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La Veleta is one of those neighborhoods that still carries the magic of a town in transformation. What used to be mostly jungle and dirt roads has now become a vibrant corner of Tulum where you’ll find a mix of peaceful living, authentic local spots, and new-wave energy that’s uniquely Tulum.
Just a few minutes outside of Tulum Pueblo (downtown), La Veleta offers a laid-back vibe while still giving you access to amazing restaurants, hidden bars, yoga studios, and boutique shops that are slowly popping up around the area. While many of the roads are still unpaved (yep, bring comfy shoes or a bike), the charm is real — especially around Calle 7, which has become the unofficial heart of the neighborhood.
This guide is written from someone who lives here and wants you to experience La Veleta the way locals do — slow mornings, unexpected gems, and community vibes you won’t find in the hotel zone.
Exploring La Veleta Tulum
This is the main street where most of the neighborhood’s action happens. Along this vibrant strip, you’ll find everything from laid-back cafés and trendy restaurants to cocktail bars, yoga studios, and hidden boutiques. We’ll walk you through the must-visit spots — and the best part? We’ll share a few tips only locals know, so you can experience Calle 7 like you’ve lived here all along.
Is La Veleta Safe?
Yes, La Veleta is one of the safer neighborhoods in Tulum, popular with expats and tourists. Most people feel comfortable here even at night, though standard travel precautions are always a good idea. For a more detailed look at staying safe in Tulum, see our general article on safety in Tulum.
Restaurants in La Veleta
La Pizzine – Wood-Fired Pizza & Mezcal Vibes
La Pizzine is a long-standing favorite in La Veleta. Locals know it’s not just about the pizza — it’s the whole vibe. Cozy, fun, and perfect for a casual night with friends, you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, mezcalitas, and cold beers in a laid-back setting.
Local tip: Ask for the pizza of the day and don’t leave without trying the hibiscus mezcalita.
📍Instagram: @la_pizzinetulum
📞 Phone: +52984 315 7346
📌 Google Maps: Location
Raum – Ramen & Cocktails
Raum is La Pizzine’s cool younger sibling. With a similar cozy-but-edgy nighttime vibe, Raum is the spot to grab a couple of drinks and warm up with a bowl of rich, flavorful ramen. The dim lighting, curated art, and stylish crowd make it one of the most aesthetically interesting spaces on Calle 7. It’s perfect for starting the night or winding it down.
Local tip: Their spicy ramen and house cocktails are a solid combo, and sometimes they host art nights and pop-up galleries.
📍Instagram: @raumgallery_
📌 Google Maps: Location
La Consentida – Mexican Comfort Food
One of the locals’ favorite all-day spots, La Consentida is open from 8 a.m. to 12:30 a.m., so no matter what time hunger hits, this place has your back. Aside from the generous hours, they also have a massive menu that covers just about everything — from traditional Mexican dishes to pizzas, burgers, tortas, tacos, desserts, and more. It’s not located directly on Calle 7, but it’s only a 4-minute walk away.
Local tip: Don’t leave without trying the sopa de lima — it’s a true Yucatán classic done right.
📍Instagram: @consentidatulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 183 6220
📌 Google Maps: Location
Canova – Italian Trattoria
Canova is a true Calle 7 classic. It started in a charming little casita but quickly became so popular that they had to expand next door. If you’re into real Italian flavors, this is a must.
Local tip: Definitely call ahead to reserve if you’re coming for dinner — it fills up fast. Try the lasagna and the eggplant appetizer, and of course, the wood-fired pizza.
📍Instagram: @cantinacanova
📞 Phone: +529841466329
📌 Google Maps: Location
La Veleta Market – Food Court & Art Vibes
One of the newest additions to Calle 7, La Veleta Market is a food court with something for everyone. Perfect for big groups who can’t decide on one cuisine — you’ll find handmade Italian pasta, sushi, Egyptian dishes, Thai food, and tons of art. The entire space feels like an immersive experience, with its eclectic decor, vibrant murals, and live music nights ranging from flamenco to techno DJ sets.
Local tip: If you head to the bathroom, look up — the art on the ceiling is part of the magic of this place.
