tulum mexico trip

Explore Tulum

Plan Your Trip to Tulum: Best of Tulum Tourism

Travel advice, discover the best of mexico with meliá.

Essential Tulum

A high/low eating tour of Tulum

Tulum Is Known For...

Crystal-clear cenotes.

Breezy beach bars and clubs

Spectacular water activities

Tulum Travel Guide

Travelers' pro tips or experiencing tulum.

Enjoy the outdoors safely: Always carry sunblock and water with you, as well as insect repellent for the mosquitoes. Wear comfortable shoes, boots, or trainers and light clothing, a swimsuit, and hat. To avoid crowded trips, plan your excursions on weekdays before 3pm — the earlier the better!

If you are staying at the Hotel Zone of Tulum, it is a good idea to rent a car to explore the area easily. Have a map on hand to calculate distances and know exactly where the interesting places are. If you are thinking about getting around by taxi, be sure to establish a rate for the day with your driver.

Tulúm is a little place that has a real magical charm all of its own. Surrounded by lush jungles, the best beaches, as well as plenty of intimate, romantic dining spots, and nice places to stay, it has all the right ingredients for a romantic vacation together.

Tulum is one of the most beautiful and most laid back places in the world. Not only because of its great beaches and rich biodiversity, but also because of the town's overall eco-friendly concept. To me, Tulum is a magical place, surrounded by mystery, and I hope you'll experience plenty of this in the three days you spend here.

From the famous Mayan ruins — considered an outdoor museum of the INAH (National institute of Anthropology and History) — to the beautiful beaches and incredible cenotes; Tulum is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors. Combine sunbathing with ancient archaeological sights in this unique destination, on the eastern part of the Yucatan Peninsula.

What is the best way to get there?

Cancun International Airport serves Tulum and the wider Yucatan region. It’s around a 1.5-hour drive away.

Buses from popular Yucatan destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Laguna Bacalar, and Merida all arrive into the main ADO bus station in the town centre. There’s also an ADO terminal close to the ruins.

If arriving by car, travelers usually approach Tulum from the Carretera Cancun-Tulum/Chetumal road.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Tulum from overseas, see if you need a  visa .

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Tulum is between October and December, when the weather is warm but not oppressively hot and hurricane season is over. Average daily temperatures this time of year are highs of 30 C/87 F and lows around 19 C/67 F.

Peak tourist season is January through March, and the rainiest months in Tulum are June, September and October.

Bicycles are a popular way to explore Tulum and are available to rent from plenty of places on the main drag. Avoid cycling during the peak hours of sunshine.

Taxis are available to hail from the street or at two dedicated taxi stands in the town center, from which fares are fixed.

Colectivos are shared taxis that run frequently between the town centre and the beach. Jump into a cost-effective colectivo at the stop between Venus Oriente and Orion Sur.

On the ground

What is the timezone.

Eastern Standard Time (EST), GMT-5

What are the voltage/plug types?

The standard voltage in Mexico is 127V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. Mexico has two associated plug types: type A, which has two parallel pins, and type B, which has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.

What is the currency?

Mexican pesos (MXN)

Are ATMs readily accessible?

Are credit cards widely accepted, is it easy to find a bank, how much do i tip.

Tipping in Mexico is expected; etiquette is similar to that of the United States and Canada.

10-20 pesos per drink

10-20 pesos per bag

Taxis/rideshare

Not expected unless extra service is provided.

Are there local customs I should know?

The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old.

Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.

Always greet people

An informal greeting in Spanish—“Hola”—is always appreciated — this includes shop attendants, wait staff, hotel staff, drivers.

• Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort
• Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
• AZULIK Tulum
• Ahau Tulum By Ahau Collection
• Kore Tulum Retreat and Spa Resort
• La Zebra Beach Restaurant and Bar
• Restaurante Estrada
• Kin Toh by AZULIK
• Gran Cenote
• Tulum Archaeological Site
• Cenotes Dos Ojos
• Playa Paraiso
• Cenotes Sac Actun
• Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid Small Group Day Trip
• ATV Cenote and Zipline Sacred Jungle Expedition
• 2-Hour Snorkeling in Two Spots of Tulum's Reef
• Selva Maya Eco Adventure Park: Ziplining, Hanging Bridges, Rappelling and Cenote
• Cenote Triple Adventure Tour in Tulum

© SL_Photography/Getty Images

Tulum’s spectacular coastline – with all its confectioner-sugar sands, cobalt water and balmy breezes – makes it one of the top beaches in Mexico. Where else can you get all that and a dramatically situated Maya ruin?

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, leave the planning to a local expert.

Experience the real Tulum. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Tulum Ruins

Tulum is one of the most visited archaeological zones in Mexico and for good reason: it’s sublime. The ruins sit on seaside cliffs, high above turquoise…

Wandering barefoot through the contemporary art museum at Azulik hotel, you feel like you’re in a giant cocoon. Nature surrounds you, inside and out:…

Reserva de la Biosfera Sian Ka'an

While floating down a canal that Mayans dug by hand centuries ago, you see tall grasses on either side and colorful birds flying overhead. You hear the…

Tankah Tres

At the end of a sand road is the hamlet of Tankah Tres (aka Tankah Bay), a seaside community of vacation homes and small hotels in Mexico, all facing a…

Templo de las Pinturas

This two-story temple has some of Tulum's most intricate decorations, including relief masks, carvings, columns and partially restored color murals on an…

Templo del Dios Descendente

Templo del Dios Descendente is named after the relief figure of a descending god, aka the Diving God.

Estructura 25

On the south side above the main doorway you'll see a lovely stucco frieze of the Descending God, also referred to as the Diving God. The upside-down,…

Templo de la Estela

This is the temple where Stela 1 was found, an artifact now on display in the British Museum. Based on the stela's inscriptions, it is believed it was…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 of the best things to do in tulum.

Papaya Playa Project

Trendy hotel Papaya Playa Project hosts monthly full-moon parties and Saturday DJ nights with resident and guest spinsters at its beachside club. It's…

Assuming you can get in (it accepts walk-ins and online reservations made one month in advance), this sweet 'n' simple nouvelle-cuisine restaurant down on…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Explore beyond the beauty of Tulum with these fantastic day trips.

Transportation

Hire a bike and ride the beach road, hail a colectivo and do your best to avoid the traffic with this guide to getting around in Tulum.

Plan with a local

Experience the real Mexico

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Tulum

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10 Best Things to do in Tulum, Mexico

Explore the beautiful boho-town of Tulum, perched at the edges of the Yucatan Peninsula’s jungles. It’s here where stunning turquoise waves of the Caribbean Sea meet powdery, white-sand beaches, making it the perfect tropical paradise to escape to. Steeped in rich Mayan history, it’s more than just a destination: it’s a place to recharge, soul-search, or party. From exploring ancient ruins atop the shore cliffs to diving into mystical cenotes and shopping in charming boutiques – here are all the best things to do in Tulum, Mexico .

Things to do in Tulum

Located only 2 hours south of busy Cancun, Tulum’s slower, laid-back vibes are a welcome change for those looking to relax. But no worries if you’re looking to party; there are also plenty of events across town.

Every moment here is a new adventure, whether spending a day on the beach, snapping cool pictures in the jungle, or cooling off in hidden cenotes. Discover all the best things to do in Tulum, Mexico.

Tip: Though many people speak English in Tulum, it’s good to learn a few words in Spanish. Knowing how to greet people, order food and drinks, or ask for directions goes a long way!

1. Take a Stroll in Tulum Town

Tulum is split up into two different areas: downtown and the Hotel Zone. The center makes the perfect place to go boutique shopping, find cool souvenirs, or go on the hunt for some delicious tacos. It’s also the area where you’ll find cheaper hotels in Tulum and where most locals live, offering a glimpse into their daily lives. 

Here are all your hotel options in Tulum.

Stroll through the main street, lined with cute shops, vibrant taquerias, and bars. Turn into the side alleys to discover beautiful murals and busy cafes.

Don’t forget to check out the iconic alleys known for street food. Here, you’ll find many food stalls perched on the sides of the road, selling everything from refreshing smoothies to delicious fish tacos (even vegan!). You’ll find some of the best on Calle Gemenis Sur and Avenida Satelite. Join the local food tour or vegan food tour in Tulum.

Tip: It’s best to visit the town in the morning or late afternoon, as midday hours get incredibly hot, and you’ll find little shade. It’s also common for shops to close down during this time.

2. Visit the Tulum Ruins

One of the highlights and best things to do in Tulum is visit the town’s famous archeological zone. Situated on the bluffs of the Caribbean Sea, this site was once one of the many great Mayan cities. Explore the narrow pathways through the jungle, admire the well-preserved temples and stone walls, and look out onto a neverending turquoise sea.

Book your tour to the ruins here .

The Tulum pyramids in Mexico are believed to be over 800 years old. They date back to a time when the Maya civilization flourished and when Tulum, the only city on the coast, was an important trading hub. El Castillo (the castle) is the main pyramid, perched high on the cliffs facing the ocean.

Entrance to the Tulum Ruins

The entrance to the ruins is slightly confusing, as no signs point you to the ticket office. You’ll find the ticket office here . From there, it’s a short 800m walk to the actual ruins on the shore.

Hotels in Tulum 😴

The ticket includes two different fees: one for the national reserve (58 MXN/3.40 USD) and one for the ruins (90 MXN/5.25 USD). Many people might try to sell you tickets beforehand, but these aren’t always valid.

Tour the Tulum pyramids on your own or hire a guide to tell you about the ruins’ history, people, and culture. Remember that this is the most-visited spot in Quintana Roo, so prepare for crowds. ( Or book your tour here )

Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen , a hat, and plenty of water. The zone has little shade, and you won’t find any vendors selling food or drinks inside.

3. Cool Down at a Cenote

Besides the turquoise Caribbean Sea and various lagoons, Tulum offers another natural place to cool off: cenotes. These sinkholes are created when limestone collapses, exposing the groundwater the ancient Maya used for water and sacrificial offerings. 

Nowadays, these water-filled caves make the perfect place to go swimming, with many dotted across the Yucatan Peninsula. Follow the staircase leading into the cenote, slip on your water shoes (and sometimes mandatory life jacket), and hop in the refreshing water.

Swimming in a cenote is one of the best things to do in Tulum. Here are some of our favorites:

Gran Cenote

By far, the most popular cenote in Tulum, Mexico, is the Gran Cenote. Due to its fame, it’s also the most visited and expensive cenote you’ll find in the region, with an entrance fee of 500 MXN (29.20 USD). However, with various boardwalks, lush nature, and different caves, it’s the perfect spot to unwind or go freediving. The Gran Cenote is open from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Book your tour to the cenotes

Cenote Corazon del Paraiso

Located 15 minutes from Tulum Center lies the beautiful Cenote Corazon del Paraiso. This large open cenote is surrounded by lush shrubs and trees and offers a great spot to cool off. The water is incredibly clear and even has some turtles, so make sure to bring your snorkel and go-pro! ( Join this cenotes tour )

If you don’t have a snorkel, you can rent one for 50 MXN (3 USD). This peaceful cenote is the perfect spot to escape the busy crowds, though we do recommend coming early.

Opening times & Entrance Fee: 9 AM – 4.30 PM, and 200 MXN (11.70 USD). However, since it’s privately owned, the cenote sometimes opens later.

Cenote Cristal & Cenote Escondido

These two cenotes, only meters away from one another, are another great option. Right next to the main highway that leads to Chetumal, you can visit one or both of the sinkholes. Start off with the popular Cenote Cristal (Naharon) to soak up the atmosphere before larger crowds arrive, and make your way to Cenote Escondido after. You can purchase tickets at each of the cenotes or get tickets for both at Cenote Cristal. ( Join this cenotes tour )

Looking for more cenotes around Tulum, Mexico? Visit Cenote Calavera, Cenote Carwash, and Cenote Zacil-ha.

4. Visit Zona Archeologica de Muyil

Just 20 minutes outside of Tulum, you’ll find the lesser-known Muyil ruins, one of the most important Mayan remnants within the Sian Ka’an biosphere. Though it lies a little off-the-beaten path, its surrounding nature makes it one of the more unique Tulum things to do. ( Book your tour here )

It made a strategic location for the Mayans, allowing them to reach the Caribbean Sea through numerous lagoons and carved canals. The ruins are relatively small and connected by a well-marked pathway, with numerous buildings and the iconic 12-meter-tall El Castillo. 

From there, continue into the reserve, following a 500-meter-long boardwalk trail through the jungles and wetlands (don’t forget your non-toxic bug spray!). Listen to the sounds of the forest, full of birds, frogs, and howler monkeys, while you pass thousands of different plant species. Eventually, you make it to the Muyil Lagoon, where you have the option to join a boat tour.

Tickets: Entrance to the Archeological zone of Muyil is 70 MXN (4.10 USD). Once you enter the path (Sendero) to the lagoon, you’ll need to pay an extra 50 MXN (2.90 USD). The boat tours out onto the two lagoons of Muyil cost about 1000 MXN (58 USD). Expect to spend about 2 hours doing all three activities.

5. Swim at Laguna de Kaan Luum

Another part of Sian Ka’an worth exploring is Laguna de Kaan Luum, a huge open cenote and popular swimming spot near Tulum, Mexico. It’s a busy spot on the weekends, with many locals coming to relax after a long work week. Soak up the sun while you lazily hang in a hammock above the vibrantly blue water, sipping on a fresh coconut – the Sian Ka’an lagoon is a must-see! ( Book a tour including Sian Ka’an and Muyil )

Tip: You can easily get to Kaan Luum by car, scooter, bike, or colectivo, as it lies only 5 kilometers from downtown Tulum.

Though the deep part of the lagoon is off-limits, you can rent a SUP or kayak (120 MXN) to paddle out on the shallow waters. Note: Due to the harsh chemicals in many sunscreens and bug sprays, you’re not allowed to wear them in the reserve (and many other places in Mexico ). Instead, choose a non-toxic bug spray and reef-safe sunscreen

Opening Times & Entrance Fee: The Laguna is open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM and costs 200 MXN (11.65 USD) to enter (cash only). It’s an additional 150 MXN to fly a drone. We recommend getting there as early as possible to avoid bigger crowds.

6. Relax at Tulum Beach

Tulum Beach, with its enchanting blue waters and powdery white sands, is a slice of paradise and one of the main reasons people visit the Caribbean boho town. As you step out onto the beach, you’re immediately enveloped in a serene world where the sea gently laps onto shore.

Also discover Mexico’s Blue Lagoon: Bacalar

It’s lined back-to-back with eco-chic resorts and buzzing beach clubs, offering a unique experience for everyone. The beach is easiest to visit if you’re staying at one of these resorts, but you can also go there if you don’t.

If you’re not staying in the Hotel Zone, the beach resorts also offer day passes that include a towel and chair. However, you’ll have to pay for parking and entry to access the beach through one of these resorts. Alternatively, you’ll find a free public beach here .

Tulum Jungle Gym

Looking for a workout between relaxing and adventuring? On Tulum Beach, you’ll find the area’s very own Jungle Gym spread out in the sand, with wooden weights and machines. Make sure to bring plenty of water, as working out in the tropical heat can be exhausting. 

Also read: Best Things To Do in Valladolid, Mexico .

If you stay at one of the Ahau Tulum hotels ( Alaya , Villa Pescadores , Casa Ganesh , or Kanan ), you’ll have free access to the gym. Otherwise, it’s 600 MXN (35 USD) for a single entry or 2400 MXN (140.50 USD) for a weekly pass.

Opening Times: The gym is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Between 8 AM and 9 AM, you can reserve the whole gym for a private session. 

7. Take a Photo at the Ven a la Luz Sculpture

Capturing a moment at the iconic Ven a la Luz sculpture in Tulum makes the perfect picture for your Instagram . This towering wooden sculpture, cradled in the lush embrace of the town’s tropical landscape, is one of the best things to do in Tulum. As you approach it, you’ll notice its grand size and intricate details, which depict a woman emerging from the earth, making a stunning backdrop. 

Many visitors come here to snap a photo, so make sure to come early, as you’ll have to stand in line. Once it’s your turn, you have one minute to snap some pictures, so have your camera settings ready. It costs 80 MXN (4.70 USD) to enter.

Tip: It’s worth getting a Telcel SIM card and plan. There are several stores downtown that sell SIM cards, which cost only 80 MXN. Unlimited data for your social media apps and 5GB for browsing costs 200 MXN (12 USD). You can also purchase an eSIM online .

8. Visit Playa Paraiso

Playa Paraiso in Tulum, a name that literally translates to ‘Paradise Beach’, truly lives up to its name. This tranquil area (Tulum’s quietest beach) feels as if it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle, with beautiful water and soft, white sands. Watch how palm trees sway gently in the breeze, making the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and sunbathing. 

The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling. Along the beach, you’ll find quaint thatched-roof cabanas; a cozy spot to unwind and take in the stunning views.

Tip: If you want to enter the national reserve behind the beach, you’ll have to pay 58 MXN (3.40 USD). From there, you can enter the Tulum ruins as well; just show them your bracelet to prove you’ve paid.

9. Go Boutique Shopping

Boutique shopping in Tulum is an adventure in itself, especially in the heart of town. Wander along the bustling streets, every turn leading you to new charming boutiques with fun treasures. From handcrafted goods like intricately designed textiles, unique ornaments, and Mexican liquors to fashionable beachwear, each store offers something different. 

You’ll also find several boutiques over the Hotel Area in Tulum, which you can easily get to by bicycle.

Due to the popularity of Tulum, Mexico, prices tend to be higher than you find in smaller towns.

10. Explore the Sian Kaan Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is the largest protected area on the Caribbean coast in Mexico, spanning over 1.3 million acres and home to many animal species and stunning landscapes. From jungle marshes and mangroves to large cenotes and incredibly blue lagoons, this protected UNESCO site offers a refreshing addition to Tulum’s all-inclusive hotels and party atmosphere.

Made up of different ecosystems, Sian Ka’an (‘where the sky is born’ in Yucatec Maya) is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. In between, you’ll spot a myriad of wild animals, from pelicans to turtles, manatees, howler monkeys, and even crocodiles.

Remember: Always take your garbage with you and leave areas better than you found them. Unfortunately, many beaches are littered with plastic, harming the environment.

Ancient Maya people inhabited the biosphere for over 1200 years, where they built waterways to get out to the sea. Now, most of the reserve is off-limits, with only a small section reserved for sustainable and low-impact ecotourism. This makes it one of the most interesting things to do in Tulum and on the Riviera Maya.

How to Get to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

To explore Sian Ka’an, you have to go down a long dirt road from Tulum’s Hotel Zone. Though time-consuming (2-3 hours), the journey is absolutely worth it, with the road wedged between the sea and the bright lagoons. Entrance to the reserve costs 37MXN (2.15 USD), and it closes at 6 PM.

If you go solo, it’s best to rent a car in Tulum and drive slowly, as there are many holes in the road. Make sure you have a full tank of gas, as you’ll find no gas stations once you enter the reserve. Note: ATVs are not allowed.

We recommend to rent a car in Mexico through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

You can also visit the biosphere reserve with a guide ( book your tour here ) and include other activities like birdwatching, kayaking through the lagoons, visiting Maya ruins, swimming in ancient canals, or snorkeling. Expect to pay about 85 – 165 USD per person for a half-day trip from Tulum. 

Alternatively, you can enter the reserve by visiting the Muyil Ruins first and walking 500 meters through the tropical forest. Frequent buses go here from Tulum Centro, and entrance costs 120 MXN (7 USD). Once you reach the lagoon, you can pay for a guided boat tour (1000 MXN/58 USD). These tours are offered between 8 AM and 4 PM daily and last about 2,5 hours.

Best Restaurants and Cafes in Tulum, Mexico

From Mexican classics like tacos, tortas, and quesadillas to Western meals like pizzas or burgers – you’ll find it in Tulum, Mexico. Start your mornings in one of the many cafes with a coffee and a filling smoothie bowl before grabbing lunch on the beach.

Some of our favorite restaurants in Tulum are: 

• Taqueria La Chiapaneca
• Rossina Cafe
• Burrito Amor (fresh)
• Sabor de Mar
• Tacos y Tortas El Tío (food stand)
• Orchid House Tulum
• Matcha Mama
• El Rincon Chiampaneco (local)
• Bowls de Guadalupe
• Raw Love Cafe (smoothie bowls)

Did you know? ‘Antojitos’ are small plates of food, including tacos and lots of other street food.

Where to Stay in Tulum

As Tulum grows, new accommodations pop up everywhere. However, the most popular area to stay in is the Hotel Zone along the coastline. Prices are a bit higher here, but hotels and resorts include many amenities and have direct access to the stunning beach. 

Alternatively, choose to stay in Tulum Center for more affordable stays and hostels. You’ll find plenty of good restaurants, souvenir shops, and night entertainment, and you can still easily get to the beach by bike, scooter, car, or colectivo.

How Many Days in Tulum, Mexico?

To fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Tulum and the town’s surroundings, it’s recommended to stay at least 4 – 5 days. During this time, you can relax on white sand beaches, dive into the many restaurants, explore hidden cenotes and ancient ruins, and visit the UNESCO biosphere reserve. 

How to Visit Tulum

To get to Tulum, you’ll have to fly into Cancun Airport and make your way down the coast. Tulum lies about 2 hours south of Cancun and is easy to get to by bus, car, or taxi.

Alternatively, if possible, fly into the new Tulum Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional de Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto), which lies only 26 kilometers from the center. From here, you can hop on a bus or private transfer or book a rental car to get downtown.

Generally, the cheapest way to get around the Yucatan Peninsula is to take the ADO buses. Though local minivans (colectivo) are also an option, they take much longer due to the many stops in between. They’re also known to refuse tourists with luggage. There’s also the option to taxi (though expect a large bill) or rent a car and drive yourself. 

Getting Around Tulum

Most of the things to do in Tulum are relatively close to one another, making it very easy to get around. Rent a car, motorbike, or ATV, and zoom across the beach roads to hidden cenotes and stunning lagoons. 

Tip: Many roads in Tulum are dirt roads, so make sure you have something to protect your eyes while driving a scooter, motorbike, or ATV.

Taxi & Colectivo

Taxis have authority in Tulum, meaning prices are much higher, and it’s more difficult for visitors to get around by hopping on a local colectivo. Expect to pay between 500 – 750 MXN (29 – 44 USD) for a 15-minute taxi ride between Tulum Centro and the Hotel Zone. However, if you stay persistent with the Colectivo drivers, you should be able to hop on.

Car & Motorbike

You can easily travel between the Hotel Zone and downtown if you have a car or motorbike. In the Hotel Zone, you can park for 200 MXN (12 USD) a day and either relax at a beach club or visit the public beach. Keep in mind that you can’t park your motorcycle on the main road of the hotel area, as it’s very narrow and busy. 

Another fun way to get around is to rent a bicycle. It takes about 30 minutes from Tulum Center to cycle down to the Hotel Zone and the beaches. Once you get to the coastal roads, make sure you wear sunglasses, as sand often flies up when cars pass by.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Mexico trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

How Much Does Tulum Cost?

A vacation in Tulum can be budget-friendly or as luxurious as you like. If you’re backpacking through the Yucatan Peninsula, choose buzzing hostels downtown and local restaurants or food stands. Alternatively, if you’ve got a bit more money to spend, you’ll find high-end resorts on the coast and exclusive activities. 

Costs of Traveling in Tulum

Travel on a budget in Tulum, from $660 − $810 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1280 − $2680 USD, and high-end from $2500 − $4120 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $55 − $400 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $50 − $60 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $6 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $10 − $20 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $25 − $100 USD
• Activities: $10 − $60 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Note: Tipping is common in Mexico. Sometimes, this fee is already included in the bill, so make sure to always double-check before paying.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tulum is during the shoulder seasons (May – October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, resulting in more affordable accommodations and activities. 

However, early winter (January – February) is also a good time to visit if you prefer cooler and drier weather. There is less humidity and fewer mosquitoes during this time, as well as smaller crowds compared to the peak season (spring and summer).

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10 Best Things to do in Bacalar (Mexico’s Blue Lagoon)

9 best things to do in valladolid, mexico.

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I've Been Visiting Tulum for Nearly 10 Years — Here Are the Best Things to Do in the Mexican Town

There are still some hidden gems in this popular Mexican destination.

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If there's one destination in Mexico that has had a dramatic global impact, it’s Tulum. Dancing on sugar-sand beaches until the wee hours of the morning, sipping fresh coconuts on hammocks in palm tree groves, and vibing to that earthy, boho aesthetic are now integral to the Tulum experience. There are few other places in Mexico where you’ll find such a high concentration of luxury boutique hotels, designer shopping, wellness centers, and natural beauty.

Tulum is far from off the radar these days. It’s a veritable brand in its own right, much like Brooklyn or Bali. The destination has grown so popular that it now has an international airport. Long gone are the days of dirt roads and cash-only seafood shacks. Still, not every secret has managed to escape, and if you know where to look, you can find some truly magical under-the-radar experiences.

We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do in Tulum, featuring a few of the classics, as well as a handful of insider-approved favorites. 

Hit the beach.

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Whether it’s your first visit to Tulum or you’ve been more times than you can count, the first stop should be the beach. The beaches of Tulum are what put the destination on the tourist map to begin with. These long, meandering stretches of stark white sand set the scene for dreamy color palettes of crystalline blues, jungle greens, and earthy clay and wood. It’s easy to see why the beaches here laid the foundation for Mexico’s current luxury aesthetic. Playa Paraiso is the main beach in Tulum, but seeing as one sandy stretch rolls into the next, it’s impossible to pick a bad spot.

Walk (or cycle) downtown.

While the beach is what draws visitors to Tulum, the town is what keeps them coming back. Tulum Centro is a buzzy, creative, colorful destination packed with fantastic restaurants, nightlife, boutiques, and art. One of the best ways to explore downtown is on two wheels, and many nearby hotels offer rentals or complimentary bikes as part of their perks. The oldest section of Tulum can be found along Highway 307, now lined with popular bars and restaurants. Sections like La Veleta and Aldea are newer and dominated by luxury-style apartments, restaurants, and boutiques. 

Book a beach club.

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All beaches in Mexico are public and you're welcome to bring everything you need for the day. Tulum, however, has a lengthy list of well-equipped beach clubs that provide everything from towels and cold drinks to elaborate menus, oceanfront pools, Bali beds, and sceney parties.

Everyone's favorite is Papaya Playa Project , one of the original beach clubs that began well before Tulum was the international superstar destination it is today. Papaya Playa Project sits within a sustainable boutique hotel right on the sand, blending jungle vibes with funky decor. The best way to experience this beach club is to book a room so you can be immersed in the experience.

Taboo is another dreamscape of a beach club, with an infinity pool that overlooks the Caribbean Sea and a crown of fluffy, cloud-like daybeds. The menu here offers a mix of Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine, as well as fresh sushi. Reservations are a must, particularly if you're visiting during the high season.

Partake in water sports.

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The sea may be too calm for surfing, but there are plenty of water-based adventures for travelers who like to be active. Tulum's beaches can be notoriously windy, but for kitesurfers, it's an absolute dream. A quick stroll along the beach will reveal a wealth of operators who are eager to take visitors out to tackle their first wave. On calmer days, you'll find the water teeming with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and Jet Skis.

Climb Coba.

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Everyone — and we mean everyone — comes to Tulum to visit the iconic oceanfront ruins. These are spectacular, without a doubt, but are often swarmed with tourists. For something a bit different and more low-key, head into the jungle to see the ruins at Coba. Not only is Coba an impressive archaeological site, but you can also climb its main pyramid for a gorgeous jungle view.

Coba is believed to be one of the most important sites of the Mayan world, where visitors can still see an impressive network of raised roads. Most people come to Coba to climb its main pyramid, which is 138 feet tall with 120 steps. Be sure to wear shoes with a good grip, as the stones can be quite slippery. The view from the top is certainly worth the effort.

Swim in a cenote.

