Fly and stay in Tulum using points and miles — here’s how
Located less than 100 miles from Cancun, Mexico, the small beach town of Tulum has become a tourist hub. With its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, cenotes and Mayan ruins, Tulum has seen a large influx of tourists venturing to the Mexican town over the past 10 years.
If you’ve scrolled through TikTok or Instagram lately, you may have seen Tulum videos on your “For You” page. This Quintana Roo destination is popular with sun-loving millennials and Gen Zers, along with other travelers, who flock here for its remote beaches, health-focused activities and atmosphere. bohemian atmosphere.
If the city-like crowds and chaos of Cancun aren’t your scene, perhaps Tulum should be on your bucket list. Also, with the recent opening New airport in Riviera MayaEnjoying the Mexican sunshine and sampling local cuisine has never been easier.
Although it can be expensive to ticket booking and hotels in Tulum, you can save money by using points and miles for your travel. Here’s what you need to know about getting to Tulum (and staying there) using points and miles.
Book flights to Tulum using points and miles
Three major airports serve Tulum:
- Cancun International Airport (CUN): served by Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines and United Airlines
- Cozumel International Airport (CZM): served by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines
- Tulum International Airport (TQO): served by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and JetBlue (starting June 13)
Related: First look: Tulum’s new airport finally welcomes US flights – and it’s not Cancun
Although none of these three airports are located in the center of Tulum, the new Tulum airport is only about 20 miles from the town center.
With so many airlines flying to these three airports from across North America, there are plenty of flight options. Flights to Tulum will vary. You can find award flights that are a lot cheaper or more expensive, so it’s best to think carefully before you decide to board a flight.
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During our search, we found one-way award ticket prices starting at the following per person before taxes and fees.
Airlines | Flight to Cancún | Flight to Cozumel | Flight to Tulum |
---|---|---|---|
Redeem rewards American Airlines Advantages mile | 10,000 (economic); 22,500 (business) | 10,000 (economic); 22,500 (business) | 12,500 (economic); 22,500 (business) |
Redeem rewards Delta SkyMiles | 10,000 (economic); 27,000 (business) | 13,000 (economic); 23,000 (business) | 15,000 (economic); 23,000 (business) |
Redeem rewards United MileagePlus mile | 7,300 (economic); 35,000 (business) | 9,100 (economic); 35,000 (business) | 15,000 (economic); 40,000 (business) |
Redeem rewards JetBlue TrueBlue point | 6,800 (economic); 90,900 (business) | Unavailable | Unavailable |
Redeem rewards Air Canada aircraft point | 10,000 (economic); 20,000 (business) | 10,000 (economic); 20,000 (business) | 10,000 (economic); 20,000 (business) |
If you are flexible about the number of travel days, TPG recommends it award search enginesuch as Seats.aero, to find award availability to help you maximize your travel rewards.
Book hotels in Tulum using points and miles
While many of the hotels in Tulum are local resorts or family-owned properties, major brands such as Hilton and Hyatt are gradually opening hotels in the area. Here are some of our favorite picks.
Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya all-inclusive resort
Nestled in a secluded bay, this sprawling resort has 1,316 rooms, some with stunning ocean views overlooking the white sands and brilliant blue waters of the Riviera Maya. Additionally, guests can enjoy a selection of 13 on-site restaurants and bars.
Inspired by Tulum’s captivating coastline, Hilton Tulum offers a laid-back feel, complete with exceptional amenities and eco-friendly design. Catering to Hilton enthusiasts looking to take advantage of their points and families looking for an affordable, all-inclusive experience, this destination offers an attractive option where additional costs are minimal.
Prices start at $220 or 90,000 Hilton Title points per night for Nature View Rooms.
Related: Affordable fun, great for families: My stay at Hilton’s first all-inclusive resort in Tulum
Papaya Playa Project, Tulum, Member of Design Hotels
The luxury jungle lodge and cozy getaway dubbed Project Papaya Playa fully demonstrates its status as a Design Hotel. Reflecting a “barefoot shabby chic” charm steps from the shore, the property features classic décor and traditional huts with palm-thatched roofs.
Emphasizing its role in the ecosystem, the hotel prioritizes environmentally friendly practices and promotes a sustainable approach, allowing guests to re-establish a connection with nature. Guests can enjoy locally sourced meals at the beach club, participate in yoga sessions, participate in musical “jams” and participate in other enriching experiences.
Prices start at $389 or 40,000 Marriott Bonvoy points every night.
Related: The 14 best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun
Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya
Conrad Tulum effortlessly combines the sophistication, glamor and luxury synonymous with the upscale Hilton brand, while projecting an authentic sense of local identity. It exudes a cool, inviting atmosphere without being pretentious, blending the elegant sophistication of bohemian style while maintaining a utilitarian yet distinctive appeal. Offering a wide range of amenities, exceptional dining options and an always uplifting atmosphere, this resort is the ideal getaway for couples looking to relax for a few days without venturing out. out of the resort.
While the resort caters to young families with a kids club and activities specifically for teens, the atmosphere leans more toward an adult-oriented sanctuary. Here, visitors can enjoy days filled with relaxing and holistic experiences, interspersed with outings to explore Tulum’s captivating Mayan ruins and mesmerizing cenotes.
Off-season rates start at $352 or 90,000 Hilton Honors points per night, but expect to pay more than $600 per night during peak winter months.
Related: A stylish boho haven with a dreamy, remote atmosphere: The Conrad Tulum
Tulum Secret Resort & Beach Club
When viewed from above, the all-suite Secrets Tulum resort offers a modern and innovative look that captures the essence of the area’s famous cenotes. The circular structure houses a series of pools, and unlike the natural wonders, poolside suites are available for guests who want direct access to the water.
Spread throughout the 300-suite property are many nature-inspired features, such as extensive use of stone, stone and wood. Each suite leads to a cistern-like space with a private balcony or terrace. You’ll find more stone finishes and relaxing soaking tubs in the bathroom for a truly relaxing experience.
Entry-level suites start at 657 square feet and accommodations lead to five-bedroom private villas at the beach club that accommodate 10 guests and feature a private pool, rooftop bar and head private kitchen.
Prices start from $491 (double room) or 25,000 World of Hyatt points every night.
Related: Hyatt just opened a new adults-only all-inclusive resort in Tulum – and it has a private beach club
Best credit cards to book a Tulum vacation
If you need more points and miles for your next flight to Tulum, the following credit cards offer generous welcome bonuses that you can transfer to airline loyalty programs:
If you’re looking to book a hotel room with points, the following credit cards offer generous welcome bonuses:
Bottom line
If you’re looking to travel to Tulum, flights to Cancun will most likely require fewer points or miles. However, keep in mind that a transfer from Cancun to Tulum can cost more than $100 USD one way. With the addition of Tulum’s newest airport, you’ll likely have to spend more points or miles, but it’s a more convenient alternative. Plus, you won’t have to deal with the hustle and bustle of Cancun airport.
Overall, Tulum can be a more expensive stay in Mexico, especially if you want to book a room or beachfront bungalow. However, using travel rewards can help you save a lot of money on the destinations on this list.