📍Instagram: @veletamarket
📞 Phone: +52 984 183 8862
📌 Google Maps: Location
Asian Bodega – Creative Asian Fusion
A one-of-a-kind spot in Tulum. Asian Bodega started out as a humble food truck and quickly became so popular that they opened a full restaurant — and it’s next level. The best part? Their menu evolves constantly, so the smart move is to ask your server for their favorites of the day. The vibe is chill and the service is always on point, especially since the owner is often there, making sure everyone feels welcome.
Local tip: Trust the staff. The rotating menu means hidden gems that don’t last long.
📍Instagram: @asianbodega
📞 Phone: +52 999 143 7706
🌐 Website: Asian Bodega
📌 Google Maps: Location
Los Morros – Seafood & Hangover Heaven
If you’re craving seafood, Los Morros is a solid go-to — especially if you’re feeling the after-effects of last night. This spot is known for curing hangovers the right way. To top it off, they have a pool on-site, because nothing hits quite like a michelada, sun, and ceviche with your feet in the water.
Their menu has all the classics: tacos, ceviches, tostadas, and some more elaborate seafood dishes. This is just one of their three locations in town, which says a lot — they know what they’re doing.
Local tip: If you’re into beer, order an ojo rojo with your favorite brew. And if you’re there to bounce back from a rough morning, ask for the famous Mexican soup “Vuelve a la vida” — it literally means come back to life.
📍Instagram: @restauranteslosmorros
📞 Phone: +52984 182 1838
🌐 Website: Los Morros
📌 Google Maps: Location
Green Vibe – Tulum’s Salad Bar Heaven
Salad lovers and healthy food hunters — this is your spot.
Green Vibe is the only true salad bar in Tulum, and it’s exactly what you need when you’re craving something fresh, nourishing, and fully customizable.
Here, you build your perfect bowl from a full lineup of leafy greens, grains, roasted veggies, fruits, proteins, toppings, and dressings — all laid out buffet-style. Once you’ve created your masterpiece, they weigh it, and that’s what you pay.
It’s great for grab & go, but they also have a peaceful seating area if you want to stay. Bonus: they usually stock kombucha and healthy treats at the counter.
Local tip: Go around 1 p.m. for the freshest refills and try their roasted eggplant — it’s a sleeper favorite.
📍Instagram: @greenvibestulum
📞 Phone: +81 4351 5538
📌 Google Maps: Location
Il Bacaro – Wood-Fired Italian With Style
Il Bacaro brings classic Italian comfort to La Veleta, with a modern twist. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and house-made pastas, this spot is quickly gaining a reputation for both its food and its design — the space is beautifully done, with warm lighting, and an inviting atmosphere that works for both casual dinners and date nights.
Their menu goes beyond the usual pizza-pasta combo, offering a range of antipasti, wines, and daily specials that keep locals and visitors coming back.
Local tip: Tulum is hot — start your meal with one of their fresh salads or carpaccios. They’re light, flavorful, and the perfect way to ease into a hearty Italian dinner.
📍Instagram: @ilbacaro.tulum
📞 Phone: +52 998 259 0435
📌 Google Maps: Location
La Pebeta – Classic Argentinian Brunch Spot
A true Calle 7 classic. La Pebeta has been around for years, and if a place lasts that long in Tulum, you know it’s doing something right. Their menu is inspired by Argentinian flavors and brunch staples — think eggs Benedict, fruit bowls with homemade granola, mini pancakes with dulce de leche, and freshly baked pastries.
They bake their bread fresh every morning and serve rich coffee alongside juices made with filtered water. It’s the kind of place you go when you want breakfast done right — simple, fresh, and satisfying.
Local tip: Go for the mini pancakes or the benedicts — both are favorites that locals keep coming back for.
📍Instagram: @lapebetatulum
📞 Phone: +52
🌐 Website:
📌 Google Maps: Location
La Fonda “Los Guisos” – Morning Tacos, Mexican Style
Morning tacos — because yes, in Mexico we have different types of tacos depending on the time of day, and tacos de guisado are your go-to breakfast and lunch version. These are soft, stewed dishes like mole, salsas, or rellenos, all served over handmade corn tortillas (because a real taco always starts with a good tortilla).