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Exploring a cenote is not just one of the best things to do in Tulum, but in Mexico overall. Fortunately, Tulum is surrounded by spectacular cenotes . The entire Yucatan Peninsula is built on porous limestone, which has a network of underground rivers. Where the limestone bedrock has collapsed, it has left natural caverns or sinkholes, called cenotes. The Maya people believed cenotes to be the entrance to the underworld, and it's easy to see why — they're dark, mysterious, and otherworldly. Draped with hanging vines, pierced with sunlight beams from openings to the sky, and hushed with stony silence, these natural wonders are a must-visit in Tulum.

Visit the Azulik Uh May.

Tulum has long been a center for creatives, who come to be inspired by the natural landscape and earthly energy. Azulik Uh May , also known as the City of Arts, is a jungle-shrouded museum just outside Tulum. This creative project, tucked deep within the Mayan jungle, is packed with sculptures and artwork. The space is dedicated to sustainability and eco-conscious design, with the goal of a zero-carbon footprint. It's the brainchild of Eduardo Neira, a.k.a. Roth, who is also the founder of the nearby Azulik resort . 

Visitors to Azulik Uh May can break the barrier between themselves and the art by creating as well. The community has many workshops and exhibitions that call for viewer participation. Learn ceramics and macramé, sculpture, architecture, and even alchemic dining. This is one space that flies below the radar in Tulum, but should not be missed.

Explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

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Tulum may have lost that off-the-grid vibe years ago, but you can still find it tucked within the jungle and on the sparkling beaches of the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve. Less than an hour south of Tulum, this protected area spans 1.3 million acres of untouched natural beauty. Hire a guide for the most comprehensive experience, which can often lead to castaway-style beaches, or join a boat ride to cross an idyllic lagoon teeming with dolphins and turtles.

Check out the Muyil ruins.

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While visiting the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, you may want to stop at the Muyil ruins (also known as Chunyaxché). Tucked in the northwestern corner of the reserve, these small ruins are easily navigable and often devoid of visitors. One of the earliest settlements on the Caribbean coast, only a handful of the Muyil buildings have been excavated. It was once an important stop on maritime trade routes, and visitors can still travel the ancient canal systems dug up by the Maya through the lagoon to reach the sea. Its main pyramid, El Castillo, is 57 feet high and one of the tallest coastal pyramids in Mexico. 

Make your way to Laguna de Kaan Luum.

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Laguna de Kaan Luum, a secret among locals, is an open-air freshwater cenote located a quick drive from Tulum town. Brace yourself for some intoxicating shades of blue and the sounds of wind rustling through the surrounding mangrove forests. 

For full transparency, the lagoon is not completely off the tourist radar. It does have a cost of admission, as well as a price to rent equipment like paddleboards and kayaks. But with that cost of admission comes facilities like palapa-topped umbrellas, restrooms, and small cantinas to buy snacks. Remember to bring cash and leave the sunscreen at home, as the lagoon has a strict no-sunscreen policy to help preserve the wildlife.

Punta Allen

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You can still chase that barefoot, sleepy fishing village vibe in one of the many smaller towns surrounding Tulum, including Punta Allen. Unspoiled by the masses, Punta Allen moves at a snail's pace and has retained its original roots. 

One of the reasons it has remained relatively untouched is because it's somewhat hard to reach. It's only 35 miles south of Tulum, but don't underestimate the road — it's better to have a vehicle that can handle some rough terrain. The other option is to take a boat from the Sian Ka'an visitor center south of Tulum's Hotel Zone. 

Once you're there, however, you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time — sandy streets, questionable electricity, and coffee shops without Wi-Fi. This is where people go to escape the fray, disconnect, and listen to the waves with their toes in the sand.

Get PADI certified.

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Tulum is one of the best places in Mexico to get PADI certified. With warm water year-round and a quick speedboat trip out to the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, Tulum is an international diving hot spot. Be prepared to see turtles, lobsters, eels, reef fish, and a whale shark or two if it's the right season. You can dive inland as well, in the many cenotes, which set the scene for subterranean cavern dives. 

The best time to dive in Tulum is between May and November. For whale sharks, June through September is peak season.

Snorkel Yal-Ku lagoon.

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Of course, you don't need to commit to diving to enjoy Tulum's underwater treasures. Snorkeling is just as rewarding in the warm, crystal-clear water. One of the best spots for snorkeling in Tulum is the Yal-Ku lagoon. Located north of Tulum, near the village of Akumal, Yal-Ku is a brackish ecosystem brimming with tropical fish. There is an admission fee, but the lagoon comes with services like restrooms, showers, and life jacket rentals. Visitors can also access the lagoon through the Xcaret theme park, which has a higher admission, but access to a restaurant.

Take a day trip to Mahahual or Bacalar.

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For years, Tulum was the last stop for most travelers venturing down the coast of Quintana Roo. But now more than ever, visitors are pushing further south to explore other breezy, beachy gems along the Mexican Caribbean. Bacalar and Mahahual are two popular stops for travelers. These sun-kissed destinations are equidistant from Tulum, but each offers its own vibe.

Bacalar is a small Pueblo Mágico overlooking a giant freshwater lagoon. Known for its eco-chic accommodations, nonmotorized water sports, and laid-back lake clubs, it's one of the region's fastest-growing destinations. On the sea-facing side, Mahahual is a no-frills town with a string of beach bars and restaurants plus small hotels and guesthouses.

With the opening of Tulum's new airport, these areas are about to see a big uptick in tourism, so your best bet is to go now before they get too popular.

Experience Mystika Immersive.

At its core, Tulum is a center for the arts — a haven for the quirky and offbeat. Get back to Tulum's roots at Mystika Immersive . This sensory museum experience takes travelers on an adventure through Mayan cosmology. The venue brings visitors across Mexico to experience its natural and indigenous wonders using large-format photography and multisensory installations. Discover the monarch butterfly migration in Michoacán, the firefly sanctuary in Tlaxcala, and the Mayan ruins around the Yucatan — all from the museum’s 360-degree dome and exhibition halls.

Have a wellness encounter.

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With so much creative energy and natural beauty surrounding Tulum, it's no wonder the destination has become an epicenter for wellness and spirituality. From luxury spas and beachfront yoga to cacao rituals, sound baths, reiki, and energy healing, Tulum has every wellness service imaginable — and probably a few you've never heard of, too.

Tulum Vacation Guide: Discover Mexico’s Coastal Paradise

Tucked along Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, Tulum’s ancient Mayan coastal city is a top destination in the Riviera Maya and one of the most visited places in Mexico. With nearly 12 miles of stunning white sand beaches, turquoise waters, ancient Mayan ruins, and a chilled-out bohemian vibe, it’s easy to see why a Tulum vacation has become so popular. 

Once a sleepy fishing village, Tulum has become a trendy hotspot, attracting everyone from backpackers to celebrities. But despite its growth, Tulum retains a laid-back charm.

Thatched roof bungalows and cobblestone streets give the town a rustic feel. Yoga studios, organic cafes, boutiques, and beach bars line the main drag. At night, fire dancers and live music light up the beach.

While Tulum offers plenty to do, the real draw is its natural beauty. Beach lovers flock here to relax on the sugar-soft sand and swim in the warm, clear waters. The coastline is dotted with cenotes (natural sinkholes filled with crystalline water), perfect for snorkeling and diving. Inland, the jungle hides ancient ruins, natural pools, and caves to explore.

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When is the best time to visit Tulum, Mexico?

Tulum enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with average temperatures between 75°F and 90°F. The high season runs from late November to April when the weather is dry and sunny. Room rates skyrocket, and crowds descend during these peak months.

The shoulder seasons of early November and May offer warm temperatures and smaller crowds. Late spring brings hot, humid weather and occasional rain showers. September and October see the most rain, fewer tourists, and lower prices.

The best time to visit Tulum depends on your ideal weather and tolerance for crowds.

High Season: Late November to April

During the dry season, daytime temperatures average 80°F, with cooler evenings around 65°F. The peak weeks are around Christmas and New Year’s when prices are astronomical. High season means crowds, so expect popular spots to be busy. However, there will be lots of events and activities. Tip: book restaurants and activities well in advance of your trip.

Shoulder Season: Early November and May

As the weather transitions between wet and dry seasons, shoulder season brings fewer tourists and better prices. However, some bars and restaurants may be closed. Daytime highs reach 85°F with pleasant evenings around 70°F. Early November is drier than May. May is also when the seaweed, or Sargassum, begins to appear.

Low Season: June to October

Summer in Tulum brings hot, humid weather with daily highs of 90°F. Afternoon thunderstorms occur a few times per week. September and October see the most rain, though showers usually pass quickly. Hotel and flight deals bring drastically lower rates, while beaches and attractions remain uncrowded. However, some businesses close until the high season, and Sargassum is usually present along the beaches. 

What is the best way to get to Tulum, Mexico?

Most travelers fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) . It’s easy to reach Tulum and other popular destinations in Riviera Maya from the CUN airport, but it takes time. 

Your airport transportation options depend on where you stay in Tulum . The beach hotel zone is most convenient for shuttle transfers while having a rental car makes it easier to stay in Tulum town or the outskirts.

Recently, Delta Airlines announced that it will provide nonstop flights from Atlanta International Airport to Tulum beginning March 2024. 

Shuttle or Private Transfer

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Tulum is by shuttle van or private transfer. Pre-booked services provide door-to-door transport from the airport right to your hotel. Shared shuttles cost around $15-20 USD per person, while private transfers are $80-100 USD.

The drive takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic near Playa del Carmen. Shared shuttles may stop at other hotels, so keep that in mind if you want a direct trip. Private transfers with companies like CanadaTransfers offer luxury SUVs and personal services. This is the best option for small groups of 4 or less.

Renting a car provides maximum flexibility to explore the Riviera Maya at your own pace. Cancun airport has desks for all major rental agencies like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and more—rates for an economy car average $30 USD per day.

The drive from Cancun airport to Tulum takes around 2 hours via the main highway with no stops. Having your wheels lets you check out attractions like Cenotes or Xcaret Eco Park. Just be ready to pay for parking on arrival. Fuel, tolls, and basic insurance will add to the rental cost.

Public buses provide the cheapest transport to Tulum for budget travelers at around $15 USD. ADO offers direct bus service from Cancun airport to Tulum every few hours from 4 a.m. to midnight daily. The journey takes 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.

While very affordable, public buses can be crowded with limited luggage room. Purchase tickets ahead online or from the ADO counter at the airport. Be sure to confirm schedules, as they can change seasonally. Buses drop off in downtown Tulum, requiring a taxi or 15-minute walk to the beach zone hotels.

Private Luxury Transfers

Private luxury transfers in high-end vehicles are available to arrive in style. Companies like Tulum Transportation provide private sedans or SUVs with WiFi, refreshments, and impeccable service. Pricing ranges from $150 – $300 USD, depending on vehicle size. While a splurge, luxury transfers let you ride in total comfort after a long flight.

No matter how you choose to get to Tulum, avoid unmarked taxis at the airport. Pre-arranging transportation is highly recommended for a stress-free arrival.

Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico on Vacation

With its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, diverse natural attractions, and boho-chic vibe, a Tulum vacation offers fantastic things to do for all tastes and budgets. Tour companies provide excellent Tulum tours ranging from snorkeling expeditions to cultural experiences. 

Beaches in Tulum

Tulum’s beaches are consistently ranked among the best in Mexico. Most hotels in Tulum occupy prime beachfront spots with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and waiter service ready for guests. Or, plop down your towel anywhere along the public stretches for free. The turquoise waters stay shallow a long way out – perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Don’t miss these great beaches in Tulum, Mexico:

• Playa Paraiso – Quintessential white sand crescent near the ruins. Public access and amenities like a bathroom are available.
• Playa Ruinas – Wider and less crowded. Close to cenotes and beach clubs like La Zebra.
• Tankah Bay – Secluded white sand cove near Soliman Bay. Access fromTankah Tres hotel.
• Playa Esperanza – South of Tulum hotels. More private with fewer crowds.

Mayan Ruins of Tulum, Mexico

No visit to Tulum is complete without exploring the cliffside Mayan ruins that give the town its name. Dating to the 13th century, these oceanfront ruins are the most picturesque archeological site in the Riviera Maya. Sea breezes cool you as you stroll among weathered temples and take in the spectacular Caribbean views.

Arrive early to avoid large tour groups. However, consider booking a tour with a local guide to learn more about this historical landmark . The beach area below the El Castillo pyramid has a separate entrance fee. Climb the ruins with caution, as some steps are very steep.

Swim in Cenotes

Inland from Tulum, the limestone landscape hides thousands of natural sinkholes filled with the clearest freshwater. These geological wonders are known as cenotes. Grab your swimsuit and dive, snorkeling, or cliff-jumping into these magical pools. Some of the best cenotes near Tulum include:

• Gran Cenote – Open cavern popular for swimming and snorkeling. It is about 15 minutes from Tulum.
• Cenote Calavera – “Temple of Doom” style cavern with stalactites. Rappelling and cliff jumping are offered.
• Casa Cenote – Paradise lagoon with clear waters surrounded by greenery.
• Cenote Cristalino – Small, gorgeous cenote perfect for swimming. Near Tankah Bay.
• Cenote Azul – A favorite with cliff jumps.

Bike to Soliman Bay and Gran Cenote

Escape the crowds by renting a bike and cruising south along the Boca Paila road parallel to the coast. It’s about 7 miles from Tulum to Soliman Bay, a quiet scenic beach near cenotes and mangroves. Stop for a dip at Gran Cenote or Cenote Manati along the way. There’s hardly any traffic, and you’ll pass by an old lighthouse and small fishing villages.

Dine at a Beach Club

Tulum’s trendy beach clubs combine tropical ambiance with gourmet cuisine and hip sounds. Kick back on daybeds, lounge by the pool, and enjoy ocean views over fresh ceviche and mezcal cocktails. Popular picks include Gitano, Casa Jaguar, and Nest. Make reservations for dinner during the high season.

Great Day Trips from Tulum, Mexico

With so many unique places to explore, filling your itinerary near Tulum is easy. Wherever you decide to go, prepare to be awed by the natural and cultural treasures of the Yucatán Peninsula.

About 40 minutes inland from Tulum, Cobá was once a major Mayan city that flourished between 500 and 900 AD. Today, visitors can climb Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid on the Yucatán peninsula, for panoramic views over the jungle canopy. Walking trails connect the various ruins spread out over many square miles. Pedal-powered tricycle taxis are available to zip between sites. Pack bug spray for exploring!

Tulum makes an ideal base to explore the Yucatán Peninsula. Tulum provides the perfect base to explore neighboring towns and attractions on day trips.

Chichén Itzá 

The most famous Maya ruins in Mexico, Chichén Itzá, recently became one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Visitors flock here to see immense structures like the El Castillo pyramid and the ball court. Located inland near Valladolid, it’s about 2.5 hours from Tulum. Go early to beat crowds and climb the iconic pyramid before it closes at noon.

Isla Holbox

For a relaxing island getaway, head north of Cancun to Holbox. This laid-back fishing island has no big resorts, just miles of sandy Caribbean beaches and calm, shallow waters. Go snorkeling to see whale sharks and sea turtles nearby on a day trip. Reach Holbox by a 40-minute ferry from Chiquilá.

Isla Cozumel

Scuba divers can’t miss the reefs offshore of Cozumel. It’s one of the top dive destinations in the world, thanks to bright coral and excellent visibility. Snorkelers will find lots to see as well. Take a ferry from Playa del Carmen, about 1.5 hours south of Tulum.

Visit Valladolid

Inland from the Caribbean, Valladolid provides access to some of Yucatán’s most spectacular cenotes. Don’t miss substantial underground caverns like Ik Kil and the natural pools at Cenote Samulá. The colonial town center itself is worth exploring, too. It is located less than two hours west of Tulum.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an contains over 1.3 million acres of protected wetlands, forests, and lagoons just south of Tulum. Take a full-day tour to float through freshwater canals, observe tropical birds, and visit ancient Maya sites deep in the jungle. 

Your Tulum, Mexico Vacation

With its sugary sand beaches, turquoise waters, jungle cenotes, and ancient ruins, Tulum represents the best of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Tulum offers an idyllic Mexican escape, whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or culture. Spend tranquil days swinging in a beach hammock or discover the region’s incredible biodiversity on tours.

From backpackers to luxury travelers, Tulum delivers tropical perfection. Its distinctive mix of natural wonder, Mayan heritage, and chic beach vibe beckons you to paradise.

Billy is a deaf travel blogger from Birmingham, UK. Through his blog BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, Billy dismantles the myth that travel is too expensive, and that you can still enjoy hidden gems even in the most popular tourist destinations.

Tulum Visitors Guide

How to get there, things to do & more.

Updated March 2024

Welcome to Tulum Mexico

Breathe it in… the salty air, the wafting of floral incense, the deep sweetness of tropical flora and fauna…exhale slowly. You have arrived in Tulum. The magic of Tulum, and the reason it has become such an extraordinary destination in Mexico’s Riviera Maya , lies not only in the history of the nearby Mayan ruins of the same name, but in the energetic pull the city and sea have over those who come to visit. Even if you’re staying in a Tulum all inclusive resort , we suggest getting out and exploring all the great things to do in the area. Below is our guide to making the best of your visit to Tulum. We hope you enjoy!

Breathe it in… the salty air, the wafting of floral incense, the deep sweetness of tropical flora and fauna…exhale slowly. You have arrived in Tulum.

The magic of Tulum, and the reason it has become such an extraordinary destination in Mexico’s Riviera Maya , lies not only in the history of the nearby Mayan ruins of the same name, but in the energetic pull the city and sea have over those who come to visit. Even if you’re staying in a Tulum all inclusive resort , we suggest getting out and exploring all the great things to do in the area. Below is our guide to making the best of your visit to Tulum. We hope you enjoy!

A Bit Of History

Tulum was the last great city constructed and inhabited by the Mayan people between the 13th and 15th centuries. It was a site of worship to the Great Descending God whose image adorns the temples within the site.

Tulum was also of great importance for sea trade, most specifically for the trading of obsidian. Tribes from all over Mexico and other Central American countries would travel to this Caribbean port for commerce.

It’s said that the great wall around the city was erected to protect it from envious traders and pirates who wanted to steal the prime location for themselves.

Tulum Today

Tulum has become a very popular tourist spot in recent years for visitors of all types. The ancient Mayan ruins, perched on cliffs overlooking the Caribbean Sea, are well preserved and make for an impressive day tour. The beaches are stunning, with soft sand and clear blue water, perfect for relaxation. The town has a relaxed and bohemian feel, with unique shops and tasty local food. Tulum has more recently become a hot spot for luxury travelers as well and offers numerous gorgeous resorts and impressive nightlife options. Whether you’re exploring history, enjoying the beaches, or soaking up the town’s laid back vibes, Tulum offers a memorable experience for everyone.

Is Tulum Safe?

Tulum is considered a fairly safe town to visit in Mexico, although crime rates have risen a bit in recent years. It doesn’t face too many issues with gang-related violence, but petty crime and theft towards tourists do occur from time to time.

Despite the little rise in crime, Tulum is a hotspot destination and it is still possible to have a very safe and enjoyable visit as long as you travel with general caution. Avoid being out after dark and be aware of your surroundings.

Where is Tulum?

Tulum is located on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The town, often called Tulum Pueblo , and the nearby Tulum Mayan Ruins are in the heart of the Riviera Maya on the Caribbean Sea. Tulum is approximately 45 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and 90 minutes south of Cancun  by car.

Tulum, like other towns and islands in the region, is adjacent to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-longest coral reef system in the world. This puts Tulum and its neighbors in a perfect spot for turquoise Caribbean waters, white sand beaches, and world-class snorkeling and diving. This is DEFINITELY the island life!

The Best Time to Visit Tulum

Looking for the best month to visit Tulum? The tropical climate in Tulum is fairly predictable and easy to make plans around. Without much of a temperature difference throughout the year, (the average temperature lingers around 83° F) it’s the rainy season that most travelers should pay attention to.

January – April

Perfect weather-wise, but is considered the “peak season” with the highest influx of tourists. If you are not a people person, consider this. The ocean, cenotes and swimming pools (that aren’t heated) can still be a little chilly for some.

May – October

The hottest and rainiest months of the year but still plenty of wonderful sunshine and fantastic warm water for swimming and snorkeling. Sargassum seaweed can be a problem during the summer as it builds up on the beaches. The hurricane season peaks in September and October so keep an eye on the forecasts and definitely get travel insurance just in case. Fewer tourists mean lower rates at hotels, resorts and tour companies during this time.

November – December

The autumn-winter months are considered by many to be the best times to visit Tulum. The hurricane season has passed by this time, and the humidity is low. It can be a little “cool” in the evenings so bring a jacket.

  When Is Tulum Hurricane Season?

Tulum hurricane season begins in late May and lasts until early November, with the peak occurring between August and October. The odds of a hurricane hitting Tulum are low (less than half a dozen hurricanes have hit the Yucatan in the past 40 years), but hurricanes traveling near Tulum can still cause inclement and severe weather. Be sure to check weather reports ahead of time and we always suggest getting travel insurance during these months just in case.

How to Get to Tulum & Around

There are a few ways to get to Tulum and around the area.

Arrival by Air

Most people fly into Cancun International Airport (CUN) when traveling to Tulum. This is the largest airport on the Yucatan Peninsula offering direct flights from the United States. It takes around 1.5 hours by car and 2.5 hours by bus to get from the Cancun International Airport to Tulum.

The new Tulum Felipe Carrillo Puerto International Airport (TQO) is now open and direct flights are coming soon. The airport currently allows International travelers to connect to Tulum via Mexico City with domestic airlines such as Aeromexico. Direct flights from the United States will begin arriving at Tulum Airport in March of 2024. The airport is an easy 48 minutes from both the famous Tulum Mayan Ruins and Tulum’s Hotel Zone by car.

  Search for great deals on flights to Cancun here .

Airport Shuttles to Tulum

Private or Group Shuttles can be pre-arranged to pick you up at the airport and take you to your Tulum accommodation. Group shuttles may stop at numerous hotels before yours, so this method could take a bit longer than a private shuttle (while being a bit cheaper).

Shared shuttles to Tulum’s hotel zone are around $45 per person, while private minivan shuttles can be booked for between $180 to $260 per van. You also have the option to book a luxury SUV/van shuttle for between $260 to $435. We recommend getting a private shuttle if you are in a group of 2 or more people.

  You can easily book ground transportation from the  Cancun airport to your Tulum hotel here .

Rental Cars in Tulum

Renting a car might be the best scenario if you plan on exploring the area a bit. You can rent a car in Tulum town or at the Cancun airport. Rental cars are typically between $40 to $50 per day (once taxes and fees are added) at the Cancun airport. We recommend using National or Enterprise for your rental car at the Cancun airport.

If you rent a car at the Cancun airport, head down the only highway southbound. You will pass Playa del Carmen, Akumal and after approximately 90 minutes you will arrive in Tulum Town. Be sure to check if your lodgings are in the Zona Hotelera (hotel zone) or Centro (town center), as your turn off will be on different sides of the road.

  Search for great deals on rental cars at the Cancun airport here.

  Search for great deals on rentals cars in Tulum town here.

Buses in Tulum

The bus system is very usable in Tulum town and you can easily catch a bus to Playa from the Cancun airport, then change busses to continue to Tulum. This is by far the most affordable way to travel to Tulum from Cancun, although definitely not the fastest. You can check out the ADO bus schedule here . Busses do not stop at hotels. Only bus stations.

Taxis in Tulum

Taxis in Tulum are an easy way to get around. Flag them down on the road or have your hotel call one for you. Within the hotel zone or within Centro, prices are around $4-$7 dollars. Traveling back and forth between the Hotel Zone and Centro can add up though.

If you want to take a taxi TO Tulum, they are everywhere in Cancun and Playa del Carmen and will take you straight to your accommodation in Tulum. Be sure to discuss the prices in advance so you don’t get overcharged. Taxis from Cancun or Playa Del Carmen to Tulum are convenient but can be quite expensive. Typically $50 (Playa) to $100 (Cancun) dollars.

Things to Do in Tulum

Tulum's top highlights.

There is so much to do in Tulum. From visiting the Mayan ruins to beach lounging to bicycle riding and more. Here are just some of the activities you can enjoy!

1. Explore The Tulum Mayan Ruins

The Tulum Ruins archaeological site is most likely what brought you to the region in the first place, so go see it! The energy of this magical, ancient place is what has been calling tourists here for centuries. The ruins are perched over the sea in a breathtaking locale near Tulum Centro.

Guides are available at the entrance if you are keen to really understand the historical significance of the place, but strolling solo is always a pleasure too.

  To join a great group tour that includes transport, lunch, the Tulum Ruins, ocean snorkeling at Turtle Bay, and a cenote, check out this tour .

  To join an inexpensive group tour that includes transport from Cancun, Playa or Tulum center, English speaking guide, and a fantastic side trip to swim at a local cenote, check out this tour .

  If you’d like a private tour including guide and transport from your hotel, this tour is the most highly rated .

 For more info on visiting the Tulum Ruins, check out our Tulum Ruins Visitors Guide .

2. Visit A Cenote

Talk about healing properties. The cenote choices in the Tulum area are vast and diverse, as there are literally dozens of incredible locations nearby. You can swim, scuba dive, snorkel, or just walk through one of these breathtaking and powerful forces of nature.

  Check out this very popular full-day cenote tour that includes transportation, lunch and three epic cenotes. Also, this half-day cenote tour is highly popular as well.

  If you want to scuba dive in a cenote, try this beginners diving class that includes a lesson and an introductory cenote dive OR if you are already scuba certified, go for this top rated cenote diving tour in the area. For both tours, all equipment is included.

  For more cenote info and great Tulum cenote recommendations, be sure to check out our Ultimate Cenote Guide .

  ISLAND LIFE TRAVEL TIP : GET TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel Insurance is a must in our opinion. Standard health insurance likely doesn’t cover you while outside of the country so travel insurance will cover any emergency medical needs as well as trip cancellation, lost or stolen luggage (it happens), flight delays, missed connections and more. You can easily compare the top-rated travel insurance plans here .

3. Experience The Adventure Parks

Just north of Tulum are a cluster of world famous adventure parks unlike anything you’ve probably experienced before. The most famous is Xcaret , with its meandering canals you can swim through, incredible beach coves, cultural shows, jungle hikes, and so much more. They are a little pricey, but the adventure parks are widely considered a must-do in the area. Other very popular parks include Xplor with its caves, ziplines, rafting and ATVs, Xel-Ha with its waterslides, snorkeling, mangrove tubing and other water activities, Xplor Fuego a nighttime torchlight adventure, Xenotes cenote experience, Xoximilco floating fiesta and the oddly popular Xenses optical illusion park. We HIGHLY recommend purchasing tickets for these parks in advance as the parks have limited capacity and long ticket lines.

4. Go To The Beach!

With so many beautiful beaches to choose from it’s a sure bet you can find find a dreamy spot, perfect for a sarong and a picnic basket! Bring your swimsuit as the water can be perfect. Take a fun kitesurfing lesson if you’re bold, Tulum is famous for the sport. Hotels in the Zona Hotelera are on the beach, but if you’re staying in town, the beach is just 10-15 minutes away.

  For more Tulum beach info and great beach recommendations, be sure to check out our Tulum Best Beaches Guide .

*Note: Since 2008, Sargassum (seaweed) has regularly arrived on the Caribbean coast of Mexico (Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, etc.) from April to August. Many resorts and beaches remove the seaweed from the sand daily, but it can pile up by the water’s edge and be stinky in places where it’s not removed. For this reason, we suggest getting a hotel with a nice pool area for swimming or spending some time on the islands of Cozumel or Isla Mujeres which are largely protected from the seaweed.

5. Visit The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of ancient tropical canals, rainforest, 120 km of coastline, an abundance of wildlife, and coral reefs to delight your every adventure whim.

Float the winding river canals, take a boat to see manatees and sea turtles, or simply relax under a forest canopy. It is an unforgettable experience not to be missed!

 Check out this highly reviewed tour of the Sian Ka’an biosphere that also includes visiting the nearby Mayan ruins of Muyil.

