About Rooftop | Zona Hotelera Tulum
The Rooftop at Zona Hotelera Tulum is the open-air lounge/bar area of Our Habitas Tulum, an eco-luxury beach resort located on the Caribbean coast (at Km 4.5 on the Boca Paila highway) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). This adults-only (18+ only) venue sits high above the jungle foliage overlooking both the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea (www.ourhabitas.com ). It is a relatively intimate space (standing capacity ~50 guests (www.ourhabitas.com )) built as part of Habitas’s signature glass-and-steel glasshouse design (www.revistainteriores.es ). In fact, architecture press describes Habitas Tulum as a “sustainable sanctuary” founded in 2017 (originally as a pop-up for Burning Man) that became the brand’s first flagship adult retreat (www.revistainteriores.es ) (sustentur.com.mx ). The resort was designed to have minimal environmental impact – guest tents on stilts, open-air bathrooms, countless trees preserved on site (www.revistainteriores.es ) (sustentur.com.mx ) – and the Rooftop continues that ethos. For example, the hotel eliminated all single-use plastic (earning an “Ocean Champion” award) and even launched community recycling projects like “Plastic Hunters” to collect PET bottles in Tulum (sustentur.com.mx ) (www.ourhabitas.com ). These sustainability details make the Rooftop not just picturesque but also culturally significant. Travelers praise its relaxed vibe: one TripAdvisor reviewer summed up a similar Tulum roof bar as a “sophisticated, casual and relaxed” place focused on bold mezcal cocktails and curated electronic music (www.tripadvisor.es ). In practice, the Rooftop at Habitas Tulum is known for its high-end beach-club atmosphere – akin to the “most exclusive rooftop in Tulum” at nearby SANA Hotel with a Moroccan-tiled infinity pool blending into the Caribbean (www.sanatulum.com ) – combined with the intimacy of a jungle hideaway. Its unique mix of cutting-edge design, natural surroundings, wellness culture and a focus on local traditions is what makes it stand out in Tulum’s hotel-zone nightlife.
Events and Programming
By day and night the Rooftop functions as a lively lounge and bar, but the resort also hosts scheduled events for guests and visitors. Daily and weekly events range from wellness and cultural activities to music parties. The hotel’s weekly calendar typically includes beachfront yoga and breathwork sessions, a Sunday afternoon “Baja El Sol” DJ set on the beach mixing mellow electronic beats with the ocean breeze (www.ourhabitas.com ), and outdoor cinema nights under the stars (www.ourhabitas.com ). Local artisans and musicians often feature at pop-up markets and live-music brunches – for example, a “Pop-Up Bazaar” market supporting local crafts is part of the regular lineup (www.ourhabitas.com ). In addition, special events and holiday parties are held periodically on the property. For instance, the Rooftop and beach club have hosted themed music events and even all-night dance parties. A travel review notes that Habitas “sometimes schedules very long, loud, rave-style concerts” on-site (www.tripadvisor.ie ), suggesting occasional large DJ nights or themed festivals. These events often draw both resort guests and visitors (18+, since the resort is adult-only). While casual lounge-goers can simply enjoy drinks most evenings, major events may involve advance sale of limited tickets. For example, a special Thanksgiving dinner at Habitas’s Moro restaurant was offered at about MXN 1,100 per person (www.ourhabitas.com ), and reservations were required well in advance. In general, events at the Rooftop cover electronic and Afro-Caribbean music, rhythmic dance parties, and cultural celebrations – reflecting Tulum’s reputation for sophisticated nightlife and vacation festivals.
Tickets and Booking
There is no traditional box office for this Rooftop: casual bar visits usually require no ticket, but upscale events or dinner parties often do. For routine entry (as a hotel guest or patron of the Rooftop lounge) you normally just arrive and show a reservation or guest wristband if needed. For special concerts or holiday events, tickets must be purchased or reserved in advance through the resort. Bookings are handled via the hotel’s reservation line or website, or by email contact (the Thanksgiving example was RSVP-only by emailing the experience team (www.ourhabitas.com )). It is wise to reserve early for any popular date or DJ; capacity is small (~50), so shows can sell out. Ticket prices vary: low-key live music nights or DJ sessions may be free or included for guests, while premium events (gala dinners, holiday parties) have set prices. For instance, the advertised Thanksgiving buffet at Moro was 1,100 MXN per person (www.ourhabitas.com ). As a rule, avoid relying on last-minute door sales – the venue’s intimate size means it often caps events. If you’re planning to attend a rooftop party or special theme night, check the official Habitas Tulum newsletter or social media for ticket announcements. In contrast, food and drink at the bar itself are paid à la carte (there is no cover charge just to use the rooftop lounge on a normal night). Accepted payment is typically by credit card or cash (pesos) at the bar. Always bring ID and your reservation confirmation.
