About Gitano Beach
Gitano Beach is an intimate, bohemian-style beach club and restaurant set on nearly 120 meters of pristine Tulum shoreline (www.gitano.com ). Located on Boca Paila road (KM 9.4 in the Zona Hotelera) in South Tulum (www.gitano.com ), it occupies what feels like a private cove just before the Sian Ka’an Nature Reserve (www.gitano.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). The design is rustic and eco-friendly – thatched palm palapas and bamboo lounges on the sand give it a relaxed, barefoot-luxury vibe (urbanologie.com ). This open-air venue serves modern Mexican and international cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and signature mezcal cocktails (www.gitano.com ) (urbanologie.com ). Gitano Beach opened in early 2020, paused during the pandemic, then relaunched “more beautiful...than ever” (www.gitano.com ). Because it is set away from Tulum’s main hotel zone, many visitors rave about its quiet, natural beach setting and soft white sand (www.tripadvisor.co.za ).
Events and Programming
Gitano Beach is as much about music and parties as it is about dining. The club hosts live DJ sets every Thursday through Sunday, often spinning disco, Afro-house and tropical beats that carry into the evening (yourtulumconcierge.com ) (www.gitano.com ). Weekends bring special events like the “Sunset Fiesta” – a Saturday afternoon-to-evening beach party with live DJs and dancing on the sand (yourtulumconcierge.com ) (www.tulum.party ). There’s also a popular beach BBQ every weekend and occasional themed parties (for example, “Locals Night” or holiday events). Many international guest DJs and local talent play here, but the setting remains casual: think hammock swings, communal tables and tribal drums rather than a formal stage. Entry policies vary by event – some parties may require a reservation or cover charge – but typically guests can combine drinks and meals under the stars. Be aware that Gitano’s menu and cocktails are on the pricier side, and a recent review noted a per-person minimum spend of around US$50 for food and drink to reserve a table (www.tripadvisor.co.za ).
Tickets and Booking
Regular daytime and dinner visits generally do not need “tickets” – you can walk in and order from the menu. However, for special events and busy evenings it’s best to book in advance. Gitano Beach takes reservations by email or WhatsApp rather than a third-party ticket vendor (www.tulum.party ). The official website asks you to reserve a table through their booking system, and major parties (like the Sunset Fiesta) often sell out quickly. Prices depend on seating and event: expect to pay for any required cover charge or minimum spend ahead of time. If you’re planning to dine or attend a popular DJ night, reserve early and be prepared to spend for food and drinks. As one visitor reported, a couple drinks, an appetizer and an entrée easily exceeded the typical minimum spend of about $50–$60 per person (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). There is no box office on site – use the online contact info or ask your hotel concierge for help securing a spot.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Gitano Beach is open and flexible. There is a large indoor restaurant area under palapas as well as an extensive outdoor deck right on the sand (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Around the perimeter you’ll find rows of bamboo sunbeds and beach lounge beds, many arranged beside small tables for dining or cocktails (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Private cabanas and shaded booths are available for VIP groups or those wanting extra privacy. Because it’s open-air, there are no fixed “seats” like in a theater – seating is on loungers, benches and low tables. The best spots depend on the vibe you want: if you’re there during sunset DJs, many people grab a front-row beach bed facing the stage area or a table under a palapa to watch the sun dip. If you want privacy and shade in midday, opt for an interior table under cover. Keep in mind that being right on the sand means the front rows can be bumpy or hot underfoot, and the house music can be loud near the DJ area – some guests prefer a middle table for conversation or a spot farther back when just dining.
Getting There and Parking
Gitano Beach’s address is Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila KM 9.4 (Zona Hotelera), just past Casa Malca and before the Sian Ka’an park entrance (www.gitano.com ). It’s about 12 km (15–20 minutes) south of downtown Tulum. If you drive, follow the main Tulum highway south, turn onto Boca Paila (the road runs along the beach), and watch for signs to Casa Gitano/Casa Malca around KM 9-10. There is free parking on site for guests (www.gitano.com ), but spaces can fill up on busy days, so arriving early is wise. By public transport you can take a colectivo (shared minivan) from central Tulum toward Boca Paila and get off near Casa Malca (then walk 50–100 meters). Direct buses don’t run to the hotel zone, so most visitors hire a taxi or ride-share. Note that Uber/Lyft service is unreliable in Tulum; it’s safer to pre-book a hotel shuttle or use local taxis or apps like DiDi. From Cancun Airport, private shuttles or rental cars are common – the drive is about 90 minutes.