Fonda “Los Guisos” is as classic as it gets. Simple, home-style Mexican food made with heart. It’s a small family-run spot so the attention here is wonderful! The menu rotates daily, but you’ll usually find comforting favorites like chicken in mole, pork ribs in salsa morita, chile relleno with cheese, or albóndigas in tomato sauce.
Local tip: Go early, while the tortillas are still steaming hot and the trays are full — and don’t forget to try the agua fresca of the day.
📍Instagram: @fonda_losguisados
📌 Google Maps: Location
Vereda del Abasto – Argentine Deli & Comfort Food
This is an Argentinian gem in La Veleta. An Argentinian store and café that manages to feel like a local favorite for everyone — whether you’re from Buenos Aires or just strolling through La Veleta.
La Vereda is part specialty store, part casual restaurant, and everything they serve is made with intention and flavor. You’ll find perfectly baked sandwiches, homemade pastas, quiches, and sweet breads (call them facturas, por favor). It’s also the kind of place where you can grab cheese, jams, and other goodies to build your own charcuterie board at home or enjoy with a glass of wine.
Local tip: Go for the chiabatta pavita and don’t leave without a medialuna con dulce de leche. You’ll thank us later.
📍Instagram: @veredatulum
📌 Google Maps: Location
La Yaquería – Plant-Based Flavor with a Local Soul
Tucked into a quiet corner of La Veleta, La Yaquería is a plant-based café run by Vanesa and Israel — and you can feel the heart they’ve put into this place over the last five years. It’s humble, cozy, and full of color, just like their food.
Everything is made fresh, with creative twists on Mexican classics. Their salads are vibrant and packed with flavor — think beets, avocado, roasted zucchini, pumpkin seeds, and house-made dressings that actually make you want to eat your greens. But the real surprise? Their tacos. Jackfruit al pastor, vegan chorizo, and morita-glazed mushrooms will convert even the most skeptical meat-lovers.
Local tip: Don’t skip the infused waters — the lemon turmeric is a favorite. And if you’re hungry, get both the salad and a couple tacos. Trust us.
📍Instagram: @layaqueria_healthy_plantbased
📞 Phone: +52 985 126 8364
🌐 Website:
📌 Google Maps: Location
Holistika Restaurant & Wellness
Hotel &Wellness
Holistika is one of those places that’s hard to define because it’s so much at once — a boutique hotel, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant, an art-filled jungle escape, and a holistic center offering yoga, sound healing, ceremonies, and more.
Tucked at the far end of La Veleta on a peaceful, tree-lined street, Holistika feels like its own little world. Whether you’re there for a yoga class, a nourishing meal, a walk through their immersive art walk, or simply to disconnect from the noise — this place holds space for it all.
Local tip: Check their events calendar on Instagram or their website — from cacao ceremonies to dance nights and jungle meditations, there’s always something going on that’s worth experiencing.
📍Instagram: @holistikatulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 280 4128
🌐 Website: holistikatulum.com
📌 Google Maps: Location
Tierra – Vegetarian Soul Food Inside the Jungle
Tierra is Holistika’s signature restaurant and a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re eating solo, on a date, or with a group of friends, there’s something comforting and fresh about every dish — and you’ll probably find yourself coming back for more.
Everything on the menu is really good (seriously), but some of the crowd favorites include the chilaquiles, the massive avocado toast, the dumplings, and the zucchini pasta.
Bonus: Right next to the restaurant is their sweets shop, YOM-YOM, where you’ll find homemade healthy treats like vegan Snickers, cake pops, gluten-free bread, plant-based ice creams, and much more.
Local tip: Don’t leave without trying a YOM-YOM dessert. The vegan ice cream might just ruin all other ice creams for you.
📍Instagram: @tierrarestaurant
📞 Phone: +52 984 136 1786
🌐 Website: holistikatulum.com/restaurant
📌 Google Maps: Location
La Cordobesita – Vegan Street Food & Casual Bites
La Cordobesita is a fully vegan food truck on Calle 7 in La Veleta, and it’s seriously winning over everyone (vegans and non‑vegans alike). With tacos, quesadillas, tortas, personal pizzas, burgers, and even hot dogs—all plant-based—it’s a fun and relaxed genre of street food with flavor that surprises.