6. Discover Tulum Pueblo

Tulum town center (aka Tulum Pueblo) has a magic all of its own. We always recommend to new travelers that the most important thing you can do when visiting a new place is to see where the locals live. The art, food and culture will delight you.

From A cai to  Z anahorias (carrots) and all the delicious options in between, traditional Yucatan fare abounds here. Exploring the town on foot is nice but bicycles are also a popular way to get around. Bikes are for rent everywhere in town. Enjoy the journey!

  Check out this fun Tulum walking food tour that goes off the beaten path to show you the best of local cuisine.

  For the best food in Tulum, check out our Tulum Restaurant Guide and 7 Yucatan Foods That Will Blow Your Mind .

7. Let Yourself Go

Discover something new or dabble in the peculiar. It’s what makes Tulum stand apart from the rest of the Yucatan. Take a cooking class , visit the art zone, explore the immense yoga and meditation class options, try your hand at scuba diving , take a dance class, start a conversation with a stranger…your options are endless here.

Getting out of your comfort zone and opening yourself up to new possibilities is what makes this beautiful place so intoxicating for so many. Open your mind and your courage to the possibilities. Be happy, be free.

  Take a look at this popular cooking class  and this scuba diving introduction class .

Check out this unique SUP Yoga Class on a private lagoon.

8. Get Wild In The Jungle

The jungles around Tulum make for some incredible adventures! Numerous tours in the area will take you on jungle ATV rides, ziplining, cenote swimming, and more.

These Tulum adventures are different from the fancier adventure parks up north like Xcaret, Xplor, Xel-Ha & Xenotes and are more about getting wild out in nature. Prepare to get a little dirty and don’t forget your swimsuits!

  Explore several popular ATV/Zipline jungle tours here .

9. Go Paddleboarding in Kaan Luum Lagoon

One of the hidden gems of Tulum is the Laguna de Kaan Luum, which sits around 5.5 miles (9 km) south of downtown Tulum. This magical lagoon is home to a vast cenote in its center, which imbues the lagoon’s water with a beautiful array of colors. You can visit the lagoon, rent a paddleboard, and paddle over the calm waters. No matter your level of experience with standup paddleboarding, Kaan Luum Lagoon is the perfect place to get out on the water.

You can also visit the Kaan Luum Lagoon and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on overwater hammocks. The lagoon has an entrance fee of around $17 USD (300 pesos). Although Kaan Luum Lagoon is rarely crowded, it’s a good idea to arrive early and visit in the morning on weekdays to have this tropical paradise to yourself. Keep in mind that sunscreen is not permitted in the lagoon, and no outside food or drink is allowed.

  We love this fun tour that includes some of the best tacos in Tulum, a paddleboarding guide, equipment rental, and an entrance fee to Laguna de Kaan Luum.

10. Have A Shopping Day

As a destination, Tulum is not just about beautiful beaches and yoga retreats. There is also an abundance of great shopping opportunities. These shops sell unique handmade Mayan crafts, artisan goods, and souvenirs. Tulum is filled with small boutiques and shops selling high-quality clothing and accessories from local artisans.

Tulum stands out for its traditional Mexican handicrafts, particularly textiles and jewelry. You can find beautiful huipiles (traditional dresses), handmade hammocks, embroidery, gourd lamps, art, handbags, and jewelry. Don’t forget about the locally made tequila and cocoa.

11. Rent A Bike and Explore Tulum

Exploring the streets of Tulum by renting a bike is one of the best ways to experience all this city has to offer. Bike rentals in Tulum are affordable at between $10 to $12 USD per day. Ola Bike Tulum is an excellent bike rental company, and the rentals are good quality and inexpensive.

One of the best ways to explore Tulum Pueblo is by bike, and it’s a great way to experience the area thoroughly. You can easily wind through side streets while on a bike and quickly get from one side of the pueblo to the other. Follow the bike path on Main Ave to grab a bite at fantastic restaurants, shop at local boutiques, or cool down with some ice cream.

It only takes around 15 minutes to get to some of Tulum’s best beaches on a bike. Take Coba Avenue to get to Playa Paraiso; there are several bike racks at the beach for easy storage.

  If you prefer a guided bike tour, this 5-hour bike tour around Tulum is perfect. You will visit 3 cenotes, stop for lunch and have a fun local guide. This is a great way to spend the better part of the day and still have time to go out and enjoy dinner in the evening!

12. Discover Rio Secreto

Rio Secreto is one of the most beautiful underground rivers in Mexico. You can only visit this magical spot via a guided tour, and on the tour, you can swim and climb your way through the cenote. Explore the beautiful stalagmites and stalactites while enjoying the crystal-clear water.

The limestone formations and gorgeous turquoise water in these breathtaking caves will leave you stunned. Be advised that you will have to pay for photos as you are not permitted to bring your camera into the cave system.

  To experience this underground wonderland for yourself, it’s a good idea to book a tour before you visit . Spaces are limited for cave tours, with limited entry times per day.

13. Enjoy The Unique Mystika Immersive

If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind sensory experience, then Mystika Immersive is the place to go in Tulum. The immersive experience teaches you all about Mexico’s natural sanctuaries and cosmology.

Mystika Immersive has 7 different rooms, each holding unique experiences. One of the rooms leads you into a space with hundreds of gorgeous monarch butterflies. Another space is a 360-degree dome that allows you to sit under Tulum’s star-filled sky.

Admission costs around $27 USD per person and can be purchased online. You can expect to spend between 1 and 2 hours here, and it’s conveniently located right next to the Tulum Ruins parking lot.

  You can purchase your Mystika Immersive tickets here in advance to make things a bit easier.

14. Explore Punta Laguna Nature Reserve

You will find Punta Laguna Nature Reserve about 40 miles north of Tulum, and this is one of the most unique sightseeing attractions in the Yucatan because of the huge variety of monkeys to see. While the monkeys are a top draw for the reserve, it is also home to pumas, jaguars, and many species of birds.

The nearby Mayan village also gives you a glimpse into the indigenous Mexican lifestyle. It’s a good idea to hire a guide to tour the reserve, as guides provide a more authentic and informed experience for travelers new to Tulum. Guides also know where to spot the animals who call the nature reserve home. However, you can still have a great experience just wandering around the reserve on your own.

  There are many Punta Laguna Nature Reserve tours to choose from. Most are guided and provide transportation via coach or bicycle.

  We love this highly recommended Coba Ruins, Punta Laguna Nature Reserve, and Cenote tour , where you will zipline, hike, canoe, and then visit the reserve.

15. Take A Rejuvenating Yoga Class

Something about Tulum’s island vibe draws people to the meditative practice while they are visiting. You will find plenty of yoga retreats, sound healing treatments, and other health and wellness activities in Tulum. If you want to unwind, relax, and immerse yourself in some yoga sessions, Tulum is the place for you.

Whether you’re looking for rejuvenating yoga studios, water yoga, sound healing, or tranquil meditation retreats, you will discover everything you need to restore your balance and health in Tulum.

  For a fun experience, try this Stand Up Paddle Yoga Class at a private lagoon where you can enjoy a 75-minute yoga class in the middle of the jungle.

Where To Stay In Tulum

There are all types of wonderful accommodations in Tulum. From all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and more. Location and amenities are the two top things to look for. For information about the different neighborhoods and great hotel recommendations, check out our Tulum Hotel Guide.

For hotel recommendations for every budget, check out our Tulum Hotel Guide

What To Eat In Tulum

Whether you’re looking to just grab a bite or go on a culinary adventure, there are some great restaurants all over Tulum. For some awesome restaurant recommendations at any budget, check out our  Tulum Restaurant Guide .

For great restaurant recommendations, check out our Tulum Restaurant Guide

What To Pack For Your Trip!

The Mexican Caribbean is an enchanting wonderland of relaxation and adventure, one can easily have the trip of a lifetime here. Packing for such a vacation shouldn’t be hard, so we’ve put together a list to help you pack and included some of our favorites as well. Check out our What To Pack For Your Mexico Vacation Guide .

Check out our Packing List For Beach Vacation!

Find The Best Tulum Flights

Finding the best flights to Tulum (via Cancun) shouldn’t be hard. We think the Kayak travel search engine is the best way to start. We’ve put together a quick guide to searching for the best flights using Kayak. Check out our Finding The Best Flights Guide .

Check out our Finding The Best Flights Guide!

MEXICAN CARIBBEAN

Cancun, islands, tulum and more.

Tulum Restaurant Guide

Tulum Hotel Guide

Tulum Mayan Ruins Guide

The Best Tulum All Inclusive Resorts

Playa Del Carmen Visitors Guide

Cancun Visitors Guide

Holbox Visitors Guide

Isla Mujeres Visitors Guide

The Best Cenotes in Yucatan

7 Yucatan Foods That Will Blow Your Mind

Cozumel Visitors Guide

Cozumel Diving Guide

Much more to explore..., share this post, this post has 8 comments.

I love the article!

This guide is amazing. Thank you!

Hey Katie, you’re welcome!

Fantastic information. Thanks so much.

I recommend visiting the ruins in the morning. It is HOT in the late afternoon. Bring a hat!

Really helpful information. Will definitely use your guides to plan out next trip. Thank you.

We look forward to visiting Tulum later this year. If looks beautiful.

The cenotes were our families favorite thing to do. The ruins were magnificent but swimming on a hot summer day beat all. Can’t wait to use your cenotes guide when we go back!

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Home » North America » Tulum

EPIC TULUM Itinerary! (2024)

Tulum is one of those hidden gems that is gaining popularity as a tourist destination! Its location on the Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula puts it in one of the most stunning areas in the region. It has all the beachside bliss of Cancun, but without the crowds and steep prices.

Whether you’re in town for a few hours or have the luxury of 5 days in Tulum, the town has plenty to entertain you. From beaches of turtles to the dense green jungle, a natural paradise awaits — just stick close to our all-encompassing Tulum itinerary.

If you can drag yourself away from the pristine shoreline that hugs the azure Caribbean, you’ll find that there are plenty more stunning Tulum landmarks! Our Tulum travel guide will lead you from Mayan ruins and Mexican food to seaside bars and breathtaking cenotes.

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Best Time to Visit Tulum

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Knowing when to visit Tulum is key to having an awesome vacation in this gorgeous destination. Tulum has a tropical climate, which means its summers are accompanied by high rainfall, while winter brings much milder weather.

The best time to visit Tulum is during November and December. By visiting during this period, you miss the dramatic storms of the hurricane season! You also get most Tulum attractions to yourself before the city gets too crowded in January. As if that’s not enough, you can expect more affordable hotel prices!

In terms of the weather, although January to March is winter, it is a great time for touring Tulum. However, this is peak season so prepare for crowds and steep prices. September is another great time to visit as it’s often quieter with decent weather.

Spring (from April to June) is an okay-ish time to visit Tulum, Mexico. If you arrive before June, you’ll enjoy fairly stable weather.

Since June to October is the hurricane season, it’s not the best time to go to Tulum. Even if you manage to avoid hurricanes, you’ll still have to contend with stormy weather most days. However, this is a great time to visit Tulum for cultural events such as Mexican Independence Day (16 September) and Day of the Dead (1 November)!

Although it’s a popular tourist destination, Tulum is a small coastal town with fewer than 20,000 residents! However, that doesn’t mean it’s easy deciding where to stay in Tulum . The town is quite spread out, so it’s important to choose the right area for what kind of things you like to do.

Be honest, we know it’s Tulum’s stunning beaches that first put the town on your bucket list. Playa literally means ‘beach’ in Spanish, so it’s the perfect place to find accommodation for beach lovers considering the many locations with Playa in the name. The abundance of tourist facilities also makes it ideal for first-time visitors. You’ll find Tulum’s best hostels in this neighborhood as well.

Apart from the glistening coastline, Playa is home to some first-class bars, restaurants and travel agencies. On the beach, there’s plenty of water sports to try out, as well as scuba diving and yoga! This suburb is the perfect combination of laidback zen and vibey tourist town.

For those of you who want more Mexican history and culture on your Tulum itinerary, Ruinas is the neighborhood for you. It’s much more hipster than Plaza and boasts some truly unmissable things to do in Tulum . It may be a bit further from the city center but it is home to the Mayan Ruins, one of the most impressive sights you’ll see in town.

Best Hostel in Tulum – Mayan Monkey Tulum

Mayan Monkey Tulum is a relative newcomer to the hostel scene in Tulum but it offers a refreshing change from other dull and drab options! Dorms are sleek and clean, and there is a rooftop bar and a pool.

Best Airbnb in Tulum – Stylish container studio

Palmar Stay offers a completely different concept in Tulum in terms of design and sustainability. They are fully equipped shipping containers, fitted with 24/7 Air Conditioning, a double bed, a full private bathroom and a private outdoor living room.

The containers were turned into beautiful apartments immersed in the middle of the Mayan jungle. It is located just across the street from the white sanded beach of the Mexican Caribbean, you will find the best beach clubs, restaurants, boutique shops and many of the beautiful cenotes that Tulum has to offer. Since it’s so unique, we’d consider this one of the best Airbnbs in Tulum – if not THE best!

Best Budget Hotel in Tulum –  Hotel Arco Iris

You may have to look twice to believe that a 4-star hotel can be this affordable but, yes, this one is! With a central location and a pool, Hotel Arco Iris is definitely the best place to stay in Tulum in 3 days for those on a budget.

Best Luxury Hotel in  Tulum – Orchid House Tulum

If you’re willing to splurge, then Orchid House Tulum is the best place to stay in Tulum. The decor blends beachside living with the vibrancy of the Mexican jungle and even the smallest rooms come with a plunge pool.

If you need some other inspiration for places to stay in Tulum, check out our guide on vacation rentals in Mexico that has a good selection of options.

Check out the best VRBOs in Tulum for even more accommodation choice!

Our Tulum itinerary is incredibly flexible. Both travelers stopping by for a few hours and those staying 4 days in Tulum will find the perfect things to do!

Tulum is quite an expansive settlement — it’s six miles from the beach to the Mayan Ruins so don’t expect to walk everywhere. Fortunately, though, there are some great transport options that will get you from A to B on our itinerary for Tulum.

Renting a car is a great, convenient option for exploring the gorgeous surrounding areas but it’s not something you want to rely on for exploring the town itself since parking is difficult to come by.

The loveliest way of getting around during your vacation in Tulum is by bike! It’s super easy to hire a bike and most hotels will include the use of a bike and a lock in your accommodation rate! Most drivers are used to bikers and are patient so the roads are not overly stressful to navigate!

If you’re going on a long journey and don’t want to expend your energy just getting there, hire a taxi. The prices are not cheap but taxis are a convenient way of getting around. You’ll have no trouble finding one.

Sunrise on Santa Fe Beach | Tulum Ruins | Mexican Cuisine | Playa Paraiso | Mojitos at Sunset

You may only have one day in Tulum but, rest assured, we’ll make sure you see the best that the town has to offer! From sunrise on the beach to Mexico’s favorite cocktail at sunset, our Tulum itinerary has an awesome day planned for you.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Sunrise on Santa Fe Beach

• Why it’s awesome: You’ll be blown away and inspired by this magical natural event on this gorgeous beach.
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Informal vendors will keep you supplied with snacks and cool drinks.

A Tulum itinerary that starts at sunrise? You may be skeptical but, trust us, it’s worth making an early start to the day. Tall cliffs surround Santa Fe Beach which also comes with the softest white sand and the bluest seawater.

The turquoise waters of Santa Fe are very inviting, even this early in the morning, so bring your swimsuit and enjoy an uncrowded swim. Even during the daytime, there are very few tourists on Santa Fe, so it’s really one of those hidden Tulum attractions!

Although entrance to the beach is free, expect to pay if you want to use the washroom or take advantage of one of those comfy beach loungers. One other option is to pay a bit extra and enjoy the sea and sand at one of the many lush Tulum beach clubs .

Insider Tip: Choosing how to get to Santa Fe Beach depends on how far away you’re staying. Just be sure to consider how dark it may be on the roads before you choose to cycle! For an easier start to the morning, it may be worth splashing out on a taxi to get you to Santa Fe.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Tulum Ruins

• Why it’s awesome: History and an awesome location make this site a must on your Tulum itinerary!
• Cost: Entrance is $4 USD.
• Food nearby: There’s a great variety of Mexican and international dishes at Salciccium Tulum.

Once you’ve enjoyed that serene Mexican sunrise, it’s time to discover some Mexican history at the nearby Tulum Ruins! Make sure you’re there by 08:00 to beat the crowds — yet another reason to get up early.

These ruins are one of the most famous Tulum points of interest. In fact, they’re some of the best-preserved Mayan ruins in Mexico! They are what remains from what was once a majestic city that was built by the Maya around the early 13th century.

It was known as “Zama” or “City of Dawn” due to the fact that the city faced the sunrise. Zama reached its peak between the 13th and 15th centuries, becoming the home of over 1000 people!

Tulum Ruins occupy a breathtaking position on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and are surrounded by swaying palm trees. It’s also home to an abundance of wildlife so you may even spot an iguana! It’s an incredibly photogenic site so have your smile at the ready.

There are a few buildings that you must visit! At the center of the site is El Castillo, the tallest structure on the grounds. The highlight for many visitors, though, is the Temple of the God of Wind. It’s an impressive structure that’s right next to the water and has become an iconic image of Tulum.

It’s also worth visiting the Temple of the Frescoes. The Mayan are some of history’s most famous astronomers and this was the city’s observatory! Additionally, admiring the Temple of the Descending God is one of the essential things to do in Tulum. The main carving shows a god diving, with his feet in the air.

Insider Tip: You’ll get many offers of a guided tour at the entrance gate to Tulum. This really isn’t necessary unless you’re already knowledgeable about the basics of the Mayan civilization. The major sites in the Tulum Ruins complex have signs and explanations in both Spanish and English.

You can increase your appreciation of the site by reading up about the Maya online before you arrive.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Mexican Cuisine

• Why it’s awesome: Mexican food is so yummy it’s traveled worldwide but there’s still no place that makes it as good as the motherland does.
• Cost: You can expect to pay around $5 USD for a burrito at Burrito Amor.
• Food nearby: You’ll find Mexican eateries all over Tulum but it is worth hunting down the best ones.

The Yucatan Peninsula boasts incredible zesty flavors and Tulum is no different! Whether it’s tacos, burritos or enchiladas, you’ll find the most delicious and authentic versions on this Tulum itinerary.

Everything you need to know about Burrito Amor is in its name, “Burrito Love!” The restaurant’s burritos are first-class and very innovative, coming wrapped up in banana leaves! You’ll find Burrito Amor on the main road towards the southern end. Despite its reputation, it’s one of the best budget eateries in town.

Taqueria La Eufemia is right on the beachfront and offers splendid views alongside its food. Despite its prime location, this eatery manages to be very, very cheap — you can literally get tacos from as little as $1 USD! It’s the tacos that you’re coming for: believe us, they’re the best you’ll find on any itinerary for Tulum.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Playa Paraiso

• Why it’s awesome: Playa Paraison has won TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice award for the best beach in Mexico!
• Food nearby: There’s no shortage of vendors selling tortas (sandwiches) and empanadas along the seaside.

Playa Paraiso is such a beautiful beach that no Tulum trip itinerary would be complete without a stop here. The serene, aquamarine waters splash lazily onto some of the whitest sands you’ll ever see.

Playa Paraiso is a public beach, so it’s certainly one of the best free things to do in Tulum. However, if you want to upgrade your visit to Playa Paraiso, visit one of the beach clubs! Villa Pescadores and El Paraiso both offer comfy beach loungers to customers who order even the cheapest drink.

Playa Paraiso is a photographer’s dream come true, thanks to its glistening waters and coconut palm trees. It’s also a fabulous place to picnic, thanks to the abundance of shady spots. However, it’s the waters that really attract tourists so spend an hour or two splashing about.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Mojitos at Sunset

• Why it’s awesome: Nowhere else in the world does lime, sugarcane, and rum taste as good as it does on the Riviera Maya!
• Cost: You can expect to pay upwards of $5 USD for a mojito.
• Food nearby: Most bars will serve tapas or other snacks.

The mojito is yet another stellar contribution Mexico has made to the world’s culinary scene so go and pay tribute to the original mixologists in some of Tulum’s best bars.

Batey is our favorite bar in Tulum. It’s both vibrant and rustic, and draws in a crowd that spills out into the streets! Batey also offers live music, with some of the area’s top musicians on its line-up! The mojitos are on the pricier side but you do get to watch the bartender press sugarcane!

I Scream Bar is another fantastic option for mojitos. It’s on the main road that leads towards the southern beaches and is the place to be after sunset! The drinks are affordable and the atmosphere is vibrant.

To further liven up your evening, head over to Santino Bar! It’s quite a small bar but it does boast a lively dance floor with a killer vibe! You can look forward to the best music in town and some strong cocktails.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Sistema Sac Actun | Tulum Town | Laguna de Kaan Luum  | Cenotes Labnaha | Gran Cenote

Want to know what to do next on your Tulum itinerary? For day 2, our Tulum blog post will show around the best natural landmarks, as well as introduce you to the town center!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Sistema Sac Actun

• Why it’s awesome: This is thought to be the largest surveyed underwater cave system in the world!
• Cost: Entrance is around $22 USD.
• Food nearby: Just five minutes away by car, Sahara Cafe is the nearest eatery from the caves. It’s on the pricey side so bring your own snacks if you’re on a budget!

Sistema Sac Actun is one of the most unusual tourist attractions on our 2-day itinerary in Tulum. The caves of Sistem Sac Actun extend for about 215 miles, both on land and underwater, so there are loads to explore.

Sistema Sac Actun is an awesome sight! Thousands of stalactites dangle over the shallow teal water, making for a surreal experience! It’s also home to many bats. However, the enclosed cave habitat can make some people feel claustrophobic.

The entrance includes a lifejacket and snorkel mask so you’ll be perfectly equipped to explore the waters. The fee also includes the services of a guide which is a compulsory measure to protect the site. Remember not to touch the stalactites which will be damaged by the oils in your skin!

For the Maya, Sistema Sac Actun was not only a source of fresh water but a sacred site. In Mayan religion, cenotes were portals to the underworld so people often make sacrifices, including human sacrifices, at cenotes!

Sistema Sac Actun was no exception. In fact, due to recent discoveries, some see it as the most important underwater archaeological site in the world.

Insider Tip: Although it is an extra cost, it’s worth buying/renting a flashlight at the entrance, especially if you want to explore quite deep into the cave system! You can also rent a wetsuit  (the water temperature is around 20 °C / 68 °F ) and a waterproof camera.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Tulum Town

• Why it’s awesome: Tulum’s town center is where the authentic and the touristy merge so go enjoy the best of both worlds!
• Food nearby: Flor De Michoacan is a must on your 2-day itinerary in Tulum! This ice cream shop will smash coconuts with a machete in front of your eyes and has a tranquil garden seating area.

In the heart of Tulum’s main square is the Tulum Sign. Like most other towns on the Riviera Maya, Tulum boasts a colorful sign that screams its name around the world through the numerous tourists queuing for photos. It is cheesy and it is one of the most popular things to do in Tulum so there will be a queue, but it’s also just something that you have to do.

Whether you have the cash or not, include a spot of shopping on your DIY Tulum walking tour. The number of trendy shops in town has burgeoned, adding a creative dimension to our guide to Tulum! Boutiques selling hippie-style clothes dominate Beach Road. Just be prepared for steep prices.

While in town, head over to Mixik. It’s a souvenir shop that sells authentic mementos that are all made in Mexico. You can browse an awesome selection of glasswork, embroidery, jewelry and more.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Laguna de Kaan Luum

• Why it’s awesome: This stunning natural landmark offers a unique beauty treatment!
• Cost: Entrance is free but it’s $2,50 USD for a mud bath.
• Food nearby: El Buen is a rustic eatery that’s a favorite with locals! The friendly staff and yummy dishes will make you want to come back again and again!

Just five miles outside of Tulum is Laguna de Kaan Luum. Although it boasts a stunning cenote, most visitors neglect to put it on their Tulum itinerary, making it one of the best-kept secrets in town!

In the center of the lagoon is its cenote. It’s responsible for the magical array of colors that glisten across the lagoon! The startling contrast between the light blue waters on the edge of the lake and the deep turquoise of the center is gorgeous.

It’s one of the deepest cenotes in the area, going down for around 262 feet! You can’t swim in it without supervision but just admiring the contrast in colors is a treat. There’s a wooden pier that will take you right to the edge of the cenote.

The cenote produces an astonishing amount of mud. This clay is great for skin exfoliation and was popular with the Mayans for its healing properties. Bathing in the mud is one of the loveliest things to do in Tulum off the beaten path. There isn’t really a beach to relax on but there is a wooden pier that offers a basic changing room.

Laguna de Kaan Luum is also a wonderful place to go kayaking or paddling! You can rent equipment at the entrance booth.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Cenotes Labnaha

• Why it’s awesome: The sheer number of things to do will keep you busy for hours!
• Cost: A snorkeling tour costs around $45 USD.
• Food nearby: Two minutes away by car are Chamico’s and Oscar &Lalo. The former is a little more high-end, while Oscar&Lalo is an affordable, rustic option. They both specialize in seafood!

Cenotes Labnaha is essentially an eco theme park based around a cenote. The cenotes themselves are very big, offering visitors lots to explore.

Guides facilitate all of the activities at Cenotes Labnaha, providing both safety and a wealth of information. The three cenotes are connected by paths through the lush jungle. Each trail has signs which point out all the interesting plants you should take note of!

Apart from exploring the jungle, you can enjoy so many other activities. There’s a zip line across Cenote Sagrado and a snorkeling tour in Cenote Labanaha. You can also go kayaking and jump into the suitably named Magic Cenote!

In addition to enjoying these activities, you can rest easy knowing that the park is committed to preserving the natural environment and supporting local Maya communities! The entrance fees are used to protect the area’s fauna and flora. The park also has serious rules about not touching the rocks which visitors must obey!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Gran Cenote

• Why it’s awesome: For many, this is the most awe-inspiring cenote in Mexico!
• Cost:  Entrance is $10 USD.
• Food nearby: The nearest eatery is Cetli, a five-minute drive away. The food is outstanding but it comes at a premium so bring your own snacks to Gran Cenote!

Swimming in a cenote is one of the best nature things to do in Tulum and there’s nowhere better to do so than at Gran Cenote!

Gran Cenote is a postcard image of a tropical paradise, thanks to its sparkling waters that are surrounded by stalactites and overhung by tree roots! There’s a convenient wooden platform that allows you to stand over the cenote and take some totally Insta-worthy photographs.

Once you’ve taken your envy-inducing pictures, it’s time to get into the water! Gran Cenote is actually made of multiple cenotes. There’s only a small section that’s underground so it’s a great cenote for those who are claustrophobic.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are both possible at Gran Cenote. However, the water is so clear that you don’t need a snorkel mask to spot the cute turtles and little fish swimming around. There’s a fairly big shallow section that’s perfect for non-swimmers or children! If you’re uncomfortable trying to find this alone, go on a guided tour !

Insider Tip: Gran Cenote is probably the most popular cenote in the Yucatan Peninsula so it’s often very crowded. To avoid the crowds, you can either go as soon as it opens or an hour before closing time when most visitors have gone home!

Mayan Monkey Tulum

• Free Breakfast

Snorkeling & Underground Cenotes | Xel-Há Park | Yoga Class | Mesoamerican Reef | Mexican Cooking Class

Racking your brain over what to do in Tulum next? No need— our awesome 3-day itinerary in Tulum has got you covered!

Snorkeling & Underground Cenotes Half-Day Tour from Tulum

• Cenotes are typical features of the Yucatan Peninsula!
• They’re some of the loveliest places to go snorkelling !
• It’s easiest to get around from cenote to cenote with an organized tour!

Without a doubt, cenotes are some of our favorite places to visit in Tulum! These magical natural phenomena offer a relaxing swim and snorkeling opportunity!

Having a guide with you is the best way of learning about cenotes. Cenotes are natural sinkholes that result when the ground collapses and exposes the groundwater beneath. They are some of the most awe-inspiring sights you’ll see during your 3 days in Tulum. The ancient Maya saw cenotes as spiritual places and were regular visitors. Learn about all this and more with your expert guide.

