Sweet Treats: Tulum’s Best and Most Affordable Ice Cream

Looking for a way to beat the heat while exploring Tulum on a sunny day? Look no further than the tantalizingly delicious ice cream bars that are taking the town and the beach by storm! From classic chocolate coatings to exotic fruit flavors, these frozen treats are the perfect way to cool down and indulge your sweet tooth. So, are you ready to dive into a world of creamy, dreamy, frozen delights? Let’s explore the mouthwatering world of ice cream bars in Tulum!

If you are new to Tulum, it is a picturesque town located in the Mexican Caribbean. It is famous for its pristine beaches and stunning natural beauty. On a hot, sunny day, the town comes alive with visitors seeking relief from the scorching sun. Most tourists will enjoy the beach activities in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, which offer the perfect opportunity to cool down. Either take a refreshing dip, Kite surfing, snorkel, and many more! While some would prefer to chill under the lush greenery of the surrounding jungle, it can also provide a natural oasis of shade and tranquility.

But there’s another way to beat the heat in Tulum that’s becoming increasingly popular among locals and visitors alike – ice cream bars! Which is commonly referred to as “gelatos“ in Tulum. These delicious frozen treats are popping up all over the town, offering a wide range of flavors and toppings to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Whether you’re craving a classic chocolate-dipped vanilla bar or a more exotic flavor like mango-chili or coconut-lime gelatos, you’re sure to find something to tantalize your taste buds.

With every lick and bite, you’ll let out a scream of pleasure as the creamy, cold goodness melts in your mouth. So remember, when Tulum gets too hot, be sure to keep an eye out for these irresistible gelato restaurants and shops below!

Price range: $$$$$

Area: Tulum Pueblo, Hunab, and Aldea Zama

Best for: Atmosphere, menu, and variety

Campanella Cremerie in Tulum is a must-visit gelato bar for any dessert lover. They offer a variety of delicious flavors, ranging from classic vanilla and chocolate to unique flavors like avocado and beetroot. With prices starting at 55 pesos for one scoop and going up to 140 pesos for four scoops, it’s an affordable treat for any budget. 

In addition to their outstanding gelato, Campanella Cremerie also serves soft and chewy waffles topped with creamy gelatos  and bananas, which we love to share when we look for something sweet and fulfilling. So, it’s no surprise that Campanella Cremerie has earned a 4.6-star rating from over 1.2K Google reviews, as their high-quality desserts and inviting atmosphere make for a memorable experience.

Our expert tips: If you want to leave feeling more satisfied, we recommend trying their waffles topped with your preferred flavor of gelatos.

Price range: $$$$$

Area: Tulum Pueblo and Hotel Zone

Best for: tasty flavors and great popsicles too

If you’re looking for a gelato shop in Tulum town and the hotel zone (by the beach), Panna e Cioccolato is a fantastic choice. They serve rich and flavorful gelato that’s not too sweet and allows the natural ingredients to shine. One of their standout features is their fruity flavors, including guava, coconut, and maracuja (passion fruit), which are all highly recommended. Don’t be afraid to try something new, as each flavor is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients to create a delicious, creamy treat. 

The cost of a scoop starts at 50 pesos, with two scoops for 70 pesos and three scoops for 90 pesos, making it an affordable indulgence. With a rating of 4.7 stars from over 1.4K Google reviews, it’s clear that Panna e Cioccolato is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike.

Our expert tips: You absolutely have to try their creamy desserts served in a cone, dipped in a luscious layer of chocolate and nuts. And that’s not all; their popsicles are also a must-try! These frozen treats are layered with mouthwatering chocolate and nuts, providing the perfect alternative.

Price range: $$$$$

Area: Tulum Pueblo

Best for: Vegan gelatos and great atmosphere

Indulge in the heavenly goodness of Aldo’s Gelato Tulum’s mouthwatering gelatos that are sure to leave you craving for more. The gelato shop offers an extensive range of flavors that cater to everyone’s preferences, including vegan and keto-friendly options. From the rich and nutty hazelnut to the decadent dark chocolate and the classic stracciatella, every scoop is a delightful burst of flavors. 

The price may be slightly higher, with one scoop for 69 pesos, two scoops for 99 pesos, and three scoops for 129 pesos, but trust us when we say that it’s worth every penny. Moreover, the scoops are slightly larger than the average size, making every scoop a more satisfying experience. 

What’s more, customers have a plethora of options to customize their gelatos, such as bubble waffles, frappes, cones, banana splits, and much more. With so much to choose from, Aldo’s Gelato Tulum is an experience that you want to experience.