They keep things simple and honest: jackfruit pastor, hibiscus tacos, mushroom quesadillas, and vegan cheese that actually tastes like cheese. In the evenings, their personal pizzas are a local favorite. The staff are friendly and always have helpful recs about what to try.
Local tip: Trust the staff—you won’t regret the hibiscus quesadilla or jackfruit taco.
📍Instagram: @lacordobesitatulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 877 5879
📌 Google Maps: Location
Delicia de mi Tierra – Elevated Mexican Comfort Food
For those in search of authentic Mexican flavors, this place is prepared with pride and care. Every dish is inspired by cherished family recipes and culinary memories, blending heirloom techniques with fresh, local ingredients.
The menu ranges from colorful starters like hibiscus flautas and Oaxacan-style tetelas to hearty mains like chicken enmoladas, shrimp in pistachio pipián, or pork shank slowly braised in beer and pasilla chili.
They also offer delicious cocktails, fresh natural juices, and have thoughtfully crafted vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free versions of many menu items — all without losing flavor or authenticity.
Local tip: If you’re there for breakfast, try the chilaquiles with your choice of salsa — green, red, or morita — topped with egg, chicken, or arrachera. For dinner, ask for the shrimp pipián or pork shank in drunken sauce — they’re Instagram-worthy and downright delicious.
📍Instagram: @deliciademitierratulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 120 4541
🌐 Website: restaurantedeliciademitierra.com
📌 Google Maps: Location
Burgerito Veleta – Smash Burgers & Cali Burritos
Burgerito just landed on Calle 7 in La Veleta, and it’s everything you didn’t know you needed: bold, fun, and shockingly satisfying. They call it “Happy Food & Nasty Drinks” and they really mean it. Think smash‑style burgers with that perfect crisp edge, burritos stuffed with fries (a Cali classic), loaded fries drenched in toppings, and even breakfast combos like grilled bananas with bacon or avocado toast.
There’s a reason locals and visitors keep coming back — it’s unapologetically indulgent, messy, and downright crave-worthy.
Local tip: Go after 6 p.m. when the veleta crowd hits the market. Try the Cali burrito or smash burger, and get the loaded fries for sharing.
📍Instagram: @burgerito.tulum
🌐 Website: burgerito‑tulum.com
📌 Google Maps: Location
Pizza Pazz – Neapolitan-Style Pizza That Surprises You
Honestly, this place never really called my attention… but now? It’s my favorite pizza in La Veleta. Seriously. Think Neapolitan-style sourdough pizzas with a crisp, charred crust and vibrant, fresh toppings — the kind that make both locals and visitors rave after the first bite.
The owner clearly knows what he’s doing. The place itself is nothing fancy — wooden chairs, casual setup — but the food? They do it right. Great vibe, no fuss, just solid pizza made with love.
Local tip: They’ve got 2×1 margaritas every day — pair them with the five-cheese pizza drizzled with honey and thank me later.
📍Instagram: @pizzapazztulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 178 0771
📌 Google Maps: Location
Taqueria Tijuas - Masive Street Tacos
If you’re craving bold, flavorful tacos with a Tijuana twist, Taquería Tijuas is your spot. Located on Calle 7 in La Veleta, this place brings Northern Mexican street food to Tulum with al pastor, carne asada, lengua, and their famous birria tacos that draw locals in after hours.
What I love about this place is that the tacos are massive — seriously well served — and you even get the option to add beans on the side, which not every taco spot offers.
The vibe is relaxed and friendly — think simple street-food setup with generous portions, classic toppings, and affordable prices. Perfect for a late-night taco run or a casual dinner that hits all the right savory notes.
Local tip: Don’t skip the consommé — dip those birria tacos and soak in every flavor punch.
📍Instagram: @tijuastaqueria
📌 Google Maps: Location
Vaivén – Breakfast, Coffee & Pizza in a Cozy Courtyard
Vaivén is the kind of cafe-bar hybrid that feels perfectly “La Veleta.” It’s part breakfast spot, part coffee shop, part pizza bar — all wrapped up in a laid-back, green courtyard vibe. Located in a cool corner, this is a go-to for early birds and anyone looking to linger over their laptop or meet friends in a chill space.
