If you feel undecided between getting a luxury villa or a family friendly resort in Tulum for your next holiday, you are in the right place. In this blog, we will be talking about the biggest differences between each one. Which one is worth it more?
Well, we already know what the biggest advantages of staying at a family-friendly resort in Tulum are, but what do we know about a luxury vacation villa? At Casa Nalum, our eco-chic villa in the heart of the UNESCO Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, we welcome families to relax surrounded by complete nature—the majestic Mayan jungle just for you and your family. With just a few steps, you’ll have access to the pristine beach and all the unique amenities that a luxury vacation villa has to offer.
Here are the reasons why you should consider renting a luxury villa in Tulum on your next family vacation:
Table of Contents
Villa vs Resort: What’s the Difference?
Privacy
-
Villa: You and your family are the only guests. No crowded pools, no competing for lounge chairs, just uninterrupted time together. In Casa Nalum you will be able to disconnect from other people and be completely connected with your loved ones, all the Mayan jungle just for you. If you still don’t believe me, check out the images below and see for yourself that I’m not lying…
-
Resort: You can probably guess how “privacy” works in a family friendly resort in Tulum. Your bedroom (and hopefully, the bathroom) is where you find any quiet time. The pool is filled with people and everyone is fighting for a spot on the beach. You’ll wait a long time just to eat at a crowded restaurant, where you might find a so-so burger. But trust me, the food isn’t the main issue—there’s much more to say about that later…
Space
-
Villa: Villas offer multiple bedrooms, large social areas, private outdoor spaces like a private terrace, and often private beach access. Perfect for multi-generational families. Everybody is happy with their own space but at the same time sharing the same villa to get in touch when you want to!
-
Resort: Most resorts offer rooms or suites that, while comfortable, may feel limited in size and separation.
Dining
-
Villa: With private chefs and meal plans, dining is tailored to your family’s dietary needs and schedule. Meals are personal, fresh, and home-style. Having a private chef just for your family means you can enjoy gourmet dining tailored to your tastes, whether you’re craving local flavors or something custom. Forget about eating the “generic” food that most of the resorts give to their costumers, instead try eating real, authentic and healthy food.
-
Resort: On-site restaurants are convenient but come with fixed hours, menus, and sometimes long waits. The food is average in most of them—you might find a diamond in the desert sometimes, but first, you’ll have spent all your time trying different restaurants. While some resorts promote an unlimited-luxury experience, this often translates into repetition and fixed options that can’t compete with the personalized meals of a private chef.
Activities
-
Villa: You can also enjoy water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, or even unique ones like fly fishing and movie night with a beautiful and peaceful setting.
-
Resort: You might end up following set schedules with other families, which may not always match how you like to relax. Imagine waking up when you feel like it, not just when the next group activity starts!
Location
-
Villa: Villas are frequently located in pristine natural areas like Sian Ka’an, away from the bustle but close enough to town for day trips. Casa Nalum is just 45 minutes away from important locations such as:
-
Tulum Beach: 10 min drive
-
Tulum Airport: 45 min drive
-
Punta Allen: 45 min drive
-
-
Resort: Resorts are generally located in the hotel zone or town center, surrounded by more tourists and outdoor activities.
Staff Attention
-
Villa: You’ll have a dedicated concierge, housekeeper, and often a private chef, forget about sharing staff with hundreds of people. Service dedicated for you and your family.
-
Resort: While resorts have great service, it is spread out over many guests and families. You will get help, but you might need to wait a little while for it to come…
Tips & Tricks for Guests
-
Plan Early: 🌴 Tulum accommodations fill up fast—book 3–6 months in advance for high season.
-
Pack Light Layers: ☀️ Warm days and cooler nights—don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent.
-
Rent Bikes: 🚲 The beach road is flat and bike-friendly. Great for family outings.
-
Add a Meal Plan: 🍽️ Enjoy stress-free dining with our chef-prepared family menus.
-
Discover Tulum’s fun places🌅 From beautiful beaches to amazing Mayan ruins, enjoy every moment of your family vacation!
Conclusion
Choosing between a villa and a resort in Tulum depends on the memories you want to make. Villas provide a calm, connected feeling—great for family bonding. Resorts bring lots of fun, activities, and everything in one big place. If your family wants personal attention, room to relax, and a bit more adventure with real things to do like snorkeling or just enjoying nature, a villa like Casa Nalum is an amazing choice.
Discover the charm of Casa Nalum and reserve your stay today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where to stay in Tulum with kids?
At Casa Nalum, families can enjoy a private beachfront setting with a kids’ playground, board games, and a family suite with a daybed and trundle. Our villa’s spacious layout and meal plan options make it the ideal spot for parents and children alike. For more tips on safe and smooth travels with little ones, check these family travel recommendations from the CDC.
Is Tulum or Cancun better for family?
Tulum offers a laid-back, eco-friendly vibe with smaller, boutique resorts and natural attractions like cenotes and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere. Cancun is more bustling with large all-inclusive resorts and nightlife. For families seeking adventure in nature, Tulum—and especially a stay at Casa Nalum—provides a more intimate and relaxed experience.
Is it better to stay in Tulum Town or beach?
If you have limited days, split your stay: two nights at a beachfront villa like Casa Nalum for sand and sea, and two nights in town to explore the eco-chic downtown and delicious local restaurants. Our concierge can help arrange both segments seamlessly—just contact us.
What is the safest area in Tulum to stay?
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere zone, where Casa Nalum is located, is one of the safest thanks to its private, gated setting and low traffic. Aldea Zama and Tulum Pueblo also have strong community vibes and regular security patrols, making them top choices for families.