Our expert tips: The atmosphere at Aldo’s Gelato Tulum is as inviting as the gelato itself. The shop provides ample seating options under the shade, where customers can enjoy their treats with friends and family. So, come and sit down to fully immerse yourself in your sweet desserts!

Price range: $$$$$

Area: Tulum Town (La Veleta)

Best for: Vegan gelatos and plant-based snacks

Holistika Hotel Tulum is a well-known wellness center that has gained popularity for its serene ambiance and focus on holistic health practices. One highlight of the hotel is the Yom Yom Foodtique shop located next to the restaurant. This small but cozy shop specializes in delicious vegan and plant-based desserts and snacks, which are a hit among the health-conscious crowd. 

From vegan gelatos to blueberry brownies, there’s something for everyone at Yom Yom Foodtique. Although the price is slightly high (about 70 pesos for a scoop), it is worth every penny. So, if you’re in Tulum and looking for a healthy snack, make sure to visit this lovely little shop.

Our expert tips: Holistika Tulum’s serene jungle atmosphere and restaurant make it a must-visit destination. With wooden benches, relaxing music, and fast & free internet, you want to stay here for a while. So, take advantage of the chance to enjoy their delicious desserts while socializing or working in the vibrant jungle ambiance.

Price range: $$$$$

Area: Tulum Centro

Best for: Local fruity popsicles

Located nearby the center and the park, this place is a must-visit for those who want to indulge in local desserts. The specialty of the shop is “paleta,” a fruity popsicle made with fresh and natural ingredients. These delightful treats are priced affordably, at under 50 pesos per popsicle, and boast a rich, natural taste that isn’t overly sweet or sugary. If you’re looking for a tasty and refreshing dessert in the area, this shop is definitely worth a visit.

Our expert tips: You may need to speak a little Spanish to order at the shop, but it is totally worth it to try the local desserts. Plus, make sure to stay until the evening on the weekends, so you can experience the vibrant street market on weekend nights in the heart of the center.

You’ll find most of them situated in the Pueblo. To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve put together a list of our top five picks that we highly recommend trying out first!

1. Campanella Cremeria – $$$$$ – Tulum Pueblo, Hunab, Aldea Zama
2. Panna e Cioccolato – $$$$$ – Tulum Pueblo and Hotel Zone (by the beach)
3. Aldo’s Gelato – $$$$$ – Tulum Pueblo and Hotel Zone (by the beach)
4. Yom Yom by Holistika Hotel Tulum – $$$$$ – Tulum La Veleta
5. La Reyna de Michoacan – $$$$$ – Tulum Centro

If you’re looking to make the most of Tulum’s sunny weather, then look no further. This map is your ultimate guide to navigating the top gelato spots in the area with ease. So, if you are in the area, don’t hesitate to stop by and delight in some frozen treats!

As a lover of all things sweet, we are thrilled to share with you the top spots in Tulum where you can indulge in a refreshing and tasty frozen treat. But before you check it out to try those mouthwatering gelato venues, here are a few things to keep in mind.

When planning for a trip to any of the venues mentioned above, here’s a helpful guide with tips and advice to ensure you make the most of your experience.

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for samples: The staff are kind and welcome you to try their desserts before committing to a flavor.
2. Keep an eye out for vegan and dairy-free options: There are some bars that offer vegan and vegetarian-friendly gelatos, like Yom Yom by Holistika Hotel, which is becoming increasingly common in Tulum.
3. Try unique and exotic flavors: like mango, coconut, and tamarind flavors. They are all very good and delicious!
4. Avoid eating desserts in direct sunlight: They quickly melt, and it’s best to enjoy them under the cool shade.
5. Try other desserts besides gelatos at the bar: For example, we love and recommend Panna e Cioccolato’s popsicle with chocolate nuts!

In general, the price of a single scoop can range from 3 – 4 USD / 50 – 70 pesos for a scoop, with some premium flavors or vegan-friendly options costing even more. However, many local shops offer a variety of delicious and affordable options for those on a budget. Some shops also offer larger sizes or combo deals, so it’s worth exploring your options to find the best value. 

For those on a strict diet or looking for healthier options, we have just the scoop for you! Head on over to Aldo’s Gelato and Yom Yom Foodtique, where you’ll find a tempting selection of vegan, dairy-free, and keto-friendly gelatos, as well as other delicious desserts. With prices hovering around 70 pesos, you can indulge guilt-free in a range of flavors that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. 

In Tulum, locals tend to favour the traditional “paletas” shops, such as La Reyna de Michoacan, located in Tulum Center. These shops are easily identifiable with their distinctive pink and white striped walls and the word “paletas” written on them. Prices at these shops are typically reasonable, averaging around 3 USD or 50 pesos. We recommend checking them out while you’re in Tulum!