Locals love Vaivén so much that they had to expand next door and open Vaivén Bar at night — same vibe, just under the stars.
Their menu includes avocado lentil toast, cauliflower toast, machaca burritos, huevos rancheros, French toast, yogurt bowls, and hand-stretched pizzas made fresh to order. The coffee and cacao smoothies are local favorites — the cacao one especially gets all the praise.
Local tip: Try the white pizza that server Julian is known for, and don’t skip the avocado toast with lentils or the cacao smoothie — perfect fuel for a slow morning.
📍Instagram: @vaiventulum
📌 Google Maps: Location
Mistico Garden – Hidden Jungle Lounge & Hookah Bar
Mistico Garden is a lush hangout nestled right on Calle 7 in La Veleta, offering a mix of eclectic food, inventive cocktails, and signature hookah in a jungle-themed courtyard full of swings, giant Jenga, and a laid-back vibe. Whether you’re looking for a chill daytime spot or a cool spot to unwind after sunset, this place has range.
Their menu supports both meat-eaters and vegans, with dishes like vegetarian tacos and tuna tostadas alongside more indulgent options. Don’t be surprised if you end up lazing under trees, sipping a cocktail, and watching the swings swaying above.
Local tip: Ask for help picking a hookah flavor. They serve each choice alone—no mixing—so you really taste every note.
📍Instagram: @misticogarden
📞 Phone: +52 984 114 1385
🌐 Website: mistico.mx
📌 Google Maps: Location
Coffee Shops in La Veleta – Where Good Vibes Brew
La Veleta is one of those neighborhoods people love to linger in — and it shows. That’s why it’s filled with cozy, creative coffee shops perfect for every kind of moment. Whether you’re just grabbing a quick espresso, meeting up with friends, taking client calls, or simply enjoying some solo time with your laptop (or your thoughts), there’s always a café here that fits the mood.
From jungle hideouts to street-corner favorites, here are some of the best spots to sip, sit, and stay a while in La Veleta.
Nimeño (La Veleta) – Same Magic, Just Smaller
We know we’ve mentioned Nimeño before — but it’s just that good. And clearly, they can’t stop either… because this is one of their newest locations in Tulum.
This smaller spot has the same concept as the main Nimeño: fresh bread, amazing breakfasts, great coffee — just in a more compact, grab-and-go version. There’s a cute terrace where you can sit and enjoy your order, but overall, this one is ideal if you’re on the move or just want a quick delicious stop.
Local tip: Get one of their croissants to go and pair it with a cold brew. Trust us, it hits.
📍Instagram: @nimenotulum
📞 Phone: +528117913599
📌 Google Maps: Location
Otti Cacao & Smoothies – Where Cacao Rules the Scene
One of La Veleta’s locals-favorite spots — you’ll spot the wellness crowd gathered here sipping cacao drinks all day. And trust them, because they know their cacao. Otti serves up a wide variety of cacao drinks, both hot and cold, with creative flavor blends like lavender, cardamom, and tahini, alongside bursting fresh smoothies and healthy breakfasts.
You can also grab breakfast here — think thick avocado toast with oversized slices, acai-style bowls, waffles, and vibrant smoothies like the Zumito made with pineapple, mango, and passionfruit. Everything is light, flavorful, and made to recharge.
Local tip: Get there early — the place is small and fills up fast. Whether you’re in for cacao or a smoothie, Otti delivers a mind‑opening taste experience.
📍Instagram: @otti_tulum
📌 Google Maps: Location
Coconut Water Stand – Fresh, Local, and Full of Heart
This spot is as local as it gets. Owned by a kind family, the little stand sits right in front of their home — no frills, no hype, just fresh coconut water and juices served with a smile.
They offer a variety of fresh juices, including fun fruit mixes depending on what’s in season. You’ll also find cold coconuts, orange juice, green blends, and even local honey for sale — perfect if you want to take something home.
Local tip: They take cash and card — which is rare for a stand this humble. Don’t be shy to chat with them; they’re always genuinely happy to see you.
📌 Google Maps: Location
Long Time Coffee – Hidden Café & Matcha Mastery
This spot is almost a secret — like, you’d never walk in unless someone told you or you happened to stumble across it. It literally has no sign and is tucked behind a door you’d probably never cross. But once you’re in, you’re set for a vibe.