Seating and Layout
The Rooftop is an open-air wooden deck atop the main Habitas club building. It features a mix of standing room and lounge seating – think scattered low-slung sofas, bar stools around the perimeter bar, and some dining-height tables near the railing. A small plunge pool is embedded in the deck, with seating arranged around it. (A guest review specifically mentions “the small pool which overlooks the ocean” as a highlight (www.tripadvisor.ie ).) There are no fixed theater seats; instead, guests mill about or relax on couches. For the best views, many visitors congregate at the rail near the pool’s edge, which looks directly out to the palm trees, beach and sea. At night, string lights and lanterns give the area a warm glow. (Tip: mid-afternoon sun can be strong on the rooftop, so the prime evening hours – sunset and after – are often most pleasant.) The acoustic setup is generally designed for intimate live music or DJ sets: speakers are mounted discreetly so music fills the space without echoing too harshly. Sound carries toward the jungle and beach, so the vibe feels immersive. Overall, the layout is casual and fluid, with no “bad” seats – every spot has a sky or sea view. You’ll want to avoid standing directly under any uncovered strings or fixtures if it’s drizzling; otherwise almost the entire deck is open-air.
Getting There and Parking
The Rooftop is located on the coastal road called Carretera Tulum–Boca Paila in the Hotel Zone, approximately kilometer 4.5 south of Tulum town (www.tripadvisor.ie ). It’s about a 1½-hour drive from Cancún International Airport and roughly 40 minutes from the closer Tulum (TQO) airport (www.ourhabitas.com ). By car or taxi, you follow the main beach road (Carretera Boca Paila) until you see the Habitas entrance (look for the Habitas logo sign). There is guest parking onsite at Our Habitas – typically free for patrons – so driving yourself is convenient, though roadside parking along the hotel zone is also available if needed. Public transit options include the Tulum town ADO bus (which ends downtown) and local “colectivo” vans. From central Tulum, take a colectivos heading to the hotel zone (ask the driver for “Zona Hotelera” or Boca Paila). The colectivos run frequently (roughly every few minutes during the day) and cover the trip in 15–30 minutes, costing only ~20–40 MXN (mayamaravilla.com ). Colectivos won’t drop you inside the resort, but they can let you off along the main road near the entrance – from there it’s a short walk to the hotel. Rideshare apps (Uber, DiDi) are spotty once you’re on the beach road, so locals often rely on authorized taxis or arranged hotel shuttles instead. If coming by scooter or bicycle, note that the Hotel Zone road can be busy, and watch for speed bumps leading up to the resort. Overall, driving or colectivos are the most practical ways: for example, a Tulum-to-Zona route is known to take about 20 minutes by colectivo and about 15 if driving your own rental car (mayamaravilla.com ). Taxis are easy to flag anywhere on the main road, and will drop you off right at the Habitas gate. (www.ourhabitas.com ) (mayamaravilla.com )
Inside the Venue
Inside the rooftop space you can expect a relaxed beach-club atmosphere with attentive service. Entry typically involves showing a ticket or confirmation (if it’s a ticketed event) or your hotel reservation. Security is minimal at the platform level, but standard bag checks (for large items) and age-ID checks (for drinks/events) may occur. Once inside, you’ll find a bartender serving a full bar of creative cocktails, beers and spirits. Tulum’s rooftop bars often spotlight local ingredients and Mexican liquor; in fact one description of a Tulum rooftop notes a “bold and varied” lineup of mezcal-based