Swimming in a cenote is an experience unlike any other. With no tides to worry about and no salt to irritate your eyes, swimming in these pools is a tranquil experience! Although you can snorkel to see some of the natural landscape, you won’t see many animal species beneath the water.

That’s why you need to take a trip to the Caribbean Sea! Venture out of the neighborhood you’ve been staying in and explore the sea. The region is famous for its sea turtles which will melt even the stoniest heart! You can also look forward to colorful fish, rays and lobsters. Keep your fingers crossed for a dolphin sighting!

Xel-Há Park

• Enjoying the multiple attractions of Xel-Há Park is one of the best outdoor things to do in Tulum!
• The park boasts diverse wildlife and fun outdoor activities!
• It’s on a rocky islet that was inhabited by both the Maya and the Spanish!

Xel-Há Park is a marine theme park and archaeological site that’s run by the expert Xcart group which manages similar operations in the area. It’s a relaxing place to visit on a 3-day itinerary in Tulum with the whole family.

Since the lagoon is protected by shark nets, it’s perfect for snorkeling! Barracudas, stingrays, parrotfish, and tangs are just some of the amazing species you can see in the lagoon.

For the adventurous traveler backpacking Mexico , there’s also a zipline that provides views, as well as fun. The park includes a jungle area in which you can cycle or hike. There is also a number of cave systems to explore!

When you’ve had enough adventure for one day, the park offers some fabulous facilities for relaxation. Choose between floating on an air tube, suntanning on a beach lounger or dozing off in a hammock. These are activities that you will remember long after your 3 days in Tulum end.

• Yoga helps to give Tulum its unique, laidback, yet trendy atmosphere!
• There are a number of yoga studios that let you drop in for a class!
• Whether you prefer traditional classes or seaside breezes, there is a studio to suit you!

With 36 hours in Tulum, you should definitely take a yoga class to make sure that your tropical vacation is as relaxing as possible! Yoga has grown in popularity in Tulum so there’s no shortage of classes.

Our favorite studio is Sanara. It’s part of the oceanfront, eco-friendly Sanara resort and is a down-to-earth, untouristy offering. The classes are small and take place at 08:30, 10:15 and 17:00.

Maya Tulum is more touristy but it’s still an excellent option for yoga. Classes take place in the morning and the afternoon, costing $15 USD per session. Maya Tulum also offers annual yoga retreats which you may want to schedule your trip to Tulum around.

Yoga Dicha is a more authentic studio. Unlike the other studios, it’s not attached to a resort hotel so yoga is it’s one and only offering! Classes are 75 minutes and take place at 09:00 and 19:00 in the week.

If you’re on a weekend in Tulum, remember that there are only morning classes on Saturday and Sunday!

Mesoamerican Reef

• Just a few hundred feet from Tulum’s shoreline is Mesoamerican Reef!
• Mesoamerican Reef is the second-largest barrier reef in the world!
• Expect to spot a rainbow of brightly colored fish!

It’s rare for a Tulum guide not to recommend snorkeling but somehow, most guides seem to miss out on the incredible Mesoamerican Reef. This spectacular reef has so many amazing species and is so close to Tulum that you have to visit.

To get to the reef, go with an organized tour . You’ll find numerous agencies on Playa Paraiso offering hour-long tours of the reed for very reasonable prices.

The abundance of color is the reef’s most striking feature. It’s rare that you’ll spot sea turtles and rays but basically everyone sees parrotfish, sergeant majors, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and barracudas.

Unfortunately, like many other ecosystems around the world, the Mesoamerican Reef is under threat from phenomena such as pollution and overfishing. That doesn’t mean you can’t visit.

In fact, by uploading photos of the reef from your visit to an app, NEMO, you can help scientists understand how to protect it! To learn how to tread lightly while visiting any reef, read this article about coral reef etiquette.

Mexican Cooking Class

• Having spent 2 days in Tulum tasting Mexican food, it’s time to learn how it’s made!
• Rivera Kitchen Tulum offers an immersive beginners’ cooking class to tourists!
• This is one of the greatest things to do in Tulum indoors!

The fresh ingredients and spicy flavors of Mexican cuisine have traveled all over the world so why not learn how the locals do it? Rivera Kitchen Tulum is run by a seasoned Mexican cook and the classes are a fantastic way of experiencing both local culture and cuisine.

The classes start with a short history of Mexican cooking and how Mesoamerican cultures have changed from the Mayan period to colonialism to the present day. It’s a fascinating, personalized introduction to Mexican history and culture as your host will share her own family stories.

In one cooking class, you’ll prepare an entire Mexican meal. From different kinds of salsa (there’s more than one!) to tortillas to fish tacos, you’ll learn many of Mexico’s famous dishes !

This a wonderful experience that will provide you with a skill you can enjoy long after the end of your 3 days in Tulum.

There’s no need to let fears about safety put you off planning a trip to Tulum! You simply need to take the usual precautions while in Mexico and you should remember your trip to Tulum for all the right reasons.

Although Tulum really is as safe and laidback as it seems, you should consider taking basic safety measures. These include not walking around alone at night and avoiding night walks on isolated parts of the beach. Drivers should also be cautious at night, as there have been a few car thefts.

In terms of health concerns, you may want to steer clear of the tap water in Tulum. Your body will likely not be used to the bacteria in the local water so if you’re only staying 2 or 3 days in Tulum, stick to bottled water!

You could also use a Grayl Geopress instead of contributing the the plastic problems in the world. Depending on how strict you are about this, you may want to check that all your food and drinks are prepared with purified water, too.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Tulum

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re spending more than 3 days in Tulum, then it’s time to discover more of the Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum may have its own fabulous attractions but it’s still worth checking out the surrounding areas! Day trips from Tulum are the most convenient ways of exploring the countryside so read on for our favorites.

Coba Maya Ville Full-Day Tour

The archaeological site of Coba is one of the greatest on the Yucatan Peninsula and makes for one of the best day trips from Tulum.

The Maya lived on the site from the 3rd to the 9th century and left an impressive footprint on the area! You can admire their massive public buildings, such as the Nohoch Muul Pyramid, the tallest on the Yucatan Peninsula.

However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that the Maya are dead! They may not live in these splendid cities anymore but descendants of the Maya continue to practice Mayan traditions.

You can discover this near Laguna Chabela.

The Original Chichen Itza Tour

Chichen Itza is one of the most breathtaking Mayan sites on the Yucatan Peninsula, meaning it ranks high up on our list of the best day trips from Tulum!

Chichen Itza was the capital of the local Mayan Empire and still has the imposing buildings to match! Kukulcan Pyramid, the Temple of a Thousand Columns and the Observatory are some of the site’s highlights.

Be sure to also check out the Ball Court, where the Mayans would play some fascinating games.

Sian Ka’an Safari with Transfer Options

Sian Ka’an Biosphere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site so you can be sure that it’s a special place! It’s one of the largest protected sites in Mexico and is home to some remarkable animals and plants!

The biosphere has mangroves, marshes, tropical forests and a large marine area that meets up with a barrier reef. This diverse environment is home to equally diverse species. From the jaguars and pumas in the forests to the manatees and turtles in the seas, there are plenty of creatures to look out for!

Cenote Trail: Caves Visit and Bike Tour

There are so many cenotes on the Yucatan Peninsula that it would take multiple trips to explore them all. That said, if you have a few extra days in Tulum, a day trip to some of the best is money well-spent.

Dense forest surrounds Tulum and conceals a number of gorgeous cenotes! Exploring the jungle on a bike is a fantastic way of getting from cenote to cenote. It allows you to smell the rich forest air and come up close to natural attractions.

Cancun: Guided City Tour with Pickup

Cancun is famous around the world and it’s just an hour and a half’s drive from Tulum, making it the perfect day trip destination! If you don’t have a car, you can take a bus to reach Cancun before joining a sightseeing tour!

On the outskirts of Cancun, you can discover El Meco, a Mayan archaeological site, and Celso at Market 28, a typical Mexican market that’s the ideal spot for souvenir shopping.

In the heart of town is Boulevard Kukulcan which is lined with restaurants, bars, and clubs. For some, it’s the Tequila Museum with its 700 tequilas that’s the real drawcard.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Tulum itinerary.

How many days do you need in Tulum?

In my opinion, 3 days is enough time to enjoy the highlights of Tulum.

Is Tulum worth visiting?

The truth is, Tulum has become saturated by tourism these past couple of years, which takes away the charm of the place. However, it’s still beautiful and still worth a visit, in my opinion.

What should I add to my Tulum honeymoon itinerary?

One of the most romantic things to do in Tulum is enjoy sunrise on Santa Fe Beach.

What should I add to my Tulum bachelorette itinerary?

A great activity to add to your Tulum bachelorette itinerary is a Mexican cooking class, which is a fun activity that you can enjoy with a large group of mates.

Conclusion of  Tulum Itinerary

With blissful beaches, breathtaking cenotes and delicious cuisine, Tulum really does have it all! Our Tulum itinerary allows you to swim in the Caribbean, explore Mayan civilization and take a yoga class — all within just a few days.

Once you’ve arrived in Tulum, it won’t take you long to understand why the town is one of the best-kept secrets on the Yucatan Peninsula. It offers superb access to the cenotes and Mayan ruins the area is famous for, all while still remaining a down-to-earth Mexican town! It’s this unassuming but vibrant atmosphere that will win your heart and make for an extraordinary trip.

Insider tips, accommodation suggestions, and transport recommendations make our Tulum travel blog the key to a fuss-free vacation that you will remember for years to come. Whether you’re an amateur Mayan historian, a shopaholic, a free spirit or a nature-lover, there is plenty to entertain you on our Tulum itinerary!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Claire Martin

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All-inclusive Tulum vacations: everything you need to know

Can i book a tulum vacation with airfare and meals.

On an all-inclusive vacation, your mind and body can wander far from your wallet. Pay one simple price when you bundle your accommodation and airfare, and you avoid all those yucky bills after conversation-starting cocktails or decadent dinners.

How can I find Tulum all-inclusive vacations that are adults only?

All the best all-inclusive, all-adult vacations are a click of a filter or two away. Choose from great grown-up features. Say, a spa for a couple’s massage, a hot tub to soak away the stresses of the day, or a swim-up bar to get the party started.

How much is an all-inclusive trip to Tulum?

Affordable all-inclusive is yours, whatever your budget. Packages start tempting you from just $454. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

How can I book cheap all-inclusive trips to Tulum?

Whenever you book your travel, sorting by price and filtering by budget shows you what’s out there in your price range.

What are the benefits of all-inclusive Tulum vacations with airfare?

Create your dream getaway by bundling your flight and hotel and you get delightful deals and discounts. Add your car rental, too, and you save on all three.

What should I think about when I book an all-inclusive Tulum family vacation package?

With little tummies taken care of, you just need to put smiles on their faces. Easy! Book an all-inclusive vacation with a full-on water park or epic pools—or book your stay near the world’s biggest theme parks and attractions.

Why should I book an all-inclusive honeymoon package in Tulum?

You can start your married life how you mean to go on with an all-inclusive honeymoon package. Eat and drink to your heart’s content, waltz around in happy harmony, and have your fill of delights. Together, you can book up adventure excursions and return to a pool-side cabana for cocktails at sunset.

Can I book an all-inclusive Tulum package with free cancellation and/or flexible dates?

When you’re searching for your all-inclusive getaway, filter your results by payment option to find free cancellation and buy now, pay later options. That way, you can rebook without worry, should your plans change.

Why should I book an all-inclusive Tulum package vacation with Expedia?

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Traveling to Tulum: Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide for 2024

Making your tulum travel plans? !

If you’ve never visited Tulum (or even Mexico), the thought of traveling to Tulum, and Tulum travel planning might be overwhelming — but by the end of this article, you will be a Tulum pro! How do I know?!

I live in Mexico , not far from Tulum actually! I spent about three months living between Tulum and Playa del Carmen , so I know the Tulum pueblo magico (magic town) well — and I’m going to tell you all my Tulum travel tips.

Cancun to Tulum: Your 6 Best Transportation Options

As one of the places high atop many a Mexico bucket list, Tulum is fast becoming one of the best Mexico travel destinations.

Located on the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is one of the best beach towns in Mexico, with amazing Mayan ruins, swimmable cenotes , white sand beaches, and more.

In short, it’s easy to see why everyone wants to travel to Tulum — this boho beach paradise has something for everyone.

However, with so many amazing things to do in Tulum, how do you choose ?! You’re in the right place to find out because by the end of this article, you’ll have the lowdown on Tulum travel.

Ready to dive in? Let’s get started with the state of Tulum travel during Covid, and then get into everything you need to know about Tulum, including where to stay, play, tour, eat and drink.

traveling to tulum mexico

Is tulum safe for travel.

The short answer to Is it safe to travel to Tulum? — is yes — for most travelers, it is safe in Tulum.

Aside from hurricanes, drinking too much and sunburns , Tulum crime rates are pretty low, and both Tulum solo travel and group travel are considered safe.

Longer answer: Safety is a tricky subject, not just in Tulum, but everywhere, and that’s because safety is a feeling , not a fact. However, as a general rule, Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula are considered quite safe for visitors.

Is Mexico Safe? 25 Tips to Stay Safe in Mexico

As someone who’s been living and traveling alone in Mexico for years, I know my opinion may be skewed, so I reached out to other female bloggers who have done some Mexico solo travel, to get their takes.

Head to 20 Best Solo Travel Mexico Destinations to Visit to read about Tulum solo travel.

Though Tulum is considered safe, you’ll still want to follow the 10 General Travel Safety Tips below to err on the side of caution.

These safety measures are the same ones you’d follow when traveling anywhere on Earth, and they should suffice in Tulum, Mexico. You’ll also want to purchase Mexico travel insurance for your Tulum trip.

• Safety Wing : Perfect for general travel coverage, and digital nomad who travel for extended periods of time.
• World Nomads : Perfect for those who want to do adventurous activities while traveling.
• Don’t walk home alone at night if you can help it; take a taxi or ride your bike in Tulum.
• Always listen to your intuition because your intuition is always right.
• If you get a sketchy or uneasy feeling about a person or place, get away from that person or place immediately. If you feel you’re in danger, don’t worry about making a kind, nice, or politically correct exit from a creepy person or bad situation — Just get away ASAP.
• Don’t keep your phone, keys, wallet, passport, or anything valuable in your back pocket.
• Learn some basic Spanish. If you can’t learn it, save this infographic as an image on your phone so you have something to use even if you’re off-WiFi.
• Take all of your belongings into the bathroom with you, rather than asking a cafe/bar neighbor to watch your things.
• Speaking of bar neighbors, don’t ever accept drinks from strangers and/or leave your drink unattended near someone you don’t know.
• Don’t wear flashy clothes, expensive jewelry, designer sunglasses, etc.
• Keep some cash in your pocket so you don’t have to pull your whole wallet out every time you need to make a small transaction like for street tacos 🌮

Make sure you enroll in the FREE   STEP Program  before your trip. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In Tulum, that’s the Consular Agency in Playa del Carmen .

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc. STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

Mexico Travel Insurance for Tulum

Want an added level of security and peace of mind during these strange travel times? Smart choice!

Just as you insure your car, home and body, you can also insure your luggage, belongings and health during travel.

If Mexico and Tulum travel safety are on your mind, get a free quote from the two companies listed below — two of the biggest names in travel insurance.

Traveling to Tulum FAQ

Is Tulum expensive?

This answer depends on where you’re comparing Tulum to; however, by Mexican standards, yes, Tulum is expensive because you can visit other beach towns in Mexico for much less.

The good news that traveling to Tulum budget travel is 100% doable — so really, Tulum is as expensive as you make it.

Tulum has everything from budget hostels, like Mayan Monkey and Selina Tulum , to $2,000+ per night beachfront eco-villas at Azulik Tulum and Papaya Playa Projec t , so there’s room for all travel budgets.

Similarly, you can find great Tulum cheap eats and street tacos for 50¢, and also upscale dining.

Since the peso is much weaker than the U.S. dollar and the euro, you can expect to get about $18 pesos per $1 USD.

In Tulum, many places are cash only, so see if your bank partners with any Mexican banks to waive ATM fees, and make sure to bring a “no foreign transaction fee” credit card.

For more info, check out this Mexico podcast titled Tulum on a Budget .

Do I need to know Spanish to visit Tulum?

Tulum is 50/50 — at the more upscale places on Tulum Beach, everyone will speak English.

However, in Tulum Town (Downtown), where more locals live, you’ll find there is less English spoken.

Either way, you’ll only help yourself by brushing up on your basic Spanish before visiting Tulum, Mexico.

👩‍🏫 Want to learn Spanish fast? Rocket Spanish has an accelerated program that will have you confident, and conversational , in no time.

Having some knowledge of the local language is generally seen as a sign of respect and courtesy. Knowing everyday niceties like please and thank you will really go a long way while traveling to Tulum (or anywhere on Earth, really).

For your convenience, the infographic above has all the basic Spanish words and phrases you’ll need. Go ahead and save it to your phone as an image, so that you’ll have access to it even when you’re off-WiFi.

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

No — U.S. passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Mexico. This is only one of the reasons to visit Mexico , as in general, Mexico is one of the best travel destinations for Americans!

When you arrive in Mexico and go through the Immigration line, you’ll receive a 180-day (6 month) FMM tourist card .

This is a small piece of paper that you need to hold on to so you can give it back to Immigration at the airport when you leave the country. 

There is no charge for the FMM, but if you lose it, there’s a $600 peso ($30 USD) fine to replace it. Besides the fine, you’ll need to get to the airport an extra hour early to do the lost visa paperwork and pay.

The bottom line: Don’t lose your FMM!

What’s the best time to visit Tulum?

The best time of year to visit Tulum so you’ll get the best weather is during fall and winter. The cooler months of November to March is the best time to go to Tulum Mexico.

Tulum Weather: Yearly Average temperatures

This is also technically the busy season in Tulum, though you may be able to get some great Tulum travel deals on flights and accommodations — especially if your travel dates are flexible, or you visit during the week.

For now, you many be able to stretch your dollar further, especially in Tulum’s busiest month of December.

Located in the tropics, the weather is hot year-round, however, there’s much less humidity during the fall/winter months of November to March.

You’ll also have less ( if any ) rain, the mosquitoes will be at bay, and Atlantic Hurricane Season will be officially over — it runs June 1-November 30.

Check out the articles linked below about visiting Tulum during all the months of the year.

• Tulum in January
• Tulum in February
• Tulum in March
• Tulum in April
• Tulum in May
• Tulum in June
• Tulum  in July
• Tulum  in August
• Tulum in September
• Tulum in October
• Tulum in November
• Tulum in December

What do I pack for Tulum?

When planning what to take to Tulum and the Yucatan Peninsula, know this area had a tropical climate.

As you can see by the average yearly Tulum weather chart above, this part of Mexico is hot (and humid 😥) for most of the year, so definitely pack this Water-To-Go Filter Bottle and sunscreen .

🧳 Need more Tulum packing tips? Head to this article, Packing List for Mexico: Outfit Ideas & FREE Printable Download .

Mosquitoes are also an issue, so don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray , and bring reef-safe sunscreen so you practice responsible tourism in Mexico.

If you’re planning to drink a lot, these Anti-Hangover Meds are a lifesaver ( thank me later! ).

FREE Printable Packing List for Mexico

Wondering exactly what to pack for Tulum and all of Mexico? Download the FREE printable packing list for Mexico below.

This multi-page Mexico packing checklist covers everything you’ll want to bring, and more importantly, what not to bring to Mexico.

What do I wear in Tulum?

As far as how to dress in Tulum — anything goes — you can dress as casual or as extra as you’d like. Check out the outfits below ⤵ to give you an idea of Tulum fashion.

If you need more tips on what to wear in Tulum, head here for Tulum outfits inspo , or visit this article, Cute Outfits for Mexico Vacation: What to Wear in Mexico .

Outfits for Tulum Mexico

For Tulum outfit ideas, think flowy, tropical, breathable, cotton, and light-colored clothing; bonus points for anything that doesn’t show sweat!

Besides all your summer-wear, you may use a light cardigan at night and comfy sweats to sleep in, but Tulum is the place for sundresses, sun hats and bathing suits.

How Do I Get to Tulum?

Where is Tulum?

Tulum is in Quintana Roo state, located in the Yucatan Peninsula , in southeastern Mexico. It is about 75 miles south of Cancun , and 40 miles south of Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

Tulum is not far from other great Yucatan destinations, like Bacalar Lagoon , the “Maldives of Mexico,” about 130 miles south.

The pueblo magico (magic town) of Valladolid , 65 miles east, and the beautiful Colonial city of Merida , located 160 miles east of Tulum.

What’s the Closest Airport to Tulum?

Wondering, Can you fly into Tulum Mexico? Sadly, no. Though the Mexican government says they have plans to open a Tulum Airport in 2024.

As there’s no Tulum Airport for now, you’ll fly into Cancun International Airport (code: CUN). It is the closest airport near Tulum, and located about 75-miles (120 km) north of Tulum.

The drive is about 1.5-hours, on Carretera Cancun-Chetumal (Highway 307), which goes straight to Tulum.

💸 Tulum Travel Tips: Take out some cash at a Cancun Airport ATM! Cash is king in Mexico and Tulum, where many businesses are cash only.

From Cancun Airport, you can hire a private shuttle , shared shuttle , rent a car , or take the ADO bus to Tulum.

Keep scrolling for info on all three options ⤵ or head to this article for a more thorough guide, Cancun to Tulum: The 6 Best Transportation Options .

Transportation from Cancun to Tulum

You basically have four good options for how to get from Cancun to Tulum. From the Cancun Airport, you can do the following:

• Book a private Cancun to Tulum shuttle (My recommendation!)
• Rent a car in Cancun and drive to Tulum
• Book a shared shuttle from Cancun to Tulum
• Take the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum

Cancun Airport to Tulum Shuttle

The Cancun Airport shuttle to Tulum is by far the easiest, fastest, most stress-free and hassle-free way to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum — with door to door service!

If you’re traveling with a group, this option can end up being quite economical and so much faster than the bus.

During these strange travel times, the private shuttle is also the best way to be socially distant while traveling from Cancun to Tulum.

As mentioned, it’s economical for groups, but those doing Mexico solo travel in Tulum might want to opt for the shared shuttle ⤵

Cancun to Tulum shared Shuttle

Is there uber in cancun uber in tulum.

Wondering if you can take Uber from Cancun to Tulum? Unfortunately, no, at this time there’s no Uber in Tulum, and really, not anywhere in Quintana Roo state.

For a thorough look at your options on how to get around in Tulum, head to this article, Is There Uber in Tulum Mexico?

This also means there’s no Uber in Tulum itself, though there are plenty of taxis.

🚕💨 Note: When taking a taxi in Mexico, you negotiate and agree on the fare before entering the taxi, as most don’t have meters.

Cancun Car Rental

If you’re not taking the shuttle from Cancun to Tulum — the most convenient way to travel from Cancun to Tulum would be in a rental car .

Discover Cars is a great option, with several Cancun Airport rental car options. They are the Mexico car rental company I both recommend, and use!

The Cancun Airport is the best place to rent a car because all the big name companies have locations there — and you only want to use a reputable company.

It is safe to drive in Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula , and the drive from Cancun to Tulum is also safe.

As you’ll be driving in another country, take a moment to read through these 10 Useful Mexico Driving Tips in this article, Renting a Car in Tulum: Everything You Need to Know .

If you’re just planning to stay in Tulum, skip the rental car !

However, if you want to take a Tulum day trip or two and explore the surrounding areas — Bacalar Lagoon , Valladolid , Akumal Bay to snorkel with the turtles, Playa del Carmen and Coba Ruins — then rent a car .

ADO Bus from Cancun to Tulum

The largest bus company in Mexico is ADO, and you can take one straight from Cancun Airport to the main bus station in Downtown Tulum.

Prices will vary, should generally be less than $300 pesos ($15 USD) for a one-way ticket, which you can buy online below ⤵

If you’re considering the bus, know this is a luxury class bus with big reclining seats, AC, outlets to charge your phone and a bathroom.

Mexico’s buses are great, comfy and inexpensive, and in fact, if you’re traveling to Tulum on a budget , the bus is the cheapest way to get from Cancun to Tulum .

Once you arrive in Downtown Tulum, walk outside and grab a taxi to your accommodation, or if it’s close by, you can walk. If you’re taking a taxi, note that you must agree on the fare before entering the taxi.

Keep in mind there’s no Uber in Tulum , but there are always taxis waiting outside of the bus station.

Now that you know how to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport, let’s get to know the town’s main areas so you can decide where to stay in Tulum.

Where to Stay in Tulum: Best Neighborhoods in Tulum

Tulum Neighborhoods: Downtown, Aldea Zama & Tulum Beach

Tulum is a small town; about five miles from one end to the other. It is basically divided into Tulum Town (AKA Downtown), Aldea Zama and Tulum Beach.

There’s only one road that goes through downtown, and one road, called the Tulum Beach Road, that goes up and down the beach, ending at Boca Paila beach area and Sian Ka’an UNESCO World Heritage Reserve .

Downtown is on the north side of town, Tulum Beach is all the way south, and Aldea Zama is located between the two. There are three distinct areas within downtown: La Veleta on the southwestern side, and Colonia Huracanes and Villas Tulum to the northeast.

Use the map of Tulum above so you can visualize the town layout. Then, keep scrolling to understand each Tulum neighborhood, and the pros and cons of staying in each one.

TRAVELING TO TULUM MEXICO

Tulum town (downtown).

• Pro: The least expensive neighborhood
• Con: The least pretty neighborhood

Tulum Town (AKA Tulum Pueblo or Downtown Tulum) is the place to stay if you’re traveling to Tulum on a budget .

This is a lively area with great cheap eats , cute shops and a unique charm. There are quite a few budget hotel and hostel options in Tulum Town, and some of the best Airbnbs in Tulum .

It is, however, not the prettiest place to stay out of Tulum’s three neighborhoods. That’s not to say Tulum Town is ugly, just that it’s not the Tulum you’ve seen all over Insta .

• Pros: Luxurious yet affordable; Modern amenities; Best WiFi
• Con: Has a bit of a “suburban” or residential feel to it

On a personal note, when friends, family and followers ask me where to stay in Tulum, I always suggest Aldea Zama. Check out my top picks for the best Tulum Airbnb/VRBO rentals here , most of which are located in Aldea Zama.

15 Best Cheap Hotels in Tulum Mexico

There are a few reasons why I think it’s the best neighborhood in Tulum, including its location between the beach and downtown.

Also, Aldea Zama is the newest area of Tulum, and newer construction means newer, modern amenities — like high speed WiFi.

As mentioned, Tulum as a whole doesn’t have great WiFi… and yes, this even applies to the fanciest of 5 Star resort hotels on the beach .

Since Aldea Zama is more residential, you’ll often get better WiFi and a very nice place for about 25% the cost of a Tulum beach resort.

📸 Tulum Travel Tips: You can still go to the beachfront resorts and take your Instagram worthy Tulum photos — even if you’re not a guest of the resort.

Tulum Beach

• Pros: Gorgeous resorts; Staying right on the beach; Walkable location
• Cons: Expensive; Electricity restrictions; WiFi isn’t great

Tulum Beach is the Tulum you’ve seen in photos, and where you’ll find all the beautiful beach resorts, large-scale art installations, high end restaurants, cool bars, and all the Instagram worthy places in Tulum.

• Tulum Beach House Rentals: 10 Best Beachfront Tulum Villas

The Zona Hotelera (Tulum Hotel Zone) is also where you’ll find all the best Tulum beach resorts, including all the Instagrammable Tulum accommodations you’ve seen online, and all the most luxurious Tulum hotels .

As you can imagine, these beach resorts don’t come cheap, but if you want to splurge, or you’re traveling with a large group, Tulum Beach is the place.

Check out the linked article above ⤴ which features the 10 best Tulum beach house rentals.

