In general
To be fair, Tulum ain’t my sacred place on earth. I’ve found it very touristy, not authentic Mexican and overall very overpriced. I would not recommend to skip it, I mean, the nightlife and the food is really good. But don’t overstay. There are so many more places in Mexico that are way more worth your time.
Nevertheless, I’ll spill my beans about what I’ve experienced and give you a glimpse about what Tulum has to offer.
The food
Revolucion pancho villas – One of the only actual affordable places at the beach. It’s hidden in between the main road paralel to the beach and the actual beach itself. Order their fajitas or french fries with cheese and you’ll be happy for days
Antojitos la chiapaneca – Local food place, all there food is either 10 or 15 pesos and so amazingly good, very popular and some say the best taco’s in Tulum
Burrito Amor – Nice place with a nice atmosphere and good burritos
Cerveceria Chapultepec – Very touristy, bid dodgy, but if you’re on a budget it’s a welcome evening out :). Because all of their food and drinks are 21 pesos (even cocktails!)
Taqueria La Eufemia – I haven’t been here myself, but it’s appearantly one of the few beach clubs that is still affordable.
The Nightlife
Papaya playa and Ziggy beach > Both really good for partying
Xybalar – club open air rooftop
Santino – Reggaeton/Pop
Malquerida – Reggaeton
Batey – life music
Xibalbar – Electronic
Basito tumtum – live/Rock
Frutti- gay bar/Club disco/funk = of the only actual affordable places at the beach
Where to sleep?
Che hostel – I stayed in Che hostel, it was recommended by many people. But honestly, it wasn’t vibing when I stayed there. Bitchy bar lady, not enthusiastic staff and it just seemed a bit warned out. So I won’t recommend this place, however, other people have had the best time here.