cocktails from across Mexico (www.tripadvisor.com.mx ). Expect mojitos, margaritas and signature mixes with mezcal, tequila or local rum, plus non-alcoholic tropical options. For example, reviews praise rooftop bars here for “signature cocktails, delicious food and an amazing view” (www.tripadvisor.es ), so you can anticipate high-quality drinks crafted with flair. (House specialties may include mezcal margaritas, gin & tonics with herbal twists, or fresh juice and fruit-infused cocktails.) Light snacks or tapas-style dishes may be available from the bar menu, but most hearty dining is handled by the ground-level Moro restaurant. Moro is described on the hotel site as “the heartbeat of our home,” a beachfront woodfire grill kitchen serving falafel, grilled meats and unique Latin/Mediterranean recipes (www.ourhabitas.com ). Guests often order snacks from Moro and have them brought up. As one guest notes, the Rooftop’s vibe is gastro-lounge style – “good vibe, signature cocktails, delicious food” – much like other top Tulum terraces (www.tripadvisor.es ). The venue is fully outdoors, so there are no indoor tables up here. Free Wi-Fi is typically available throughout the resort, including the rooftop (www.tripadvisor.es ). Things to note: there is a small bar counter and some tables, but mobility is generally unstructured (standing or casual seating). Restrooms are located back inside on the lower floor, accessible by a short staircase or elevator. Accessibility can vary – one should check with staff if wheelchair access is needed. Hang signage like “no outside food or glass containers” is common at these venues. Otherwise, photos and videos are allowed, and people often capture the sunset panoramic views (some venues do restrict large professional cameras, so use discretion). Be sure to tip your server, and enjoy any live DJ or music that might be playing. The overall atmosphere transitions from sun-soaked lounge by day to candlelit cocktail party by night.
Nearby Amenities
The hotel zone around Isla Tulum is relatively quiet, but there are a few notable spots within walking or short driving distance. On-site, the main attraction is the Moro restaurant and lounge (just below the Rooftop) (www.ourhabitas.com ). For more options, the famous Papaya Playa Project is nearby (at Km 4.5) – its Casa Árbol beach club and restaurant often hosts DJ events and offers upscale Mexican-Peruvian cuisine. A bit farther south (around Km 6–7) you’ll find La Zebra Beach Restaurant & Bar, a family-friendly spot known for beachfront brunches and Caribbean views. La Valise (at Km 10) is a chic boutique resort with a laid-back beach bar serving wood-fired pizzas and cocktails. Back onto the main coast road, you’ll also see smaller taco stands and convenience shops like Chedraui Select near the km 4 marker – handy if you need snacks or drinks on the way. For nightlife outside the rooftop, many visitors shuttle into Tulum Pueblo (downtown) where spots like Batey Mojito Bar and Gitano offer cocktails and music. (Colectivos run frequently between town and the beach zone if you want to explore.) Lodging in the immediate area includes other boutique hotels like Papaya Playa and Maiz Azul, while larger resorts ring the Parks like Dreams Tulum or Bahia Principe a bit farther north. In general, you should plan meals either at Moro or at one of these nearby beach venues, as the hotel zone is more spread-out than downtown. If arriving for an event on the Rooftop, aim to arrive a bit early to secure a good view seat and to explore the beach’s calm before the evening crowd. Late-night taxis back to town are generally available (you can call one via reception or use a local taxi stand), but it’s wise to arrange return transport in advance if the party runs late.