Should I stay on Tulum Beach?

The beach resorts and hotels are gorgeous, but there are a few cons to staying in them you should be aware of:

• The WiFi on Tulum Beach is well… not great , even at the most luxurious of Tulum resorts.
• Tulum beach hotels try to lower their carbon footprint by only offering AC and electricity in the rooms from sundown to sun-up. You’ll want to check individual resort policies, but the vast majority do this, regardless of how much your room costs.
• The beach is the main party area, so light sleepers will want to double check that you’re not staying anywhere loud where you won’t get a good night’s sleep and also bring noise-canceling earplugs .

If you’re looking for a nice balance of comfort, luxury and savings, these Aldea Zama Tulum Airbnbs are better options… but if it’s your dream to stay in a Tulum beach resort — then just go for it!

Best Tulum Beach Hotels

As they say, Location, location, location! When it comes to Tulum, there simply is no better location than staying right on Tulum Beach.

Below is a list of the best hotels in Tulum located on the beach, but if you’re in a big group head here, Tulum Beach House Rentals: 10 Best Beachfront Tulum Villas .

Azulik Tulum Resort

As far as Tulum beach hotels go, Azulik Tulum is the one that started all the hype. This resort is the gold standard for Tulum’s boho chic vibes.

Casa Malca Tulum

The infamous Tulum Pablo Escobar house was indeed once owned by Colombian drug kingpin, Pablo Escobar.

This beachfront mansion-turned-resort is the brainchild of NYC art dealer, Lio Malca, and as you’d imagine the whole place is basically a work of art.

• Nomade Tulum

Nômade provides a holistic jungle sanctuary on Tulum Beach. There are Tulum treehouse rooms, luxury suites and beachfront Tulum glamping tents to choose from at Nomade Resort, which aims for a reconnection to nature.

Coco Tulum Beach Club

While staying at a Tulum beach resort doesn’t come cheap, the Coco Tulum Beach Club Hotel and Coco Tulum Zen Zone are known as some of the nicest less-pricey beachside resorts.

Enjoy their famous white swings, at one of the most instagrammable beach bars in Tulum!

Be Tulum Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for the perfect combo of luxury and privacy, Be Tulum is the place. Here, you’ll find exclusive suites nestled between the jungle and the sea, which each have their own private pool.

Combined with their on-site spa, Be Tulum Hotel is the ultimate luxury escape.

Papaya Playa Project

This resort combines all things Tulum in one place for its guests.

At Papaya Playa Project you can take yoga class in the morning, lay in a hammock on the beach all day, take a disco nap in your oceanfront bungalow, and hear a famous DJ spin live music at night ( Note: Bring earplugs ).

Ahau Tulum Resort

If you were wondering where the Instagram worthy Tulum man sculpture by South African artist Daniel Popper was located — he’s at the Tulum Sculpture Garden at Ahau Tulum Hotel .

Note: The Instafamous Ven a la Luz (Come to the Light) wooden sculpture used to be at the entrance to the Ahau Tulum Hotel and Raw Love Cafe. In 2022, it was moved to the Tulum Sculpture Garden behind the hotel.

• La Zebra Tulum

This beautiful hotel is part of the Colibri Boutique Hotels group, and they allow guests to enjoy the facilities at all of their properties.

If you opt for a room at La Zebra, you can also enjoy El Pez Tulum , Mezzanine Tulum Hotel and Hotel Mi Amor , the best adults only Tulum hotel.

Best Tulum Airbnb & VRBO Rentals

Tulum has gorgeous and affordable Airbnbs in Aldea Zama and Downtown Tulum. There are also some beautiful Tulum beach house Airbnb options, perfect for groups.

For Tulum solo travel and those wanting a unique experience, consider a Tulum glamping treehouse , many of which are located on beautiful Tulum Beach.

🚴‍♀️ Mexico Tulum Tips: Some Airbnbs offer complimentary bike rentals, so be on the lookout for those — This post has several options of $99 and under Tulum Airbnb/VRBO , some of which include a free bike.

However, even if you can’t find a Tulum Airbnb that includes a bike, you can rent one in Downtown Tulum for about $200 pesos ($10 USD) per day, and save some money by not having to take taxis.

Reminder: There’s no Uber in Tulum , and biking is one of the best ways to get around Tulum.

Best Things to Do in Tulum

There are so many places things to see in Tulum! If you’re wondering how many days in Tulum do I need, it really depends on you and your travel style.

If you’re just sticking to town and not venturing to the Tulum off the beaten path, this Tulum itinerary can help you plan an epic weekend in Tulum.

Tulum Beach Clubs

No visit is complete without checking out some of the amazing Tulum beach clubs, located on the best beaches in Tulum — Playa Paraiso, Playa Pescadores, Playa Ruinas and Las Palmas.

They are all unique and stand out in their own ways, but among the best beach clubs in Tulum are:

Tulum beach clubs often cost about $1,000-2,000 pesos ($50-100 USD) for a day pass. This is actually your food/beverage “minimum spend,” and also grants you access to the beach club and facilities for the day.

Note: Not all Tulum beach clubs apply the entry cost to your food and drink tab. Some just have an entry fee, so double check at each place before paying.

What is a minimum spend at Tulum Beach Cubs?

A “minimum spend” basically means you’re pre-paying your $50-100 USD tab, so you can think of the entrance cost as a down payment on food and drinks.

If you spend more than what you paid to enter, you’ll need to pay that balance at the Tulum beach clubs you’ve visited.

🏝 Tulum Travel Tips: Hit up these Tulum Beach Clubs during Happy Hour to save a few bucks during the best Tulum Happy Hours.

Mayan Ruins Near Tulum

Tulum is an amazing mix of posh hotels, instagrammable art along the beach, boho chic beach clubs with oceanfront swings, gorgeous cenotes, amazing restaurants and cafes, fun bars and more.

One of the best things to do in Tulum is visit the Tulum Ruins, located on the northern end of the beach.

In total, there are about 100 public Mayan archeological sites throughout the Yucatan Peninsula . While most people don’t make it to all of them, there are some noteworthy Tulum pyramids you can get to in two hours or less.

Keep scrolling to see the four most visited Mayan sites near Tulum and in Tulum.

Tulum Ruins

If you head to the Tulum Beach Road, and turn left, you’ll end up at the Archeological Zone of Tulum-Mayan Port City Ruins, AKA the Tulum Ruins.

This smaller site is very conveniently located, and most Tulum travelers will visit these beautiful ruins overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

Are Tulum Ruins open?

Yes — As of May 24, 2021, the Tulum Ruins are open . The Tulum Archeological Zone is open daily, from 9am-5pm, with the last ticket sold at 3:30pm.

There’s a maximum capacity of groups no larger than 10, and a total of 3,000 people per day — so arrive early to guarantee your admission.

There are no Covid measures in Tulum still in place, so you don’t need to get a temperature check at the entrance nor must wear a mask all times and practice social distance during while visiting Tulum Ruins.

Chichen Itza Ruins

As one of the Seven Wonders of the World, seeing Chichen Itza is on many travel bucket lists.

Located about two hours from Tulum, you can drive there with your rental car , take the ADO bus from Downtown Tulum, or opt for this Chichen Itzá, Cenote and Valladolid Tour .

🗿 Tulum Travel Tip: You can not climb the pyramids at Chichen Itza. The nearest ruins you can climb are at Coba Mayan Ruins, about one hour from Tulum in your rental car or by bus.

Coba Mayan Ruins

Coba is unique in that it’s more of a whole Mayan city, versus a Mayan pyramid site. It is located deep in the jungle, about an hour from Tulum.

If you’re having to choose Chichen Itza vs Coba, many opt for Coba to avoid the crowds at Chichen Itza and because you can climb Coba’s pyramids.

🦟 Tulum Travel Tip: When visiting Coba, don’t forget your eco-friendly bug spray .

Ek Balam Mayan Ruins

This site has a unique look, unlike the others on this list — and as it’s slightly off the beaten path, you may have the whole place to yourself.

It is located near Valladolid , one of the most beautiful colonial cities in Mexico and a pueblo magico (magic town).

Mayan Ruins Tours

The easiest way to see all of the Tulum Mayan pyramids and archeological sites? On a group tour with a Tulum guide! In fact, group tours provide an easy way for solo travelers to meet other travelers .

Check out your options below for the best Tulum tours to see the pyramids and Mayan ruins near Tulum.

Tulum Instagram Spots

Raw Love Tulum

Perhaps the most famous of Tulum’s large art pieces, the giant Ven a la Luz (Come Into the Light) wooden man sculpture by South African artist Daniel Popper is the entrance to the Ahau Tulum Resort and Raw Love Cafe.

Follow That Dream Sign

Located on Tulum’s Beach Road in front of the Lolita Lolita shop and across the street from Kaya Tulum, this insta famous Follow That Dream Tulum street sign is one of the most popular photo spots in Tulum.

Azulik Hotel & SFER IK Museum

There are so many instaworthy spots in Azulik Tulum — starting with the Sfer Ik Museum, and continuing all the way through to the nest tables at Kin Toh Restaurant.

Casa Malca Couch Swing

Once owned by Pablo Escobar, this hotel is tropical sexy all the way. Don’t miss the hanging couch, black and white Keith Haring bar and Moroccan-style chandelier room in Casa Malca Hotel .

Matcha Mama Cafe

Home to the famous I Love Tulum So Matcha sign on a surfboard, hit up this popular spot on Tulum Beach for both photos and a refreshing matcha smoothie.

For many visiting Tulum Mexico, no visit is complete without a photo on these famous Tulum swings.

Tulum Cenotes

The natural jungle pools, called cenotes in Tulum , are among the best places for Tulum photo ops. Learn all about the Tulum cenotes just below ⤵

Coco Tulum Beach Swings

There’s so many beach clubs with swings to check out in Tulum, but none more famous than the boho chic white swings at Coco Tulum Hotel .

Best Cenotes in Tulum

What is a cenote?

To make a long story short, cenotes (pronounced sen-no-tays) are basically underwater sinkholes containing crystal-clear, freshwater.

They are only found in a few places on Earth, with the largest concentration in Mexico’s  Yucatan Peninsula , where there are about 6,000 cenotes. Discover the 35 Best Cenotes in Tulum + Free Tulum Cenotes Map here.

We can see and swim in them because the limestone once covering the water has collapsed and/or eroded throughout Earth’s existence, exposing the water beneath.

Cenotes have crystal-clear freshwater, which stays at about 75°F (24°C) year-round. Check out all the Best Tulum Cenotes Tours here, and join a local guide son you don’t miss any.

6 Best Tulum Cenotes in Tulum

Tulum has so many cenotes to see within just minutes of downtown. The six listed below are located just off Highway 109, all within 25 minutes or less of Downtown Tulum and Aldea Zama

You could ride your bike, hire a taxi or drive your rental car — but don’t attempt to walk to these Tulum cenotes.

• Cost: Cenotes have entry fees, though they are usually minimal. The more popular ones that provide amenities like restrooms, on-site restaurants, etc., should still cost no more than $350 pesos ($17USD) to enter. Most are closer in price to about $75-200 pesos ($4-10USD).
• Cash Only: Bring cash to cover both your entry and food. Most cenotes are in rural areas, and won’t have WiFi or the ability to take credit cards.
• Accessibility: Different cenotes have different levels of accessibility. Many will have well-maintained stairs with handrails, especially the more popular ones. Some have make-shift stairs, and some have ladders.
• Water shoes: Water shoes really help you enjoy your cenote time! As cenotes are natural pools, most have slippery rocks, muddy ground, etc. Water shoes also help you not slip in general, especially when walking down any staircase entryways. (I have sadly seen this a lot 👀)
• Life Jackets: I have never been to a cenote that didn’t provide or rent life jackets; but if you can’t swim, you might want to do additional research on the cenote(s) you’re visiting. If you aren’t comfortable swimming, consider the Adventure in Shallow Cenotes Tour .
• Sunscreens and lotions: Don’t apply sunscreen, lotion, insect repellent — anything — before getting in a cenote. Many require you to rinse off before entering, so even putting anything on will be a waste. However, when you get out for the day, this one by Bullfrog Anti-Bug Sunscreen Cream is an eco-friendly sunscreen with insect protection, which comes in handy at cenotes.
• Cenote Photos: Want those people-less Instagrammable cenote photos? Go on a weekday, and arrive early! You’ll want to bring one of these waterproof phone holders that go around your neck or a waterproof fanny pack .

Cenote Calavera

Cenote Calavera, meaning “skull cenote,” has three holes you can jump in to access the water below. This cool natural phenomenon is super popular, so try and arrive early to beat the crowds.

Gran Cenote

Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera are the two most instagrammable cenotes in Tulum.

Meaning “big cenote,” Gran Cenote is a larger site with several cenotes that meander along the jungle floor, connected to one another by wooden walkways.

Cenote Zacil-Ha

This is an open, swimming pool-style cenote. Cenote Zacil-Ha has plenty of nice onsite amenities like covered/shaded areas, bathrooms and snacks for sale.

Cenote Tankah & Cenote Car Wash

These two are right next to one another, and make a great combo trip.

Cenote Tankah is well known as one of the only Tulum cenotes that have a zipline, perfect for adventure-seekers! Cenote Car Wash has a much more chill, lagoon vibe.

Cenote Santa Cruz Tulum

This one is just stunning, and also very conducive to hosting visitors with onsite bathrooms, shaded palapas , grassy areas to relax in, and more.

Tulum Cenotes Tours

Best restaurants in tulum.

Tulum has a nice mix of casual-fine dining, and authentic Mexican food street eats. If you’re looking for cheap places to eat in Tulum, they are up next after the Tulum restaurants.

The recommendations below will help you make sure you experience both while traveling to Tulum — because while fancy food is great and all — Did you even really travel to Mexico if you didn’t eat way too many street tacos in Mexico !?

Tulum Fine Dining ($$$-$$$$)

Hartwood Tulum

The “ wood” in Hartwood is no lie (check out the photo above ⤴). This place is all about wood-grilled everything.

Opened in 2009 by wife-husband duo, Mya Henry and Eric Werner, Hartwood’s menu changes daily, as they focus on freshness and seasonality in their solar-powered eco-kitchen.

Gitano Tulum

Meaning “gypsy” in Spanish, Gitano is part restaurant, part lounge — and the place to go for your Tulum Friday night.

The menu is innovative and fresh, so head there for small tapas plates and creative mezcal cocktails, but stick around after the meal to party in Gitano’s secret garden setting.

Looking for a chef-driven restaurant? Look no further than Arca, led by Mexican/American Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza — one of the best Mexican chefs working today.

He once worked at what is considered the best restaurant in the world, Noma. In 2015, Hinostroza brought his skill to Tulum, and opened this Tulum foodie favorite.

Casa Jaguar Tulum

This quintessential boho chic Tulum spot is rustic elegance all the way. Enjoy fresh ceviche and grilled items, and then wash them down with Casa Jaguar’s innovative cocktails.

🍷 Tulum Travel Tip: Make a reservation for all places, especially if you want to dine on a weekend.

Best Cheap Eats in Tulum: Tulum Beach ($$)

Match Mama Tulum

Matcha Mama is one of the best places to get coffee in Tulum , and among the most instagrammable Tulum places.

They serve smoothies, acai bowls, “nice cream” (vegan ice cream) and other healthy fare. Head here to take a photo on their famous and photogenic swings, next to the I Love Tulum So Matcha surfboard sign.

The Real Coconut

Commonly known as one of the best vegan restaurants in Tulum, it’s also located right on the beach and has some amazing views of the Caribbean Sea.

Clan-Destino Tulum

Known for having the best burgers in Tulum, Clan-Destino restaurant also has Cenote Clan-Destino you can jump in after eating. This is the only Tulum restaurant with a cenote.

I Scream Bar Tulum

I Scream is as much a feast for the eyes, as a feast for the stomach. Enjoy tacos and vegan “nice” cream by day, and one of the best Tulum bars by night.

Best Cheap Eats in Downtown Tulum ($-$$)

Antojitos la chiapaneca.

While not authentic to the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico and tacos al pastor are synonymous. Try this Mexican food staple at Antojitos La Chiapaneca, a late night favorite in Tulum Town.

Taqueria Honorio

This is where the locals go to eat the best tacos in Tulum. This is a no-frills restaurant, and it’s all about the food. Try the cochinita pibil and lechon , and wash it all down with an agua fresca (fruit water) — like the locals do.

It is only open until 3pm, so head to Taqueria Honorio for the best lunch in Tulum.

Ki’Bok Tulum

An adorable coffee shop, and arguably the best cafe in Tulum .

Enjoy local Mexican coffee and traditional breakfast and brunch items, like  chilaquiles  and  huevos rancheros , as well as pastries, sandwiches and more.

Burrito Amor Tulum

The place for the best burritos in Tulum, with meat, seafood, vegan options, and breakfast burritos in the morning.

El Camelo Jr.

Known for their fresh seafood plates and ceviches , El Camelo Jr. is a popular Tulum institution. There may be a wait, but it’s worth it, and it usually moves fast.

Best Bars in Tulum

Batey Tulum

The best bar in Downtown Tulum. Really, there aren’t all that many great bars in Downtown Tulum, but Batey’s would still be the coolest even if there were. Head to Batey Bar at night to hear live music and sip on one of their famous mojitos.

If you’re looking to party, dance, see and be seen, Saturday nights at Papaya Playa Project is what you need in your life.

They throw big parties with great DJs each week, and also host the best Tulum Full Moon Party on the Saturday night closest to the full moon.

As far as the best cocktail bars in Tulum goes, there’s really only one place to indulge, and that’s Gitano.

Now, said cocktails don’t come cheap, but it’s worth it to even have just one so you can see this gorgeous restaurant/bar — especially on Friday nights, the best night to go to Gitano Tulum.

Ziggy Beach Club

One of the best low key beach bars, Ziggy’s is a locals favorite with a great Happy Hour. Chill out on one of their beachfront hammocks and sip on a tropical adult beverage.

🥂 Tulum Travel Tips: Check out all the best Tulum Happy Hours , which typically take place from 4pm-6pm.

I Scream Bar

In a town full of instagrammable places and visual eye candy, I Scream Bar gives everywhere else a run for their money. This place is super fun, super cool to look at, and also, they serve Mexico tacos , so win-win-win.

Mateo’s Mexican Grill

Mateo’s is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Tulum ! Head up to the top floor deck and enjoy some Happy Hour 2-4-1 drinks as you watch the sun set into the Tulum jungle. 

Traveling to Tulum During Covid-19

Is Tulum open for travel right now?

Yes — Tulum is open right now. In fact, Tulum, and Mexico in general, never really closed.

However, there have been measures in place since March 2020, like mandatory masks indoors and outdoors, temperature checks, mandatory use of hand sanitizer, capacity restrictions, etc., which are still enforced.

🏝 Is Tulum Open for Travel Right Now? Your complete guide to Tulum travel during Covid, which is updated monthly.

However, there are no real Tulum travel restrictions, and no quarantine period to travel to Mexico.

For those in the U.S. dying to scratch their wanderlust itch, and just a handful of countries allowing this type of entry, Mexico is one of the best countries for travel right now.

Not sure WHERE TO STAY IN TULUM, MEXICO?

Check out these articles with Tulum accommodations options at all budgets, and for groups of all sizes.

• Top 10 Best Tulum All-Inclusive Resorts
• 11 Best Cheap Hotels in Tulum Mexico
• Tulum Glamping: 11 Best Treehouses, Glampsites & More

Where can I get a Rapid Covid Test in Tulum?

You can get a rapid Covid test in Tulum at the places listed below.

😷 Note: This page will continue to be updated as more Tulum Covid testing locations are added, so those traveling to Tulum right now will have current info.

1. Colibri Boutique Hotels

This includes the following Tulum resorts: La Zebra , El Pez Tulum , Mezzanine Tulum Hotel and Hotel Mi Amor , and appointments are suggested.

Rapid Covid Tests at a Colibri Tulum hotel costs $35 USD — though you’ll want to verify on the Colibri website .

2. Cancun Airport Covid Testing

Authorities recommend using this only as a last resort, as testing is limited and on a first come, first served basis. ✈️ Note: There is no Tulum Airport, so you must use Cancun Airport.

Rapid Covid Tests at Cancun Airport cost about $15 USD — though you’ll want to verify on the Cancun Airport website .

3. Costamed Tulum Covid Testing Centers

This is a chain of medical centers, with locations throughout Quintana Roo state. Due to a high volume of tests being administered, Costamed recommends making an appointment.

Rapid Antigen Tests at Costamed cost about $50 USD — though you’ll want to verify on the Costamed website .

You can schedule your appointment online , or by calling the Tulum location at (+52) 984-124-0830.

Tulum Costamed is located at Calle 3 Sur s/n-Lote 8, Villas Tulum, 77760 Tulum, Q.R. , near the Starbucks and Super Aki grocery store on the main road in Tulum Town (downtown).

additional Tulum travel guides

For more Tulum, Mexico travel information, head to these articles:

• Traveling to Tulum: The Only Tulum Travel Guide You Need
• Cancun to Tulum: The 6 Best Transportation Options
• Tulum On A Budget: 10 Ways to Make Your Trip Affordable
• Tulum Itinerary: How to Spend 3, 4 or 5 Days in Tulum, Mexico
• Ultimate Tulum Packing List: What to Wear in Tulum
• Is There Uber in Tulum Mexico?

Final Thoughts: Traveling to Tulum Mexico

Tulum was once a sleepy beach town that provided a quiet alternative to Cancun and Playa del Carmen to the north.

It was a quiet heaven for backpackers and hippie types, who set up tents on the beach, slept under the stars and bathed in the Caribbean Sea.

If you’ve seen photos or videos of Tulum, you know those days are over, and Tulum is a full on party and tourism Mecca in Mexico.

That’s not to say it’s now pretty — it is — but like most Instagram famous places, many build it up in their mind, only to be let down 😕

Is Tulum worth visiting?

While it is admittedly not my favorite Mexico beach town, Tulum is a unique Mexico destination that everyone should check out at least once, if only to form your own opinion of it. The reality is, as Tulum gets more famous and  Insta famous, it starts to become less and less special because more and more people have already been there, done that.

It also gets more expensive and more crowded, and some of the things that made it famous to begin with, have waned.

If you understand what you’re signing up for — high price tags by Mexico standards, rustic boho vibes, lots of other tourists — and you don’t mind those things, you’ll enjoy your trip to Tulum.

If you’re looking to lay on a beautiful Caribbean beach, take photos and swim in the cenotes , then Tulum is for you.

Like all places on Earth, the key to enjoying Tulum is managing your expectations of it: Think Instagram vs. Reality.

If you understand the Youtube Tulum and Insta Tulum you’ve seen online is a heavily doctored version of the town, you won’t be among those people who get let down by Tulum .

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

The Ultimate One-Week Guide to Tulum, Mexico

While some beach destinations offer nothing but, well, beach time, a trip to Tulum promises you all that and so much more. From cenotes, to wellness, to Mayan ruins, and more, read on for my one-week itinerary and guide to Tulum, Mexico!

Some articles on Rachel Off Duty contain ads and affiliate links. If you plan on buying or booking something I’ve recommended, please consider using my links, which help power this site at no additional cost to you! To learn more, read our Privacy Policy .

Some articles on Rachel Off Duty may contain affiliate links. Read more in our Privacy Policy.

There’s a lot to love about Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. The Caribbean coast is famous for its postcard-perfect white, sandy beaches and warm, turquoise water, and the thick, tropical jungle in between. While some beach destinations offer nothing but, well, beach time, a trip here will promise you all that and so much more, if you’re the kind of person that likes to have a little adventure along the way!

About two hours south of Cancun, Tulum trades big, all-inclusive resort ambiance for more boutique properties and bohemian design. The destination often stirs up mixed reviews from visitors, with some saying Tulum is the most beautiful, exotic, spiritual getaway there is (because of this, it’s often compared to Bali ). I’ve heard others refer to Tulum as overrated, because it’s admittedly quite different from the rest of Mexico and its popularity has exploded significantly in the last decade, leading to growing pains and a whole slew of new opportunities and challenges. 

I spent nearly a month with Tulum as a home base on a recent work-cation , and I can honestly say that I found truth in both opinions. Tulum is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. From the beach, to the jungle, to the cenotes and Mayan ruins, I was completely captivated by this special place. But I wasn’t blind to the traffic, the New York-priced restaurants (delicious as they were), and the Instagram-focused designs that, while extremely cool, sometimes seemed a little annoying. 

All that said, I do think that there is a right way to do Tulum, and that its allure is undeniably cool and worth a visit. After spending a decent amount of time here, I compiled some of my favorite activities and experiences into an adventure- and relaxation-filled itinerary for your first visit. 

Read on for my one-week guide to Tulum and beyond!

RELATED: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Yucatán

DAY ONE: Get Acclimated By Enjoying Tulum Beach

Tulum is consistently ranked among the top beaches in Mexico, thanks to its white sand, palm tree-lined coast, and pastel, calm waters. Dedicate your first day in Tulum to getting acclimated and relaxing on the sand with a cocktail or cerveza in hand! 

There are generally three ways to enjoy the beach in Tulum: 

Stay in a Tulum Beach Hotel 

The beach area of Tulum is dotted with hotels and resorts that offer “private” access to the ocean. These hotels are generally much pricier than the rest of Tulum’s accommodations , but if you can swing it even if only for a night or two, it’s worth it to be able to wake up just steps from the water.

My recommendations on places to stay can be found at the bottom of this post! 

Tulum Beach Clubs 

If you aren’t staying on a beachfront property, you can visit a beach club instead. Some beach clubs I experienced or heard good things about while I was in town include: 

• Taboo Tulum
• Papaya Playa Project
• Mia Restaurant & Beach Club
• Nomade Tulum
• Habitas Tulum
• Ziggy Beach

Tulum’s Public Beaches (North Playa) 

For a more chill atmosphere, you can bring your own towel and drinks and head to one of Tulum’s true public-access beaches, which are equally beautiful: 

Playa Paraiso

Playa Ruinas 

DAY TWO: Visit A Cenote And Explore Tulum Town 

Now that you’re acclimated with the beach, spend day two getting to know one of the other great ways to swim in Tulum – in a cenote! 

Cenotes in Tulum

This guide to Tulum would not be complete without mentioning the Yucatán Peninsula’s awe-inspiring cenotes.

There are tons of super cool cenotes near Tulum and I encourage you to visit at least one or two while you’re here! I personally visited Dos Ojos (my favorite), Zacil-Ha (great for swimming and lounging around in the sun), and Calavera (super fun sunken cenote that you can jump into!), but here are all of the cenotes near Tulum I’ve heard great things about:

Dos Ojos 

Calavera 

Gran Cenote

Casa Cenote

• Carwash 

Casa Tortuga

Whichever cenote(s) you choose, plan to pay an entrance fee plus an additional fee for any camera or drones you plan on bringing in with you. In general, I found myself spending between 45 minutes to two hours at each cenote I visited, depending on how big it was.

Explore Tulum Town

Now that you’ve explored Tulum beach, you can head to Tulum town! The beach and town areas are distinctly different and about 20 – 45 minutes apart by car or bike, give or take. While the beach area is more glamorous, bohemian, and expensive, town is comparably more chill, local, and affordable. This is a great place to spend some time walking around, shopping, and grabbing a bite or a cocktail at a much more reasonable price than you’ll find near the water. 

While here, I really enjoyed eating at Bonita , Burrito Amor , and Palma Central !

TIP: Many people will actually divide their hotel time between staying at the beach and staying in town in order to experience the best of both worlds and make their vacation a bit more affordable overall. I bounced back and forth while I was here, too. My time in Tulum looked like this: 

4 nights in Aldea Zama (an up-and-coming neighborhood of apartments, condos, and vacation homes, situated in between the beach and town zones of Tulum) 

1 week in Tulum’s hotel zone, on the beach 

1 week in Tulum town, where I found my money could stretch much further in terms of affording a nice room (I even got my own villa and plunge pool at a hotel in Tulum town for a couple nights!) 