Inside the Venue
Inside, Gitano Beach feels relaxed and bohemian. You enter to open sand, palm fronds and glimpse of ocean. There is usually a host station at the entrance (reservation list or cover charge sign-up). Security is unobtrusive – standard bag checks or ID checks if required for late-night events. There are no coat checks or storage; belongings are often kept under your table or chair. The restaurant menu is a major draw: all-day dining includes ceviches, tacos, fresh seafood and grilled meats, along with vegetarian options (www.gitano.com ). The bar serves a variety of cocktails with artisanal mezcal, plus beer and wine. Restrooms are located in the indoor section (clean but expect a queue on peak nights). The club provides beach towels at no charge (www.tripadvisor.co.za ), so you don’t need to bring one. One recent visitor noted that the Wi-Fi reaches the sand and works well, especially in the covered areas (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). The overall atmosphere is friendly and laid-back – expect other guests in swimsuits, flip-flops and flowing boho attire. It’s a casual scene, though many people come dressed stylishly in resort chic. Many diners linger from afternoon through sunset, so there’s usually no rush to exit.
Nearby Amenities
Gitano Beach sits among some of Tulum’s most famous hotels, restaurants and boutiques. Just next door are Casa Gitano (the boutique hotel attached to the club) and the luxury Casa Malca , which has its airy Ambrosia restaurant and tropical bar. A short walk north along the sand is Nomade Tulum with its Macondo restaurant and Namaste bar. If you want a sit-down meal before a show, Macondo (modern Mexican cuisine) and Casa Malca’s Ambrosia (Mediterranean) are top choices. On the highway side there’s the eco-luxe Be Tulum and the beachside Amaite at Be Tulum. For nightlife after Gitano closes, options are limited nearby (Casa Malca’s lounge or a late taxi to downtown). In the Pueblo (Tulum town) 15 km away you’ll find more casual restaurants and bars. As for lodging, aside from Casa Gitano, hotels like La Zebra and Zamas are a few minutes north. Since Gitano’s parties can run until 11pm, plan your return trip: most guests pre-arrange a taxi or shuttle. Keep in mind that many Tulum taxis only run until midnight, so book rides well in advance on event nights.
What Makes This Venue Special
Gitano Beach stands out as a blend of jungle spirit and beachfront elegance. Its architecture and decor create a “secret oasis” feel: the rustic thatch roofs and seaside palapas give it a uniquely tropical aesthetic (urbanologie.com ). Unlike a crowded nightclub, the party here takes place on powder-soft sand under open sky. The venue’s culinary offerings also reflect local culture – the kitchen boasts a wood-fired oven and grill that produces creative dishes with Mexican and Mediterranean influences (urbanologie.com ). The cocktail program is built around mezcal – a nod to Mexico’s heritage – crafted into artful drinks. Music-wise, Gitano helped popularize Tulum’s boutique nightlife by hosting eclectic DJ sets that mix global beats with Caribbean vibes (yourtulumconcierge.com ). In essence, it’s a place where travelers and locals alike come to savor the best of Tulum’s laid-back luxury lifestyle: the sunsets, the sea breeze, and the fusion of traditional flavors with beach-ready fun. Artists and photographers love Gitano for sunsets over turquoise water, and many memorable nights – from weddings to impromptu full-moon parties – have been held on its sands.
Visitor Tips and Information
Gitano Beach’s setting means a few practical things: it’s mostly sand underfoot, so flat sandals or going barefoot are common. Bring sunscreen, a towel or swimsuit if you plan to swim (though note Gitano itself doesn’t have showers). Guests report that the lunch and dinner menus have vegetarian and even vegan options, so a variety of diets is accommodated. Children are allowed during daytime hours, but after dark the crowd skews 18+ (some events may enforce age limits). No formal dress code is enforced, but the vibe is “resort casual boho” – think light linens, breezy dresses and no stilettos in the sand. The only things you shouldn’t bring are outside alcoholic drinks and large coolers (Gitano handles beverages and food). Photography and phones are fine (no set ban), but many people prefer the atmospheric lighting and relax with their cameras switched off during evening sets. Tipping is customary (around 10–15%) at restaurants in Mexico. Finally, note that Tulum’s beach can get quite windy or occasionally seaweed-laden depending on the season, so check local beach reports if you plan to swim. In general, arrive early on event days to secure a good spot, and plan your transport home in advance since public transit is sparse and the last taxis depart by around 12:00am.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket or reservation to visit Gitano Beach?
For general daytime or dinner visits, no ticket is needed – you can walk in and place food or drink orders. However, popular parties and dining slots often sell out. It’s best to make a reservation directly with the venue (via their website, email or WhatsApp) if you want a guaranteed spot or want to attend a specific event.
What are the address and hours of Gitano Beach?
Gitano Beach is located on Carretera Tulum–Boca Paila KM 9.4 in South Tulum (just past Casa Malca) (www.gitano.com ). It is open daily from morning through late evening (officially 8:00am–11:00pm), with live music events typically starting in the afternoon and running into the night (www.gitano.com ).
Is there parking available, and is it free?