What Makes This Venue Special
What really sets the Rooftop apart is its blend of design, culture and community impact. Architecturally, it embodies Tulum’s “hippie-chic” aesthetic: Interiors magazine described Our Habitas Tulum as an elegant yet “relaxed” retreat built with modular, ultra-light structures designed to leave a minimal footprint (www.revistainteriores.es ). Many elements – from reclaimed-wood furnishings to the fact that even the bathrooms are open-air – reinforce that nothing here interrupts the jungle surroundings (www.revistainteriores.es ). The Rooftop itself merges this ethos with luxury: it has a heated Moroccan-tiled infinity pool linking sky to sea (an amenity few places can match), and panoramic veranda seating right over the trees (www.sanatulum.com ) (www.ourhabitas.com ). Culturally, this is more than a bar – it’s part of a resort that drapes itself in Mayan tradition and community. Upon arrival at Habitas, guests participate in a sacred Copal-fire welcome ceremony to set intentions for their stay (www.revistainteriores.es ). The owners and staff are known for embracing Tulum’s regenerative values: for example, they pioneered a “Cazadores de Plástico” (Plastic Hunters) community recycling program in town (www.ourhabitas.com ). And as one traveler review hinted, Habitas has earned a reputation for events that feel like mini-festivals – its small size makes every show feel intimate. Many aficionados say artists and regular patrons love the rooftop because it offers a front-row experience to both nature and nightlife. In short, guests cherish this Rooftop for its panoramic vistas and upscale amenities, yet also for the warm yoga-and-laid-back-vibe community. It’s the kind of place where you might watch the sunset to chilled-out beats, then under the stars dance to deeper electronica – all while feeling you’re in a “home” curated by locals rather than a flashy corporate club. Not least, being adults-only means the atmosphere stays sophisticated. This mix of breathtaking ocean views, cutting-edge eco-design, returning world-class DJs and a deep emphasis on paradise-preserving culture is what makes the Rooftop at Zona Hotelera Tulum truly unique in the Riviera Maya. (sustentur.com.mx ) (www.revistainteriores.es )
Visitor Tips and Information
– Accessibility: Habitas advertises that much of its resort is wheelchair-accessible, but the rooftop sits atop a multi-level building, so check ahead if steps are a concern. (Some Tulum bars use ramps or have elevators up to the roof.) Staff can advise on elevator access to the third-floor terrace if needed. – What to Bring: Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat) is recommended for daytime events, and a light jacket or shawl for the evening sea breeze. Insect repellent is wise in the jungle environment. A refillable water bottle is encouraged since all single-use plastic bottles and straws have been banned at Habitas (sustentur.com.mx ) – there are filtered water stations around the resort. Carry local currency (Mexican pesos) for minor purchases or tips; credit cards are widely accepted at the bar and restaurant, but small vendors (and tips) often prefer cash. – Dress Code: The dress code is generally “resort casual.” Daytime attire often means swimsuits (tied with a cover-up), linen shorts, caftans or boho dresses. At night, guests usually wear upscale beach-casual – for men that might be a polo or button-down with sandals, for women a sundress or light jumpsuit. No formal wear or heels are needed. Guests sometimes go barefoot on the deck (as the open design allows) but reference recommends rubber soles after dark. – Age Restrictions: 18+ only – this is strictly enforced for any event, so all guests must carry ID. – Photography Rules: Personal photo/video is generally fine (guests love photographing the sunset view), but professional cameras or filming may require permission. (Note some nearby venues like Papaya Playa ask you to check cameras. It’s best to just enjoy the moment or use a phone camera.) – Weather: The rooftop is uncovered except for small shaded areas, so rain can affect events. If bad weather approaches, check with staff – they may move entertainment indoors. Afternoons in summer can be very hot and sometimes stormy, while winter nights are cooler. – Mistakes to Avoid: The most common oversight is under-tipping – cocktail servers in Tulum usually expect 10–15% tip. Also ensure your phone is on airplane mode or local SIM to save costs. – Connectivity: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, including on the Rooftop (www.tripadvisor.es ). Cellular reception is generally good along the beach highway. – Nearby Essentials: The closest ATM and grocery shop (Chedraui) is back near Km 4.0 just before reaching the resort. – Other Tips: If you’re sensitive to noise, note that the venue can be loud during music sets – earplugs can be a good backup. Finally, reservations are smart: even if you just want a rooftop drink at peak time, booking a table or dinner in advance ensures you won’t have to wait outside. Arriving 30–45 minutes early on busy nights is recommended to get prime seating at the edge of the deck. With these tips, you’ll be set to fully enjoy all this venue’s mix of luxury and local charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Rooftop at Zona Hotelera Tulum?
The rooftop lounge is quite intimate – it holds around 50 people at full capacity (www.ourhabitas.com ). This limited size creates a cozy atmosphere, so plan to book in advance for big events since space fills up fast. Even a casual night can feel lively with just a few dozen guests.
Are there any age restrictions to enter this venue?
Yes. The Rooftop is part of an adults-only resort, so all guests must be at least 18 years old (www.ourhabitas.com ). If you plan to attend any event or enter the bar, be prepared to show valid ID (passport or driver’s license) to prove you are 18+.
What is the exact location of Rooftop Zona Hotelera Tulum?
