. Additional Tips for Saving 

• Buy Souvenirs at Local Markets: Instead of buying souvenirs at luxury stores, visit Tulum’s artisan market. You’ll find unique keepsakes at much lower prices. 

• Stay Hydrated with Water: Bottled water is expensive, buy a reusable bottle and refill it at public dispensers. 

• Travel Outside Peak Season: If you can, plan your trip during May, September, or October. Accommodation and activity prices are much lower in the off-season. 

Conclusion: Enjoying Tulum Without Going Broke is Possible 

Yes, it’s possible to enjoy Tulum without paying exorbitant prices for every activity, meal, or drink! If you follow these tips, you can experience this Mexican paradise in a more affordable way without sacrificing quality or fun. With a little research, patience, and adaptability, your trip to Tulum will be amazing, and your wallet will thank you! 

Now that you have all these tips, are you ready to explore Tulum smarter? Go ahead and enjoy this beautiful place without worrying about the money!


At Seaside Sunrise Haven, we are dedicated to providing our guests with exceptional services that make their stay in Tulum unforgettable. From our beautifully designed accommodations that offer comfort and relaxation to convenient scooter and ATV rentals, we ensure that you can explore the area at your own pace. Whether you’re interested in guided tours of Tulum’s stunning cenotes and Mayan ruins, or you’re looking for exciting events to attend or spiritual ceremonies, we have something for everyone. Our team is here to help you make the most of your vacation, offering personalized recommendations and seamless booking experiences. For more details and to plan your perfect getaway, don’t hesitate to contact us—let us be part of your next adventure!

Thank you for reading my blog to the end.

You can be also interested in :

Is Mexico Safe? A Realistic Look at Travel Safety in Mexico Based on Experience, Not Sensational Headlines.

Tulum: The Boho Paradise Where Your Dream Vacation Becomes Reality

About the Author:

I’m an entrepreneur and business consultant, living for the past eight years in Cancún, Mexico – a place that has become both my home and a source of inspiration. I'm a passionate traveler, yacht captain, kitesurfer, and a dedicated host, always seeking to create meaningful experiences.

I love meeting people, hearing their stories, discovering diverse cultures, and sharing what I’ve learned along the way. Helping others and supporting local animal rescue efforts are causes close to my heart – caring for homeless animals is a meaningful part of my daily life.

This blog was born out of a desire to share – knowledge, passion, and glimpses of everyday life in Mexico. I hope you find something here that inspires you.