A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Tulum vs. Tamarindo for Attractions, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Tulum or Tamarindo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Tulum and Tamarindo can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Tulum

Tulum is a ancient, archeological, and tropical town. The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food. See Tulum travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a laid back, chill, and scenic town. Tamarindo is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Tulum and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tulum or Tamarindo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Tulum. Although Tulum and Tamarindo are popular destinations, Tulum has more sights and attractions for tourists. Tulum is more touristy than Tamarindo and is known for its archeological sights, beautiful beaches, and dramatic cenotes. It is also well known for the Tulum archeological ruins. Tamarindo is famous for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles.

How is Tulum different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tamarindo and Tulum. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Tulum or Tamarindo?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its sights and museums. However, Tamarindo is not a good town for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Tulum are among the most recognizable in the world. It's famous for its world-renowned archeological ruins. The Tulum Archeological Site is very popular for its Mayan temples and castles. You can also travel a bit further to see the Cobá Ruins.

While most people don't head to Tamarindo specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.

Is the Food Better in Tulum or Tamarindo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Tulum is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Tulum. Despite being well established as a top tourist destination in Mexico, you'll still find authentic and delicious local cuisine. Favorite dishes around town include the ceviche, tacos al pastor, and sopa de lima (chicken soup).

Tamarindo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a combination of beach bars and restaurants in town that offer local cuisine and international options. Many places have a laid back vibe that fits with the town's atmosphere but you'll also find some more upscale options.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its evening party scene.

Tulum has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. It's world renowned for its wild nightlife scene and you'll find iconic beach parties, jungle raves, and trendy Tuluminati parties. Most of the local places that are a bit more affordable are in town, and the more touristy and expensive places are around the Middle Beach Zone.

Tamarindo has a large number of nightlife venues. The town has beach bars, dance clubs, and regular parties that attract tourists and locals alike. The evening has a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing or swimming.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Resorts?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. However, Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Tulum offers an unforgettable resort vacation. If you're on a budget, you can stay in town for a more reasonable price, but if you want a classic beach vacation, head to the Zona Hotelera stretch along the coast. There are luxury hotels as well as resorts with beachfront pools and luxury restaurants.

Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Tulum specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. The water along the coast is shallow and clear, which is perfect for snorkeling. There are also dive trips that take you a short distance out to diverse and beautiful reefs.

Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for the beach. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Tulum are among the best in the world. World class beaches with turquoise water and long stretches of sand make this a true beach-lovers paradise. Playa Paraíso is a favorite beach in the area and many consider it among the most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

The beaches at Tamarindo attract visitors from all over. The beaches are popular with surfers but the currents can be strong so swimmers should use caution. The golden sand and beautiful setting make this a fun and chill beach destination. There are also plenty of water sports to choose from.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Hiking?

Tulum is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Tamarindo is not a hiking destination.

Tulum is a popular spot for hiking. There are coastal walks and routes that take you through the jungle or by archeological ruins. There are many places where you can enjoy a stroll through nature.

Tamarindo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tulum or Tamarindo?

Tulum is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its shopping areas.

Tulum is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Quirky souvenir shops, local artisan boutiques, and colorful bazaars make shopping a fun experience. Make sure you check out Mercado Maya or the Tulum Bazaar while you're in town.

Tamarindo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Tulum is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Tulum is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Clear blue water, sandy beaches, jungle covered archeological ruins, and hidden cenotes make this a stunningly beautiful place to visit.

Tamarindo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Families?

Both Tulum and Tamarindo are high quality to visit with kids.

Tulum is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches and archeological sights as much as adults. You can also visit a cenote or see the sea turtles at Akumal Bay. If you're open to getting out of town, there are many adventure parks in the area as well.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tamarindo is very family-friendly. The golden beaches offer a great escape for families. The surf can be a bit strong, but the kids will love seeing the sea turtles or going horseback riding. There are also beginning surfing lessons available.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

Tulum is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

Tulum has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Beautiful beaches, world famous archeological sights, and a wild nightlife scene make this a great honeymoon or couple's destination. There are also spas, cenotes, and even cooking classes that you can take together.