The venue is located on the Tulum Boca Paila highway (Carretera A Boca Paila) at kilometer 4.5 in the Hotel Zone, just south of the town center (www.tripadvisor.ie ). If you’re using GPS, search for “Our Habitas Tulum” or set it to Km 4.5 Boca Paila. It’s about a 15-minute drive from central Tulum or 1½ hours from Cancún airport (40 minutes from the smaller Tulum airport) (www.ourhabitas.com ) (www.tripadvisor.ie ). The resort’s entrance is on the highway, and there is often a sign with the Habitas logo at the driveway.
Is parking available at the Rooftop or nearby?
Yes, Habitas Tulum provides onsite parking for its guests, including those visiting the rooftop. Parking in the Zona Hotelera is generally free or low-cost, so you can park in the resort lot. If the hotel lot is full, you will likely find street parking along the main road near the entrance. (For reference, another rooftop bar in Tulum explicitly notes “parking available” as an amenity (www.tripadvisor.es ).) Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are also common at the resort entrance.
How can I get there by public transportation?
Public transit options are limited in the beach zone, but you can take a local “colectivo” van from Tulum town. These white vans serve the Tulum ↔ Zona Hotelera route very frequently. The trip takes about 15–30 minutes, costing roughly 20–40 MXN (mayamaravilla.com ). Ask the driver for “Zona Hotelera” and they’ll drop you on the highway. From there it’s a short walk to Habitas. There is no direct ADO bus to this area (ADO goes to town), so colectivo or taxi from downtown is the usual public-transit solution. Taxis from downtown can also bring you directly on the highway road to the hotel’s gate.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance for events?
For regular nights, no ticket is needed beyond your drink order. However, special events or theme nights often sell out quickly due to limited capacity. It’s strongly recommended to purchase or reserve tickets for any RSVP-only event. For example, the resort’s advertised Thanksgiving dinner required advance booking and was MXN 1,100 per person (www.ourhabitas.com ). To secure a spot, check the Habitas website or contact their experience team well before the event. Door tickets may not be available once an event is full.
Is there a dress code at the Rooftop?
The dress code is casual resort wear. During the day, people often come in swimwear (with a cover-up) or light summer clothes and sandals. After sunset, guests usually stay laid-back – think linen shirts, sundresses, or beach-chic attire. No formal or business attire is required. A nice pair of sandals or espadrilles is appropriate; very high heels aren’t practical on the wooden deck. Since the venue is outdoors, consider wearing something you’re comfortable strolling in. Note that nearby fine-dining spots like Moro may be slightly more ballgown-friendly if you plan to eat there first.
What payment methods are accepted at the rooftop?
Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) are generally accepted at the bar and restaurant. Cash (Mexican pesos) is also widely used – it’s handy to have some for bar tabs, tips, or small purchases. In traveler experiences, patrons note that bars in Tulum often prefer cash tips placed on the table. If you only have foreign currency, there are ATMs in the hotel zone (such as at Mini-Super near Km 4.0) or in town. In short, both cash and cards work, but be sure your card has no foreign-transaction fee, as some machines will apply a fee.
Does the Rooftop have Wi-Fi and restrooms?
Yes. The Habitas resort offers free Wi-Fi throughout the property, including the Rooftop (www.tripadvisor.es ). Signal strength is usually good since you’re near the main area. Restrooms are located just inside the Habitas clubhouse (on the same floor as the main restaurant), so you’ll need to step inside to use them. Servers at the Rooftop can point you to the nearest bathroom. (Unlike a fixed indoor bar, there is no restroom directly on the open deck.) Tip: keep your shoes on or sandals when going indoors – the transition from beach deck to indoor floor is easy but better with footwear.)
Is the Rooftop wheelchair accessible?
Parts of Habitas Tulum are wheelchair-accessible, but the Rooftop involves elevator or steps. The hotel has an elevator up to the main club levels, so a guest can typically reach the rooftop by elevator. (The review of a similar Tulum bar notes “access for disabled” as an amenity (www.tripadvisor.es ).) However, depending on your needs, it’s best to call ahead. The wood deck has flat surfaces once you’re up, but maneuvering in tight lounge areas or near the bar can be tricky with a wheelchair. The staff at Habitas is generally helpful, so they can assist or guide you to the best seating and to bathrooms on the main floor that are accessible.