1 week exploring other parts of the Yucatán

DAY THREE: Go on a Sian Ka’an Biosphere Expedition

One of the most unique natural attractions in Tulum is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a 2,000+ square-mile reserve that protects a network of freshwater marshes, mangroves, lagoons, and barrier reef, serving as the home base for tons of magnificent wildlife. 

Because of how massive this reserve is, you’ll need to choose between one of the two main areas that can be explored in Sian Ka’an: Punta Allen or Muyil. Regardless of which area you choose to explore, plan to dedicate an entire day to this experience!

Sian Ka’an via Punta Allen: This section of the reserve takes you through mangroves and open ocean, where your odds of having a wildlife encounter are high! It’s common to spot manatees, crocodiles, dolphins, birds, turtles, and more. The only drawback to Punta Allen is that it’s virtually impossible to do on your own, unless you plan on spending one or two nights in Punta Allen. The roads leading to Punta Allen are just too poorly maintained for anyone with a rental car to try and endure. If you want to do a day trip to Punta Allen, you’ll need to book a tour (see below!).

Sian Ka’an via Muyil: This section of the reserve is doable either on your own or as part of a tour. While you won’t really see any wildlife in this part of Sian Ka’an, you will get to see Mayan ruins and float down ancient river canals!

I chose to visit Punta Allen, and I cannot recommend the experience enough for anyone visiting Tulum. It was my first time seeing manatees and crocodiles out in the wild, and it blew my mind! I took a tour with Mexico Kan Tours , who I chose because of their commitment to responsible tourism and nature conservation (quick disclosure! I received a media discount on this tour).

• Click here for day-long tours of Sian Ka’an via Punta Allen
• Click here for day-long tours of Sian Ka’an via Muyil

RELATED: The Top Things You Must Do When Visiting Tulum, Mexico

DAY FOUR: Bike Around the Coba Ruins

Another great day trip from Tulum is to Coba, which is just 45 minutes to an hour outside of town, depending on where you’re staying. I highly recommend taking the time to visit these lesser-known ruins and the surrounding cenotes if you’re spending a week in Tulum. 

Coba is an ancient Mayan city that is known as the intersection of the largest network of raised pathways ( sacbe in Mayan) in the ancient Mayan world. Here, you can visit a huge connected archeological area dotted with structures, engraved stones, and pyramids, the most well-known of which is the Nohoch Mul Pyramid. In order to see all of the sites here, you can rent bikes or have a local Mayan guide take you around on a bicycle carriage. Being able to bike through the jungle from pyramid to pyramid is a unique highlight of visiting these particular ruins! 

Cenotes Near Coba

After visiting the Coba archaeological site, you have to stop at at least one cenote here before heading back to Tulum. There are three well-known cenotes located in close proximity to one another, and you can buy an entrance pass for all three, or just one, depending on how much time you have to spare. The one I visited, which is pictured above, is Choo-Ha!

DAY FIVE: Enjoy Some Yoga, Try a Temazcal, and Indulge in Tulum’s Foodie Scene

After a big day out exploring Coba, spend day five enjoying the wellness, spiritual, and culinary offerings Tulum is so famous for. You’ll feel relaxed and rejuvenated just in time for day six! 

Yoga in Tulum

Tulum is a haven for yogis, and it seems like the scene has only continued to grow and expand in recent years. You can find everything from more laidback studios to luxury beachfront shalas offering everything from vinyasa to breathing techniques.

If you’re staying at a hotel in Tulum , it’s likely your hotel will offer yoga classes onsite for free or by donation. Otherwise, it’s not hard to find a studio near you to sweat it out in the jungle heat. 

Some highly recommended places to practice yoga in Tulum include: 

• Holistika Tulum
• Sanara Tulum
• Yaan Wellness Energy Healing Spa Tulum
• Yoga Shala Tulum

Temazcal Ceremonies

Temazcales are essentially Mayan sweat lodges, and the ceremonies are led by a shaman and said to purify your mind and body. This ancient Mesoamerican ceremony can actually be found all over Tulum (in some cases, your hotel may even have a Temazcal onsite), and is a popular spiritual experience to undertake while here. The Temazcal kind of looks like a giant pizza oven, and in addition to sweating it out, you can expect chanting, singing, and intention-setting throughout the ritual. 

I didn’t get to try a Temazcal myself while in Tulum, unfortunately. I’ve heard others be skeptical of their effectiveness, but I personally think that ceremonies like this have a lot to do with the mindset you have going into it. If you try a Temazcal ceremony, approach it with an open mind and who knows, you might walk away pleasantly surprised. And, if you do try it, let me know in the comments how it went! 

Tulum Dining

By now, you’ve probably already gotten a good idea of Tulum’s culinary scene, but if you haven’t taken an evening to experience one of Tulum’s more upscale dining options, let tonight be the night! Along the hotel zone, you’ll find a pretty significant selection of restaurants to choose from, each offering its own spin on international cuisine or modern Mexican flavors. Make a reservation in advance if you can, and expect to pay a decent amount (estimate $100+ per person, depending on whether you’re getting drinks). It’s a bit of a splurge but worth it for at least one evening of getting dressed up and heading out to experience Tulum after dark. 

I have a full list of restaurants I recommend at the bottom of this post, but in general my favorite meals on the beach in Tulum have included dinner at Mezzanine , Rosa Negra , MEZE , and Hartwood !

DAY SIX: Visit The Famous Chichen-Itza Archeological Site

No trip to this part of Mexico would be complete without a visit to Chichen-Itza. If you haven’t been, be sure to dedicate some time for a day trip to see one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, just two hours from Tulum!

Chichen-Itza

Driving to the archeological site is easy and there is a parking lot at the entrance. Once here, you’ll notice that if you’d like a private guide to show you around, you will have two opportunities to obtain one – the first will be before the entrance to the parking lot, and the second will be once you’ve parked.

The guides you see first, before entering the parking lot, are a local Mayan cooperative that essentially get first access to visitors. The second group, I’ve been told, are government-employed tour guides. We spoke to and decided to go with a Mayan guide from the first group, and he got in our car with us and rode to the parking lot to enter the site with us, which I thought was odd at first but ended up being standard procedure. Our tour was great! If you decide to take a guided tour too, it’ll last you between 60 – 90 minutes and can be offered in English or Spanish, but English will cost a bit more. 

Of course, you can walk around the ruins on your own, but in my opinion, if there’s anywhere to let a local Mayan guide show you around and teach you a little bit more than what you’ll observe on the surface, it’s here! 

If you care about visiting this site when there are less crowds, know that the early bird gets the worm – showing up right around opening time will provide you with the best chance of beating tour busses and having more of the grounds to yourself. 

Cenotes Near Chichen-Itza

Like Coba, there are some pretty epic cenotes near Chichen-Itza. Try to visit at least one! 

Ik Kil 

Lorenzo Oxman

DAY SEVEN: Take It All In on Tulum’s Beach Before Leaving

On your last day in Tulum, take it easy and spend some time back on the beach to soak up all the beautiful views, warm water, and tropical breeze you’re bound to miss once you leave. On day seven, if you haven’t visited yet, now is the perfect time to check out the Tulum ruins which overlook the ocean. Towards the end of the day, get a good view of the sunset over the jungle and toast to your unforgettable, adventure-filled week in Tulum! 

Tulum Ruins 

While Coba and Chichen-Itza are epic, incredible sites in their own right, the Tulum Ruins are also worth a visit. In ancient times, Tulum was a trading hub, explaining the significance of the old structures found here. What makes the Tulum ruins so significant is that these structures are located on high cliffs overlooking the water, making for a visually stunning sight that other ruins can’t offer. Be sure to bring your swimsuit, because during your visit you can take a staircase down to the sand and swim at the beach directly below the ruins!

Sunset Viewing

To wrap up your week in Tulum, end your trip with a sunset view of the magnificent jungle and coastal surrounds. 

While a bit pricey, making a reservation for the AZULIK Sunset Experience is said to offer great views from a cool, boho “nest-like” terrace. Here, you can get dressed up and enjoy a cocktail on the terrace while mingling with others just before the sun sets on the jungle behind you. If you prefer to sit and enjoy a meal, Azulik’s Kin Toh and Tseen Ja restaurants will require a reservation but will also offer similar views. 

Mateo’s is another well-known, albeit much more casual, Mexican spot for a rooftop drink overlooking the jungle at sunset.

Or, if you just want to admire the ocean and be as close as possible, sunset drinks at Mezzanine are truly where it’s at.

Other Things to Do If You Have More Time

Visit Kaan Luum: If you have a drone, paying a visit to Kaan Luum Lagoon is a worthwhile half-day trip. Here, you can get an amazing aerial view of a giant, circular cenote nestled within a large, shallow lagoon. On a clear day with no rain, the color contrast between the lagoon and the cenote is super impressive! 

Explore More Cenotes: Of course, any extra time in Tulum could easily be filled with more cenotes. If you can, visit more of these natural freshwater swimming holes in the area. Each one offers its own unique experience and ambiance! 

Snorkel in Akumal: Akumal is a popular day trip for snorkeling. Here, next to the coral reef, you have great odds of being able to swim with sea turtles and other marine life. 

• Day Trip to Valladolid: Next to Quintana Roo, the state of Yucatán is home to a slew of charming, colorful, colonial towns, with Valladolid being one of the closest. While many skip over Valladolid to head straight to Chichen-Itza, this city is well worth a stop in its own right. 
• Spend the Weekend in Merida: A bit further than Valladolid but with similar charm, Merida is a beautiful, vibrant colonial city with a colorful historic center. This city is known for its salsa dancing, lively nightlife, and cultural displays in the form of parades, dancing, museums, and street performances. 
• Get Lost in Izamal: Located not far from Merida, Izamal is one of Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos, or “magical towns.” This magic town is painted bright yellow and is a visual feast that’s well worth the longer drive!
• Take the Ferry to Cozumel: A ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is an island revered for its beautiful, lazy beaches and world-class diving. Spend the day, or stay overnight in Cozumel to enjoy the island in the evening and early morning, when cruise shippers are gone and the small town center is yours to enjoy alongside the locals. 

RELATED: A 3-Day Guide to Cozumel, Mexico

Where to Stay in Tulum

• Hotel Bardo (Tulum town): Bardo is a secluded masterpiece of beautiful modern-meets-bohemian design. Each independent villa offers its own plunge pool, hammock, and garden. It was my favorite place to stay while I was in town, hands down!
• Hotel Tiki Tiki (Tulum town): For an affordable hotel with lots of personality, Tiki Tiki is a crowd favorite for visitors and locals alike. I loved the retro pool and bar. Plus, free continental breakfast is included daily! 
• Ahau Tulum (Tulum beach): While I didn’t stay here personally, I loved the vibe of Ahau Tulum when I worked remotely from their onsite restaurant during the day. I’ve heard their rooms are great, too. 
• Delek Tulum (Tulum beach): While I didn’t stay here personally, my friends who did had nothing but good things to say about their time at Delek Tulum. 
• Coco Tulum (Tulum beach): This hotel was high on my list, but fully booked during my time in Tulum. 
• Hun Tulum (Tulum beach): Another hotel on my list, Hotel Hun Tulum offers beautiful rooms with private terraces or pools.
• Papaya Playa Project (Tulum beach): A bit costly, but if you can swing it, the suites here with private plunge pools are insanely beautiful.
• Airbnb options in Tulum ( New to Airbnb? Use this link to save up to $55 on your first booking! )
• Other hotel options in Tulum

Where to Eat and Drink in Tulum

• Rosa Negra (Tulum beach)
• Hartwood (Tulum beach) 
• The Real Coconut (Tulum beach) 
• MEZE (Tulum beach) 
• Mezzanine (Tulum beach) 
• Clan-Destino (Tulum beach) 
• I Scream Bar (Tulum beach) 
• Mulata Tulum (Tulum beach) 
• Taqueria La Eufemia (Tulum beach)  
• La Taqueria (Tulum beach)
• Uno Japanese Noodles (Tulum town) 
• Taqueria Honorio (Tulum town) 
• El Camello (Tulum town)
• Burrito Amor (Tulum town) 
• Palma Central (Tulum town) 
• Bonita (Tulum town) 

Tips to Know Before You Go to Tulum

Currency: Tulum uses the Mexican Peso ($1 USD = ~20 MEX$). Here, carry cash with you as often as possible, because not all restaurants will take card, and ATMs can be hard to find.  

Language: The official language spoken in Tulum is Spanish, but in the hotel zone you should have no problems getting by with English. 

• Transportation: If you’re staying exclusively in Tulum beach or Tulum town, you should be fine getting around on foot or by bike. Otherwise, you’ll need to rely on a car rental or public transportation.
• Bike rentals: Bikes are everywhere in Tulum and pretty easy to rent. Your hotel might even lend you bikes during your stay! Otherwise, I saw a lot of people using  Ola Bike Tulum
• Find car rentals in Tulum here
• Hire a taxi (taxis are easy to find all over the hotel zone. If you don’t see a taxi in the area, have your hotel call one for you)
• Take a colectivo: a shared mini-van ride that’ll get you from point A to point B as cheaply as possible
• Take a bus: ADO busses are widely used by locals and those looking for cost savings

Weather: The weather in Tulum is warm, humid, and tropical year-round, with temperatures averaging 75 – 90 degrees F during the day and 60 – 75 degrees F in the evening. While there technically isn’t a bad time to go to Tulum, June – October (and sometimes into November) are the rainy / hurricane season in the region. 

Attire: Pack a good selection of lightweight, loose, breathable clothing so you can be comfortable throughout Tulum’s hot days and warm, humid evenings. You’ll also want a good selection of swimwear and beach cover-ups, plus waterproof footwear and good walking shoes you don’t mind getting dirty (in the event of rain, which can make Tulum’s beach road quite muddy). 

Bathrooms: Bathrooms throughout the Yucatán will kindly ask that you throw your toilet paper away in the trash can versus in the toilet. The plumbing in this part of Mexico can’t handle toilet paper the way toilets can in the US. So, keep that in mind!   

Ready to go to Tulum? 

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What are you most excited to see, do, eat, or experience in Tulum? Tell me below!

Book Activities In or Near Tulum Here:

Read this next:.

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Yucatán

The Top Things You Must Do On Your First Trip to Tulum, Mexico

• Where to Stay in Tulum: Hotel Bardo
• A 3-Day Guide to Merida, Mexico
• The Top Things to Do in Merida, Mexico

A 3-Day Guide to Cozumel, Mexico

• Where to Stay in Cozumel: Villas El Encanto
• Things to Do in Mexico City for Solo Female Travelers
• The Coolest Woman-Owned Boutique Hotels Mexico City
• 6 Incredible Places to Visit in Mexico for First-Timers

Pin For Later:

Hey there! I’m Rachel, a travel writer and a full-time advertising / marketing expert. In 2019, I traveled more than 25 times while working 9 to 5, and since then I’ve committed myself to living a more adventurous life, even if it means bringing my laptop along for the ride. Are you hungry to travel more, but overwhelmed with how to juggle work and play? You’ve come to the right place!

Recent Adventures:

Top Woman-Owned Travel Companies That Should Be on Your Radar

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How to Ask Your Boss for More Vacation Time (The Right Way)

Let's go places.

• Updated on: January 4, 2023

2 Responses

This was really informative! Thanks for all the recommendations. I’ve been trying to decide if I’ll bring my drone with me – did you have any problems bringing yours? Issues at the airport, or getting hassled for bribes when you tried to fly it?

My pleasure! And not really, I’ve actually been more concerned about my gear at the Los Cabos airport. But you will sadly get charged extra fees at places like cenotes especially for bringing in things like cameras w/ detachable lenses, drones, etc. Tulum along with the rest of the country increasingly has more and more rules around where you can fly your drone, so just be prepared – you won’t get to fly everywhere! hope that helps!

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Things to do in Tulum: Complete Travel Guide to Mexico’s Bohemian Paradise

Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best things to do in Tulum, Mexico ? Then you’ve come to the right place! I’ve created this guide to help you in decide if it’s the right destination for you and what you can do in Mexico’s bohemian paradise.

About Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is the ultimate bohemian adult’s playground . Set amongst gorgeous blue waters and Yucatan jungle lies this magical destination. Scents of sage and sea salt are matched with 20 somethings in bikinis and yogis practicing their craft. Tulum is different than other beach destinations. In this Quintana Roo location, beach chic meets grand-jungle design to form something totally unique.

 Recent Years in Tulum, Mexico

In recent years Tulum has become so popular with hipsters and increasingly expensive that I almost questioned if I really wanted to go. I mean, isn’t one of the draws of Mexico that it’s so cheap? Though there must be a reason it got so popular, right?

The best way to see a place like to Tulum is to enjoy it for what it is. Yes, places like Casa Malca on Tulum Beach are basically NYC prices but they’re also insanely interesting and beautiful, like an art piece — and for that you have to pay.

When planning your trip, consider how much time you have to explore and if you want to incorporate wellness, adventure, or other fun activities . I hope this guide to Tulum helps in creating your perfect Mexico getaway!

Is Tulum better than Cancun?

That really depends on what you’re looking for! I’ve been to both Tulum and Cancun and personally enjoyed Tulum better overall, but there are some incredible resorts in Cancun such as Sun Palace  that I really enjoyed.

Tulum is set where the jungle meets the sea and Cancun is more of a built up city with way more all-inclusive resorts and high rises. The party scene in Cancun is more high energy rave or foam party where Tulum tends to lean to jungle or hippy beach parties.

Is Tulum, Mexico Expensive?

Tulum is definitely expensive compared to many other parts of Mexico, but you can still enjoy it for pretty cheap if you want to. Though there are a number of luxury resorts, restaurants and spas, many of which are priced comparatively to prices in New York City and other major U.S. cities, you can stay, eat and play in Tulum on a low budget using my tips at the end of this post – or don’t, and treat yourself!

Where is Mexico’s Tulum?

Tulum is located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico in the Riviera Maya . It’s about a 90 minute drive south from Cancun. Cozumel lies to the Northeast of Tulum.

Travel Tips

• Currency: Pesos
• Language: Spanish, little English spoken
• Best time to go: May, June, October
• Electric: 127V, with a frequency of 60hz,  A, B plug type
• Drive on the right side 
• Tap water is not safe to drink

Make sure to have cash on you as many restaurants, cafes, taxis will be  CASH  only.

Know Before you Go

• Tulum is a 1.5 – 2 hour drive form Cancun airport.
• You can’t drink the tap water in Mexico in general.
• Learn basic Spanish phrases to help you get by.  Buenos Dias! (Good morning) La Cuenta, por favor? (The check, please?)
• There is a wide price range for everything from cocktails and tacos to hotels and activities. You will definitely be able to find options to suit your budget, whatever it may be.
• Many establishments in Tulum are cash only , but there are also a couple of spots on the beach that are cashless (how very modern!), so make sure you have both payment options. Pesos are the standard currency, but some places may take dollars. Be aware that you usually won’t get the best conversion rate when paying in dollars. ATM’s are located in Tulum town.
• There are two big supermarkets in the town, Super Aki + Chedraui. I prefer Chedrau as it has a nicer and bigger selection.

What should I pack?

Casual beach clothes and boho luxe attire . If you haven’t heard, Tulum is where rich hippies go. (although it is possible to do Tulum on a budget!)

You’ll need bathing suits, cover ups, an outfit for outdoor activities and maybe some yoga pants. Many places on Tulum beach are foot wear optional but I’d suggest bringing sandals and some casual walking shoes. When packing, keep in mind the activities available to you.

When should I go to Tulum?

I went in October and we had great weather with very very little crowds – even on Colombus day weekend!

• December -April is peak season with March being the busiest so avoid March if you don’t like crowds .
• May-September is rainy season.
• October- Early December is cooler and less crowded with good deals. A perfect time to travel to Tulum!

How to Get to Tulum, Mexico

Does tulum, mexico have an airport, tulum international airport begins receiving flights this spring.

Until recently, the closest airport to Tulum was Cancun.  Tulum International Airport was inaugurated on December 1st, 2023 and should to begin receiving International flights this spring. You’re trip to Tulum just got even easier!!

How to get from Cancun Airport to Tulum

The easiest Airport to fly into is Cancun. However, you can also fly into the Cozumel Airport, though Cozumel is an island so you will first need to take a ferry to the main land which adds and additional leg of travel

Tulum is a 1.5 hour drive from Cancun Airport. Once you land you have these three options to get the rest of the way:

Taking the bus from Cancun to Tulum

From the airport you can take an ADO Bus to Tulum or take an ADO bus to playa del Carmen and switch there. There is an ADO bus kiosk as you exit the airport and they will answer any questions you have.

Private Car

There are plenty of stands as you exit the airport to get quotes from and book your ride. Always agree on the fare before the beginning your journey. We paid around $75 one way , which isn’t too bad considering you can share with up to 9 people.

You should probably prebook your transfer if you’re going during high season.

If there are only a couple of you on the trip, renting a car might be more cost efficient than paying for taxis all the time.

How to Get Around Tulum, Mexico

Is there uber in tulum.

There is NO UBER in Tulum although it is highly used in other places in Mexico.

Taxis in Tulum

We never had a problem finding a taxi in, though I was there in low season. They seemed to frequently drive by. Confirm the price of fare before getting in the taxi to assure you aren’t being ripped off. They are not cheap but also not the most I’ve ever paid. A taxi from town to the beach was costing around $7 each way. Taxi prices do go up in the evening.

Parking your Rental Car

Parking is available in town and by the beach. If you are going to a particular hotel or restaurant they have their own lots but there are also lots not associated with a hotel that you can pay to use.

We parked in one lot for $5 and one for $10 for the day.

Taking the bus around Tulum

The Colectivo Bus is much cheaper than taking a taxi. This bus runs from town to the beach, however it only runs once an hour and is often full.

Biking around Tulum

Many of the hotels will have bikes for you to use, or you can rent them from somewhere. The bike ride from town to the beach is about 35-45 minutes depending on how far down the beach you’re going. It can get pretty sweaty in the heat of the day so make sure you have water with you.

Where to Stay in Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is split up into Tulum Town (pueblo) and Tulum Beach (playa).  There are pros and cons for each which I compare for you below.  A bike ride between Tulum Town and the beach area is about 35-45 minutes, depending how far on the beach you want to end up.

Does Tulum have all inclusive resorts?

Tulum has a very limited number of massive all inclusive type properties like you’ll find in abundance in it’s Quintana Roo counterpart, Cancun. Most of the properties are small and boutique. It gives a totally different vibe than many other resort towns I’ve been to and is part of the reason I love in Tulum.

• Dreams Resort and Spa –  A family friendly optional all-inclusive resort a 10 minute drive into town.

Dreams Resort

• Bahia Principe Grand – This resort is a 20 minute drive into Tulum town.
• Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club – A new resort in Tulum!

Town Vs. Beach

The town is typically cheaper on all fronts such as food and hotels. There is also easier access to other activities, the bus stations, grocery stores, etc. Staying in town may give you a more authentic Mexican experience.

Tulum’s beach a.k.a. hipster heaven, is where most of the trendy hotels, restaurants, spas are. Most of the places here are quite pricey, but I mean who wouldn’t like waking up to the sound of the ocean? If you will be having more chill time and less time exploring the surrounding areas the beach may be a better option for you.

I stayed in the town on this occasion but if I was there for longer I would do a few nights on the beach and a few nights in the town to get a good balance.

Boutique Hotels in the Town

• Una Vida – Una Vida call themselves a tropical jungle compound. They have beautiful grounds and rooms inspired by Mayan building techniques. There’s also a restaurant with a casual menu and a selection of beverages.
• Prana Boutique Hotel – Sleep in one of their belle tents or suites, or standard rooms. Nido is their restaurant serving Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Hotel Bardo –  Experience these Jungle Villa hideways. Sound healing and yoga offered weekly.  Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in their stunning restaurant, Milum.
• Orchid House – This is one of the properties I stayed at and it was absolutely stunning! There’s a rooftop pool and bar, nests you can dine in and unique rooms with outdoor tubs.

Hotels and Resorts on the Beach

The beach hotels aren’t just hotels. Many of them are spas, restaurants, beach clubs and more.

• Azulik – One of the most instagrammable hotels in Tulum because of it’s incredible tree house design!
• Coco Tulum – A relaxed hotel with fun beach club and bar.
• Casa Malca – A super unique combination of luxury and art in the jungle. Former residence of Pablo Escobar.
• Ahau Tulum – An upscale and eco friendly resort. This hotel has plenty of activities and awesome amenities.
• Hotel Panamera – This boutique hotel has just 14 rooms, a gorgeous interior pool and a beach club.
• The Beach –  An adults only hotel with unique features like personal pools.

Map of Top Things to Do in Tulum

I’ve mapped out some of the top locations in Tulum like the local cenotes, beach and ruins.

Things to Do in Tulum: Wellness

Wellness is such a major part of Tulum. Many of the hotels are centered around wellness, but there are also stand alone wellness centers and spas.  Practice yoga with an ocean view at Sanara or in a treehouse room at Azulik.

• Yäan Wellness or the Yaan Healing Sanctuary provides treatments and energy healing.
• Mayan Clay Spa floating spa and bathhouse.
• Maya Spa at Azulik is a beauty sanctuary using natural rituals.
• Sanará Spa is a world class wellness center with both cleanse & heal wellness programs.
• Spa at Maya Tulum Resort is a secluded seaside yoga retreat.

Yoga classes

• Sanara offers yoga classes, a wellness center and is next to the Real Coconut.
• Azulik offers yoga classes on their amazing instagrammable property.
• Alaya Tulum

Things to Do in Tulum: Adventure Activities

Cenotes in tulum.

When deciding on day adventures, visiting the cenotes should be high on your list!  The cenotes or sinkholes occur from the collapse of limestone bedrock that exposes groundwater underneath.  There are way more cenotes than I had ever imagined, in this part of the Yucatan Peninsula. Most have a fee to enter and provide parking.

Cenotes to visit nearby

Visiting the Gran Cenote is one of the most popular things to do in Tulum. This incredibly gorgeous cenote is only an 8 minute drive from the town.

Cenote Dos Ojos most definitelya must see! You can take some pretty awesome photos in this underground phenomenom. It’s in reachable distance for a day trip at 22 km away. You can even get there by colectivo.

Pet Cemetary gets it’s name from the animal fossils found here, making it one of the more unique cenotes.

Cenote Calavera is a small cenote with a swing and two different way to enter.

Cenote Carwash (Aktun Ha) is a pond like cenote near Gran Cenote.

Other Cenotes to Visit

• Casa Cenote
• Casa Tortuga
• Cenote Angelita
• Cenote El Pit
• Clan-Destino Cenote + Bar

TIP – Make sure to pack use 100% biodegrable sunscreen! No other sunscreen is allowed in the cenotes.

See The Tulum Ruins – Mayan Ruins

You can visit various different sites such as Chichén Itzá, Tulum Ruins or Coba. Coba is a little more out of the way then some of these ruins, but you an still climb one of the structures! The Tulum Ruins are so close to the town that you could even bike there!

Snorkel & Scuba Dive in the crystal blue water

Snorkeling and scuba diving is very popular is Mexico. Explore cenotes, bays and reserves from underwater.

Enjoy Kaan Luum Laguna

An under the radar beautiful laguna about 15 minutes southwest of downtown Tulum. The water is a slightly green turquoise color. A less touristy spot to enjoy.

It costs 300 pesos to person and you can use a drone here for an additional 150 pesos!

Visit Xel-Ha eco-adventure park

Xel-Ha eco-adventure park just 15 minutes from Tulum! Created by Xcaret.

Go kite boarding on Tulum Beach

Kite board at Ahau and enjoy the rest of their facilities after!

More Things to Do in Tulum, Mexico

Take a cooking class..

Why not take a cooking class? Learn to make authentic Mexican food. I learned how simple it is to make tortillas and tacos fillings from scratch! The fact that it was done in a local’s home added so much to the experience.

Visit an Art exhibit in the jungle : SFER IK

I was super impressed by SFER IK.   It looks very similar to Azulik so almost like a modern treehouse. Admission by donations. You are not allowed to take anything in, only your phone.

Shop at the quirky and boho boutiques.