Tamarindo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy romantic horseback rides along the beach, sunset cruises, and romantic meals. For the adventurous, there's surfing lessons and wildlife tours.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Tulum and Tamarindo are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tulum. It's no longer an undiscovered backpacker paradise, but there are still affordable options in the area and there's a great nightlife scene.

Many backpackers visit Tamarindo. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Tulum and Tamarindo offer nice public transit options.

Tulum has a few public transit options. There are shared vans, Collectivos, that provide transportation through the area. The Tiburon is also a local bus that runs along the coastline.

Tamarindo has some public transit options. There are three public bus lines through town.

Is Tulum or Tamarindo a more walkable city?

Tulum and Tamarindo both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Tulum is very walkable. It's easy to walk around downtown Tulum and explore on foot.

Tamarindo is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Tulum Worth Visiting? and Is Tamarindo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Tulum?

How long in Tulum or Tamarindo?

In either Tulum or Tamarindo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Tulum has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Tulum than Tamarindo. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Tulum than Tamarindo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tulum, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tulum than Tamarindo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tulum that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tulum than Tamarindo if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tulum.

One day in Tulum or Tamarindo?

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Tulum. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Tamarindo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Tulum or Tamarindo?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the lively destination of Tulum. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tamarindo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Tulum or Tamarindo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the ancient town of Tulum. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

Tamarindo is a fun place to experience. In Tamarindo, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Tulum or Tamarindo?

Tulum is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of Tamarindo. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Mexico, The Best Historical Tours in Mexico, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When comparing the travel costs between Tulum and Tamarindo, we can see that Tamarindo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Tulum is in North America and Tamarindo is in Central America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tulum Expensive? and Is Tamarindo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Tulum or Tamarindo?

Tulum has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Tamarindo experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Tulum or Tamarindo in the Summer?

Both Tamarindo and Tulum are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Tulum for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Plenty of visitors come to Tamarindo because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Tulum is around the same temperature as Tamarindo. Typically, the summer temperatures in Tulum in July average around 28°C (83°F), and Tamarindo averages at about 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually receives more sunshine than Tamarindo during summer. Tulum gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tamarindo. It's quite rainy in Tulum. In July, Tulum usually receives less rain than Tamarindo. Tulum gets 145 mm (5.7 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Tulum or Tamarindo in the Autumn?

Both Tamarindo and Tulum during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Tulum because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Tamarindo year-round.

In October, Tulum is generally around the same temperature as Tamarindo. Daily temperatures in Tulum average around 27°C (81°F), and Tamarindo fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Tulum. In the autumn, Tulum often gets more sunshine than Tamarindo. Tulum gets 216 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 169 hours of full sun.

Tamarindo gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Tulum. Tulum usually gets less rain in October than Tamarindo. Tulum gets 173 mm (6.8 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. November to April is the dry season in Tulum. June to October is the rainy season in Tulum. Also, June to October in Tulum is the hurricane season. December to May is the dry season in Tamarindo. Also, June to November in Tamarindo is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Tulum or Tamarindo in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Tulum and Tamarindo. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Tulum this time of year. Tamarindo attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Tulum is cooler than Tamarindo in the winter. The daily temperature in Tulum averages around 23°C (74°F) in January, and Tamarindo fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tamarindo this time of the year. In Tulum, it's very sunny this time of the year. Tulum usually receives less sunshine than Tamarindo during winter. Tulum gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Tulum usually receives more rain than Tamarindo. Tulum gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Tulum or Tamarindo in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Tulum as well as Tamarindo. Many travelers come to Tulum for the beaches and the natural beauty. The warm climate attracts visitors to Tamarindo throughout the year.

In the spring, Tulum is around the same temperature as Tamarindo. Typically, the spring temperatures in Tulum in April average around 27°C (81°F), and Tamarindo averages at about 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tamarindo. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tulum this time of the year. In the spring, Tulum often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tamarindo. Tulum gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 255 hours of full sun.

Tulum usually gets more rain in April than Tamarindo. Tulum gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, November to April in Tulum is the dry season. June to October in Tulum is the rainy season. Also, the hurricane season in Tulum is June to October. Also, December to May in Tamarindo is the dry season. Also, the hurricane season in Tamarindo is June to November.

Typical Weather for Tamarindo and Tulum