Tulum consists of three zones: 

• Tulum Pueblo

Tulum Pueblo lies along Highway 307. 

Thanks to some new cafes, restaurants and hotels that have redeemed the area in recent years, it's becoming more popular for tourists. 

But if you want to be within easy reach of the shore, avoid staying in this part of town. 

You'll save significantly on accommodation rates, but you'll also have a bit of a trek to the beach.

• Zona Hotelera

Zona Hotelera is just east of Tulum Pueblo and it's where the more upscale and expensive hotels, resorts and beach clubs are located. 

It used to be more isolated and home to independently minded travelers, but in recent years, the beach area has become quite ritzy. 

The beaches are accessible by bike and by taxi. 

To avoid theft, don't bring anything valuable to the beach.

• Tulum Ruins

The Tulum Ruins are right on the beach and are styled in the late post-classical design, constructed roughly around 1200 to 1450. 

The area was originally known as "Zama" (or dawn) to its Mayan inhabitants and remained a Mayan worship area until the early 20th century. 

One of its most popular sites, the Temple of the Frescoes, contains a number of frescoes that represent the rain gods Chaac and Ixchel. 

The ruins are a popular site to visit and sit less than 3 miles east of town.

The best places to stay in Tulum for partying are the Pueblo, Beach Town, or the Middle Beach Zone, for families, it's the South Beach Zone or Aldea Zama, and for romance and honeymoons stay in the North or South Beach Zone (though pretty much every part of Tulum is perfect for a honeymoon holiday).