Boho boutiques are dotted along Tulum beach and around the town. If boho is your style, you’ll definitely have a hard time staying away from your wallet!

Here are some of the shops I’ve found make their clothes locally or feature Mexican Artisans:

Bonfilia (Pueblo)

Bonfilia  designs and makes their own clothes in Playa Del Carmen/Tulum.

Mr. Blackbird (Beach)

Mr. Blackbird opened in 2012  as one of the first boutiques on Tulum Beach! They support local artisans and carry handmade goods.

Maga Ciclica Creativa (Pop Up)

Based in Playa Del Carmen, but doing weekly pop ups and markets. I found them at Delek on a Saturday, but check their Instagram for up to date info. The materials are beautiful, you can really feel the quality!

Sandmade Swimwear (Beach)

Their swimwear fit me so well and you can choose from a rainbow of colors. Their swimsuits are made with two layers for extra comfort and quality.

Enjoy the many beach clubs

The beach clubs work in various ways. Some have minimum spends, or some just have a flat rental for a day bed or cabana. If you don’t want to pay to play, you can always kick it in the sand!

1. Casa Malca 

Casa Malca is not only home of the Instagram famous couch, but the old mansion of Pablo Escobar.  I’m not sure if it  had to do with our large group size, but but when we tried to walk in and take a picture with the swing we were stopped by security. The guard told us there was a minimum spend of 500 pesos pp($25)in order to take photos at the couch.

Drinks are quite expensive here so if you have more than 1 drink or 1 drink and an appetiser you will easily meet that minimum. I told the bartender what I like and he may me a personalised concoction which was delicious!

2. Papaya Playa Project

You’ll find resident Djs, mixology, cerviche and a double decker bar all on the beachfront

3. Coco Tulum

Coco Tulum Beach Club and Bar has picturesque swings overlooking the beach – another instagrammable moment! Sit in the sand while enjoying some tasty seafood and cocktails.

4. Ziggy Beach Club

Ziggy Beach Club has a restaurant and live music daily. There is no entry fee, but instead they have a minimum spend for use of their facilities. Check out their daily specials and special events calendar.

Ziggys Beach Club

Where to Eat and Drink in Tulum

Mexican food and healthy global food are the two main players here. You could have 50 cent street tacos for one meal then a fully raw vegan meal the next. I paid as low was $2.50 for a margarita and as high as $20 for a cocktail at Casa Malca so there is definitely a vast a price range.

Happy hours are a thing here so make sure to take advantage!

I’ve listed a few spots to grab food and drinks below, but you can also check out my detailed guide on Where to Eat and Drink in Tulum.

Restaurants in Tulum Town (Pueblo)

Burrito amor.

serve “Clean” burritos using quality ingredients like 100% extra virgin olive oil, cold pressed organic coconut oil, organic fluoride free sea salt and  & raw honey. My burrito was warped in a leaf instead of aluminium and had a lovely coconut flavor.

Papaya Pizza

is an outdoor brick oven pizza parlour. They had a really cool vibe here and delicious topping options. The chilli infused honey to drizzle on top of your pizza was a real treat.

A Cuban bar smack dab in the middle of Pueblo nightlife. Live music nightly.

Contemporary Mexican with an open fire kitchen. Here you can order steaks, seafood and Mexican sides.

La Negra Tomasa

Amazing ceviche at excellent value!

There are tacos to try everywhere including tacos carts, casual eateries and sit down restaurants.

• Taqueria Honorio
• Antojitos La Chiapaneca

Eating and drinking at Tulum Beach

Most of the hotels have restaurants and bars in them or on the beachfront so its an easy way to see different properties via eating your way through.

Everyone loves this spot for it’s cute set up, their matcha and smoothie bowls.

La Popular at Nomade

La Popular is located toward the south end of Tulum Beach and is one of the pricier spots. The setting is incredible, but I have to say the food did not impress, especially for the price. You are clearly paying for dining on the sand while watching the sun set or for the entertainment they have on.

La Eufemia is my favorite place to eat and hang out on the beach. It’s a two floor taco spot with live music and tasty $6 margaritas. The fried or grilled fish or shrimp tacos are amazing! I love that the salsa bar is included so you can add as much as you want. Compared to many other beach front options, it’s much more affordable and there is no minimum spend.

Raw Love is a healthy raw food spot with a jungle vibe serving smoothie bowls and other vegan goodies.

The Real Coconut

The Real Coconut is a super healthy food spot with a lovely beachfront setting. Try their banana bread, is soo yummy!

Coco Tulum is the cutest d rinks spot with swings facing the beach. Definitely an Instagram hot-spots.

A rooftop top bar at the beginning of the beach strip. Watch the sunset go down over the jungle!

Arca is the best restaurant we ate at in Tulum. The cuisine, ambiance and staff were all the excellent!

 Quick Guide to Day Trips from Tulum, Mexico

1. coba mayan ruins.

Visit Coba to climb the ancient Mayan pyramid! A major perk to being one of the less frequented ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula.

2. Laguna (Lake) Bacalar

Lake Bacalar is a gorgeous clear Lake about 200 km south of Tulum.

Akumla means “place of the turtles” and is located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. You can actually swim with the wild turtles!

Cozumel is an island off of the Yucatan peninsula.  It can be reached by ferry from Playa del Carmen.

Being that you will most likely fly in and out of Cancun, why not tack on an extra day and spend it here?

We actually  started our trip with 3 nights at Sun Palace Resort and absolutely loved it! I’ve never stayed at an all inclusive property and this one went beyond my expectations.

6. Chichén Itzá

Temple of Kukulcan at Chichén Itzá is one of the Seven Wonders of the World. These Mayan Ruins are sure to be worth a visit.

7. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Since limited tour groups frequent Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, it has remained somewhat under the radar to tourists.

8. Valladolid + Cenote Oxman

Visit the colorful city of Valladolid and the stunning Cenote Oxman. The drive is under two hours and was one of my favorite things we did!

Quick Budget Guide

Visiting Tulum on a budget is definitely possible. Here are some ideas of what to do in Tulum on a budget:

• Stay in a hostel, airbnb or condo in the town. They are much cheaper than the luxury resorts on the beach.
• Eat in town and from taco carts rather than tree houses and luxury hotels and do a bit of shopping at the local super market. This will definitely help you save some pesos.
• Ride your bike to get around or do this trip with friends and share the expense of a rental car.
•  Even on a budget, you can check out the fancy spots.  Have a cocktail instead of a meal in order to get a glimpse of the property you want to see. Stay in a hostel but rent a beach chair somewhere glam for a day.
• Schedule only a couple of activities in along with lots of chill time.  You can get a spot at the beach at Playa Paraiso, one of the public beaches, for free!
• Visit in the shoulder season for discounted rates on flights and hotels.

The Overall Vibe of this Mexican Escape

Tulum is not for everyone but you can’t deny it’s a destination filled with cool art, amazing eats and an abundance of adventure . It was actually bigger and had way more to do than I expected. The vibe of everything is very cool and I am totally down for being able to walk around a 5* hotel barefoot! Luxury doesn’t get more casual than that!

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About the author: lauren mcgill.

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17 comments.

Ms. McGill, I’m planning a trip for a milestone birthday in July 2021. I’ve been doing research on Tulum via YouTube blogs, Pinterest and whatever I come across on the web. Your information is so comprehensive that after reading this article I’ve pretty much made up my mind on exactly where to stay and what to do. Thank you!

I’m so so happy this article helped you 🙂 I hope you have the most amazing time in Tulum!

What an incredible article! I was so impressed with the detail and insightful descriptions you made. This was very helpful! Thank you for this beautiful article.

Thanks so much for reading – I’m happy you found it useful!

All the best, Lauren

This article was amazing❤️ Every detail you gave was excellent & True, because I just got home 3days ago from Tulum. Thank you very much! how can I look into other locations that maybe you’ve traveled. Have you been to Jamacia or Puerto Rico.

Hi Sandra, Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post! I hope you enjoyed your trip 🙂 I have a guide to Puerto Rico that you may find useful! https://nytoanywhere.com/things-to-do-puerto-rico-san-juan/

What a Wonderful article and so informative too.. I can hardly wait to travel again, and see Tulum. You’ve given me a good idea of where to stay and what to expect. Thanks! 🙂

Thanks so much for taking the time to check out my blog. I’m so glad you found my guide to Tulum informative. Enjoy your travels!

Enjoyed your information very informative. My original interest was to check out Tulum as a retirement destination. The article i read was from a resident there who had migrated there from the USA. He spoke of how reasonable cost of living there is. He did say that he was about 20 miles from the beach maybe that changes things. Thanks for the info. Evan

Hi Evan! I’m not sure what the retirement community is like, Tulum itself seemed like quite a young place to me. Tulum town is not 20 miles from Tulum beach, only a couple miles, but with traffic can take longer than expected to get there!

Hello!! I’m planning a bach trip for my sister this July in Tulum. I just read your post about Tulum and now I’m even more excited that we chose this beautiful city to explore. Thank you for all of your recommendations, especially food!! Can’t wait to dig into some authentic Mexican food. One issue I’m having is trying to find good nightlife and a place we can go dancing. We are staying on the beach and I’ve been interested in the Papaya Playa Project, but having a hard time finding information. I figured since you’ve been there you may be able to help!! 1. Is the beach club only open for guest of the hotel? 2. Is there a cover charge and if so, do you remember how expensive it was? 3. Was there a pretty big crowd on Saturdays? 4. Is the vibe more of relax and sip on drinks or is it more like a loud music, dancing, and clubbing style?

Thank you!!!

Hi Laura, So Fun!! I will try to help 🙂

1. Beach clubs are pretty much all for anyone who wants to pay. 2. Some are a cover charge some are a minimum spend and a couple have neither, it depends. 3. Weekends are usually pretty busy 4. You can find all of these – depends on the location

this post gives a little overview of the beach clubs : https://nytoanywhere.com/tulums-beach-clubs/

I didn’t do many of the big party clubs on the weekend when I was there but I would just DM them on IG and ask how to make reservations and what the costs are – that seemed to work well when I was looking for information.

La Eufemia was my fave for a relaxed beach day – no minimum when I was there and it’s affordable and has great tacos. They don’t have many beds though so you would have to get there early.

CoCo Tulum is also nice for a chill day sipping cocktails – they have a couple of locations and they had a $40 minimum spend.

Papaya Playa I did do on a Friday and they had a minimum spend of $50(cocktails are pricey but beer was pretty cheap). I think it’s more on weekends. I wanted to go back for a weekend party but never got to. They do ticketed events which sounded pretty epic.

Minimum spends can fluctuate depending on what you day you go and what time if day – later in the day you could maybe get a discount but you could also risk not getting a chair. I’d definitely try and book ahead since you will have a group.

I hope this helps , have a great time! Lauren xx

Not sure if you saw this detailed restaurant post : https://nytoanywhere.com/bars-restaurants-in-tulum/

Rosa Negra is definitely one of the most popular spots for a group dinner with a party vibe.

I loved this guide, it was the first I read and helped me get over all the negative news about mexico. I kept coming back to your great advice throughout my visit of this amazing country, so a huge thank you for inspiration!

So glad my guide has helped you! I appreciate that so much <3

We are headed to Tulum in 10 days and I found both this article and your food/drink articles to be some of the best resources I’ve found (and I’ve been planning for awhile) Thank you for being so thorough!!!

Curious to know more about the lagoons you mentioned…

That’s great to hear! The centotes + lagoon are well worth a visit 🙂

Comments are closed.

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Tulum is also known as the ancient Mayan town where is rich in indigenous culture. Not too hustle and bustle like the city of Cancun which is just about 130 kilometers to the south of Cancún, but Tulum gives visitors moments of relaxation and peace on the smooth white sand beaches with emerald green water with pristine natural beauty along with magnificent limestone sinkholes called Cenotes. Discovering the town of Tulum will be an extremely memorable experience when it owns many stunning beaches along with the most luxurious resorts and bars located next to the beautiful Caribbean Coast. So, what to do and how to plan a budget perfect trip to Tulum, Mexico for the first-time visit? Let’s check out our Tulum travel blog (Tulum blog) with the fullest tulum mexico travel guide (Tulum mexico guide, Tulum travel guide, Tulum guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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For those travelers who are looking for an emotional trip, love to explore ancient civilization and enjoying the feeling of lightness and peace in the wild natural scenery, exploring the town of Tulum will be a “extreme” choice.

Tulum mexico travel guide: Overview of Tulum

Tulum was a pre-Columbian Maya city and once play an important role as the main port of Coba city. This town is located on cliffs up to 12m high along the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. And Tulum is the last city built and inhabited by the Mayan people. Because of the best preservation, Tulum has become a worth visit and memorable destination for many tourists.

Unlike the festive atmosphere of the neighboring town of Cancun, Tulum gives visitors peaceful moments of relaxation by the white sand beaches and full of sunshine and sparkling water of the sea.

Tulum was the strongest city between the 13th and 15th centuries. It was a trading port and the only Mayan city built on the coast as well as one of the few cities surrounded with defensive stone walls. This makes the ruins here are best preserved.

Tulum Mexico travel guide: When to go?

The best time to visit Tulum town is from October to December every year. However, visitors can still travel to Tulum beyond the above time period with the advantage of being able to book cheap rooms and cheaper prices for other services.

Tulum travel blog: Transportation?

Although tourism in Mexico is highly developed, there is currently no direct flight to Tulum. Therefore, if you want to reach this town, you must fly to Cancun and continue traveling by bus of bus companies such as ADO, OCC, AU, Blablacar… for another 2 hours journey with tickets from $9/person before arriving in the beautiful town of Tulum. See bus schedules and routes here.

To getting around Tulum, the best way is to rent a bike.

In particular, most of the resorts and hotels here have transfer services at the airport. So, to avoid wasting time and costs, it is the best for you should ask for more information regarding this service when booking room. And note for first time visitors to Tulum, you should print the specific address of the hotel you will stay or confirm the hotel room number and given it to the driver to avoid confusion.

And always make sure your Tulum trip isn’t interrupted by money issues. You should exchange money first and hold cash when you traveling in Tulum because there are many ATMs not working here. The official currency of Mexico is the peso (Code: MXN). The exchange rate: 1 USD~20.3145 MXN.

Tulum guide: What to do and where to go?

Spend a day at a beach club in tulum.

There are more than 50 beachclubs along Tulum’s main beach. Spending an entire day at a beach club is one of the best things to do in Tulum. There are several public areas of the beach where you can lie down and sunbathe, enjoy cool sea breeze on a chair or a hammock with a fruit plate while sipping a cocktail and that’s the best thing.

Exploring Cenotes

The first destination that visitors should visit is the Cenote natural sinkholes. A cenote is a natural swimming hole which was formed by the collapse of porous limestone bedrock and exposes groundwater. Although the Yucatan Peninsula has absolutely no streams or rivers but the abundant groundwater here still flows steadily under the limestone slopes. From a sacred place, today the beautiful Cenotes have turned into fairytale places for tourists and locals to enjoy and immerse themselves in the cool, crystal water. And visitors can experience diving to admire the magnificent scenes underwater in these Cenotes. The most famous Cenotes that tourists can visit are: Gran Cenote, Cenote Cristal and Cenote Tankah.

Gran Cenote

One of the most famous sinkholes is the El Gran Cenote (also known as the Grand Cenote), about 3 kilometers from Tulum town via Coba and Chichen Itza located on the way to the Mayan ruins in Coba. The sinkhole includes large caves that enough for swimming, snorkeling and diving zones that allow you to see stalactites from very close distances.

• Cenote Trail and Mayan Underworld Bike Tour from Tulum

There are many Cenotes on the Yucatan peninsula but Gran Cenote will be the perfect spot for you to delight in swimming in the cool water. The water here is so pure and extreme fresh that when you see it, you feel like it’s made of crystal. Lots of fish and turtles live in this cenote. Don’t worry, they are not shy at all so you can touch them easily while you are swimming here.

Dos Ojos Cave System

Visitors will love Dos Ojos (Spanish means “Two Eyes”), a system of submerged caves stretching up to 16 km in the north of Tulum and among the top 10 longest underground caves in the world. Dos Ojos owns the deepest cave in Quintana Roo with a depth of about 120 meters from the water surface. There is also a bat cave for travelers interested in adventure.

Mayan Ruins

As an important archaeological site, Tulum has many ancient Mayan architectures that still exist today. Today these famous ruins include a castle located next to a cliff overlooking the deep blue Caribbean sea.

Traveling to Tulum, visitors do not miss the extremely famous place called El Castillo Temple. This is the temple that is best preserved when it is surrounded by a stone wall from before the 16th century. This attraction will be open from 8am, if you come early, you will have the opportunity to explore these ruins clearly without having to crowd in a quiet and peaceful space. In particular, visitors can encounter wildlife living around the temple such as birds, weasels, and Mexican spiny-tailed iguana. And for those who are passionate and love to learn the history of the temple and the history of this land, it is best to hire a guide to learn deeper.

Address: Zona Hotelera Tulum, Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico Hours: 8AM–5PM

Cycling through the forest in Coba

The Mayan ruins in Coba, about 40 minutes drive from Tulum, located in the jungle and that make the difference between the ruins in Tulum and other famous Mayan sites like in Chichen Itza or Uxmal. Coba will gives you the pristine feeling than elsewhere, although it has been discovered and restored a lot.

There are many bike rental shops here and you should rent a bike to explore Coba. You will find strange things when you cycling slowly through the forest that not everyone can see.

• Classic Tulum Bike Tour with Taco Lunch

You will overcome many challenges, passing the vegetation is preserved for many years. You can also touch and climb up to the structures here and although that gives you a sense of disrespect to the historical sites, this is a great way to get the panoramic views of surrounding area.

Tulum and Coba Ruins Combo Tour with Cenote Swim and Lunch

Playa Paraiso beach (Paradise Beach)

This paradise beach is one of the most favorite destinations for tourists. It is one of the most famous beaches in Tulum and Mexico because the sea here possesses deep blue water, smooth white sand and along the coast are palm trees swaying in the wind, the scenery is very peaceful, poetic.

Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Visiting Tulum, visitors will be lost in the Sian Ka’an biosphere reserve. This place has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site since 1987 with an extremely rich and diverse eco system. The Sian Ka’an reserve is the common home of animals such as jaguars, flamingos, leopards, sharks, spider monkeys and more than 300 species of birds and many other animals.

Sian Ka’an Small Group Adventure from Tulum

Address: Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, Mexico Area: 2,797 km²

Have fun at Papaya Playa Project

Tulum offers extremely wonderful and memorable experiences. If during the day you are immersed in the green natural scenery, at night is the time for visitors to “playing hard” at the vibrant bars located right next to the beach. And surely you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy a sweet, romantic dinner by the romantic beach with super delicious food, super beautiful sea view and sparkling and attractive full moon night parties. Combining bare feet dance on smooth white sand to harmonize with the DJ’s faint music at the Beach Club at Papaya Playa Project, there is nothing more wonderful.

Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 4.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico

The Akumal small town near Tulum is famous for its large number of sea turtles. Visitors can come here during the day and snorkel to see turtles at close distances that you have never seen before.

Tulum mexico guide: Shopping

Tulum is also an ideal shopping destination. There are many budget shops that selling crafts, jewelry, leather goods and of course clothes. You can find any item here, from colorful dresses to stylish bohemian dresses.

Tulum Mexico travel guide: What and where to eat?

For those who love seafood, Tulum is definitely the best place for you. The seafood here is not only fresh but also extremely diverse. If you want to enjoy all kinds of seafood just step into any restaurant in Tulum to be able to enjoy the seafood party that you have longed for.

However, the night entertainment activities in Tulum town are closed quite early at about 10 pm, most of the restaurants, bars and entertaiment venues will close. Therefore, you should go to eat early.

After a delightful discovery, visitors can enjoy delicious dishes such as tacos, buckwheat noodles, smoothies and vegan burgers, Mexican cuisine … in restaurants.

El Camello Jr. (Address: Carretera Chetumal-Cancun Locales 1 y 2 Lte 3 Mza 40, Centro, 77600 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico/Hours: 11AM–9PM/Wednesday: Closed) is the ideal place for seafood lovers. The famous ceviche at this restaurant is full of shrimp, octopus and various types of fish.

In addition to seafood, you can also go to the budget Antojitos La Chiapaneca restaurant (Address: Calle Acuario Nte. 3, Tulum Centro, Tobiano, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico/Hours: 10AM–11PM/Monday: Closed) to enjoy the delicious Mexican-style Pork Tacos (Tacos Al Pastor).

Those who love meeting will not be able to miss Gitano Tulum (Address: Beach Road Km. 7, 77710 Q.R., Mexico/Hours: 6–11PM) , a bar in the deep forest. This is the ideal place to enjoy a sip of delicate cocktails while dancing to the passionate techno rhythm.

More affordable, Ahau Tulum (Address: Carr. Tulum a Boca Paila Km. 7.5 Zona Costera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico) is a bar that always attracting tourists with an interesting wooden doll burning event. Here, you have the opportunity to chatting with friendly indigenous people by the seaside.

Tulum travel guide: Where to stay?

Tulum also has many famous private hotels like Mezzanine with only 9 rooms. Guests will be served delicious coffee in the room, bathing in Yucatan-style bathrooms or delighted in diving at locations not far away.

Another option is Maya Tulum Retreat & Spa (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , which offers a variety of sports activities, relaxation with fresh air on the Yucatan peninsula. Yoga is also a popular activity at Tulum, and Maya Tulum resort also offers yoga classes, using creative methods help visitors relaxing.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• La Zebra Colibri Boutique Hotel , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $328/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• AZULIK Tulum , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $675/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Encantada Tulum , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $999/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $602/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Mi Amor Colibri Boutique Hotel , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $299/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Tulum blog: Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Tulum you can refer to

• Tulum Ruins Early Access Private Tour
• Tulum Ruins, Reef Snorkeling and Cenotes Full Adventure Tour
• Native Park Zipline and Snorkel Adventure in Tulum
• Bacalar Lagoon Sailing Day Tour from Tulum
• Tulum Ruins Tour and Snorkel Native Park Adventure from Cancun
• Tulum Ruins Tour and Tulum Native Park Experience from Cancun
• Tulum and Tankah Eco Adventure Small Group Tour
• Mayan Inland Expedition: Coba Ruins and Punta Laguna from Tulum
• Tulum Ruins Tour and Emotions Native Park ATV Experience from Cancun

Are you looking for more top things to do in Tulum: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And Mexico travel blog — The fullest Mexico travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

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16 Best Hotels in Tulum, From Luxury Resorts to Beach Bungalows

By Michaela Trimble

Once awash with sand-floor smoothie bars and relaxed, palapa-style hotels spread amidst the palms, Tulum’s reputation as a sleepy seaside village no longer stands. Akin to the trajectory of its northern neighbor, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, located in Mexico's Quintana Roo state , has grown into a veritable town with development showing no signs of slowing. Now, its dirt paths are paved, and its beach entrance is flanked by side roads leading to all kinds of hospitality concepts, with properties extending their reaches into the jungle behind the town’s famed beach road.

Big, luxury hotel names have officially entered the space, with Conrad Tulum staking its claim with luxury suites situated around five pools and 11 on-site restaurants. Then there’s the more far-flung outpost by Mexican-owned hospitality group Chablé , a 10-suite boutique retreat at the end of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

Whether you're looking for a posh suite set on the bustling beach road or a tucked-away treehouse amidst the verdant jungle, Tulum offers an ideal stay for every type of traveler. No matter what type of stay you choose, expect to feel at once sedated and mesmerized by the balmy conditions, tropical foliage, and white sand beaches of this Yucatán Peninsula hotspot. Without further delay, these are the 16 best hotels in Tulum.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

La Valise Tulum

Ethereal, white-sand walkways lead to 11 beachfront suites with ocean views at this boutique hotel hideaway, all set within A-frame , palapa-style structures that blend seamlessly with the natural surrounds. In 2022, La Valise Tulum debuted its latest development: 11 additional jungle-facing suites, most with private jungle terraces and outdoor soaking tubs. During a stay, guests can enjoy taking dips in one of three pools, plus everything from cacao ceremonies to bee venom facials at the spa. Organic meals are offered at Nü, which sources many of its fair-trade ingredients from the regenerative farm Mestiza de Indias, designed to preserve ancient Mayan farming techniques.

Within the Tulum jungle, near the La Valeta residential development, this boutique hotel respite is barefoot sophistication realized. Although each of the property’s 26 villas can be booked as a standalone stay, the hotel is ideal for groups. Each villa offers extensive gardens with semi-outdoor showers immersed in nature, some with private plunge pools , and can be connected to adjacent villas to accommodate families or large groups of friends. At Gaudea, guests can enjoy poolside fresh fruit smoothies by morning and candlelit dinners and mezcal-based cocktails by evening, while the wellness offerings include yoga classes and holistic massages.

Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya Arrow

Though this luxury resort is only located about 13 miles north of Tulum’s downtown near Akumal, it feels a world away. While most Tulum properties are boutique hotels by nature, mostly due to the limited availability of land, this hotel, with its 349 guest rooms, is sprawling. Withn the grounds, guests can spend their time at the cenote-inspired spa or lounging in one of five swimming pools . There are also 11 on-site restaurants and bars, ranging from a sushi bar to a Mediterranean restaurant with small plates inspired by the flavors of southern Spain and North Africa.

Shibari Tulum

Guests of this jungle-side property don’t even have to leave the grounds to immerse themselves in one of Tulum’s most precious natural resources—cenotes, which are natural pools with subterranean limestone cave systems. In fact, this 64-villa property is designed around its very-own cenote, known as Tuuch, which is lined with a swimming pool area replete with beach loungers and hammocks. Japanese and Mayan philosophies merge at this resort. Both Samurai culture and the sensual Japanese art of Shibari, a therapeutic rope-tying technique, are integral to the property, with workshops offered regularly. During a stay, guests are also privy to two on-site shopping boutiques, a cafe, a hot tub bar, as well as a restaurant exclusively open to hotel guests.

Sarah James

Jessica Puckett

Kimberly Wilson

Rachel Chang

The Beach Tulum Arrow

The Beach Tulum is an intimate, adults-only oasis that combines a serene escape with easy access to local hot spots for a perfectly balanced Mexican getaway. Located just under two hours from Cancun International Airport, it is nestled snugly in the middle of Tulum’s main hotel zone with the beach and the main strip on either side of the hotel. A blissful retreat filled with private plunge pools and hot tubs—it’s almost as if the whole hotel were a spa—it’s a go-to for guests looking for a harmonious escape from the hotel’s party-centric and lively neighbors. —Taylor Mead

Be Tulum Arrow

A rare boutique property in this resort-heavy area, Be Tulum has a smaller feel and plenty of character. Guests love the outdoor showers and jungle-nestled feel that still keep the beachfront at their feet. Popular for honeymooners and cuisine lovers who enjoy the open-kitchen restaurant, it's a beach club-meets-hotel vibe that embodies Tulum well and has garnered repeat clients, including Traveler readers who landed it a spot on the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards.

Casa Chablé Arrow

Evoking the Tulum of yesteryear, Casa Chablé is stunning in its simplicity. Beyond the entrance of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, located about 22 miles south of Tulum, the property offers travelers the feeling of staying at a private home. Guests first enter through the main villa, which features five guest rooms, each with private balconies. Past a plunge pool shaded by palms, down a white-sand swath, are five standalone oceanfront suites with indoor-outdoor showers and terraces. While on property, guests can enjoy sunset cocktails on the lagoon or a Yucatecan-inspired menu crafted by chef Jorge Vallejo of Quintonil in Mexico City .

Sánara Arrow

This boutique property on the Tulum beach road is barefoot luxury at its finest. Though Sanará’s minimalist beachside suites and villas and jungle-pool compounds are idyllic (some even have private gardens and claw-foot tubs), the real reason most guests stay here is for the property’s Ayurveda-inspired wellness center. Immersive healing programs include massages rooted in Indian healing rituals, yoga classes taught at a beachfront studio, and clean cuisine served at its plant-focused kitchen, the Real Coconut.

