Tulum After Dark: Where to Find the Best Nightlife and Entertainment

By day, Tulum offers clean, white-sand beaches, wellness classes, and refreshing fruit smoothies. But when the sun goes down, the town transforms into a vibrant party hub with a unique blend of chic bars, highly-rated restaurants, and nightlife experiences you can’t find anywhere else in the world. Having personally partied across four continents, we can assure you that this coastal paradise offers a unique and unforgettable experience. From dinner in a nest floating over the jungle, to full moon beach parties and dancing until sunrise in the jungle, Tulum's nightlife is a must-see for anyone seeking a perfect blend of fun and relaxation.

Tulum Town: A Spirited Hub

Downtown Tulum, also known as Tulum Pueblo or Tulum Centro, is the heart of the town. It’s the hub for local nightlife, affordable bars, budget-friendly hotels, hostels and Airbnbs, and really (really) good street food. Whether you want a laid-back night out or a lively salsa dance floor, Tulum Centro has it all.

Bars in Tulum Pueblo

Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar is a classic spot in Tulum Centro’s vibrant bar scene. Famous for the mojitos, the fresh sugarcane is pressed in a converted VW Beetle right in the middle of the bar. A lively and energetic crowd always fills the place for live music. It’s a great date night spot.

Naná Rooftop Bar is a cool rooftop downtown with signature cocktails and a nice vibe. During the week check out the live bands, and on the weekends you’ll find underground house music with local DJs. It’s a great place to meet people if you’re traveling solo.

Palma Central is a really unique food truck experience in Tulum. This chill hangout spot is all about good vibes and delicious food. You can sample some of Tulum’s best restaurants in one place; it’s perfect for groups and has a full bar. This is where you’ll find everyone on Tuesdays because it’s salsa night! If it’s your first time dancing salsa, arrive early for the free group lesson. After 8pm, the live band takes over and the dance floor transforms. Get your hips ready!

Bars on the tulum hotel zone

Ciel Rose is a hidden gem near the beach, about 10 minutes away from Tulum Pueblo, and it is one of the best sunset decks in Tulum. This quaint spot above the trees gives you amazing views of pink and orange Mayan sunsets - and they have pretty good cocktails too. Sitting above the jungle and feeling the Caribbean breeze, it’s an unforgettable experience before you head out for dinner.

Casa Jaguar is an infamous Caribbean restaurant & cocktail bar with an open-air jungle setting - and it’s worth it. The bartenders will take you on a sensory journey with your favorite liquor. It’s a really sexy space to enjoy dinner, drinks and dancing. On Thursday nights, the back garden transforms into a speakeasy jungle party, where local and international DJs set the tone with electrifying tracks.

And we can’t forget Gitano. This Modern-Mexican restaurant started out 10 years ago as a sultry mezcal bar. It’s a go-to spot on weeknights for a cool, bohemian vibe. But on Friday nights, Gitano is an absolute must-visit: it turns into a wild disco house party! It’s an iconic spot to get dressed up, sip on a Jungle Fever and dance the night away under the stars.

Lastly, Here are a few essential tips

Plan your nights wisely: Tulum's nightlife scene offers something for every day of the week in high season and Wednesday through Sunday in low season. Most parties are announced just a few weeks ahead and some are only announced through local WhatsApp chats. Get in touch with us to help you plan your nights out! We have all the insider tips.
Have pesos on- hand: While almost every business accepts credit cards, cash is king. And sometimes the credit card machines don’t work in the jungle. Plan ahead to visit an ATM before you get to the hotel zone - the ATMs there only disburse Dollars for high fees. Businesses do accept U.S. dollars but the exchange rate is very low.
Show appreciation with a tip: Tipping is customary in Tulum, with 15-20 percent considered the standard rate. Check your bill for the word "propina" (meaning “tip”) to see if it's already included or ask your server if it’s included. Some businesses automatically add 15 percent, especially for groups. If you had great service, consider adding another 5%. A lot of staff rely on tips and Mexicans are very hard workers. It's always best to tip in cash if you can.
Embrace the Bohemian chic vibe: Tulum's fashion scene leans towards a casual yet stylish bohemian look. Leave your heels behind and opt for light, jungle chic looks with comfortable, sandals or flats. Beachwear is not allowed at most places after dark. Embrace the cool and relaxed atmosphere of the town.
Stay bug-free: When venturing to outdoor establishments, especially on the beach or jungle in the hotel zone, protect yourself from pesky bugs by applying insect repellent before you go out. It's wise to carry some with you if needed, or ask your server for the OFF. You’ll thank us the day after!