Things To Do
in Tulum
Located on the Caribbean coast of the Riviera Maya, Tulum blends pristine beaches with well-preserved Mayan heritage. The town has a laid-back, bohemian vibe, where eco-conscious resorts line the shoreline. The dramatic Tulum Ruins perch above turquoise sea cliffs, offering panoramic Caribbean views.
Visitors can swim in cenotes, explore jungle paths, and enjoy vibrant dining and nightlife along the town's streets.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tulum and settle into your lush beachfront accommodation. Enjoy a refreshing welcome drink as you soak up the beautiful surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll along the pristine beach to acclimate to the dreamy atmosphere.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at a beachside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and regional specialties. Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or on the beach, soaking up the sun and the picturesque views. Consider taking a dip in the turquoise waters to fully unwind.
As the sun sets, head to the famous Tulum beach clubs for a vibrant dinner experience. Enjoy local cuisine while listening to live music and taking in the magical ambiance. Wrap up the evening by wandering through the beach path, marveling at the starry sky.
Start your day early with a visit to the iconic Tulum Ruins, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Explore the ancient Mayan structures while being guided through their fascinating history. Keep your camera ready for stunning views and unique photo opportunities.
Afterward, grab lunch at a nearby café that offers traditional Mayan flavors. Spend the afternoon at one of Tulum’s stunning beaches, like Playa Paraiso, where you can swim or relax on the sandy shores. Consider renting a bike to explore the beautiful coastline.
For dinner, head into Tulum town and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at local eateries. Sample authentic Mexican dishes and tequila at a bustling taqueria. Conclude your day by experiencing the nightlife in Tulum, perhaps at a trendy bar with live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨Hotel/hostel night | $40-120 |
| 🥤Soft drink or bottled water | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and crystal-clear cenotes
- Strong culinary scene with regional flavors
- Rich Mayan history and ruins with stunning views
- Relaxed, eco-conscious vibe and beautiful sunsets
- Can be pricey during peak season
- Some areas experience seaweed (sargassum) on certain days
- Limited nightlife compared to Cancun; more low-key atmosphere
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quisiera..." - I would like...
- "No hablo español muy bien" - I don’t speak Spanish very well
Places to Visit in Tulum
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient ruins perched above dramatic sea cliffs, offering iconic sunset and ocean views for photography.
Crystal-clear cenote with stalactites and turquoise water, perfect for underwater and above-water shots.
Unique, skull-shaped cenote with a rope entrance and sunlit water, great for dramatic light.
Remote coastal vistas and mangrove scenery ideal for wide-angle nature photography.
Wide, palm-lined beaches with superlative golden hour lighting and silhouettes of beach clubs.
Food in Tulum
Tulum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and sour orange, traditionally served with pickled onions and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Lime soup with shredded chicken, tortilla strips, and lime zest for a bright, comforting broth.
Yucatán-style fish marinated with achiote and sour orange, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.
Crispy rolled crepe filled with cheese and optional cajeta or chocolate for a sweet finish.
Fresh local seafood cured with lime, cilantro, and chilies for a light, zesty bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A cluster of stalls in the town center offering produce, snacks, aguas frescas, and local treats.
Local market scene with fruit stands, dos colores aguas, and ready-to-eat bites from street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' Be polite, especially to locals and service workers.
Dress modestly when visiting sacred Mayan sites or cenotes; swimwear is fine for beaches but cover up for town visits.
Do not litter, avoid disrupting wildlife, and follow park/ruins rules. Don’t remove shells or rocks from cenotes.
Safety
Tipping in Tulum
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10–20% is typical if not included in the bill. For hotel staff, bellhops and housekeeping, small tips are appreciated. Taxi drivers and tour guides may also appreciate a modest tip.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm temperatures and increasing humidity; crowds begin to arrive in March–April. Plan ahead for popular sites and beach clubs.
Hot, humid, and rainy afternoons with a possibility of tropical storms; seaweed (sargassum) can affect beaches at times. Hydration and sun protection are essential.
High humidity tapers gradually; rainfall varies. Wildlife and migratory birds are easier to spot; shoulder-season rates apply.
Dry, comfortable temperatures with less rain; peak season for many visitors. Book activities and dining ahead.
Tulum at Night
Hiking in Tulum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible nature trail with colonial ruins nearby and opportunities to spot wildlife in a mangrove setting.
A bit further away, but popular for walking and climbing pyramids amid lush jungle.
Voluminous natural reserve with coastal lagoons and mangroves; best explored with a guided hike or boat trip.
Airports
How to reach Tulum by plane.
Major international hub serving the Riviera Maya; about 190 km (roughly 2.5–3 hours by car) from central Tulum.
Smaller regional airport to the south; longer drive to Tulum but serves some domestic routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Migrant and local communities with ancestral roots in the region; contribute to culture, craft, and traditional cuisine.
Seasonal visitors from North America and Europe, plus long-term expats attracted to the lifestyle and climate.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Calm coastal waters and lagoons are ideal for SUP year-round.
Explore cenotes, reefs, and underwater caves in and around Tulum.
Seasonal winds appeal to experienced kite surfers on select beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tulum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available; many restaurants offer plant-based dishes and vegan menus. When ordering, request no lard or animal stock and ask about dairy substitutions if needed.