Hotel Bardo Arrow

Nestled within the jungle, Hotel Bardo offers contemporary luxury rooted in wellness, with regular rituals like sound healing ceremonies and yoga classes on rotation. Though life at this adults-only hotel is centered around a thatched-roof bar and an outdoor pool lined with sun loungers—guests can meet here every evening, pre-sunset, for an intention-setting ceremony—the rooms steal the show. Each of the loft-style villas features its own private plunge pool and outdoor garden with a hammock made by artisans in the Yucatán Peninsula. Pair that with decorative cotton artworks and ceramics by the Mexican designer Caralarga and you have a contemporary lifestyle destination in the heart of the Mayan jungle.

Olas Tulum Arrow

This tucked-away beach bungalow borders the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve at the very end of the beach road, evoking the Tulum that existed when the property first debuted over a decade ago. There’s no pool or flashy beach club at Olas Tulum, and that’s exactly what makes it so charming. With only eight suites, arriving here feels like you’re visiting the home of a dear friend. Delightfully secluded away from the noise and crowds, the property’s meals are organic and served at a communal table. It’s the type of place where you make genuine connections, both with other guests and the staff.

Tulum Treehouse Arrow

Top creatives in their field gathered to create this secluded, five-room oasis on the jungle side of Tulum’s beach road. Something like a hotel-concept store hybrid, the Tulum Treehouse is a celebration of modern Mexican design. A sleek, minimalist respite, the concrete property is built with artists of all types in mind: Centered around a pool and open-air kitchen (run by Noma alum Edoardo Fiaschi), the guesthouse includes a working studio with an outdoor ceramics kiln for artists in residence and a shop by Xinú, the top Mexican perfumery. During a stay, guests are privy to the property’s diverse programming like weekly talks, live music performances, and craft workshops.

Casa Maya Kaan Arrow

Set within a 10-acre plot of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve along a long stretch of private, white-sand beach, Casa Maya Kaan rises from the jungle like an ancient, secluded paradise. Set well beyond the beach road’s recent developments, a stay here—in either a brick-and-mortar suite or one of nine outdoor bell tents—is centered around wellness. All bookings include a bespoke organic menu according to the group’s dietary preferences, and an extensive catalog of both spa treatments and excursions are available, from a temazcal sweat lodge ceremony to a private boat tour through the Boca Paila Lagoon.

Habitas Tulum Arrow

Upon arrival at Habitas Tulum, guests are whisked behind a stone façade and greeted with a copal cleansing ceremony. This sets the tone for a stay at this spiritual-chic hideout, located at the beginning of Tulum’s beach road. The heartbeat of the hotel is a central lounge area with low-slung seating in the sand and a bar and restaurant offering vegetable-forward Spanish cuisine. The space opens to an oceanfront pool and lounge with one of the only secluded beaches in the area thanks to two natural rock barriers. The safari-style, low-impact suites are simple yet functional, each with a nearly identical design, save some that offer plunge pools while others have jungle or ocean views.

Holistika Arrow

In the heart of the jungle, this boutique hotel and holistic center offer a respite rooted in transformation. Guests of Holistika often eschew the late-night parties on Tulum’s beach road in favor of the property’s vast wellness programming, from kundalini yoga and breathwork classes to cacao ceremonies and sound baths. Each of the 24 guest rooms is peaceful and minimalist, with an added option to stay in a communal bunkhouse known as the Beehive. A stay here is also about gathering, whether at the vegetarian restaurant, Tierra, or by the outdoor fire pit for live music in the evenings.

Hotel Panamera Arrow

If the terra-cotta-and-cream-checkered pool at Hotel Panamera looks familiar that’s because it is—this property was purchased by Mexican entrepreneurs and rebranded from the old Casa Pueblo into a brighter, chicer version of itself. Within the three-story, oceanfront structure are 14 sunlit rooms. With design touches inspired by historic estates of the Caribbean, each room is austere with polished floors, long white corridors, and minimalist furnishings, as the star of the show is the view of the sea. New to the property is a swanky rooftop terrace, known as The Roof, where craft cocktails are paired with seafood dishes categorized by their preparation: raw, grilled, or atop a crispy tostada.

Hotel Esencia Arrow

A luxurious hideaway for the international jet set, Hotel Escencia is set 30 minutes north of Tulum and feels a world away from it all. Once the former home of an Italian duchess, it’s now a thoughtful boutique hotel with three restaurants, two pools, and a spa that overlooks a cenote. Set within a secluded 50-acre estate with flourishing tropical gardens, the property’s focal point is the main house, a three-story building known as Casa Grande, set just steps from 45 suites and three private villas, all with private terraces and some with plunge pools and ocean views. The property borders the Xpu-Ha cove to the south, a haven for the area’s sea turtles.

Find more Mexico travel recommendations:

• Top 20 Resorts in Eastern Mexico: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023
• Top 20 Resorts in Western Mexico: Readers’ Choice Awards 2023
• Traveler Editors Favorite Hotels and Resorts in Mexico, Central, and South America: The Gold List 2024
• 34 Best Airbnbs in Mexico
• 16 Best Beaches in Mexico

Protect Your Trip »

Ranked on critic, traveler & class ratings.

Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Tulum

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Travel Guide

• # 1 in Best Cheap Couples Getaways for 2024

In the past decade, Tulum has grown into a coveted vacation for luxury travelers; however, it still tempts bargain hunters who remember when this tucked-away jewel of Mexico's east coast was more of a secluded getaway. When the sun goes down, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in the city's mixology scene and explore its sprawling nightlife. However, it's during daylight that Tulum truly shines. Here, you'll find some of the best-preserved Mayan ruins – ruins  that have the cerulean waters of the Caribbean Sea as a backdrop. And there are other out-of-this-world wonders, including several cenotes (or underground water-filled caverns) and bioreserves. Let's not forget Tulum's main draw for most visitors: its beaches. White sand and turquoise waters beckon travelers to spend their days lazing in the sun, listening to the waves. Whether or not you're a fan of the beach, visiting one of Tulum's many shorelines is a must-do.

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• Rooms & Suites - Overview
• Family Suites
• Things to Do - Overview
• Entertainment
• Explore Tulum
• Dining & Drinks
• Events - Overview
• Celebrations

Stay Longer in Paradise

Save up to 20% when you book the Stay Longer in Paradise package.

Arrival Time

• Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort

Check-in 3:00 PM

Check-out 12:00 PM

An extraordinary eco-chic all-inclusive resort in Tulum

Rooms & suites.

Located throughout two-story villa-style buildings, our guest rooms and suites offer private balconies and stunning oceanfront or resort views.

An elevated experience that’s even more extraordinary. Guests who book an Enclave room open the door to even more possibilities during their stay including private check-in and checkout, the Enclave Lounge with food and beverage, private pool areas, in-room welcome amenities and more.

All-Inclusive Perks

Experience something new every day. A world of options awaits.

Dining & Drinks

A world of flavor awaits at our 13 all-inclusive restaurants and bars. From fine dining to casual poolside snacks, there are options for everyone.

Choose from International and Mexican cuisine at our all-day buffet.

Enjoy casual lunchtime dining, specialty cocktails, juices and beers.

Chiringuito Seasalt

Sample fresh ceviche, made with fresh raw fish, citrus juices, and spiced with Mexican seasoning.

Chiringuito Cocomar

Mexican Fusion grill serving assorted beef, chicken, or vegetable tapas.

Azulinda Cafe

Homemade meals specializing in deli items, salads, soups, and more.

Authentic Italian cuisine with all the natural flavors of Italy.

Mexican Cuisine enhanced by the regional flavors and spices that favor the land.

Contemporary Asian menu offering traditional sushi, hand-crafted cocktails, wines, and beer.

The finest cuts of beef cooked to perfection by our highly skilled chefs.

Catch the moment!

Family Zone

From resort sports to all-day dining, there’s something for all to enjoy in exclusive areas for kids, teens, and adults.

Steps away at our sister resort, Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, the spa provides the ultimate retreat. Let stress melt away with exclusive treatments, hydrotherapies, and beauty salon services.

Celebrate love with an unforgettable wedding above the infinite vistas of the Mayan coast. Our professional wedding team will guide you through our packages and assist with every need.

Meetings inspire possibilities at Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya. Our 50,000 sq. ft. conference center features flexible indoor and outdoor spaces to suit any event.

• Locations /
• Tulum Hotels /

Tulum airport opens to U.S. flights, helping tourists skip Cancún crowds

New routes from american, delta and united connect the beach destination to hubs like atlanta, dallas and miami.

Traveling to the Mayan Riviera in Mexico is about to get easier.

Starting this week, visitors to the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula can say goodbye to the crowded halls of the Cancún airport and potentially hours-long drive south; U.S.-based flights to recently opened Tulum International Airport start Wednesday.

American Airlines and Delta Air Lines begin flights on March 28, followed by United Airlines on March 31. The new routes will connect Tulum to major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Miami, and Newark.

Air Canada starts flying to Tulum in May, and JetBlue Airways and Panama’s Copa Airline s in June.

“Imagine taking a morning flight from the United States, and by lunchtime, you’re sipping margaritas on our beautiful beach,” said Laura Diver, the marketing manager for Colibri Boutique Hotels , which manages several properties in Tulum.

A bumpy start

The Tulum airport, like many of the big recently opened infrastructure projects championed by Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, remains a work in progress.

Construction continues despite some domestic flights beginning in December. Karla Cayetano, a reservations manager at the Kanan Tulum resort, said workers were still “finishing some details” to the terminal and access road. Despite this, she said some of the resort’s guests are already arriving there rather than to Cancún.

Ground transportation options are limited and costs are high. David Ortiz Mena, the president of the Tulum Hotel Association, highlighted this as a “great concern” in a December statement . Talks with the airport and government authorities over lowering the ground transportation tax were still underway in mid-March.

And protesters have blocked the access road to the airport, and adjacent Tren Maya station, over land rights.

The issues are not unlike those that have plagued the Tren Maya since it opened in December. Trains are limited and delays are frequent on the ambitious and controversial 947-mile passenger rail loop pushed by the Mexican president. The booking system has been unreliable . Much of the track that will eventually encircle the Yucatán has yet to open.

But the Tulum airport, like the Tren Maya, is widely expected to significantly improve access to the Mayan Riviera once the kinks are worked out.

Alternative to Cancún

The Mayan Riviera is one of the most popular beach destinations in Mexico. It stretches from north of the all-inclusive resorts of Playa del Carmen to south of chic Tulum, with its beachside Mayan ruins.

Last year, the Riviera Maya boasted the most available hotel rooms — and occupied rooms — in the country, beating nearby Cancún and Los Cabos on the Pacific coast, according to data from the government of Mexico’s tourism secretary.

The Cancún airport is the main gateway for visitors to the region. In fact, last year the airport was the main gateway to all foreign visitors to Mexico, and the most popular among American tourists. A presentation from Mexico’s tourism secretary shows nearly 4.8 million American visitors to Mexico passed through the Cancún airport last year, representing more than a third of all the Americans who visited the country.

That’s why airlines are clamoring to fly to Tulum, even with its early issues. The new airport gives travelers an alternative to the busy Cancún airport.

“We’re pretty excited about some of the [travel] demand we’re seeing,” said Amy Martin, vice president of North America network planning at Delta.

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Mexico Deploys National Guard To Tulum's Beaches To Help Keep Tourists Safe

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Millions of U.S. travelers flock to the picture-perfect beaches of Mexico every year.

And Tulum is attracting record numbers of travelers right now.  

But on the beaches of Tulum, you will see more than tourists in their swimwear this spring.

That's because Mexico has deployed the National Guard to Tulum's beaches to help keep tourists safe.  

Here's what you need to know:  

National Guard Deployed  

The Mexican authorities have deployed more than 200 troops, including members of the Army and National Guard, to Tulum to protect tourists visiting the area.  

This new task force won't just be on the beach.

They are also tasked with protecting both urban and tourist areas of the city ensuring that security in Tulum is improved and tourists feel safer when exploring the area.  

The reason for this deployment is because Tulum has seen an uptick in crime in recent months.  

The Stoplight Crime Report is a handy tool for assessing crime rates in a region and this clearly shows that crime has soared in the city.

In November, Tulum had 3 red lights on the Stoplight Crime scale.

By December, this had increased to 6 red lights, and it jumped up again to 7 red lights in January.  

So Is Tulum Safe?  

Tulum remains a perfectly safe vacation destination .

More than 2 million travelers visit Tulum every year, and the vast majority of those visits are smooth and uneventful.  

The key to staying safe in Tulum is to practice the same safety tips that you would when traveling to any other busy foreign city.

Don't release all of your inhibitions just because you're relaxing in the sunshine!  

This means not wearing any flashy clothing and jewelry, avoiding walking alone at night where possible, and not carrying too much cash with you at any given time.  

Watch your drinks to avoid drink spiking, and be vigilant to the risks posed by drugs, unregulated alcohol, and counterfeit pharmaceuticals.   

Security Risks In Tulum  

Of course there are some security risks in Tulum and it's important to be vigilant if you're visiting the area.

According to the Stoplight Crime Report the crimes most commonly being reported in Tulum right now are home robberies, thefts from businesses, vehicle thefts, and drug dealing.  

The vast majority of these (such as vehicle thefts and home robberies) are more likely to impact local residents than tourists.

But with drug dealing a problem in Tulum, one of the best ways to stay safe in the city is to stay away from the drug trade.

Don't buy or deal drugs during your time in Tulum. 

We also know that crime in many tourist cities increases during the peak season, which Tulum is experiencing right now.

So, it could be that crime is increasing in Tulum due to the winter and spring break seasons.  

But the good news is that this uptick in crime has been responded to with a robust response from the Mexican authorities.

With so many National Guard and military troops on the beach it is likely that relaxing in Tulum will feel safer than ever.  

What Does The U.S. Government Say About Traveling To Tulum?  

In an update released on 1 st March the U.S. government advised that its citizens increased caution when partying in popular spring break locations including Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum, especially after dark.  

But the state of Quintana Roo, where Tulum is located, has been given a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution travel rating by the U.S. Department of State, which means that it is still considered a very safe destination for Americans to travel to.  

Although seeing the Mexican National Guard on the beach may be concerning, this is nothing more than a safety measure.  

This also isn't the first time the Mexican government has deployed troops to Tulum.

In November ‘23 thousands of troops were sent to Tulum to shore up security and protect tourists as both the Maya Train station and new airport opened in the region.  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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Machete-Wielding Intruders Turn Tulum Vacation Into Total Nightmare

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When Vianey Souquette and Ross Lonsdof arrived in Tulum, Mexico , they were thrilled to be spending three weeks in paradise.

The San Antonio , Texas , couple had booked an Airbnb near the beach, for $441 a night, in a spot described in the listing as “a safe and central area.” They felt secure knowing the property owner was a “superhost,” and visitors to the tourist-heavy destination were known to be well-protected by authorities.

However, the dream getaway quickly turned into a terrifying nightmare, when Souquette and Lonsdof were attacked by machete-wielding intruders who slipped in through an unsecured rear entrance. In a new lawsuit they filed over the hellish 2021 ordeal , the two say they have since been diagnosed with PTSD, severe depression, and anxiety, and claim the incident has put a “severe strain on their decade-long relationship.”

Tulum is among the trendiest “eco-chic” spots along the Riviera Maya, a sun-drenched stretch of coastline in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. It was once a sleepy fishing village so far off the beaten trail that infamous Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar maintained a bolthole there —now refashioned as a glossy hotel with rooms going for $1,000 a night. In recent years, Tulum has become “the Williamsburg of Mexico,” according to The Cut . It’s now a destination “so popular with the fashion crowd… that it almost feels like Fashion Week,” The New York Times reported in 2012 . “While Teva-wearing backpackers look for sea turtles and New Age naïfs look for nirvana, the fashion obsessed don’t have to look at all to find one another. They are everywhere, artfully dressed down in high-peasant style.”

Vianey Souquette (l) and Ross Lonsdof (r).

Once they arrived at their rental, Souquette told The Daily Beast she and Lonsdof noticed the back fence didn’t close properly, and the locks on the back door and sliding door were broken. So, as required by Airbnb policy, they called and left a message for Airbnb's “Neighborhood Support Team,” and reported the issues. Souquette and Lonsdof also contacted the host himself, who promised to take care of things right away.

The male voices Souquette said she heard coming from the small fenced-in courtyard behind the house were the host’s workers, who maintained all of his properties in the area, he explained.

“He says, ‘Don’t worry. They’re not going to bother you,” Souquette told The Daily Beast. “They’re just back there to get supplies… And I said, ‘Well, I don’t feel comfortable with it. I don’t know who they are.’ Especially because that sliding door didn’t seem very secure. But he assured me we had nothing to worry about; that he would make sure that they didn’t come and go while we were there.”

On July 20, 2021, about 10 days into their stay, the couple woke up in the morning with plans for a “lazy day,” Souquette said. She took a shower and came out, wrapped in a towel, to make the two of them some breakfast while Lonsdof washed up. As Souquette finished cooking eggs, she said she heard—to her annoyance—the courtyard gate swing open.

“That kind of got me upset, because I thought he wasn’t going to let anybody in here anymore, she said. “I don’t know why I did it, but I put my head to the door, like, ‘What was that noise?’ And the moment I did that, the door swung open.”

A man with a knife grabbed Souquette as a second man entered behind him, shoving Souquette deeper inside the residence, she said.

“I just thought I saw my life passing me by,” an emotional Souquette recalled. “And I said to myself, ‘If I’m gonna die, I’m gonna die fighting.’”

Souquette was too shaken up to recount specific details, but their federal lawsuit, filed March 15, fills in some of the blanks.

On security camera footage, which Souquette’s attorney Tyrone Blackburn shared with The Daily Beast, a pair of masked men can be seen bypassing the broken back fence while a third man disables a second camera with a length of pipe and remains outside as a lookout. The two attackers then enter the Airbnb by “easily opening an unlockable back door and sliding door, both of which Plaintiffs had reported to Airbnb several days earlier,” the complaint states.

An unknown man seen on security video approaching the Airbnb where Vianey Souquette and Ross Lonsdof were staying in Tulum.

Souquette let out a bloodcurdling scream, heard clearly in the security footage, as the intruders made their way inside, ripped off her towel, and assaulted her, according to the complaint. Lonsdof heard Souquette’s cries and rushed out of the shower, “naked and covered in soap,” the complaint continues. The startled duo tried to tackle Lonsdof, one of them getting him in a bear hug while the other took whacks at him with a machete, the filing states. It says Lonsdof attempted to wrestle the machete away from the men, causing all of them to fall to the floor.

“During the struggle, one of the assailants began grabbing Mr. Lonsdof's penis and genitals,” according to the complaint, which says this move was “presumably [meant] to stop him from fighting back.” “When this tactic failed, they began striking and jabbing him in the groin and anus with the object used to disable the surveillance camera. Mr. Lonsdof recalls feeling immense pressure near his rectum. Eventually, Mr. Lonsdof was able to wrestle the machete away from one of the assailants and chased them out of the Airbnb rental.”

Souquette, who is Mexican-American, told The Daily Beast that Lonsdof started to chase the attackers as they bolted out the back door, but that she shouted for him to let them go because “the first thing that pops to your mind is [that they’re connected to a] cartel.” Her mother recently bought property in the area, and Souquette said she worried about her becoming a target if she were to make too much noise over the break-in. Still, they called the police to report the attack, which, according to Souquette, only made her more nervous about potential retaliation.

The couple packed up and evacuated inside of three hours, driving straight to Cancun and checking into a pricey gated resort on which Souquette said she insisted, for security’s sake. And that’s when Airbnb finally called Souquette back about the broken gate and locks at the house in Tulum, she said.

The local police didn’t inspire much confidence in Vianey Souquette after she and her partner were attacked at their Airbnb (r), she said.

She and Lonsdof managed to get flights back home to Texas shortly after midnight the next day, costing “ridiculous amounts,” according to Souquette, who suffered cuts, bruises, and a tooth chipped badly enough to require cosmetic dentistry. Lonsdof received lacerations resulting in significant scarring to his chest, arms, and legs, the complaint states. The same property where the attack took place was made available for rent immediately after Lonsdof and Souquette left town, she said.

“I’m just livid,” Souquette said. “How would you like to know, maybe a group of women, or two or three young girls rent it, not knowing that a woman and her boyfriend had been assaulted days before?”

In the lawsuit Blackburn filed on behalf of Souquette and Lonsdof, he notes that Airbnb “does not conduct formal inspections of all listings as a standard practice.” By failing to vet each property prior to it being rented, the company “exposes renters like Ms. Souquette and Mr. Lonsdof to foreseeable risks of harm,” the lawsuit states.

“The thing is, Airbnb is reactive, not proactive,” Blackburn told The Daily Beast.

Airbnb declined to comment.

“Like I said, it’s like our lives just flashed in front of us,” Souquette said, “and the negligence between the owner and Airbnb is so outrageous to me. And I’m furious.”

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Forget Cancun. Flying direct to this Mexican beach town from DFW Airport saves time, money

If you’ve ever traveled to Tulum you would know it’s quite the day of travel. Now you have no excuse not to go, Tulum’s International airport is now offering flights from major airports in the U.S., including from Dallas/Fort Worth Airport.

Previously, travelers would have to fly three hours to Cancun, and then drive for an hour south to Tulum. Now, flights from DFW to TQO are a breeze, only two hours and 45 minutes long, and for practically the same price.

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Cancun’s airport is the main hub for travelers who go to eastern Mexico. Last year, a third of Americans traveling to Mexico flew into Cancun. Quintana Roo, Cozumel, Tulum, and Cabo are all tourist hot spots. Now, direct flights from DFW to the resort town are available.

Airlines are jumping at the chance to fly to Tulum. American and Delta begin flight to TQO on March 28. United follows on March 31. Finally, Air Canada will begin in May, and JetBlue in June.

The cheapest non stop flight right now from DFW is with American for $352. Flights with connections from DFW, will most likely have layovers at George Bush International Airport in Houston.

However there are a few details to note. TQO is still undergoing construction. Ground transportation is limited which is a main concern for David Ortiz Mena, Tulum hotel association president. Discussion on resolving this issue is still ongoing. Mexican officials are considering lowering the transportation tax to help soften the blow.

As a travel destination, Tulum offers white sand beaches as well as trips to archaeological sites. The hotel zone is close to downtown. It’s a tourist’s dream.

Just 35 minutes north from Tulum is the Riviera Maya, a wildly popular resort in Quintana Roo. According to data from the government of Mexico’s tourism secretary, the Riviera Maya had the most available and occupied rooms in Mexico in 2023.

This resort is also recommended by a Fort Worth Travel Agent, Alyssa Maisano. For a standard family of five, a trip to the Riviera Maya would cost around $4,500, including flights and the all-inclusive Riviera Maya package for five to seven nights.

This story was originally published March 26, 2024, 12:00 AM.

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American college students on spring break trip confronted with 'rifles in their faces,' given three options

First on fox: a florida state university student and her friends were robbed at gunpoint at a beachfront property in mexico while on spring break.

Travel warnings to US tourists heading abroad as spring break nears

Former D.C. police detective Ted Williams shares his safety rules for international travel to protect yourself on spring break on ‘Fox Report.’

FIRST ON FOX: Three college students' long-awaited spring break in Cancún, Mexico , turned into a nightmare when they were confronted at their beachfront hotel and robbed at gunpoint.

A father of one of the Florida State University students, who asked not to be identified, told Fox News Digital that his 20-year-old daughter's spring break vacation at the Ocean Dream Cancun by Guru Hotel turned into a nightmare.

"I researched it before they went there," he said. "It was a safe place to go. They didn't go into the inner city."

But on the very first day of their trip, his daughter and her two friends were confronted at the beach by four individuals armed with rifles.

SPRING BREAK DANGERS: 5 AMERICANS WHOSE VACATIONS ENDED IN DEATH

Located in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood, Ocean Dream Cancun by GuruHotel is directly on the beach. The three college students said that they were confronted on their first night at the Ocean Dream Cancun hotel. The teens walked out to the beach following dinner, one of the parents told Fox News Digital. (Google Maps)

The father explained that two of the individuals were dressed in camo gear, while the other two were dressed in Mexican police gear .

The four individuals pointed rifles at the three girls, accused them of trespassing, and presented them with three options. 

"You can go to the airport and leave the country before going to get your belongings. Or you can go to jail, and it won't be comfortable," the father said his daughter was told. "Or you can each give us $300 apiece."

Located in Cancun's Zona Hotelera neighborhood, Ocean Dream Cancun by GuruHotel is directly on the beach. (Google Maps)

The girls chose the third option, turning over $900.

The armed robbers allowed one of the girls to run back to their hotel room and bring back the money.

After they were let go, the girls were shaken by the experience. 

"They were scared. They had rifles in their faces." — Father of Florida State University student

"They were scared," he said. "They had rifles in their faces."

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After the incident, the students said that they spoke with other spring breakers, who shared they had similar experiences.

"I think that is something that happens all the time there," the father said. "They saw American kids checking in, and they know they have money."

People enjoy a day at Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach) at the Hotel Zone of Cancun, Quintana Roo State, Mexico, on Nov. 8, 2022. (DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images)

"They saw American kids checking in, and they know they have money." — FSU student's father

Nicole Parker , a former FBI special agent and a Fox News contributor, told Fox News Digital that this is a relatable story for many spring breakers and families traveling to the white-sand beaches and crystal-blue waters in Mexico.

"I think this is a typical story, these students just wanted to have fun, and then it turns," Parker said. "And the fact that others at the hotel had similar experiences is worth remembering."

COUPLE VACATIONING IN FLORIDA ARRESTED AFTER BEING FOUND PASSED OUT ON BEACH, CHILDREN GONE

"Just be very, very aware," she added.

Tourists pose for a picture in front of a Cancun sign in Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach) at the Hotel Zone of Cancun, Quintana Roo State, Mexico, on Nov. 8, 2022. (DANIEL SLIM/AFP via Getty Images)

The former FBI special agents advised Americans traveling to Mexico to take safety precautions beforehand.

"My advice is to follow the travel advisories issued by the State Department at state.gov and register with the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program when traveling outside the continental U.S.," Parker said. "If a travel advisory is strongly worded by the State Department but doesn't cross the line of saying, ‘Do Not Travel,’ then a traveler should heed the warning and understand that various factors go into that warning. And if the travel advisory definitively says, ‘Do Not Travel’ or ‘Reconsider Travel’, then, do not travel and if you do not heed the warning and travel anyway — then do not expect anyone to come save you and make sure you have travel insurance such as emergency medical evacuation."

Parker said that people traveling to Mexico should research the resort or hotel they are staying at and identify the closest U.S. consulate.

"If you are a USA citizen and ever become the victim of a crime overseas, make sure to contact the closest USA consulate immediately. Additionally, report the incident to the FBI at fbi.gov or 800-CALL-FBI as they have extraterritorial squads that can assist host nation with conducting investigations. Additionally, the FBI has Legal Attaches (Legats) around the world that coordinate efforts with the local authorities of the host nation," she said.

"When you go to these places, you really are traveling at your own risk," Parker said. "I would always advise people to research where they are going."

Tourists hang out on the Gaviota Azul beach in Cancun, Mexico, on March 2. (AP Photo/Israel Leal, File)

In February, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Mexico issued a stark warning to spring breakers.

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The warning, issued Feb. 26, noted that "violent crime — such as homicide, kidnapping, carjacking, and robbery — is widespread and common in Mexico."

The warning also detailed 10 potential threats and dangers, some of which have nothing to do with violence , but are things Americans might not even think about, such as drowning, immigration or medical emergencies.

Specific travel advisories issued by the U.S. State Department for Mexican states and cities can be found here .

Fox News has reached out to the U.S. State Department, the Mexican embassy in the U.S. and Ocean Dream Cancun by Guru Hotel for comment.

Sarah Rumpf-Whitten is a breaking news writer for Fox News Digital and Fox Business. 

She is a native of Massachusetts and is based in Orlando, Florida.

Story tips and ideas can be sent to [email protected] and on X: @s_rumpfwhitten .

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