Lodging Logistics

STAYING ON THE BEACH: Upon arrival by bus in Tulum Pueblo, purchase any immediate necessities you may need at local grocers/pharmacies or get pesos at the HSBC ATM near the bus station BEFORE heading out to the beach in a taxi (not walkable from town). Most businesses/restaurants in Tulum Pueblo line the main highway close to the ADO bus station.  Few necessities are available at the beach, perhaps a small store w/drinks, etc. and no ATM's at the beach. Taxis abound. Bicycle rentals on the beach or in town are  approx. $8-10/day. We suggest you do not ride a bike at night on the beach road - it is dark, speed bumps, etc. There are numerous restaurants/cafes on the beach all within walking distance or a very short taxi ride away.

Please Read: Bring a flashlight and batteries. Most hotels and cabanas are "green", thus they provide electricity between the hours of 5pm and 11pm or perhaps not at all.  A flashlight is necessary for walking along the beach road or beachfront at night to restaurants and sometimes on trails within the cabana compounds.  Wireless internet service is generally available in hotel lobbies and restaurants. If you are staying in a RUSTIC CABANA bring a small (camping) portable battery-powered lantern---otherwise you may only have candlelight at night. Please read the FAQ at the Cabanas Copal website regarding wildlife (raccoon or tejon/badger), iguanas, moths, field mice and other critters on the beach or beach road. CLICK here

~~ Tulum Beach is Near the Jungle  ~~

If you are easily startled by something scuttling across a thatched palm roof late at night (probably a gecko) or a hermit crab scuttling across the floor, rustic cabanas may not be for you. On the plus side, you will be lulled to sleep each night by the waves.

Most participants, faculty and staff will be staying on the beach in rustic cabanas.

Electricity: Many beach hotels/cabanas provide electricity only between 5pm and 11pm or else limited or no electricity whatsoever  (except in their reception area or restaurant). Most cabanas and hotels do not have telephones or televisions and request that you do not bring high-electricity usage appliances (ie: hairdryer). Wireless services are generally abundant in the Tulum beach area. Sunrise is approx 6:20am, sunset at approx 6pm.