The space is cozy and minimalist, with great coffee, quiet energy, and a focus on quality. The owner is Asian and brings serious matcha expertise to the table, which makes this place a favorite among matcha lovers. They also serve single-origin espresso, cold brew, and a few simple bites like toast and fresh pastries.
Local tip: Order the mango matcha — it’s a favorite for a reason.
📍Instagram: @longtimetulum
📞 Phone: +1 617 758 9941
📌 Google Maps: Location
Cafésito – Vibrant Brunch & Poolside Coffee Hangout
Cafésito is a fun, open-air café that’s become a staple for brunch, coffee, and good vibes in La Veleta. With colorful decor, a relaxed poolside seating area, and laid-back energy, it’s one of those spots that invites you to stay a while.
Their menu runs from house-made espresso and pour-overs to crowd favorites like avocado toast, smoothie bowls, chilaquiles, and croissants. On select days, they evolve into a dinner spot and occasionally host brunch-themed events — always staying true to the friendly, easygoing Tulum mood.
Local tip: Don’t skip their cacao drinks — they’re rich, refreshing, and part of why people come back. Two birds, one stone: brunch and good coffee in a relaxed setting.
📍Instagram: @cafesitotulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 184 3420
📌 Google Maps: Location
Kukuruxo Gelato & Coffee – Handmade Gelato & Café Vibes
This charming gem in La Veleta serves what locals (and visitors) are calling the best gelato in Tulum. Expect creamy, handmade sorbets and gelatos alongside dive‑right‑in waffle cones, smoothie bowls, and good coffee—perfect for cooling down after exploring. The atmosphere is colorful and relaxed, with a little terrace to sit on moments of shade and sip your treat in peace.
Many say the passion fruit and tiramisú flavors are standout—plus, they often surprise you with seasonal twists that feel fresh and inventive. It’s exactly the kind of place you’ll want to visit again and again.
Local tip: Go around sunset and try at least two scoops—you’ll want something cold to beat the heat, and this place delivers.
📍Instagram: @kukuruxo.tulum
📞 Phone: +52 998 735 1555
📌 Google Maps: Location
Burke Brothers Café – Cozy Spot for Coffee
Even if you’re not doing laundry, the café at Burke Brothers is worth a visit on its own. With a calm, air-conditioned space, great WiFi, and a minimalist aesthetic, it’s a favorite among remote workers, readers, and anyone looking to escape the heat for a bit.
They serve specialty coffee, matcha, smoothies, and light bites — all fresh and made with intention. The vibe is quiet, productive, and relaxed — perfect for working or just enjoying a peaceful coffee break.
Local tip: Try their bagels — they’re handmade by a Tulum local and seriously delicious.
📍Instagram: @burkebrothers.tulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 453 1000
🌐 Website: burkebrothers.mx
📌 Google Maps: Location
Services & Essentials in La Veleta
La Veleta isn’t just about good food and chill cafés — it’s also where you’ll find everything you need to feel at home in Tulum. Whether you’re staying for a few days or a few months, this neighborhood has convenient spots to handle your basics: from laundry services and mini-supers to eco-friendly shops, smoke supplies, and more.
We’ve rounded up our go-to places that locals actually use — the ones that make everyday life in La Veleta simple, functional, and (sometimes) unexpectedly delightful.
Burke Brothers – Eco Laundry & Café in One Spot
Need to get work done or just feel like your clothes could use a refresh? This is your spot. Burke Brothers is the only self-service laundromat in La Veleta — and it’s way more than that. Walk in, drop your laundry, and wander into their relaxed café space. It’s a rare mix: high-speed WiFi, air-conditioned comfort, natural laundry products, and real coffee and snacks. It’s the kind of place where chores become part of your day instead of something you dread to finish.
They offer self-service washers and dryers, wash-and-fold, and even pickup/drop-off options. All with eco-friendly soap made in-house, wool dryer balls, and biodegradable fabric softeners.
Local tip: Download their app (Kiosoft Wash) so you can check machine availability and get notified when your load is done — grab a coffee and relax while you wait.
