The idyllic Quintana Roo beach resort of Tulum has been attracting beach-loving travellers for decades and in recent years has become one of Mexico’s go-to destinations on the backpacker trail. However, it’s not just the beaches that draw the crowds, but the excellent nightlife too. Here are the top nine bars in Tulum that you must visit.
A local favourite in Tulum, Todos Santos (presumably named for the pueblo mágico of the same name on the Baja Peninsula) gives off a very relaxed, welcoming vibe and is particularly worth visiting on Wednesday nights. Known for their well-crafted cocktail and mezcal menu – which it seems are popular in all the town’s top bars – the music is also consistently good, somewhat of a rarity in these overplayed, commercial pop-loving times. If that weren’t enough, the service and décor are both excellent to boot.
Todos Santos, Av. Tulum, Tulum, Quintana Roo, México
Mezcal is having something of a ‘moment’ right now, so it comes as no surprise that several of the best bars in Tulum centre around this Mesoamerican spirit; Pasito Tun Tun is just one of them. With an interior dominated by exposed wood and actual, real life swings, you can also enjoy some food alongside your rather reasonably priced drinks in this boutique mezcalería. Basically, if you’re looking to head to one of the coolest bars in Tulum, that serves both food and drinks, then Pasito Tun Tun is the one.
Pasito Tun Tun, Calle Centauro Sur 249, Tulum, Quintana Roo, México, +52 984 688 8550
Another location that combines both food and drink, Casa Jaguar is a big name on the Tulum scene and looks set to continue. Under the same management as Todos Santos, it’s popular among both travellers and locals, which is surely the hallmark of a great spot. We recommend getting down there on a Thursday for their weekly jungle themed, under the stars DJ set; although, the lush surroundings, outdoor seating and exquisite cocktails are reason enough to attend any night.
Casa Jaguar, Carretera Boca Paila Km 7.5, Tulum, Quintana Roo, México, +52 984 169 3084