Yes – Gitano Beach offers complimentary on-site parking for guests (www.gitano.com ). The lot is small, so it can fill up quickly on busy nights. If it’s full, some people park nearby at Casa Malca or other hotels and walk over.
How do I get to Gitano Beach by public transport?
There’s no direct city bus to the hotel zone. The easiest methods are a local taxi or a colectivo (shared van) from Tulum town. Colectivos run along the highway and can drop you near Casa Malca – then it’s a short walk south on the sand to Gitano. Many visitors also take an ADO bus to Tulum and then a taxi. Ride-sharing apps (Uber, Lyft) are unreliable in this area, so plan to use official taxis or pre-booked shuttles when possible.
What is the dress code at Gitano Beach?
There is no strict dress code. Guests usually wear beach-resort attire – bathing suits (often with cover-ups), shorts, loose dresses or linen pants, and flip-flops or bare feet. It’s common to see a bohemian style with lots of whites and earth tones. For evening events, people often dress a bit nicer (sundresses or khaki pants), but the overall vibe stays casual and barefoot-friendly.
Are children and infants allowed at Gitano Beach?
Gitano Beach is family-friendly during daytime hours, so children are welcome when it’s mostly a restaurant experience. In the evenings, especially during DJ parties, the atmosphere is adult-oriented. There may be unofficial age guidelines (for example, some events could limit entry to 18+ after a certain hour). If bringing kids, arrive early and avoid the late-night dance hours.
Is Gitano Beach wheelchair accessible?
Gitano Beach’s layout is primarily on sand, which can make wheelchair access challenging. The indoor restaurant area is flat and reachable by a short ramp, but most seating is in the open sand. If you require special accommodations, it’s best to contact the venue in advance. Some visitors use beach wheelchairs or ask staff for assistance to reach tables.
Do I need to bring cash or is card payment accepted?
Gitano Beach accepts major credit cards for purchases. However, it’s wise to have some cash on hand for tipping servers or taxis. Be aware that payments on busy nights can be slow, so bringing cash can speed up smaller transactions. Automatic gratuity may be added for large groups, but an additional tip (10–15%) is customary for good service.
What are the cuisine and drink offerings?
The menu features modern Mexican and international beach fare – ceviches, tacos, salads and grilled dishes, with fresh seafood and local ingredients (www.gitano.com ). They emphasize mezcal in their cocktail menu (margaritas and mojitos also appear). Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available. The beachfront bar serves beer, wine and creative mezcal cocktails, perfect for sipping on the sand at sunset.
Does Gitano Beach have Wi-Fi or cellular service?
Wi-Fi is provided free for guests and generally works well around the restaurant and lounges (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Many visitors report that they can even get a good signal on the beach beds near the tables. Cellular coverage in Tulum is decent, but if the club is packed, Wi-Fi is your best bet for uploading photos and messages.
Is smoking allowed at Gitano Beach?
Yes, smoking is allowed in the outdoor beach area of Gitano Beach, including cigarettes and approved tobacco products. However, be mindful of other guests – many parties and nights have a beachy, smoke-free vibe. Civil or medical cannabis use should be discreet; smoking flower in public is not permitted by law. There is no indoor smoking near the restaurant tables.
What should I bring or wear to Gitano Beach?
Pack beach-friendly attire: swimsuit, cover-up, sandals or barefoot. Guests often wear reflective sunglasses, hats and loose casual outfits. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a sarong or light shirt if you’re sensitive to wind. Gitano provides towels, so you don’t need to bring one. If you plan on entering the ocean, consider water shoes for the beach. Nothing too formal – comfortable, boho-chic clothing is best.
Are there any rules or items prohibited at the venue?
Standard beach club policies apply: outside alcohol, coolers, large umbrellas or picnic food are not allowed. Personal music players with speakers should stay off (Gitano provides the music). Pets are not permitted unless they are service animals. Also, note that cameras are fine, but professional photo equipment may require permission. Always respect the local environment and dress code – no clothing with offensive logos or language.
What is Gitano Beach’s Sunset Fiesta?
The Sunset Fiesta is a weekly party held on Saturdays (and often Sundays) at Gitano Beach, typically starting in the early afternoon and going through sunset (yourtulumconcierge.com ). It features live DJ performances, dancing on the sand, and a festive beach atmosphere as the sun goes down. Think of it as Tulum’s version of a sunset rave. To attend the Sunset Fiesta, you should reserve in advance as it’s a very popular event.
Does Gitano Beach get quiet after the music and lights?
Gitano Beach typically winds down by 11:00pm (its official closing time). Music generally softens after 10pm. After parties are uncommon on-site, so once the lights are off you’ll need to head to nearby bars or back to town for nightlife. Plan your transportation accordingly, as last taxis from the hotel zone leave around midnight.