📍Instagram: @burkebrothers.tulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 277 7074
📌 Google Maps: Location
Minisuper El Veleta (aka Yolanda’s) – The Neighborhood Go-To for Everything
Honestly, this place has it all. It’s not the most organized or the prettiest little store — but if you need something, chances are they’ve got it. Grinders, snacks, rice, lighters, bottled water, wine, cookies, batteries, pasta, tequila… you name it.
And the best part? They quietly sell alcohol after hours. But shhh — let’s keep that between us.
Local tip: In the fridge near the entrance hallway, you’ll find alfajores (an Argentinian kind of cookie). They’re lowkey amazing and totally worth trying.
📌 Google Maps: Location
Chultun Fresh Market – Local Produce, Juices & Vegan Treats
Oh dear, this is one of our Calle 7 favorites — especially if you’re into fresh, natural juices. Chultun focuses on seasonal fruits, veggies, and other kitchen staples that you probably need but don’t want to make a whole trip to the supermarket for. You know what we mean?
Besides the essentials, they also have some hidden gems: like their famous vegan brownies (trust us, you don’t have to be vegan to love them) and a rotating selection of homemade snacks and juices.
Local tip: Go for the carrot juice and grab a brownie on the way out. You’ll come back for more.
📍Instagram: @chultunfreshmarket
📌 Google Maps: Location
UMO Smoke Shop – The One-Stop Spot for All Your Smoke Needs
Okay guys, this is the smoke shop of Tulum. With five different locations, UMO has become the go-to for all things smoke-related. Need a lighter? Rolling papers? Grinder? They’ve got you covered — and the best part? You can even order from them through Tomato.mx (Tulum’s version of Uber Eats), so no need to leave your place if you’re already chilling.
And if you’re looking for something special to take home, like a beautiful glass piece, drop by the shop and explore — the variety will surprise you.
Local tip: If you’re in a pinch or running low, Tomato.mx delivery is a game-changer. But if you like browsing cool pieces in person, don’t miss the in-store visit.
📍Instagram: @umo_shop_tulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 806 8777
🌐 Website: UMO
📌 Google Maps: Location
Sojol – Organic Veggie & Herb Stand on Calle 7
Oh yes, this is the place locals talk about when they want fresh, organic veggies in La Veleta. Sojol isn’t just a shop — it’s the little green corner of the neighborhood offering baby greens, microgreens, squash, beans, and seasonal local produce. They even deliver through Tomato.mx, making farm-to-table shopping easy.
Local tip: Ask about their microgreens and mix your own salad box at the counter. Their goods are so good that people call them the best herbs and greens in the area.
📍Instagram: @sojoltulum
📌 Google Maps: Location
Tintorería y Lavandería DAGETP – Classic Drop-Off Laundry Service
If you’re just looking for a basic drop-off laundry service, DAGETP gets the job done. They offer standard wash and fold, as well as ironing and garment care. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s been around for a while and gets the basics covered.
Local tip: They’re not always responsive by phone, so it’s best to go in person. Try to arrive at least 10 minutes before closing time — otherwise, you might have to come back the next day.
📞 Phone: +52 686 472 2557
📌 Google Maps: Location
Latin Ink – Tattoo Studio in La Veleta
A lot of people come to Tulum and leave with a tattoo, and if you’re looking to do the same, Latin Ink is worth a visit. With three locations in town, their La Veleta spot is known for skilled artists, clean work, and a welcoming vibe. Swing by, meet the artist, talk through your idea, and get ready to walk out with fresh ink and a story to tell.
Local tip: If you have a specific design in mind, book ahead to secure the artist you want — they can get busy during high season.
📍Instagram: @latininktattootulum.veleta
📞 Phone: +52 984 453 4918
📌 Google Maps: Location
Ikal Spa – Relaxation & Wellness in La Veleta
If you’re in need of some deep relaxation, Ikal Spa is a beautiful spot to treat yourself. Offering massages, facials, and body treatments, their focus is on creating a calming, restorative experience. The atmosphere is intimate and serene, making it easy to disconnect from the bustle of Tulum and reconnect with yourself.
Local tip: Book your appointment in advance, especially during weekends, to make sure you get your preferred time slot.
