The magic of Tulum is it’s small quaint nature. But sometimes that quaintness makes it harder to find the things you need. Here we will breakdown the best tips for shopping for essentials in Tulum.
There are two main parts of Tulum- the town center and the hotel zone. In the town center you will find more variety and larger chain stores, as well as amazing locally owned shops. In the hotel zone you will find more boutiques and luxury items.
If you are staying at a private house or would like to buy some more toys and supplies for your kiddos a trip into town is our best recommendation.
Here we will provide options in Town. Your best options to get these products is to hail a cab or call on Tomato. A delivery service here in Tulum that will deliver for a small fee.
Town
Big Store
The Chedraui is our chain grocery store here in Tulum. It is where you will be able to find everything ranging from diapers and soccer balls to cous cous and imported wines. Since the store tailors so much to tourists and expats you’ll be able to find similar products to the ones you find at home. The other super market Super Aki is not as well stocked. If possible try to go to the Chedraui in the morning/early afternoon. After 6pm many people get off work and the store becomes very crowded and can add extra stress to your vacation.
The Chedraui also has multiple ATMs available for all sorts of different banks (HSBC, BBVA, Santander etc).
Local Shops
Our favorite local shop to buy products is Co Con. Amor. They have a great selection of products that use 0 plastic. Co Con. Amor prides itself on being one of the most sustainable places in Tulum and also a delicious vegetarian/vegan restaurant. Here you’ll be able to get your bamboo toothbrushes, peanut butter, organic shampoo and conditioners, and more!
Driving around town you will notice little shops that say “Abbarrotes.” These are mom and pop shops that sell the essentials and basics! Rice, beans, some fruits and veggies. They are an amazing way to stimulate the local economy.
In the case you find yourself in a pinch there are many pharmacies and other smaller stores that opened in the Hotel zone.