📍Instagram: @ikal_spatulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 449 9000
📌 Google Maps: Location
Maya’s Tattoo – Custom Ink in the Heart of La Veleta
If you’re looking for a personalized tattoo experience in Tulum, Maya’s Tattoo is a solid choice. Known for their attention to detail and ability to bring clients’ ideas to life, they offer a variety of styles — from fine line work to bold, colorful pieces. The studio has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to feel comfortable whether it’s your first tattoo or your tenth.
Local tip: Bring reference images and talk directly with the artist — they’re great at adapting designs to make them unique for you.
📍Instagram: @mayas_tattootulum
📞 Phone: +52 984 318 7092
📌 Google Maps: Location
Afrodita Tulum – From Beach Stalls to Tulum’s Signature Style
What began as a small beach-walking business has grown into one of Tulum’s most recognizable clothing brands. If you’re looking to dress in true “Tulum style,” Afrodita Tulum is the place — but their collections now go far beyond flowy beachwear.
Today, the store offers a curated mix of clothing, accessories, and unique pieces that capture the spirit of the town while embracing new trends. Afrodita Tulum has come a long way and continues to grow, making it a must-visit for fashion lovers.
Local tip: Check out their statement dresses and one-of-a-kind accessories — perfect for beach days, dinners, and everything in between.
📞 Phone: +52 984 278 5469
📌 Google Maps: Location
Zativa Tulum – Trendy Threads & Signature Accessories
Zativa is a stylish boutique tucked into La Veleta, offering a curated collection of apparel, accessories, and standout pieces that blend modern Tulum aesthetics with everyday comfort. You’ll find everything from colorful tops to unique jewelry designs that fit right into the boho-chic vibe of the neighborhood. It’s a great place to shop if you want something effortless, fashionable, and distinctly Tulum.
Local tip: Scan their latest lookbook or Instagram feed before heading over — their color palettes change with the season, and you might catch something limited edition.
📍Instagram: @zativat23
📌 Google Maps: Location
Amar Tulum – Effortless, Earthy Style
Amar is a charming boutique in La Veleta that captures the laid-back elegance of Tulum through natural fabrics, earthy tones, and timeless silhouettes. Their curated racks feature flowy dresses, lightweight separates, and versatile pieces perfect for both the beach and a night out. You’ll also find artisanal accessories that pair beautifully with their clothing, making it easy to create a complete look in one stop.
Local tip: Keep an eye out for their limited-edition collections — they often feature handmade garments from local designers.
📍Instagram: @amar_.mx
📞 Phone: +52 1 55 1802 0977
🌐 Website: amarmx.com
📌 Google Maps: Location
Comparing La Veleta and Aldea Zama
When choosing between La Veleta and Aldea Zama, travelers often weigh the differences in vibe and pricing. While Aldea Zama feels like a quiet, resort-style residential suburb with plenty of green space, a few cafés, and shops scattered around, it’s an area where most people get around by car. There’s no main commercial street, so businesses are a bit more spread out.
La Veleta, on the other hand, has more of that “you’re in Mexico” vibe. The streets aren’t perfect — and not all are paved — but you’ll see plenty of people walking around. Its main street is lined with local businesses, restaurants, and small tables spilling onto the sidewalks. The street lighting isn’t the best, but the atmosphere is undeniably lively.
In general, La Veleta is a more affordable choice for visitors, while Aldea Zama offers a quieter, more polished environment. Almost all roads in Aldea Zama are paved, unlike in La Veleta, so the best choice really depends on what kind of Tulum experience you’re looking for.
How far is La Veleta from Tulum Beach?
La Veleta is about a 10-15 minute drive from Tulum’s famous beaches. Renting an ATV, car, or scooter, grabbing taxis, or hiring a private driver are the most popular ways to get to and from the beach. You can also rent a bike, but it’s quite far, and the road from La Veleta to the beach (Avenida Kukulkan) is not very comfortable or safe for biking, especially at night. It’s also a bit of a distance, and with the heat, expect to arrive sweaty.
Conclusion
La Veleta Tulum provides an authentic, enriching experience with a mix of modern conveniences and local charm. Whether dining, staying, or exploring, this neighborhood offers a unique side of Tulum for those interested in a more laid-back atmosphere.
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